 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: TommyClarinet
Date: 2011-02-24 19:12
Hi!
I just recently acquired a Selmer Centered tone on Ebay for about $500. Upon first playing it, I guess I failed to notice some problems it has. Keep in mind while reading these I am a young player, so it could possibly be just my playing.
-The middle D, E, and F all have a very tinny sound I don't get on other clarinets
-The low C# key seems to be leaking, or it's just EXTREMELY airy. The same goes with the fork key on the low B natural
-The left middle B natural key doesn't come out as well as right B natural.
Any explanations to these problems? And if these are any major problems do you think I should just overhaul it or just sell it?
Thank you
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2011-02-24 21:46
These seem to be minor problems that can be fixed with simple adjustments. Take it to a shop, not for an overhaul but for maybe 15 minutes of work.
Ken Shaw
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2011-02-24 22:05
It probably needs a good setting up or a full service (not an overhaul - but that depends on the condition) with decent ventings (opening) on all the keys - especially the ring keys, the RH B/F# key and the C#/G# key.
Judging by what you've mentioned it sounds as though the ventings are set too close which will make the lower register very stuffy.
Take it to someone with an excellent reputation so they can advise you exactly what needs doing. These clarinets should really sing and are well worth spending money on.
Don't limit yourself because of what you bought it for as that's neither here nor there - the important thing being you have a very good quality clarinet and it deserves to be put into top notch playing condition.
Consider its insurance value is that of a pro model Selmer as something to go on and what can you buy new for $500 that will be anywhere near it?
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: BartHx
Date: 2011-02-25 16:31
I am a huge fan of the Centered Tone, but have found with mine that they are extremely sensitive to venting issues. You should not just consider the mechanical issues, but consider the age of the instrument and the possible buildup of gunk. I, also, bid on the one you got, but I have a hobby of restoring older Selmers. It would involve considerably more work on your part (perhaps more than you want to do), but I would start by removing all the keywork and scrubbing the bore with The Doctor's wood cleaner and a bore brush (available inexpensively from Ferree's). I had a brief discussion with The Doctor (I have no idea how he responds so quickly, keeps his business going, and still does his job) on the topic of tone holes. He suggested using a clean mascara brush to clean the tone holes while the gunk is still softened from the bore cleaning. I would suggest removing the speaker tube for the bore cleaning and sealing its threads with bees wax for reinstallation. Then put it all back together and see where you are.
If you oil the bore while the keys are off, you don't have to worry about keeping the oil off the pads. This will also give you a chance to get a good look at corks and pads to see if there are any obvious problems. Be sure to keep track of where pivot screws and rods go!
So far, all you have really done is take the keys off and put them back on. However, it has given you a chance to make sure the bore and tone holes are clean and oiled. Then, if it still has the problems or needs some pads or corks replaced, the suggestions above are dead on. However, given the instrument's age, I would make sure the wood is clean before I had someone start bending keys.
MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you have ANY doubts about your ability to complete the above successfully, start by taking it to the best repairman you can find. Be sure to ask about cleaning the bore and tone holes. The CT is a really fine instrument and deserves the best. Once it is back the way it belongs, I suspect you will fall in love with your new instrument (it is a very large bore so make sure your mouthpiece and reeds match it). Good luck.
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2011-02-25 16:34
To remove the speaker bush, use a 13mm socket.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: BartHx
Date: 2011-02-25 23:44
If you do elect to take keys off and clean the wood, be very careful of the lower edge of the right, third finger tone hole. There is a pivot screw that makes it very easy to chip that rim if you are not careful. It is not a difficult repair, but it's even better to not need the repair.
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