 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 02:54
So, i have been playing on my wonderful Vandoren M13 lyre for quite some time. It's done me pretty well, and has lived a good life. But like all plastic things. (hard or soft) it's been chipping. So, i am on the hunt for a new mp.
These two names have been very popular in mouthpiece making, and have had amazing reviews. I am just curious of the Forum's over all views and advice on each of these. Personally, of the 7 styles of Kaspar, i would say the K11* is more in my comfort zone of mouthpieces. But, i am also interested in the K13*.
So, if any of you have any experience/preference between the two, please, give me advice! And, i know, it will be - in the end - my personal preference, but i would like to know what you personally think of them.
Post Edited (2011-08-07 02:54)
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Author: SteveG_CT
Date: 2011-08-07 05:01
Personally I would probably prefer the Grabner mouthpiece for the simple fact that you can buy one of them directly from Walter whereas the Gigliotti mouthpieces are currently only sold through dealers as far as I know. I'd much rather deal with the craftsman directly and be able to describe what I was looking for than have to just try my luck ordering a bunch of trial mouthpieces from a dealer.
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Author: sonicbang
Date: 2011-08-07 11:16
I have tried a few Gigliotti mouthpieces with the P34 facing and I have to say they are VERY inconsistant (even more than the Vandorens) but I came across some very nice playing pieces to be fair.
Post Edited (2011-08-07 11:17)
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 12:12
@SteveG_CT
I agree with the fact that it would be easier, but as far as ease of ordering, i'm less concerned about that.. I would rather have to test a few to get something great rather than waste less time testing to receive something ok - if you get what i mean.
@sonicbang
Yes, i agree Vandorens can be quite inconsistent - i had to deal with it myself. haha. But i also agree that i've heard many people come across some great gigliotti's.
I'm basically looking for opinions on playing. And what the mouthpieces .. feel/play like. thanks. (:
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Author: Alseg
Date: 2011-08-07 13:54
The expression "apples and oranges" comes to mind.
These are very different items. The outer shape, the material, the inner workings, facings....all different.
No harm in trying each. Be sure to select suitable reeds for each.
Also toss some new M13L's into the mix. Have fun
Allan
Former creator of CUSTOM CLARINET TUNING BARRELS by DR. ALLAN SEGAL
-Where the Sound Matters Most(tm)-
Post Edited (2011-08-07 13:55)
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 15:27
Thank You, I prefer a more inclined facing. Like the profile 88.
I hope not to bother, but how do the inner workings and material change the sound and feel of playing.
Just a quick elaboration, please. (:
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 16:28
@DavidBlumberg
I see what you mean
Grabner-Kaspar it is! .. Thank You for the opinions..
NOW, for the more in detail opinions.
I'm stuck between K11* and K13*. I'm under the impression that the K11 has a smaller opening, and an "enhanced facing curve." The K13 is a little more open, but with the same "enhanced facing curve." I guess I will try these. See which one i prefer.
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Author: sonicbang
Date: 2011-08-07 16:49
Current Gigliotti models are made from molded Babbitt blanks and they seem to lack any proof of final hand finishing. The interior is often rather rough and the tip rail thickness is very uneven especially near the corners. With some luck you can find a good one with correct bore (rare among molded mouthpieces) even tip and side rails and smooth finished interior. It can be a good player with proper balanced reeds.
Although I haven't tried Mr. Grabner's mouthpieces I know he uses Zinner blanks and they are popular among the best mouthpiece makers. Regarding the interior, I bet Mr. Grabner's mouthpieces don't have rough finish like the Gigliottis. Custom makers work on a mouthpiece until they feel it is the best it can be.
About the feel of the Gigliotti mouthpieces: most of them are really stuffy with the recommanded reed strength. For example the best P34 I have tried was unplayable with V12 strength 4 Vandorens but worked very well with blue box 3. It had a beautiful, deep and resonant tone and a very stable feel in all registers. I had the same experience with a P model. Suggested middle strength reed was a V12 4.5. Worked well with a well balanced 4.
Post Edited (2011-08-07 16:51)
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 17:23
Thank You sonicbang, i emailed Mr.Grabner about his opinions of which mouthpiece would most suit me. I heard the Zinner blanks can be quite sharp.. this is something I hope to be false, as I am held responsible for tuning many people.
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Author: kdk
Date: 2011-08-07 17:50
One huge advantage of Walter Grabner's mouthpieces is that he's available to help accommodate your specific needs. His mouthpieces are a good product to start with, and he's there to work with you if you aren't comfortable with what you get on the first try. The Gigliottis can (or once could be) be quite good, but Gigliotti is clearly no longer with us to keep an eye on the items that are produced under his name, and from others' reports I suspect no one else is paying much attention, either.
Karl
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 18:30
I agree with you, it's like Moennig and Chadash barrels!
I live close by him, so that is another good added factor. Thank You for your opinion!
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Author: JJAlbrecht
Date: 2011-08-07 20:46
Since you are in the Chicago area, check out both Walter's mouthpieces, and those made by Gregory Smith. Between these two gentlemen's products, you should easily find a wonderful mouthpiece!
Jeff
“Everyone discovers their own way of destroying themselves, and some people choose the clarinet.” Kalman Opperman, 1919-2010
"A drummer is a musician's best friend."
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Author: The Break
Date: 2011-08-07 21:08
I heard of Gregory Smith's products. Some good reviews i will definitely check out what he has to offer! Thank You.
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