Author: Ursa
Date: 2011-08-22 09:11
I have not seen a comprehensive list of Vito clarinet models, either.
From what I have been able to gather, nearly all of the Vito plastic clarinets have the same .584-inch cylindrical bore. The notable exceptions to this are the V-40 model, some or all of which have a polycylindrical bore, and the current 7242, which has a smaller .575-inch bore.
Early Vitos were made out of a hard, brittle plastic--possibly PVC--while later ones were made out of ABS. It's been suggested by some that the earlier composition makes for a better sounding and more responsive instrument compared to the later ABS. I haven't played a Vito that wasn't ABS, so I can't comment intelligently on the material affecting the tone and response.
It's generally agreed upon that the V-40 model represents the best of the Vito plastic clarinets.
I have a Vito 7214 and a Vito V-40 on hand. The 7214 is the darker sounding of the two, but the V-40 has better intonation and a more even response between the registers. Between the two, I prefer the 7214.
One Vito I'd like to get my hands on is the Pete Fountain model. This has a 17-key/7-ring keywork arrangement. I've often wondered if the bore reaming and tone hole undercutting was done with more care and precision than on the other Vitos of the day. If so, this may be the "ultimate" Vito.
Some Vitos were made in wood. I haven't researched them, but would speculate that they are rebadged Noblet/Normandy instruments.
Cheers,
Ursa
Post Edited (2011-08-22 17:21)
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The Clarinet BBoard
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