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Re: Tonal comparison

Author: DrewSorensenMusic
Date: 2012-09-21 02:37

I imagine you're going to get opinions tell you cork will be brighter, or that there is no difference at all. Cork is a harder material than bladder pads, so it is a definite that if there is any difference, that the cork would be brighter. I happen to believe that it makes no difference, that the pad of either type is too far away from the air column to make a difference in that matter. I've heard science that proves it doesn't even matter what material the body of the instrument is made from, that it only matters the internal structure. Anyhow, that's not really the debate here.

I think the most important difference you should concern yourself with between cork vs bladder is the seal of the tone holes, and the loudness of key clicks.

Cork pads are louder when the close, because they are a harder material. If you are heavy handed, this may be enough to deter you from making the switch. It will increase the noise your instrument makes when pressing keys.

Cork pads require very even tone holes, and I'm pretty sure this requires extra work from a skilled repairman to have the instrument seal properly. I do not know what goes into the work, but I think it goes that once they are installed, they last a very long time. I think it's better to have a very skilled professional do the work, as it may require lots of experience.

That's what I know about the subject. Good luck.

Drew S.

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