 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: KTJ78
Date: 2012-10-25 23:01
I have seen a recent discussion about a Selmer Eb 9 Series, but this may be a little different...
I am looking at a Eb Selmer U-series (which I believe dates the horn back to 1965 or so). I am not super knowledgable about the history of Selmer horns, so I am asking for advice on the potential value of this horn.
The horn plays well, no cracks. It has a pretty severe tuning issue with the throat Bb, but everything else is livable. Pads are ok, but I wouldn't mind getting the horn readjusted in time.
Thoughts? Selmer experts - discuss!
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Author: BartHx
Date: 2012-10-26 02:55
For what it's worth, the serial number on my Series 9 Bb starts with a U. If it is not marked as a Series 9, it can't be too far away. Also, for what it's worth, every Eb I have played has had a tuning issue somewhere in it's range. That's one of the things that makes them so hard to really play well.
As far as tuning issues with the throat tones, consider venting issues. Check the adjustment of the screw between the A and G# keys. It should have a very small amount of free play. Check the cork on the A key and the felt on the limiting post of the G# key. They should hit the body at the same time when you depress the A key or the felt on the G# key not quite touching when the cork on the A key hits the body. If the alternate fingering for the Bb (A key and third trill key) corrects the problem, the register key needs to be adjusted. Check the venting of the pad under the A key (is your F# in tune?). If the tone is slightly stuffy, there is probably something not opening quite far enough. Otherwise, you can try opening pads less than maximum and see what that does to the intonation.
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Author: KTJ78
Date: 2012-10-26 03:08
I'll look into your suggestions. Over the years I have played on a variety of Ebs (something of a specialist here) and have always had been able to overcome the instruments quirks and play well in tune. This Bb issue is the most challenging issue I have come across.
Also, if no one on here feels comfortable with an estimate on the horn, if you could send me in the right direction for an estimate that would be wonderful. Thanks again!
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2012-10-26 09:00
Is the throat Bb sharp or flat?
Replacement or minor surgery to the register tube is the probable solution. On the other hand, I have a 1930s Buffet Bb with the best sound I've heard, but the throat Bb is so far out that Kal Opperman told me it was uncorrectable.
Ken Shaw
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Author: Tony F
Date: 2012-10-26 12:38
I've never tried it myself, but I have heard of an "uncorrectable" throat Bb that was successfully treated by removing the register tube, plugging the hole and then reboring to relocate the tube slightly. I'm advised that the operation was a great success. I can't check on it, the people concerned have long since passed away. The offset was only a few tenths of a millimeter.
Tony F.
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2012-10-26 12:49
Remember that Series 9 clarinets have a fairly wide threaded speaker bush with the large hexagonal head, so relocating it may not be as simple as relocating one on a Buffet which is a slightly tapered tube. Not to say it's impossible - it may not be as easy.
Best thing to do is experiment with the speaker key ventings and diameters and internal shapes of the speaker tube before doing anything more involved.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Ed
Date: 2012-10-26 13:07
I use a Fobes barrel on my Series 9 Eb and it helped the instrument quite a lot. I also had a little bit of adjusting done to some tone holes. It looks as if you are in San Francisco from your address. Perhaps contact Clark to see what he might suggest. He has great knowledge of tuning and acoustics of the clarinet.
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