 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: JryCYC
Date: 2013-10-13 21:32
I tried my colleague's Hawkins B model mouthpiece and love it.
Does anyone can share experince about the differience between R and B model?
There are no tip opening informations on his website, so I just curious how about the resistance and reed chosing of the R model compare to the B model?
Post Edited (2013-10-14 06:19)
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Author: sonicbang
Date: 2013-10-13 21:39
You can find some information on Hawkins's website. He has descriptions and sound samples taken from his performances. You might find those things informative.
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Author: NBeaty
Date: 2013-10-14 16:44
The R model has a "darker" and a bit wider sound. The B model has more focus, clarity, and (to me) more embouchure comfort when getting the type of sound I like (focused, clear, resonant, easily centered).
I found that the R model forced me to bite in order to focus the sound, but the baffle being deeper, especially at the bottom, widened the sound too much for me.
From what I've seen, the B model is a standard zinner blank (usually the "A" blank and occasionally the "E" blank that is higher in pitch). The R is the same blank but with internal modifications to add depth to the sound.
I've seen more B models than R models, but I'm sure that's a function of how long the models have been around, the R being relatively newer.
I have refaced both types and found that they both can play well, but which one you like better depends on which one speaks to your voice best. Those who feel they need more depth and width to their sound would probably like the R compared to those who would rather have more "point" and center to the sound.
Both models have the standard zinner style facing, short, and a close tip opening. This style has been very popular since zinner started and many makers continue to keep the factory style facing on zinners. Since the zinner blank sounds somewhat "darker" or "lower", keeping the facing short can help focus the sound and keep it in control.
As for the OP about Tip Openings: The tip openings are, from the 10-12 mpcs I've measured\refaced, close (between 0.90 and 1.05mm).
POPULARITY: Richard Hawkins mouthpieces have been very popular on the mouthpiece market for years and I know many people who use them. He also makes Eb and Bass models on zinner blanks that have been popular as well. If you're looking to try mouthpieces and want to try some from a few different places to see what different people make, there's no reason not to have Hawkins on the list. Since you're in Taiwan, it might be difficult or expensive to have mouthpieces from several places sent to you, but I would encourage you to do what you can to see what there is to try. Other popular mouthpiece craftsmen to try: Brad Behn, Greg Smith, and Walter Grabner.
I prefer Brad Behn's mouthpieces myself. The degree of detail and care put into each piece is extraordinary, creating a work of art that allows you to make your art. He also offers his zinner models at a very reasonable price.
If you have questions that aren't answered on this thread, or you want more specific information, send Richard an Email. He's good with communication in my experience and I'm sure would be happy to answer any questions you have.
Happy Practicing.
Disclaimer: I don't have any affiliation with Richard Hawkins or any other mouthpiece craftsmen. Any suggestions, preferences, or comments are my own and I have nothing financially or otherwise to gain from choosing any particular product.
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Author: JryCYC
Date: 2013-10-14 17:31
We do really have not much choice but Vandoren in Taiwan. What I can do is to search in this board and try to email those craftsman to get informations.
Thank you so much for your experience sharing, Nathan. It is really helpful!
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Author: NBeaty
Date: 2013-10-14 22:28
Anytime! Glad it was helpful.
If you have any extra vandorens, you can send them to someone in the states to reface. It's a good way to "test" the craftsmanship of the refacer.
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