Author: kdk ★2017
Date: 2015-03-02 23:56
nj-tom wrote:
> From a local shop in central NJ, repadding is $275, complete
> overhaul is $375-425. Would it be smarter to send the
> instrument to one of the higher-priced places (Chadash, Backun,
> etc.)?
>
> Thanks for the help!
> Tom
It depends a lot on who runs the local shop. Unless the repair tech has a good reputation, you might do better elsewhere, but perched where you are, you could certainly find more than one excellent shop in either New York or Philadelphia. In Philly there are Mike Hammer, discussed here recently, and Mark Jacobi, both of whom do excellent work. Chadash is in New York City, AFAIK, and there must certainly be at least one or two other excellent techs there with all the professional players in the city.
I agree that it would be far better to carry the instrument in and deal in person with the repairman. Shipping adds time, cost and the possibility of damage developing in transit in both directions. You're going to spend enough on the job, no matter who does it, that you should use a well-reputed shop even if it means an hour or two of travel. I try to make appointments ahead to have the repairman schedule enough time to do the whole job while I wait, or at least in one day. I've learned a great deal watching Mike, Mark and before them, Hans Moennig and his assistant Casimir (I'm not going to try to spell his last name). If the tech you use doesn't want you watching over his shoulder, you can always find something to do in either city and pick the clarinet up when it's finished.
Karl
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