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Re: Thinking about a new barrell

Author: kdk ★2017
Date: 2015-11-30 17:54

Two thoughts:

Ursa's experience with compromised intonation is an important consideration. The original barrel is part of the design of any clarinet. A third party barrel may play just as well in tune, or it may not. The trial and error process may be time consuming and expensive - most distributors charge a restocking fee if you don't buy anything after a trial period. And shipping charges, at least on the return end, are also involved.

In general, as Norman suggests, of any part of the system the barrel's influence on response and tone quality is the next smallest after the bell. Mouthpiece, reed and instrument body have much greater influence, and you've taken care of the first two while trying for now to avoid the expense of upgrading the third. The only way to answer the question of what effect a barrel will have - good or bad - is to try barrels. You may find one quickly that seems to improve things to your ear, but the difference is likely to be subtle. You may go through dozens of barrels and not find one that sounds better *and* plays in tune. But it's the only way to answer your question.

My advice would be the same as Norman's, especially if you have no current ensemble demands. The small improvement may not be worth the expense or time involved in the search.

Karl

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