 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Bill
Date: 2016-05-22 00:47
If you liked such clarinets and had three old Selmers but only the bucks to send one for overhaul, which one would you choose? Note the RI does not have its characteristic metal-lined barrel. Does that make a difference (I'm thinking "No").
All three seem to be in fairly similar condition; the Model 55 a slightly better condition than the other two.
What would Benny do?
Bill Fogle
Ellsworth, Maine
(formerly Washington, DC)
Post Edited (2016-05-22 00:48)
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Author: Bill
Date: 2016-05-22 00:53
Attachment: 3 Selmers.jpg (146k)
Apologies for the duplication of the post. Have also added a photo.
Bill Fogle
Ellsworth, Maine
(formerly Washington, DC)
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2016-05-22 01:14
I'd go with the Model 55 to start with.
Then once you've saved up enough, have the others overhauled.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2016-05-22 06:35
Start with the one that plays best. There are good and bad ones in each series.
You might also consider starting with the one that needs the least work.
Ken Shaw
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Author: KenJarczyk
Date: 2016-05-22 17:07
Interesting group of vintage Selmers! Not having played any of your clarinets, but having played all three types mentioned, if only one clarinet could get an overhaul right now, I would go with the BT. The 55s were notoriously stuffy, and I found that reputation to be true. The RI carries a romantic fascination with many, and they are okay players, but - sorry, you do need the real barrel. The BTs are free blowers, with great intonation. Out of the three, the BT will have the more open sound, and probably be the most fun!
You asked, there you go!
Ken Jarczyk
Woodwinds Specialist
Eb, C, Bb, A & Bass Clarinets
Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones
Flute, Alto Flute, Piccolo
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Author: Bill
Date: 2016-05-22 18:36
Thanks! I had heard that the 55s were not especially good. Perhaps that accounts for its better condition!
Can anyone explain why the lined barrel is important with the RI?
Bill Fogle
Ellsworth, Maine
(formerly Washington, DC)
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Author: Jeroen
Date: 2016-05-23 11:35
Nice set!
I own 2 RI and 1 55 and I played an early L-series BT that looked and played identical to my best (L-series) RI.
I am almost sure my both RIs have the original barrel, without metal lining.
Was this a special option? Or just a repair fix?
The 55 is not bad at all. It has excellent intonation and a beautiful dark sound. But is a bit resistant, not as free blowing as the RI or BT.
One RI is the best player, good intonation, nice open sound with lots of character. Good for jazz.
If I have to choose I would probably go for:
1. BT
2. RI
3. 55
Benny would have done the same, I guess ;-)
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Author: MarlboroughMan
Date: 2016-05-23 16:00
I've never played an RI, played a couple of BTs, and played one 55. The 55 was maybe the finest instrument I've ever played--it's up there, at least, with my Q series CT and 1951 Fritz Wurlitzer RB. BTs are great instruments too, but I tend to prefer a little more resistance, so I'd definitely go with the 55.
Eric
******************************
The Jazz Clarinet
http://thejazzclarinet.blogspot.com/
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Author: BartHx
Date: 2016-05-24 06:06
I have a Model 55 that is reasonably free blowing and sounds great, but I rarely play it. For some reason, it was made with solid silver keys and the metal is just too soft. Some of the rings are worn nearly through and things go out of adjustment much too easily. My guess is that it was made more as a presentation piece than as a regular player. Maybe, someday I'll find one with a junk body and can swap the keys. I love its sound.
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