Author: TomS
Date: 2016-06-04 05:25
Spent a couple of hour at the music store this afternoon with my Lyrique Libertas and Korg AT-12 and just tried some clarinets ... MP was 5RV-lyre/88 with Legere Signature.
In terms of blowing resistance, from the most resistant (stuffy) to least:
Backun Protege (blackwood) / Yamaha 450 / Libertas / Yamaha CSVR / Backun Alpha / Buffet E11.
This particular Backun Protege had serious problems with stuffy, fuzzy, dead ... easily one of the worst instrument I've ever played ... which makes be think it had some serious unusual defect. It was so bad I didn't check tuning at all ... they have a Cocobolo version I will check out when time permits. It is a shame that someone will pass judgement on this brand and model when most likely this one is just broken ... I suggested they run it thru the shop, because it will never sell as it is ... or maybe the way it plays is normal. Gawd, I hope not! The good news is the workmanship is first rate ... bad news is that this is the only wood clarinet I played that does not have locked key posts, which seems unusual for a horn of this good reputation.
The 450 still amazes me for it's sound, nice even resistance, tuning and weight. I like the hold in the upper clarion. Tuning was very good with it's barrel. I like these so much I might get one just for variety.
Libertas is what I currently mostly play ... tuning is first rate. Not as dark in respect to the other clarinets as I had thought (comparing side by side), but a round sweetness, especially in high register. Does most things right.
Yamaha CVSR was a little deader sounding with even resistance and tuning good ... actually better in a couple of spots than my Libertas. Does not have the center, projection and power of the Libertas. Didn't quite have the compactness and hold of the 450. Nice horn, well made. Will have to spend more time with this one ...
Backun Alpha didn't fit my funny little fingers very well, but played OK and tuning was fine. Lightweight sound and vibration under the fingers. Not bad, certainly better than the Protege on hand.
Buffet E11 (Germany version with locked key posts) was very well made but just too loose a blow and freewheeling for my taste. Tuning was fine.
So, there is my 3-cents.
Tom
Post Edited (2016-06-04 05:46)
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The Clarinet BBoard
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