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Re: ring height

Author: Steven Ocone
Date: 2017-10-25 17:54

As Chris has pointed out, if the pad is properly installed then the rings can be set fairly low. If the pad is mushy or not level a higher ring height can compensate, but it is not an ideal situation.

The pad on the three ring key is very often poorly installed and doesn't seal properly. This is a common source of resistance when trying to play middle B and C. In fact, When a clarinet seals but doesn't play well, I examine the ring heights and the corresponding pads. I often replace pads I thought were fine (checking the tone hole for problems at the same time).

Softer synthetic pads are problematic on these keys and I don't install them there. They are often used because less care is needed to install them, but they need to be pressed firmly to seal. If you lightly close a key and then are able to press further and feel mushiness as you continue then you probably have one or more of three situations. A synthetic pad, a poorly installed skin pad. or lots of play in the mechanism.

This post got longer and longer as more situations came to mind. Sorry.

One more note. Different makers may need different ring heights for the same feel.

Steve Ocone

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ring height new

Matt74

2016-10-24 02:25