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Re: How to choose and buy a new clarinet

Author: Musikat
Date: 2023-08-18 06:39

I bought two clarinets this year. The first was a longer process. I had the chance precovid to attend a local clarinet symposium and try several clarinets, including Buffets, Yamahas, Backuns and Uebels. I fell in love with the Uebel Superior and would fantasize about finding one at a garage sale or something where it was affordable. Lol Earlier this year one came along that was used, and I was able to find the funds to make it happen. I was allowed a 2 week trial with only shipping paid up front, took it to my, tech, had a couple of clarinet friends try it and listen to me play it. Since it had been several years since I last played one I thought it didn't quite have the same "feel" I remembered but the sound was still good and I bought it. A couple months ago I asked my tech to change my throat keys to cork and in the process he cleaned out the tone holes. What a difference! Now it feels and sounds like I remember and I love it. So lesson in buying used, have it looked over and possibly cleaned out as well before you really know how it plays.

The second horn was a new Eb. For this one I planned carefully and decided to go with a professional Yamaha, despite having never seen or tried one. I wanted a professional model, silver plated but new Buffets were out of my price range, and many Ebs were hard to find. Like an above commenter I purchased from oversees, Howarth, for about $1500 less than I would have paid in the US. I chose Yamaha based on a lot of research and my tech telling me they are very consistent horn to horn, and play in tune, which made ordering oversees a little less scary. It arrived with about $40 customs tax and it is amazing. It plays in tune and I can get most high notes with regular fingerings. It was the perfect choice and I'm very happy with it.

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