 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: mozartklar
Date: 2024-03-27 22:25
Hi Everyone,
I'm currently play testing an ICON neck for my Prestige. My first impression of the neck was that it just felt great to play. Very free blowing, much more resonance in the sound. When I put my stock neck back on, I couldn't believe how much more resistant it felt, although I will admit, the sound was very close.
Has anyone here measured these necks and cross referenced the specs between ICON and stock necks? Are the register tubes the same size? I had a few colleagues try the ICON neck against my stock neck and they too could not believe the difference and ease they felt. I can't see how the red copper alone can account for such a different feel but then again who knows, I am not in R&D.
I would love to have more information.
Thanks!
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Author: jesse628wallick
Date: 2024-03-28 14:43
The Buffet ICON neck for bass clarinets, particularly the Prestige bore type, is known for its richer, rounder tone and added warmth to the overall sound, which is attributed to the red copper material. It’s designed to offer increased flexibility and easier dexterity when crossing intervals, which might explain the difference in feel you’ve noticed compared to the stock neck.
While I don’t have specific measurements of the ICON and stock necks, the ICON neck is reported to enhance the tone color, especially on lower notes, and improve playability. The register tubes’ size can affect the instrument’s response and intonation, but the exact specifications are typically proprietary to the manufacturer’s design.
For a detailed comparison, you might want to check out reviews and demonstrations by professional players who have tested these necks side by side. They often provide insights into the nuances between different necks, which could include measurements and the impact on sound and playability in Official Site.
If you’re looking for more technical details, reaching out to Buffet Crampon directly or consulting with a professional woodwind technician could provide you with the specific measurements and differences between the ICON and stock necks. They might also be able to explain how the red copper contributes to the distinct feel and sound you’re experiencing.
Post Edited (2024-03-29 08:09)
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Author: Ebclarinet1
Date: 2024-03-28 18:54
I bought both the ICON neck and bell. The neckjoint was an immeadiate WOW although it did take me going to my tech to have the octave mechanism adjusted. The bell played as is and added to the sound of the notes below E, sort of mellowing them out, a rounder sound and better intonation on the low D and C.
I wish Buffet would consider these as STANDARD equipment on their basses as they are a revolution.
EEfer guy
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Author: mozartklar
Date: 2024-03-28 21:03
Totally agree EEfer guy.
I was a bit skeptical at first since the construction looks exactly like my stock neck. I did not think that different metal would make much of a difference. Maybe some changes to the sound (warmer, darker, brighter, etc.) I also couldn't see myself spending $2k+ on a Blauhaus neck. The $800 price point was more in my budget and I was able to get one from Mike Lowenstern (who is awesome btw) on trial for 7 days.
From what I have read around the internet, the design is precisely the same as the stock necks except for the materials used: brass and copper. I am still astounded by the differences, can't wait to use it on my next gig!
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Author: JamesOrlandoGarcia
Date: 2024-04-04 22:20
Necks and bells are handmade and vary. If I were to buy a new Buffet bass clarinet, I'd pick a bass and then proceed to try every other neck and bell on it.
The necks are a mix bag. It's good to have a choice but I don't believe the icon neck is better for everyone. I didn't like it on my bass at all. It made the sound smaller, lower notes were prone to cracking.
James Garcia
Bass Clarinet/Clarinet III, Des Moines Symphony Orchestra
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Author: crazyclari
Date: 2024-04-05 11:33
Hi James, i was lucky enough to be able to try six necks and bells for my bass. I totally agree with. 30 bells for my older clarinets and a couple of hundred barrells. Huge difference. Currently I do use an Icon neck, which I love.
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Author: mozartklar
Date: 2024-04-05 15:56
James, I hear what you are saying. The differences were so stark that it makes me wonder if my stock neck is leaking at the register tube. I had two colleagues play test each neck on my Prestige bass and we all seemed to reach the same conclusions.
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Author: crazyclari
Date: 2024-04-07 09:36
I should note the fitment of the Tenon's on mine was not great. Dremel helped smooth out the bumps. In this age of CNC etc not a convincing fit.
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