Author: heckelmaniac
Date: 2011-06-28 02:27
The Cabart English horns made from just after WWII through the 1960s ( many "stencil" brands, such a Noblet, LeBlanc, Linton, etcetera) can often be "super" with respect to resonance and projection. Often a best value for money. I purvey Cabart English horns (both plateau and ring system) to professionals all the time, especially doublers. The Cabart "ring system" instruments often will be more desirable than the plateau instruments- seem to have an even "bigger" sound than the plateau model. Often around or less than $4000.
The other "budget" English horn I like is the Malerne (Malerne/Marigaux).
About two dozens Malerne "stencil" name brands exist as well as "Malerne," such as: Durand, Berdon, Linton, A. Robert, Larilee, Ponte, Barre', Evette-Schaefer, Buffet (from the 1960s and early 1970s), and others. Malerne usually made really good English horns. Laubin used a "large bore" Malerne English horn (tweaked, final voiced and branded "Laubin") until 1976 when Marigaux bought out Malerne. The Marigaux of today is the same excellent Malerne model English horn of decades past. The Malerne oboes though -most will be "oboe shaped objects." It is possible to find a fine Malerne English horn for $4000 or less at times.
Orsi English horns (many stencil names also, such as "Royal" and
"V. Barcone") can also be of remarkable merit, though they tend to be more expensive that the Cabart or Malerne English horns.
I personally tend to prefer the Malerne or Cabart English horns over any of the English horns by Fox. For just one example, I recently bought a mint condition Fox model 500 at a wholesale price. It was a gorgeous piece of wood,
the key-work was exquisitely made, the scale and voicing was as even as even could be. The problem for me was that the instrument seemed to have nothing at all to say, no "core," no soul, no character, even trying every dimension of Hiniker bocal. I sold it to another dealer for less than I paid for it as I simply wanted it gone. I could not in good conscience even sell it to a school. Again, this is my experience, my take on it. Your experience may be different from mine.
I the realm of oboe d'amore, Bulgheroni is often a good choice.
The scale and voicing is usually impeccable, and the Bulgheroni has a BIG voice.
The Bulgheroni oboe d'amore sound is more "just the facts ma'am" than say a Kreul, late model Loree, Sierra, Marigaux, though it is for sure acceptable. Always discard the Bulgheroni bocals and use Hiniker bocals.
Truly,
Peter
Oboes.us
Post Edited (2011-06-28 17:36)
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