The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

Re: Resin/plastic body b-flats

Author: clarnibass
Date: 2008-12-21 14:49

I like Yamaha and Buffet student clarinets. I like them better than Vitos and (old) Bundies and some other student models (obviously I haven't tried all student models).

IME Yamaha is built the best of all student models. They use good materials, and mostly good design except a few minor points (significantly less problems than other brands). They have very good intonation and good tone. For me they are pretty comfortable to play (I think only one tone hole was less confortable to me, can't remember which). The ones I saw had silver plating (I think) but in some countries (I think USA) they have nickel plating. They use either Valentino pads or bladder. I prefer bladder and the ones I've seen had bladder, but I'm not sure where you get what, etc.

Just yesterday I tried a Buffet B10 and liked it a lot! It had a bunch of issues, like silly synthetic corks which had to be replaced, and some other mechanical issues. Definitely more adjustments were required than an average Yamaha. It had Valentino pads which I don't like that much but they worked fine (weren't sticky even). It had the plastic socket rings which are not so protective. Keys felt a little more comfortable (to me) than Yamaha (not a big deal really). Intonation was good, and the sound and response were excellent for the entire range. I was really impressed with that and really liked playing it. The throat Bb was a bit fuzzy and maybe the A slightly too (no more than what I remember from E11s). It is also very light which I think was one reason the player bought it. I'm not sure what the difference is between that model and the B12 (maybe the pads, and I'm not sure the B12 has metal socket rings).

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics