Author: fskelley
Date: 2014-03-16 23:14
I've purchased a few "standard" mouthpieces on eBay, or they've come with used clarinets. I've also purchased new. And I've noted that (at least for the Vandoren 2RV) there was quite a variety in the visible dimensions, not even considering playing qualities. And I've learned (guess I didn't always know) that folks often reface, refinish, alter mouthpieces in good or bad attempts to play better with them.
So that means a bunch of what's out there is no longer in original factory condition or even design / dimensions. Which is a real shame- all this product is now worthless to the rest of the playing community? To say that everybody has to "buy new" is not just silly, it's "un-green" and anti-recycling.
So I have a suggestion that is perhaps hopelessly naive. I would ask anyone who ever significantly changes a mouthpiece from its original design- to mark it in a permanent manner that all would recognize and know, that it is no longer standard. Suggestions for the mark? An etched skull and crossbones? Mr Yuck? Perhaps even buff off the original model number!
Further, I would like anyone who FINDS a mouthpiece that they figure out is no longer standard, to mark it the same way.
Of course what I am suggesting would immediately destroy the resale value of said mouthpiece, so few would want it to happen. But that's no different than the high odometer reading on a vehicle reducing its value. Honesty in selling!
Other than some kind of universally followed community agreement, how can you know whether a "5RV" you buy has or has not been monkeyed with? I don't even trust one I buy NEW.
Stan in Orlando
EWI 4000S with modifications
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