 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: bradfordlloyd
Date: 2014-07-28 05:19
I've searched the BBoard, and found a few comments but no definitive verdict (or even a preponderance of evidence) about the quality of Selmer (Paris) Series 9 bass clarinets.
Has anyone played them or tested them and have opinions on whether they are "professional quality" instruments?
(Note: The one I am considering is from the 1960s, grenadilla wood with nickel keywork, in good shape, double vent, has a two piece neck with vent. I have no been able to play test it yet.)
Any experiences with these horns, advice or guidance is much appreciated.
Thanks!
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2014-07-28 07:44
Selmer Series 9 basses from the 1960s were some of the best available. Particularly if it goes to low C, plays in tune and is in good shape, I'd grab it.
Ken Shaw
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2014-07-28 13:09
Selmer only made pro level instruments until the early '90s when they introduced the intermediate level Prologue clarinet, but have only ever made pro level basses - the Series 9 range are all pro level instruments from Eb clarinet down to EEb contra-alto.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: clarnibass
Date: 2014-07-28 14:09
Yes it's a pro bass like others said and since it's from the 60s there's a chance that it's excellent (at least in tone, playability, etc. since mechanics improved a lot since then).
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Author: Ed
Date: 2014-07-28 14:35
I agree with Ken. Those are some of my favorite basses that I have played.
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Author: bradfordlloyd
Date: 2014-07-28 15:19
Great, thanks for the very helpful input!
I should have been clearer on 2 issues:
1. The horn I'm assessing goes down to Eb, rather than to C (which I'm fine with based on my playing needs)
2. I guess I'm asking whether the 1960s vintage Series 9 basses (which I know were "professional quality" at the time of their manufacture) are consistent with newer, professional quality instruments of today.
BTW, I currently play a Series 9* Bb soprano and a Selmer Paris eefer, so I'm positively predisposed to Selmer Paris products. Just checking on the basses since they are definitely their own animal.
Thanks again!
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2014-07-28 15:58
The Series 9 basses were mechanically excellent. The current Selmer and Buffet basses are somewhat better, but they're almost never available used, and the prices for new ones are astronomical.
Ken Shaw
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Author: bradfordlloyd
Date: 2014-08-03 15:34
Thank you all for your input and guidance. Much appreciated!
I think that I'll go ahead and try out the Selmer Series 9 bass clarinet that is being offered locally. Fingers crossed that it will be worth purchasing!
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Author: efsf081
Date: 2014-08-04 07:54
You need to check the angle of the neck. The old bass clarinet usually have a neck with lower angle. And the modern one usually have a higher angle.
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Author: HANGARDUDE
Date: 2014-08-04 19:56
Yes, check the angle of the neck too. if it is shallower and you need a steeper one you can buy a replacement from Selmer. It should fit in the older instruments I suppose.
http://www.selmer.fr/#compdetail.php?tonalite=BASSE&instru=CLAR&type=BOCAL&groupe=acc
Josh
Post Edited (2014-08-04 20:10)
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