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

Alto clarinet buying advice?

Author: Kalashnikirby
Date: 2018-11-25 00:59

I'm currently looking to buy a used (possibly needing service) alto clarinet and find that there's plenty of choices. But what brands can you trust, and why are there so many? I mean - nowadays, you get to chose from Yamaha and Buffet, at least if you're looking for a wooden model, and that's it.

So these are my choices right now:

-Lemaire SML in pretty good condition, 1000€
-Kohlert Winnenden, needs service, 600€
-Conn S/N L32393, looks like a Malerne with a double vented mechanism, 600€
-Selmers, but always too expensive :(

There's 2 shops I know of that offer fully serviced instruments, but why the heck would I pay 1800€ for a 50s Selmer to Low E - and that mechanism is rather clumsy. Or are other altos even worse? I know the Bundy and Vito are fairly annoying, but don't tune that much worse than the selmer...

Also, I was almost about to buy a Leblanc with this "S" shaped neck, but now it's gone. I play tested that horn once (or at least it looked similiar) and liked it a lot. I'd be grateful for any advice.

Best regards,
Christian

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics