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Re: Is this normal adjustment?

Author: clarnibass
Date: 2023-02-22 08:18

>> the second ring on the top joint was noticeably higher than the top ring, which isn't the case on my R13. <<

To add to m1964's post, the adjustment of the bridge keys and the height of the second (D/A key) ring when the sections are not assembled are mostly unrelated (if it's not adjusted it would also affect it to some degree but this is a different case). When assembled, the height will be correct based on the height of the lower bridge key. When not assembled the key can move farther up (the ring) or farther down (the bridge linkage). Many clarinets are made this way. The adjustment only really matters when it is assembled.

However, it is possible to fix this and there is an advantage to it. You can glue a bumper to an upper area of the top bridge key, so that it doesn't move so low (or high for the ring) when not assembled. It is best when this is done to have it if close but not more than its height when assembled (so not to create double action in the bridge linkage).

The reason for this is that it makes it easier to assemble. With the upper bridge key moving lower, the bridge keys can collide when assembling. That's why you hold the D/A key closed when assembling the clarinet. Even knowing they need to hold the D/A key down, some people still occasionally rub the keys when assembling and this can peel the linkage material (not so rare), or at worst case bend something (very rare but happens).

Post Edited (2023-02-23 12:45)

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