Author: clarnibass
Date: 2024-02-24 22:09
How any of those compare with the Conn I can't say. I've never tried a Conn bass from the 40s. Considering it is from the early 40s, I can't imagine either Selmer wouldn't be a pretty big improvement but that's a guesstimate.
As far as the 60s Selmer vs. Privilege, I've tried several dozen Selmers from every decade, and more than a few Privileges (maybe 20 or so). In short, to me the Privilege is a huge improvement. It comes down mainly to two things.
First, some people just really like the way some of the older Selmers play. Usually not that old from the before the 70s, but some prefer a specific older model. This is personal and not something there's a way to know other than to try it. Looking at it statistically, it's a small minority anyway.
Second, cost. If you can afford it, I'd say it's not close (inside the little world of good bass clarinets). The Privilege is much better ergonomically, better design, more even between notes, better intonation and response along the entire range, etc. Whether the improvements are worth the higher cost is another personal choice that is impossible to say unless you try them. I'd say it's absolutely worth it but for some it's not.
Another thing to consider is the neck angle. The Privilege comes with the steeper angle neck. Most older Selmers had the shallower angle neck. You specifically order the Privilege with shallower neck (same as the 35/37 neck) but it's not standard, whatever that means for availability. If one angle is much more comfortable for you it can make a big difference too.
Post Edited (2024-02-25 08:47)
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The Clarinet BBoard
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