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Re: Weber bell

Author: Beetlebum
Date: 2011-11-27 15:23

Hi,

I currently have 3 different Weber & Capps bells on trial.

About a year and a half ago my GH series Loree's upper joint cracked so severely that repair was not economical. I chose to replace it with an 'AK' plastic Loree upper joint rather than pay Loree to fabricate a new wooden joint. Hannah of Hannah's Oboes suggested the option of using a replacement plastic joint from Loree, which I purchased from her. David Weber fitted the plastic joint nicely onto the original lower joint. Thanks Hannah and David !

At that time I tried a couple of the Loree bells that David had modified, and perhaps one Weber & Capps bell (I can't remember), and I didn't notice a significant difference then. It is likely that I didn't gave them a proper fair trial as I was reluctant to put any more cash into the deal (on top of the original cost of the GH Loree). I was afraid I would like one of the bells and break the bank :>).

Now to the present. Recently, on this horn, I have been having trouble with a very sharp middle E natural, and wanted to see if a replacement bell might help with that, or if the problem was just me and my reeds (adjusted commercial 'pro' reeds).

In this recent trial, all three bells had noticeable positive effects.

Both of the 'A' bells increased the horn's projection and made it more responsive and lively. It felt less closed or 'stuffy'. Less resistance perhaps.

The 'B' bell increased the 'core tone' or 'center' (darker), and was also a nice improvement, but for some reason the low B natural was unacceptably dull sounding. This bell was not as 'big' sounding as the 'A' bells, which I initially thought might be a good thing as it might lend greater control.

The first reed I used wasn't my best, though, and was too thin and edgy sounding. Next I tried a newer reed from Weber Reeds, the 'Ocotillo'. This reed had much more core tone and body, a more proper balance between high and low vibrations.

With this reed, the more vibrant and responsive of the 'A' bells really came to life. To me and my wife, the result was impressive and very beautiful. The horn was much more dynamic with many naturally 'sweet' notes, but even 'regular' notes (if you guys know what I mean) could be also be readily coaxed to increased depth and intensity. I had initially thought this bell was too 'airy' and perhaps just louder. But with the right reed, the core tone and body was there, the intonation was much improved, and the high register was very sweet. Did I mention the increased responsiveness ?

Apparently there is a 'C' bell as well, but I didn't not receive one to try. I don't know what the letters indicate in the way of design differences.

I will have to note that I am far from a professional oboist. I am an older returning player, an advanced amateur at best. I don't have the greatest horn in the world, so the effect I observed might not be as dramatic on a better horn which already has a great bell. I do have an older restored Gordet/Bulgheroni that I intend to try the bells on before I make my final decision. I hope the effects are similarly positive. I'll report back after that trial.

Your mileage may very.

BB

Post Edited (2011-11-27 16:11)

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