Uebel Emperior Low C Bass Clarinet - Mopane
Uebel Emperior Low C Bass Clarinet - Mopane
Mopane for the win! I like the Grenadilla sibling of this Uebel Emperior, but this one is just stunningly beautiful. And Mopane has a different sound and feel than the Grenadilla. It's still an African hardwood, but it's—I dunno—a bit less dense. Again, it's as much of a feel as a sound, so it's hard to describe with words.
This instrument has the key-feel of a Buffet, with a bit more of a resistance that many players love. I am usually in the "the more free-blowing-the-better" camp, but with this Uebel I can see the appeal of having an instrument that pushes back a little bit. The sound has a different core — again, hard to describe in words. This is really one heck of an instrument, and I am seriously considering adding one to my personal collection.
Despite the terrific craftsmanship of the Uebel (every bit as good as Buffet + Selmer IMO), I still bring each and every one of these horns to my favorite technician waaaaay up in Northern New York State. He spends 4-5 hours bringing them up to my spec—paying special attention in particular to the spring tensions of these Uebel horns. Sheesh, the Germans have strong fingers or something.
The total cost of the "earspasm setup" of this instrument is included in the price—even though I pay out of pocket for it. Yes, it reduces my profit. Yes, people have told me I should charge a premium for doing it. But like I've said, I don't like the idea charging more for something that should come standard. So I won't.
The instrument comes with a standard BAM Trekking case. Oh, and it comes with a 5-year warranty against cracks (which is industry-leading), and a 2-year mechanical warranty.
Notice, the instrument does not come with a mouthpiece or swab. Fortunately for you, I sell those too.
All earspasm instruments come with a 7-day trial. Please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
FAQ:
Q: What if I'm in New York and want to try it in person?
A: Contact me to set up an appointment, and let's do it!
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard Uebel 5-year warranty against cracks, and 2 years for mechanical issues. If you ever have any problem with the instrument, I'm your quarterback. I'll take care of the whole process, just let me know you need help, and I'll take it from there.
Q: What happens if it's damaged during shipping?
A: Inspect the package before you sign off at delivery! If there are any issues resulting from shipping, we have taken out an insurance policy to cover damage (and loss). But we need you to document this damage or we can't do anything to help.
Q: If I decide to return it, do also I have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Yes. And you will also want to insure it!
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, but please contact me first for the shipping cost. I will adjust the cost based on your actual address. International shipping costs vary, and range between $300-500 USD. Please note that you will be responsible for any Customs Duties.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes. You can add your shipping address when checking out to see what the shipping costs will be before taking the plunge. Note that VAT and Customs Duties are not included in this cost.
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Since September 2023, I have purchased not one, but four clarinets from Earsapsm Music and Michael Lowenstein, including my most recent acquisition: the Uebel Emperior bass clarinet in mopane. First, let me begin by thanking Michael Lowenstein for all of the time he spent answering questions, and providing service that was/is second to none. As a bass clarinetist with a stellar international reputation, Mr. Lowenstein was instrumental in providing invaluable information that enabled me to make an informed decision as to which bass clarinet to purchase.
But I had a dilemma: Wait several months for a Backun Q, or go with the instrument that I knew and was a clear favorite---the Uebel Emperior. For me, the choice was simple as I was/am already playing on Uebel Superiors, including a plateau clarinet. The sound: Dark, warm, and rich. The mechanics: Well built and solid. The wood: Be it grenadilla or mopane, some of the best wood available for clarinets today.
As I said in a previous review: "Any clarinetist that has not tried an Uebel clarinet is missing out.... While there is no doubt that Buffet makes fantastic clarinets, this Uebel ( as are all Uebels) is just plain fantastic...."
In my opinion, this bass clarinet is one of the best instruments that I have purchased. I am so impressed with both the musical qualities of this clarinet, and overall build quality that I say without reservation that "Uebel is simply the best." Okay, maybe a bit over-optimistic, as Buffet, Selmer, Royal Global, and now Backun all make fine bass clarinets as well. As I have said many times, Uebel clarinets are like Buffets on steroids, and are simply the best instruments that I have played on to date. clarinetists that have not tried Uebel clarinets are missing out. I am not saying that Uebel clarinets of any model will be to everyone's taste or preference, but they provide a fandamntastic option to be considered by all.
I am super happy with my new Uebel Mopane! It looks gorgeous and sounds amazing.
The only slight issue I have is with how it sits in the case - Uebel adds a stopper to keep the lower joint from moving around in the case, however because of that the keywork doesn't sit in the hollows properly, and I worry that this will lead to the instrument coming out of adjustment more frequently.
I am loving my new Uebel Emperior bass clarinet - it's a "life– purchase/expensive for me and I have no regrets. The little points that I though were breakin issues were just that. It sounds great and is so affirming to have a quality instrument to play.
Wonderful instrument with an even, easy to maintain tone. I am going to have fun!