What is a Firebird Clarinet?
This is a very forward-thinking clarinet that solves some very long-standing problems with intonation. But, I'm getting ahead of myself.
The Firebird is one of my favorite new instruments. I love the way it sounds, in no small part because of the really clever key mechanisms that open he instrument up in a way I've never heard or seen before.
Cool, so what's the big deal? Number one cool feature: The double-register mechanism that is like a miniature version of the Bass Clarinet double-register key...sort of. When you play a throat Bb on just about every Bb clarinet it is stuffy, because the position and size of the register key hole is not conducive to a lovely Bb — it hisses. So we use resonance fingerings (if you know, you know) to solve for that. But —get this— what if you didn't have to use resonance fingerings? Omifreakingod, the Firebird's Bb alone is worth trying this instrument for.
But wait there's more: Number two is the G/D vent on the lower joint that (optionally!) enables you to vent the instrument in one extra place, right below the Low F tonehole. So what, you ask? You've got to feel and hear it to believe it. It opens up the second register of the clarinet and the thing just sings.
I'm also a fan of the ergonomically designed register key. For those of us with bigger thumbs, it's nice to meet a nice, plump end of the key that doesn't force you to twist your thumb vertically to activate it. Big fan. Everyone else, please take notice. This is how you do a register key.
Needless to say, I'm super impressed with Royal, and the Firebird clarinet in particular.
Resistance: 5/10, Medium
Playing the Firebird feels similar to the Buffet Festival: nice clean sound with a lot of color.
In general, more resistance in a clarinet design usually keeps the louder dynamic ranges from spreading; the clarinet "holds its core" and focus, but will provide a smaller dynamic range (on both ends, loud and soft) and smaller color palette. A less resistant clarinet typically provides a much wider tonal palette to choose from, but will require more control from the player to control pitch and sound consistency.
When listening for how a clarinet responds to added air pressure and embouchure control, listen to the Weber example (wide dynamic range and color range), then the Berlioz excerpt (wide dynamic range, but narrow color range), and finally the Gershwin excerpt (narrow dynamic range and narrow color range). You will hear how these clarinets respond — for better or worse! — to my input as a clarinet player.
Then compare the Firebird with the Buffet R13, the Backun Model Q, and Uebel Rêve. When listening to the sound examples of all four, listen for the dynamic variations, especially with the extremes in the Berlioz and Gershwin.
Here's a little more about the Firebird's specs
- 64mm & 65mm Barrels
- Silver-plated keys with gold posts—everything that's drilled into the clarinet is gold plated. Some people think this makes a difference. Maybe it does, maybe not, but the Firebird sounds kick-ass, so I'm not complaining.
- Adjustable thumb rest.
- Single soft-sided case with handle and strap.
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 Royal Global warranty. 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. Please read my trial policy for how to handle this issue, should it arise.
Q: If I decide to return it, do have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Not if you live in the Continental US! Because I want you to find the right instrument for you, and doing so online is harder than doing so in-person, I will cover the return shipping. Please read my trial policy for trial and return rules.
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.
