Royal Global is a fairly new manufacturer on the scene, and they have made huge strides over the past 4 years, refining their designs, upgrading materials, and....just tinkering with everything. And they've come up with what I think is probably the best overall value for a bass clarinet on the market today. Is it a Buffet or Selmer? No, but it's pretty damn close.
The Polaris is Royal's mid-line bass clarinet, offering the same quality wood and workmanship as their flagship Firebird, with a few differences. The play-feel of the instrument is very, very similar to the Firebird, so I'd venture to say that it's the same instrument minus a few of the high-end features like the wood bell, upgraded neck and posts, and a few mechanical differences. If those features are not needed or desired, this is a great instrument that is also a great value. Seriously, there is nothing like it on the market at this price point.
Even though Royal Global instruments are now arriving in excellent shape from the factory — they've improved a LOT in this regard — I still think the spring tensions are too tight for the instrument, so I send them upstate to get tweaked, and we make sure all of the tone holes are sharp and clean. And of course, we make them seal like a champ.
The total cost of the "earspasm setup" (for want of a better term) and tweaking 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 I don't like the idea charging more for something that should come standard. So I won't.
All earspasm instruments come with a 7-day trial. Please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
The instrument comes with:
- Standard Royal case with hideaway backpack straps
- Two pegs, standard.
Notice, the instrument does not come with a mouthpiece. Fortunately for you, I sell those too.
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!d.
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard Royal Global warranty against cracks, etc. 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. 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.
