Like the Royal Global MAX Bass Clarinet, the new MAX Bb Clarinet is a composite instrument. This means that it's 93% Grenadilla, with the remainder components being resin and carbon fiber for strength. (This is similar to the Buffet "Greenline" series clarinets. They blow like a wooden clarinet, with a similar resistance and depth of sound.
I am a HUGE fan of this particular instrument, and I've found that many players prefer it over the Backun Alpha Clarinet and the new Alpha Plus. What do I think? Well, I think I like it better, too. It has a resonance that the Alpha doesn't have (though the Alpha Plus definitely does have that "wood" resonance...because it's wood), and it's more comfortable in the hands than the Backun, too. (I really wish Backun would redesign their thumb rests. Morrie, are you listening?)
Resistance: 5/10, Medium
Playing the MAX has a terrific feel. It's got a middle-of-the-road sound, darker than the Alpha. With its medium resistance, you will have a balance of tonal flexibility and center to the sound that holds its core.
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 MAX with the Alpha Plus, Uebel Classic and the Royal Classical Limited. The Uebel and Royal have a bit more resistance, which is partly the design, and partly the material (both the Uebel and Royal are Grenadilla wood). These two alternatives' slightly added resistance—while still both considered "Medium." When listening to the sound examples of all three, listen for the dynamic variations, especially with the extremes in the Berlioz and Gershwin.
The Royal MAX Bb Clarinet is a real contender. It plays like a wood instrument, and has the depth of one, too. Give it a shot – try it for 7 days, and if you don't like it, send it back. But please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
Comes with
- 65mm Barrel
- Silver-plated keys with silver posts.
- Mouthpiece & Ligature
- Adjustable thumb rest.
- Single hard-shell pastic case with handle and strap.
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.
