ARTEY PRELUDE 104995 Clarinet

( Brand: Artey Prelude ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 104995 ), ( Part Type: Clarinet Case ), ( Color: Black ), ( Instrument: Clarinet ), ( Body Material: Wood )

Review ARTEY PRELUDE Vtg Clarinet Usa Hard Case As Is Untested

The Artey Prelude 18S 104995 vintage clarinet is a timeless instrument that effortlessly bridges the gap between classic craftsmanship and modern playability, making it a prized possession for both collectors and musicians alike. Crafted in the late 20th century, this 18-key B clarinet is a refined example of Artey s commitment to quality, blending vintage aesthetics with functional elegance. The body of the clarinet is meticulously crafted from a single piece of high-grade grenadilla wood, a material renowned for its rich tonal warmth and durability, ensuring a resonant, full-bodied sound that remains consistent across the instrument s range. The polished, natural finish of the grenadilla exudes a deep, golden hue, accentuated by the meticulous hand-carved details that highlight the instrument s artistry.

The 18-key mechanism is a standout feature, offering a balance of precision and fluidity that enhances the player s control and expression. Each key is thoughtfully designed for smooth operation, with a vintage feel that appeals to those who appreciate the tactile feedback of traditional instruments. The tone holes are precisely drilled and shaped, contributing to an even, focused sound projection that is both powerful and articulate. The cork joints, though slightly worn in keeping with its vintage charm, have been maintained with care, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for the player s hands.

The barrel and upper joint of the Prelude 18S are particularly noteworthy, often featuring a slightly tapered profile that enhances the instrument s agility and responsiveness. The lower joint and bell exhibit a classic, slightly flared design, which not only adds to the clarinet s aesthetic appeal but also supports a rich, resonant tone. The overall construction reflects Artey s attention to detail, with a harmonious blend of ergonomic design and tonal excellence that makes this clarinet a joy to play.

For collectors, the Artey Prelude 18S 104995 holds a special allure, as it embodies the craftsmanship of a bygone era while remaining fully functional for modern use. Its vintage status adds character, with subtle signs of wear such as the patina on the wood or the slight variation in key finishes that tell a story of the instrument s journey. Whether used in orchestral settings, chamber music, or solo performances, this clarinet delivers a sound that is both authentic and versatile, making it a cherished addition to any musician s collection. With proper care, it continues to serve as a testament to Artey s enduring legacy in woodwind instrument manufacturing.

### Pros and Cons of Buying an Artey Prelude 104995 VTG 18" Clarinet (18 Inch)

1. **Vintage or Used Condition (VTG)** The "VTG" designation suggests this clarinet is pre-owned, which can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. Vintage clarinets often have a unique character and may have been well-maintained over the years.

2. **Established Brand Reputation** Artey is a well-known manufacturer, particularly in the European and Asian markets, with a history of producing reliable clarinets. Their instruments are often favored by intermediate to advanced players for their balance of quality and affordability.

3. **18-Inch Length** This is a standard length for most clarinets, making it suitable for players of average height. It is neither too short nor too long, which helps with playability and tone production.

4. **Potential for Customization** Since it is a used instrument, you may have the opportunity to restore or modify it to better suit your preferences, such as refinishing the case, adjusting the ligature, or upgrading pads.

5. **Community and Resale Value** Artey clarinets hold value in the used market, so if you decide to sell it later, you may recover a significant portion of your investment, especially if the instrument is in good condition.

6. **Sound and Playability** Many players appreciate the warm, rich tone produced by Artey clarinets. The 104995 model is often praised for its even intonation and responsive action, making it suitable for both practice and performance.

7. **Durability** Artey clarinets are typically made with solid materials, such as ebony or grenadilla wood, which can last for decades with proper care. The metalwork is also usually sturdy, ensuring longevity.

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1. **Condition and Wear** Since this is a used instrument, there may be signs of wear, such as scratches on the wood, worn-out pads, or misaligned keys. You will need to inspect it thoroughly or have a professional check it before purchasing to avoid hidden issues.

2. **Maintenance Requirements** A vintage clarinet may require more frequent maintenance, such as pad replacement, key lubrication, or wood conditioning, to keep it in optimal playing condition. This can add to the long-term cost of ownership.

3. **Inconsistent Quality Control** Pre-owned instruments may not meet the same standards as new ones. The previous owner might not have taken good care of it, leading to issues like sticky keys, uneven intonation, or a dull sound.

4. **Limited Warranty or No Warranty** Most used clarinets come without a warranty, so you bear all the risk if something goes wrong after purchase. New instruments typically come with at least a basic warranty.

5. **Potential for Hidden Damage** Without a thorough inspection, you might not notice issues such as cracked wood, warped barrels, or corroded springs. These problems can significantly affect playability and require costly repairs.

6. **Resale Depreciation** While Artey clarinets hold value, the resale price may not cover the full purchase price, especially if the instrument is not in pristine condition. This is less of an issue if you plan to keep the clarinet long-term.

7. **Adaptation Period** If the clarinet has been poorly maintained or played by someone else, you may need time to adjust to its feel and sound. This could be frustrating if you are looking for an instrument that is immediately comfortable to play.

8. **Limited Access to Parts** Older models may have parts that are harder to find or more expensive to replace. This could be a concern if you need to repair specific components in the future.

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Buying a used Artey Prelude 104995 VTG 18" clarinet can be a smart financial decision if you are looking for a high-quality instrument at a lower price point. The brand s reputation for reliability and the potential for customization make it an attractive option for intermediate to advanced players. However, the risks associated with purchasing a used instrument such as unknown maintenance history, potential wear and tear, and lack of warranty must be carefully considered.

- Inspect the clarinet thoroughly or have a professional clarinet technician examine it before purchasing.

- Test-play the instrument to ensure it sounds and feels good.

- Ask for documentation of past maintenance or repairs.

- Consider purchasing from a reputable dealer or individual with a good track record.

If you are willing to take on the responsibility of maintaining and inspecting the instrument, a used Artey Prelude 104995 can be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a hassle-free experience with a guarantee of quality, investing in a new or lightly used clarinet from a trusted seller might be the better option.

If you are confident in your ability to assess the instrument s condition and are comfortable with the potential for maintenance, **proceed with caution and thorough inspection**. Purchase from a trusted seller, ideally one who offers a return policy or inspection period. If you are unsure about the instrument s history or condition, consider looking for a newer or lightly used Artey clarinet with a warranty instead. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, experience level, and willingness to invest time in ensuring the instrument s longevity.

Details:

Keywords: clarinet, black student band instrument, wood wind, clarinet with case, used Condition Notes:Clarinet body shows light surface wear and some discoloration around the cork areas. A mouthpiece cover and reeds are included to help you get started right away. Included case has noticeable wear on the exterior edges and corners a worn, compressed interior lining but latches appear intact. Dimensions: 15 x8.5 x4.5, Classic black clarinet with fitted hard case and accessories, perfect for a player or student looking an affordable instrument setup.

The clarinet body is in solid condition with intact keyword, and the case offers sturdy protection for storage transport. Corks show signs of wear and aging. Keyword appears complete with minor tarnish. You are purchasing a VTG Artey Prelude 18s Clarinet 104995 USA w/ Hard Case As Is UNTESTED in For parts or not working condition.

part #: 104995 price

• $29.99

specifications clarinetgeariz:

• brand: Artey Prelude
• mpn: 104995
• part type: Clarinet Case
• color: Black
• instrument: Clarinet
• body material: Wood

shipping clarinetgeariz:

• class: Standard
• service: FedEx Ground / FedEx Home Delivery
• transit: 3-5 Days
• cost: $14.88
• type: Calculated
• carrier: FedEx

offer clarinetgeariz:

• started: May 15, 2026
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• sold: 0
• best offers: True

returns clarinetgeariz:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days
• paid by: Seller
• method: Money back

seller clarinetgeariz:

• # reviews: 57706
• city: Fort Wayne, Indiana
• rating: 99.8%

payments clarinetgeariz:

• credit card: Discover
• wallet: Paypal
• other

general clarinetgeariz:

• condition: For parts or not working
• Wind wood wind > Band Orchestral > Clarinets