
( Brand: King ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 8017 ), ( Type: Bb Soprano ), ( Body Material: Metal ), ( Color: Gold ), ( Instrument: Clarinet ), ( Key Type: Open Hole ), ( Set Includes: Care Kit, Case, Mouthpiece ), ( Experience Level: Intermediate ), ( Key: Bb ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
Step back in time with the King 8017 American Standard Clarinet, a musical marvel that hails from the golden era of clarinet manufacturing in the 1930s. This instrument, a testament to craftsmanship and sound quality, has been meticulously preserved to offer a unique playing experience for serious musicians today.
The King 8017 is a classic over-the-counter (OTC) model, renowned for its balanced tone and easy response. Its design follows the traditional bell shape, with a bell diameter of approximately 7 3/8 inches, which contributes to its rich, full-bodied sound. The clarinet measures about 29 inches in length, making it comfortable for both intermediate and advanced players.
The King 8017 features a keywork configuration common during the 1930s, including undercut tone holes, silver-plated keys, and a durable nickel-silver body. The mouthpiece receiver is designed to accommodate standard Bach or Vandoren mouthpieces, allowing you to customize your sound to your preference.
The instrument has been carefully restored to maintain its vintage charm, while ensuring it plays smoothly and without any issues. Each key is finely tuned, and the pads are replaced with high-quality leather ones to provide a secure seal and consistent response. The lacquer finish, while showing some age, adds to the instrument's character and historical value.
In conclusion, the King 8017 American Standard Clarinet (Circa 1930s) is more than just a musical instrument; it's a piece of history that you can play. Whether you're a collector, a jazz enthusiast, or a serious clarinetist, this vintage clarinet offers an unparalleled playing experience that you won't find in modern models. Embrace the past and make music that resonates with the soul when you play the King 8017.
Pros of Buying a King 8017 American Standard Clarinet (circa 1930s):1. Historical Value: This clarinet is a vintage instrument from a renowned manufacturer, King, which adds to its historical and aesthetic appeal.
2. Quality Craftsmanship: Clarinets from the 1930s were often handcrafted with high-quality materials, ensuring a rich, resonant sound that modern instruments may struggle to replicate.
3. Rare Find: Given its age and the limited production of these clarinets, you may find it challenging to come across another one, making it a unique acquisition.
4. Potential for Investment: Vintage musical instruments can appreciate in value over time, especially if they are well-maintained and in good condition.
Cons of Buying a King 8017 American Standard Clarinet (circa 1930s):1. Maintenance and Repairs: Older instruments may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, which can be costly. The parts for these vintage clarinets may also be harder to find or more expensive.
2. Playability: Over time, the key action, pads, and other mechanical components of the clarinet may wear out, affecting its playability. Restoring a vintage clarinet to playable condition can be a complex and time-consuming process.
3. Tuning Stability: Older clarinets may not tune as quickly or accurately as modern instruments due to factors like humidity changes and temperature fluctuations.
4. Insurance and Storage: Vintage instruments should be properly insured and stored to protect their value. This can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Conclusion:Buying a King 8017 American Standard Clarinet (circa 1930s) can be an exciting opportunity for both collectors and musicians, offering a unique connection to the past and the potential for a rich, expressive sound. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential challenges associated with owning an older instrument, such as maintenance costs, playability issues, and the need for proper storage and insurance.
Recommendation:If you are an experienced clarinetist with a passion for vintage instruments and the resources to maintain and restore it, a King 8017 American Standard Clarinet (circa 1930s) could be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are a beginner or an intermediate player looking for a primary instrument, it may be more practical to consider a modern clarinet designed for ease of use and maintenance. In either case, be sure to have the instrument thoroughly inspected by a professional before making a purchase.
Among early USA metal clarinet makers, HN White was renowned for quality and workmanship. These play nicely and are a bargain. Made King, Cleveland, and American Standard Clarinets. Please see the photographs.
It features a lacquered brass body and bright silver-plated keys. The mechanism is tight. The HN White Co. It comes with its original case and a hard rubber mouthpiece.
$425 plus shipping. This interesting instrument, serial number 8017, appears to have been made in the1930s.