Clarinet - cost of replacing pads and cork?

Question

I have a chance to get an old clarinet that hasn't been played for 40 years. The owner stated that the cork and the pads would have to be replaced. Does anyone know how much this would cost? (I am in the US, so cost in dollars would be helpful)

Answer 1

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Depending on where you are and what the local music shops are like in your area, the prices may vary, but here's a general average:

New cork is about $40, but more if you include the mouthpiece;

The pads will be about $90, but the top joint may have been done in cork (depending on the brand and the last time it was overhauled)... if it's a high quality or pro model (Buffet R13, Selmer Signature) you may want to have the top joint- or at least the register key- padded in cork. It is a little more pricey, but it makes the tone just beautiful and they are way more durable than bladder type pads;

Other things to think about, would be that since it's been sitting for a while, you should make sure that the springs and pins are all in working order (aren't bent in weird directions, are oiled properly, and are responsive).
Also, if it's wood, make sure to oil it before playing it. A bottle of bore oil costs about $2, and the swab to apply it is about $10 to $15 (get a recorder swab that looks like a huge pipe cleaner). A couple of drops on the swab, quick and even wipes the length of the clarinet (you can do it in sections), and let it sit for 48 hours before you play it. If it dries out before the first 24, do another round and wait another couple days- that should be enough to keep the wood healthy. You don't want to play it if it's too dry, as it can crack or warp- this will cost way more than having it refurbished.

The cost for having it overhauled (new springs, oiled by THEM, etc.) can cost anywhere between $50 to $200, depending on what they have to do and what parts they need. If you don't have them overhaul it, plan on spending $110 to $160 for pads and cork. Depending on what type of clarinet it is, it may be VERY worth the money!

Hope this was helpful, and feel free to email me if you have more questions! :)

Source(s):

Pro clarinet / bari sax player, 18 yrs exp.