These "Black Hole" C clarinets are from China, reborn in my New Mexico workshop. I was happy playing the renowned Ridenour C (that I fine-tuned). I bought one of these out of curiosity. I was amazed .. it's a BETTER instrument!
Workmanship is good. The keywork is strong. Pads are Lucien kid leather. HOWEVER numerous defects and mis-tunings beg for attention. I spend about 6 hours refining each instrument, based on accumulated experience, recorded data, and fine tooling.
For half the price of the Ridenour C, you get a horn that is more in tune (especially Thumb-Bb and trills), with much better keywork and a better fit to large hands. The tone is exquisite, a bit better than the Ridenour that I had.
Warranty from me is 1 year / trial period 14 days. Specify if player has Small or XL hands.
Use your favorite Bb mouthpiece, and enjoy the musical liberation of playing a C instrument!
Contact me through The Clarinet Pages Private Message system, or by email, windydankoff at mac * com. ============
PHOTO 1 shows a work log that I keep on each instrument. A pitch graph shows the original mis-tunings. As I correct them, I also smooth out the response of each note.
REVIEW: Please see Phil's review of my results on The Clarinet Pages, under Chinese C clarinets.
<<< 2020 UPDATE >>> C clarinets are still going strong. I've learned how to refine the barrel bore and the bore in the top of the upper joint, to further improve the performance. I have vintage mouthpieces that play exceptionally well and include one with most sales. I've sold 10 of these, and had no complaints or returns, and very happy clients. I still play the first one I got, almost daily. It's been perfectly reliable. I also work on Bb clarinets especially for anyone who (like me) needs extra-easy blowing due to physical weakness.
http://www.windydankoff.com/black-hole-clarinets.html