Jupiter 631 II

This clarinet seems virtually identical to a Yamaha. The key work looks to be just like Yamaha's and of equal sturdiness. And the model numbering system is similar. This is JCL—631—II. The model is marked in a different place, on the back of the RH joint. NOTE: This clarinet brand is listed under Chinese, but is really from Taiwan. This clarinet brand, based on reputation and this review, is better than most of the Chinese clarinets flooding USA markets these days. This brand looks to be a good choice for students.Serial #J43153Barrel: 64.5mmBore LH joint top: 15mmBore LH joint at bottom: 14.75mm Polycylindrical

Intonation results taken when playing loud and not lipping. See how to interpret these results on the Model Comparison Page.

Intonation summary: Quite good. The flatness in the throat register was because I was playing so loud. The A throat tone is rather sharp. Using a full resonance fingering would help this. I happened to play this next to my Lyrique (made of hard rubber) and a wooden Normandy. I liked the tone of the other two much better than this plastic instrument. The plastic of this instrument is of the hard shiny variety. That kind of plastic seems to lack high overtones.

Key work quality: Very nice. Just like Yamaha's. Especially see the bridge linkage above. The springs seem to be not as hard as the best spring steel.

This clarinet is most appropriate for: Beginning students.