Penzel-Mueller Bel Canto
Many thanks to Jeffrey Girsch for giving me the opportunity to review this fine vintage PM clarinet.
The Bel Canto was PM's number 4 clarinet— a student model, priced at $179.50 around 1949. The bell is plastic.
Serial #R-902-B
Barrel: 66.2mm
Bore LH joint top: 14.5mm
Bore LH joint at bottom: 14.5mm
Intonation results taken when playing loud and not lipping. See how to interpret these results on the Model Comparison Page.
For this test, I pulled 0mm at the barrel and 0mm at the center tenon.
Intonation summary: This is typical intonation for straight medium bore clarinets. The flat places were much improved when I used a 64.3mm barrel, but the nicely in tune low D down to A became sharp proportionately. The intonation is good solid intermediate level.
Key work quality: Rather good. Still beautifully plated, and sturdy enough that nothing was bent when it arrived. It would not be as sturdy as a Noblet, so the player should assemble with reasonable care.
This clarinet is most appropriate for: Any student from beginner to intermediate.
Condition issues noted: None.