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Kristopher G
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I ordered a 5.0 from DeMorrow a year ago, it's supposed to arrive on Tuesday. I did a lot of research on various brands, playing many, asking teachers and players from everywhere what they recommended, and asked various keyboard tuners/repairers what they thought as well. People will never stop debating which instrument is the best, but the one comment that stuck with me from many people was this--"The only bad part about a DeMorrow is that you may wait a while for the instrument." This was accompanied by varied comments about the drawbacks of other high-end marimbas.
That being said, all of the high-end companies make good marimbas. You will probably not go wrong with Adams, Kori, Marimba One, Malletech, Yamaha, Coe, etc. The important thing, like Scott said, is to play as many different models as possible as many times as possible. Find an instrument that fits your playing style, your preferred repertoire, and that feels good under your hands. Also, bring somebody with you to listen to you play out in front of the instrument. The one thing I'll say for DeMorrow, Malletech, and Coe is that they use round brass resonators, tunable over the entire range. This can be a huge advantage in the sound if you take the time to learn how to make adjustments CORRECTLY.
On deciding whether or not to purchase a practice instrument or take the big plunge, several factors contributed to my decision. The first is that my university does not own a 5.0 marimba of any kind. The second was that I play enough and perform enough to make good use of my own instrument, and many pieces are now requiring a 5.0 marimba. A 5.0 also works well for cello transcriptions. The third reason for me was if I'm going to buy a marimba, I'm going to do it once, do it right, and be done with it. Will my preferences change in the future? Very likely. But at least I've found the best starting point for me. A practice marimba is also a better buy if you don't think you'll schlepping the instrument all over playing. Few people actually need a concert-quality marimba in their home practice studios. I already know I'll have to block off the resonators in my townhouse if I play at night or my neighbor's home and doesn't want to hear it. Some companies do offer an upgrade option from a practice to a concert instrument as well.
If anybody wants pics, drop me an e-mail. I probably won't have them ready to send for about a week, so don't think I'm ignoring you.
Sorry all, for the dissertation. Mr. Moersch, can I get a doctorate for this? :)
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[4019]Re:Re:DeMorrow Marimbas? Etc? (1954 reads)
[4015]DeMorrow Marimbas? Etc? <Patrick D.>
