What is the sound difference between 3D Blackwood and 3D Mahogany?

3D Blackwood tends to have more focus, center, and "ping" to the sound, and 3D Mahogany has a slightly darker, open, more flexible sound and response. 3D Mahogany wood is also reddish-brown in color as opposed to traditional black.

​

How do 3D materials compare to traditional materials?

The 3D materials I use have been very carefully selected for sound production. The High-Impact Polystyrene used for Pereira 3D Balance Barrels is completely different from the properties of traditional wood (and 3D Wood) but also has unique advantages. This polymer is exceptionally light and vibrates very easily compared to other materials used for instrument manufacturing. This means the synthetic Balance barrels provide a free-blowing experience with an easy response across the entire range and a slightly brighter sound compared to 3D Woods. Regarding ligatures, the polyurethane material used for Pereira 3D Series 1 & 2 ligatures most closely resembles fabric-style ligatures. However, while just as flexible, polyurethane's slightly harder/more rigid texture gives a fuller, less dampened sound with a quicker response.

 

Pereira 3D began offering 3D Blackwood and 3D Mahogany materials in June 2016. 3D Wood has been a breakthrough, combining the benefits of synthetic materials and the warmth/depth of sound found in traditionally used woods. Both 3D Wood materials will not crack, warp, or change over time, and, while it has a higher density than High-Impact Polystyrene, they're also lightweight (particularly my custom bells), which has improved players' finger dexterity and longevity when playing long recitals. 3D Blackwood tends to have more focus and "ping" in the sound (similar to Grenadilla wood), and 3D Mahogany tends to have more warmth, darkness, and a slightly more open feel.

 

What level of musician can these products benefit?

3D printing technology brings down production costs to make costs lower for my clients, and I extensively hand-finish every product I make to play at its best. 3D products accommodate a wide range of musicians, from professionals in symphony orchestras to students in marching bands. 3D Wood has the warmth and color that professionals look for while my basic synthetic material (High-Impact Polystyrene) has the quick response and free-blowing feel that is perfect for students and advancing players. In addition, all 3D materials used are very durable and have a lifetime structural warranty.

 

Is there hand finishing involved for 3D products?

Yes, and quite a bit! Careful hand finishing is done both inside and out after the print process to ensure the products are to exact specifications. Tenon sockets are finished by hand to be accurate and smooth, making the connection between parts seamless. 3D Wood products are completely hand-finished to have a particular surface texture that helps to produce a deeper and more complex quality of sound, as well as offer an ideal blowing resistance.

​

What is your general market for Pereira Custom Clarinets?

My clarinet line covers a lot of ground, and that's by design. I wanted to combine professional, tried-and-true bore designs with features typically found in high-end models, all wrapped up in a very affordable package. The result is an accessible line of instruments that can sing in symphony orchestras, in the pit, outdoor and indoor events, etc. Some of these features include a standard left-hand Eb lever, choice of barrel/extension/bell model and material, having a vent hole in the bell for improved intonation, etc. Furthermore, I use materials that yield the best sound qualities but are not susceptible to cracking or warping over time. So, these instruments can be played beautifully in top ensembles, but are also approachable to someone stepping up to their first quality instrument without breaking the bank.

 

Are 3D Blackwood and 3D Mahogany similar to "Greenline" material?

The premise behind these materials is the same: The materials themselves are blends that include wood particles and a stable, crack-resistant material, resulting in a material that matches the sound quality of traditional woods. 3D Wood does not contain epoxy, but rather a plant-based binding agent that holds the wooden particles together and allows the material to remain stable in any climate. 3D Woods are very durable and offer a rich, warm quality of sound.