What's the sound difference between 3D Blackwood and 3D Mahogany?

3D Blackwood tends to have more focus and center 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 so easily compared to other materials used for instrument manufacturing. This creates a free-blowing experience with easy response across the entire range. The polyurethane material used for Pereira 3D ligatures most closely resembles fabric-style ligatures. However, while just as flexible, the slightly harder/more rigid texture of polyurethane gives a fuller, less dampened sound and quicker response.

 

As of June 2016, Pereira 3D offers 3D Blackwood and 3D Mahogany, which combines the benefits of synthetic materials and the depth of sound found in traditionally-used woods. This material will not crack, warp, or change over time and is also lightweight like the High-Impact Polystyrene material used for Balance Barrels.

 

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 High-Impact Polystyrene has the response and freedom 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.

​

Are 3D Clarinets designed/could be repaired like a traditional clarinet?

3D Clarinets are constructed exactly like traditionally-manufactured clarinets, from corked tenon joints to the key work. So, yes, they are assembled the same way, can be stored in the same cases, and are repaired in the same manner as well. Regarding pads for future repairs, I especially recommend Valentino synthetic pads for these instruments.

 

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

The premise behind these materials is the same: They are mixes that include wood particles and a crack-resistant material that match 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. 3D Woods are very durable and offer a rich yet warm quality of sound.