I recently purchased an Uebel Emperior bass clarinet, but have always looked to the royal Global Firebird grenadilla bell as the ideal bell for any bass clarinet. The only question was if it would fit the Uebel Emperior. After discussion with some of the experts in the world of bass clarinets (and many thanks to) Michael Lowenstein and Brian Corbin, I ordered what was the last available Firebird bell in grenadilla. So what is the proverbial "good, bad, and ugly" about the Firebird bell...? The GOOD: The Firebird bell is well designed, well built, and a solid bell that was specifically designed for Royal Global and Buffet bass clarinets. As the Uebel Emperior is very similar to the Buffet, it fits well, and adds to the already gorgeous sound of the Emperior. It is also available in both grenadilla and cocobola woods, so bass clarinetist have a choice. THE BAD: As an accessory, the Firebird bell is expensive, BUT worth the investment. Additionally, as wood stocks become harder to obtain, the availability of all wood bells will decrease. Royal Global's solution was to develop an eco-wood for use in their bass clarinet bells, While this is a good alternative, it does not replace the beauty or sound of a wood bell. THE UGLY: The Firebird bell does not fit in many available bass clarinet cases, and that can be an issue. The Uebel Emperior comes in a BAM case, and the bell does not fit. However, the bell will with--either complete with the receiver tube, or as separate components in the outside pocket of that case, but must be protected in a covering or case of some sort. In summary, this is fantastic bell, and great addition to any bass clarinet, and the few issues that I have are just inconsequential to the sonic results and look of the instrument. To be clear, the Royal Firebird wood bell may not be to everyone's taste, but "don't knck it until you try it." I believe that you will be amazed...
