They seem to universally have some intonation problems. But I get it that little kids could begin to develop an embouchure without the weight of a regular instrument. Great demos.
That is something I'd be worried about - these instruments sound GREAT (and Pedro sounds awesome) but they could teach kids to NOT think of intonation or learn bad intonation, no?
OMG, I just discovered Nuvo's line of products, and I'm pretty sure they are going to single-handedly bankrupt me by the end of the month. All of these instruments are awesome! Thanks for the comprehensive review.
PPF I've subscribed to your channel a while back, I'm a big fan! It's quite interesting to stumble upon you on youtube, but I just wanted to say, keep up the amazing work!
@Steven Morris: Haha, fancy seeing you here. If you're already watching this video, you might as well just give in right now and buy all this stuff. As I ended up learning, resistance is futile. @Plippy Blip: Hey thanks, I appreciate that! Maybe you've noticed already, but I ended up buying the jSax. I used it in my newest video!
If Nuvo could make an oboe like this, I would be the happiest person in the world!! I've been playing flute for 10 years but I wanted to learn oboe so bad! They are so expensive though :(
CARLO HEREDIA Did you assume that I’m hating because I’m correcting your horrible grammar? Also, how are you 18 if you spelled bitch, fucking, and watch wrong?
Really great reviews, Pedro. Thanks for posting this. I'm an older guy who has long been tempted by trying to learn the saxophone or clarinet, but as I'm not sure how well I'd get on with one, and since money is tight, a Nuvo might just be the ticket. Thanks again.
Great job. I want one now so I can learn at the age of 40. What a great idea to get kids involved in music and playing an instrument without breaking your bank!
I've been a flute player since 1968. I have had a very nice professional model flute since 1974. But I love the Nuvo, because I can take it anywhere, and if I drop it or fall in the creek when I'm hiking, it won't get damaged. And yes, it's really waterproof. In 2015 I took it to Israel and it went into the Jordan River with me for baptism. It's a great goofing-off kind of flute.
I got a jsax this year at NAMM and I have been loving it. I play string instruments primarily and am in percussion at school but as someone who's not a young kid but is not advanced enough to play a real wind instrument it's fantastic
The jSax sounds amazing! You see that little plastic thing and think ew, this cannot sound good, but then your hear it, and OMG, it doesn't sound at all like it looks :o
I always enjoy your reviews. Quick question: I have played a professional level clarinet since HS. I departed to play strings in bands for many years but now wish to return to the woodwinds. I play sax (Yamaha soprano and alto) as well a Nuvo flute (with a professionally fashioned fipple head). I am looking at the clarineo for use at a local Celtic gathering and travel issues. I do not wish to have to transpose the C flute music or take my Buffet on the road. I usually play a Fibracell reed and was wondering if you thought such a reed would be worthwhile for such an instrument. Or is it more like putting square wheels on a Ferrari?
8:00 Sir a recorder is a fully chromatic instrument(not all the sharps and flats are nice and easy fingerings but they all exist). With a range of about 2 and a half octaves it's not too dissimilar to a saxophone or a brass instrument
Hi, a saxophone has chromatic keys specifically designed to play accidental notes. A recorder does not, however it does have fingerings. Fingerings and keys are different. :)
Get the Clarineo ! It's just the best wind instrument you can have, ever, for that amount of money ! It plays really well, sounds really well, has all the notes you need (you have the extraordinary 3+ octave range of clarinet, with all the chromatic notes !), and it has surprisingly good intonation. Also, it's very light, unbreakable, you don't really have to care for it (or just wash it with water and soap !), just leave it laying somewhere and you can pick it up whenever you want (it makes you play more, which is better !). You can play outside, in the rain, you can travel everywhere with it (it's light and tough), you can share it with music mates, jam wherever, whenever you want, and you won't even be afraid of it being stolen or broken. This thing just makes you play more, and enjoy more music. Minor things to keep in mind : 1) The plastic reed given with the clarineo are not bad, and they are good to begin playing, but their sound is a bit plasticky. If you are a confirmed clarinet player, you can just get a good Eb clarinet reed instead and it'll really change the sound of the instrument to something very big and woody much more like a real clarinet. 2) Some keys seem a bit fragile. But if you break them somehow, you can easily order replacement and replace them yourself. So, no worries. 3) It's in C, not Bb. I actually find it a plus point, because I like to jam with people who play tunes in C, D, G, E, and such (like guitar players, and folk, jazz players). 4) It obviously does not sound as full and woody as real clarinet. Who cares, it's just like 100 - 150 dollars ! 5) I'm talking here about the one I personally own, which is the Clarineo 2.0 model. It's a little more expensive than the first model, and I don't know if the first model is as good (but from this video, I think it is).
Do you have any information about what have changed on the second version of the clarineo ? I'm interested in buying one to start learning clarinet by myself. Are you happy with? Some downside ? Thanks a lot for your comment
Here's what I found : "The 2.0 Clarineo model has several upgraded features: Mouthpiece - now fitted with new integral ligature, easy to open with one hand. Remains compatible with Nuvo’s plastic reeds in 1, 1.5 and 2 strength, the Legere Viib or cane Eb size clarinet reeds and now also soprano saxophone reeds. Key caps - on the original Clarineo model these caps were silver, with the new generation model these are now silicone and coloured to match the trim of your instrument. Pads - new silicone pads for improved reliability and even seating. Bell - replacing the original bayonet fitting bell we now have a silicone bell similar to the “Straighten your jSax” bell for additional durability. Case - the new sleek design is fastened with two sturdy press studs and a patch of hook and loop fabric to keep your instrument secure and make it quick and easy to get out ready to play in no time while also reduced in size compared to the original to make it more child-friendly." So, it seems it's mainly a bit sturdier. It costs a bit more, though. I think it's the best way to begin clarinet by yourself, especially because you get a little bit of teaching material bundled with the instrument, and several reeds to try out.
I’m having a difficult time getting sound out of my Clarineo. I have excellent breath support from singing so that’s not a problem. I play other wind instruments, although this is my first reed instrument. I feel like I am having to bust a gut to get any sound out and if I tighten my embouchure enough to prevent my cheeks puffing out, I can’t get a sound out at all. I had my friend try it who played clarinet for several years and she couldn’t get any sound out at all either so I don’t think it is just me being a beginner. I tried a wood reed, but it didn’t help. Everything seems to work right on the Clarineo. I have the reed properly positioned. I’m wondering if the Clarineo is that much harder to play than a Bb clarinet or if I got a defective Clarineo? I thought about changing the mouthpiece out for an Eb clarinet mouthpiece, but I don’t know if it will fit. When I can get a sound out, I love the way it sounds. I also like the advantages of the light weight and of it being in C and non-transposing so I’d really like to make it work.
@@lowcountryhooper The Clarineo should be as easy or easier to play than a clarinet. Getting the embouchure right is not easy at the start, it's not like a flute where you just have to blow and it works. You'll have to try a few positions on the beak to figure it out (more or less beak in the mouth, pinching it more or less). You can practice by trying to get a sound just from the beak without the rest of the instrument at first. When you get the good position, it will be easier to play without having to "bust a gut". You will still need a bit more pressure than singing to play, but you don't need too much air, and it should not be exhausting. If you play with the wood reed, put it in water for a minute before playing. I don't why your friend couldn't play it though. Maybe it's too small and he/she is more used to a bigger clarinet (bigger inside bore), or maybe he is used to thicker/stronger reeds ? Or maybe it is defective. But from what you describe here, I think you most likely just have the normal problems of a beginner and you'll figure it out by trying a few times. Take it easy, keep trying, and good luck for your learning :)
Okay what, this sounds so good for a plastic starter "toy" of sorts. Gives my £1500 Yamaha a run for its money Edit #1: The flute is actually really good too, like Jesus for £100 that's great, although some cheaper metal ones are avalible Edit #2: The jSax kinda disappointed me, sounds good but wasn't the best for tone or size, unless you're putting your child on a soprano this would be too big My gear: Yamaha YCLCSGII Clarinet Selmer Ninja Bass Clarinet Emerson Flute Pearl PFB-305B bass flute Trevor James 88 Alto sax Yanagisawa Baritone Sax And those Nuvo's gave the tone a run for the money
Just want to point this out, the clarinet shown here is good for developing an embouchure and learning how to hold the instrument for beginners but for playing, its different. I’ve played clarinet for 4 years and counting and I’ve learned that your typical clarinet is pitched in the key of Bb why the clarinet shown here is in concert pitch. So the fingering is slightly different but good for beginners.
Would you suggest the jsax to me? I have never played a sax or a woodwind instrument or any instrument to be honest. What does the jsax lack? And how fast will I grow out of it? Is it 90% close compared to a real saxophone?
How totally cool, All these instruments look and play awesome, also would love your opinion on the Yamaha Venova, I got one for Valentines Day and I JUST love it but I do need to practice on it and I have been.
Hi, I've just bought a clarinéo and i've so much trouble playing notes from the middle to high register.. no problem with the low register, but it's very difficult, when not impossible, with upper notes. I've played saxophone for 5 years and the embouchure is very similar, but yet, i'm very surpised by the difficulty I have in the middle and high regsiter. Did you have the same kind of problem when you started ?
+Camdyn Clarke I use a little bit because my room is acoustically treated to be extremely dead. Adding a bit of reverb adds more realism to a real life scenario. Like a large room with hard floors and walls. Thanks for the inquiry :)
I'm an adult playing the Melodica which is a C instrument. I mostly use 2 octaves of the 3 there. I'm playing simple jazz, blues and rock tunes like Smooth Operator, Route 66, Songbird, Love Street, Careless Whisper, and Killing Me Softly, along with some bluesy improv using sharps and flats. Would the jSax be a good instrument for me to learn the same tunes?
yup..I ve got it with me now.. and just exactly like what pedro show to us.. but the problem is..I have difficulty to reach upper and lower register..and until now I don't know how to fix it..... Jsax have C major key.. which is also I feel to low..and you have to know how to do proper scale before you can play some cover version... its perfect for children....
My main question is Do the instruments have the same fingering as the real instruments? I was thinking they should so then the kids don’t have to learn a whole new set of fingering once they move up to a real instrument.
Would you recommend these instruments to somebody with a music background (for example, a pianist) who would like to study the real version of these instruments without a teacher?
Hi Pedro, I have a jFlute and I can't get a low D or 4th line D (they come out as Eb). I am fingering the notes right (lt thumb, 1, 2, 3 & rt 1, 2, 3 or lt thumb, 2, 3 & rt 1, 2, 3). It's brand new, so I don't think it's the pads. I use the fipple lip plate instead of the standard one. What do you think I'm doing wrong? Thank you, Rachelle
Hi. Thanks for the comment. Thats an easy fix. With your jFlute you should have received a small ring that looks like a small foot. It goes at the bottom of the flute. It will allow you to play the low/high D you're referring to.
Hi Pedro, I have a question about the jsax straightening kit. Other than aesthetics, does it actually change the tone in some way? The description online only says "make it more suitable for adults" but doesn't go into detail so I'm not sure if it's just for looks. Thanks!
I'm a student , age 14. I'm looking for a tenor sax of sorts since I am usually absent from practice. So , basically it's a self practice instrument temporarily. Any recommendations?
I don't know about the Clarineo but the JSax has a plastic reed that 'mates' with the built in ligature. You might have to see it to understand but its great
These are improvements of the traditional toys for toddlers. However, they do have legitimate sounds. For Primary/Elementary, Junior High/Intermediate and High School Students, irrespective of experience, the "real deal" is ideal; for, "non-standardized" habits can be an impediment to swift progress; for, they are tedious and time-consuming to be unlearned. The shortest distance between two points - beginning and ending - is a straight line. To become a "serious" musician, one can "toy" around with neither music theory nor its practicality. The readiness time of maturity and preparedness must be keenly noted, and swift and appropriate action must be effected for "true" and "real" instrument shift and acquisition. Great "instrument" display and demonstration!
Thanks for your comment. While I agree that some of these instruments can cause different techniques, at a very young age, these are the best to teach basic motor skills while develop the breath control and lung capacity required for the "standard" instruments, as you call them. These instruments aren't "toys", but simpler adaptations of their father instruments, and can teach so much to the very early and very young musician, from the ergonomics, and weight of the instrument. You wouldn't give an alto saxophone to a 2nd grader or someone around 6 years old. It would be a nightmare for them. While the shortest distance between two points is a line, these instruments help you start the line now, rather than 2-3 years later, and will be so far ahead of anyone regardless of the shortness of said line. Thanks for watching! :)
Music By Pedro: O.K., Pedro; I hear you. We are actually not in disagreement. I am sure Eddie Daniels, Paquito D'Riviera, Anat Cohen and Victor Goines, among others, will have a word or two about the "clarineo" vis-a-vis the clarinet... Hubert Laws, Kent Jordan and Jose Valentino Ruiz about the flute... Charles McPherson, Kenneth Garrett and Alex Hahn, among others, about the alto saxophone... Wayne Escoffery, Anibal Rojas, Dave Lieberman and Sam Newsome, among others, about the soprano saxophone... TO START WITH/ON THESE "TRAINING" INSTRUMENTS: The chronological age of maturity, and not musical experience or its lack thereof, must be the deciding factor (of initial use) for the family that wants its child to become a "serious" musician - professionally speaking. Excelentissimo advertisement and maravilloso marketing, isn't it, Pedro. I adore and admire it, nevertheless! P.S.: Surely, there are immense advantages to and for the toddlers, many of whom have begun on the recorder - mainly, because of its easy acquisition on account of relatively cheap cost, as well as its not being difficult to handle and to obtain a sound - at a glance, so to speak. Thanks, Pedro.
I used to play saxophone 10 years back, and thinking of getting one for a chill day. I'm looking at this NUVO and another from Yamaha YVS-100 Venova, which one is better what do you reckon?
I own both and the tone of the JSax is much more Soprano sax-ish. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the venova sound but to me the Jsax is better.
I've been playing saxophone for already 7 years so would you recommend me the jSAX (it has different sound, for proving something different too, for some moments in wich I can't carry my saxophone because of its weight, measure... for that kind of use) or it would be a waste of money?
Hello Sir, do you mind giving me suggestion cz my younger brother wants to learn to play sax recently and as a birthday present I would like to give him such a tool for beginner. Which one should I buy? Nuvo jsax or toot or dood first? And regardless to the things you reviewed, should I buy him the real sax for practicing too? Thanks before ;)
I only played the chalumeau register of my clarinet for quite a while after I first got it. That's about the same available range - E to C plus an octave in Bb clarinet notes making use of the trill keys to reach the C (D to Bb, in concert notes) , or E to Bb without using them. At the time, it seemed fine and I was quite happy with it for playing by ear, until I started trying to play tunes from sheet music that went outside that range, so I had to learn to play the clarion register too, and the odd bit of altissimo. I can see why they've stopped there - adding a neck vent and a proper octave mech to go higher would make it much more complicated and less reliable - just like a real sax :) What bothers me more about it is all the half holing to get notes off the C major scale (i.e. the black notes on a piano). I'm fine with that on a keyless flute, or a recorder, but I was hoping for a more sax-like fingering system. For someone who's never played a sax though, there's no reason why that should be an issue. I'd be very interested if they made a plastic sax this size with keywork more like the Clarineo, and a full standard range. If it cost twice what this does, I'd buy it on the spot. If it was three times as much, I probably still would.
Great points. I think they're making it more about getting a beginner started. once you feel comfortable with everything the instrument can do, I'd recommend getting a student model sax. :)
No. If you haven't watched the video, it is in the key of C, whereas the Soprano Sax is in the key of Bb. Also the soprano sax had a wider range of notes. The jSax is great for young musicians who want to see if saxophone is something they want to try.
It's also a fine inexpensive instrument for someone who wants a "sax lite" without having to worry about maintenance issues. Nope it won't get you into an orchestra or concert band, but it sure is fun and portable!
i might start playing the flute and i wanted to ask if this is a good choice? is it the same as a normal gold flute? does it make a difference? an actuall gold flute is a bit too expensive in my opinion..pls help me hereee
I just received my jSax! It has been 17 years since I last played the alto sax, but I play various recorders in an ensemble. I'm finding the 1.5 Nuvo reed it came with a bit more difficult to use than I was expecting. How does the Nuvo reed hardness compare to the Legere reeds? I'm thinking of trying a couple of softer reeds while I'm finding my feet with the jSax, but might try actual cane ones to save on cost.
+Seamstress y I believe Legere has the "ViiB" reed which you can get directly from them. Let me know what you think. I found them to be very responsive and have a great sound. That's cool that you wanted to continue playing sax. Best of luck buddy!!
i'm sure you can save up for one. Its relatively inexpensive when you compare to buying a brand new student model instrument. This is a great way to see if you can and would like to pursue this sort of instrument further.
Cool, I can buy a clarineo over the interneo.
Bravo!
@@kishazirka Deon't kneo.
I don't get the joke
@@kishazirka ohhh I thought it was some matrix reference
They seem to universally have some intonation problems. But I get it that little kids could begin to develop an embouchure without the weight of a regular instrument. Great demos.
Thank you!
That is something I'd be worried about - these instruments sound GREAT (and Pedro sounds awesome) but they could teach kids to NOT think of intonation or learn bad intonation, no?
Frankly, student level horns have the same problems a lot of times.
Orange Yoshi Tin whistle is pretty good for a beginner. Simple fingerings, but you can reach the ability to use cmolex ornementation on your phrases
OMG, I just discovered Nuvo's line of products, and I'm pretty sure they are going to single-handedly bankrupt me by the end of the month. All of these instruments are awesome! Thanks for the comprehensive review.
+PPF hey. Thanks for watching. No problem. Glad to be of help!!
PPF I've subscribed to your channel a while back, I'm a big fan! It's quite interesting to stumble upon you on youtube, but I just wanted to say, keep up the amazing work!
LOL you brought these up on Twitter and here I am as well...
@Steven Morris: Haha, fancy seeing you here. If you're already watching this video, you might as well just give in right now and buy all this stuff. As I ended up learning, resistance is futile.
@Plippy Blip: Hey thanks, I appreciate that! Maybe you've noticed already, but I ended up buying the jSax. I used it in my newest video!
PROFESSER POOPY FART!
That jSax sound was surprising, to say the least.
Totally! :)
I've got a friend from Japan bringing me a red Jsax.. can't wait!
So the jsax sounds legit?
45th like
It sounds great. I highly recommend it
flute starts ~ 4:25
jsax starts ~ 7:30
Thanks, I added the annotations now. :)
If Nuvo could make an oboe like this, I would be the happiest person in the world!! I've been playing flute for 10 years but I wanted to learn oboe so bad! They are so expensive though :(
They are expensive. I'm not sure how one would go about making a beginner oboe :)
Catarina Sousa you should consider sending the company an email or call. You never know--they may consider taking on the oboe
I wonder if they make plastic "brass instruments" like French horn. I know about the pBone, pTrumpet and Tiger instruments.
Alayna07 I play oboe and flute and trumpet want to learn the trumpet and saxaphone
Iceland is Norway it was my starting instrument at 8....
Congratulations You just sold me the jsax
They all almost look like toys, but they make real instrument sounds! That surprised me.
this is totally why I wanted to share it with you! :)
CARLO HEREDIA
*off
CARLO HEREDIA
What do you mean, “leave nice”?
CARLO HEREDIA
Did you assume that I’m hating because I’m correcting your horrible grammar? Also, how are you 18 if you spelled bitch, fucking, and watch wrong?
nuway
😂
"ive been playing clarinet for a while" *plays beautifully*
me:.........................
Really great reviews, Pedro. Thanks for posting this. I'm an older guy who has long been tempted by trying to learn the saxophone or clarinet, but as I'm not sure how well I'd get on with one, and since money is tight, a Nuvo might just be the ticket. Thanks again.
Why does this clarinet sound better than mine lol
Bryan Jenkins its you not the clarinet
You must sound really bad cause that sounds like a saxophone mi broski
Probably cause of all that reverb.
8:28 Wait, did you just squish that bell?
Haha yeah its silicone!
I did NOT expect that J sax to sound that damn good
Great job. I want one now so I can learn at the age of 40. What a great idea to get kids involved in music and playing an instrument without breaking your bank!
I've been a flute player since 1968. I have had a very nice professional model flute since 1974. But I love the Nuvo, because I can take it anywhere, and if I drop it or fall in the creek when I'm hiking, it won't get damaged. And yes, it's really waterproof. In 2015 I took it to Israel and it went into the Jordan River with me for baptism. It's a great goofing-off kind of flute.
I got a jsax this year at NAMM and I have been loving it. I play string instruments primarily and am in percussion at school but as someone who's not a young kid but is not advanced enough to play a real wind instrument it's fantastic
Yeah it is a great intro instrument.
That jSax blew my mind!!
How does it have that sound? so amazing!
haha, its so deceptive since most people think it wouldn't sound good. I was blown away for sure! :)
Music By Pedro Good thing you over edited the sound to make it that way (:
Lmao when he pulled out the sax
This is my fav video of Pedro's. There again I have had a JFlute for 3 years and a JSax for 6 months so I was guaranteed to love this video
Wow that sounds preeeetttty close to a clarinet. I could barely tell. I'm impressed you can still get a deep sound on it!
I'm clarinetist that is learning the sax... Imma buy the Nuvo flute just because 😍 They are too cute!
The jSax sounds amazing! You see that little plastic thing and think ew, this cannot sound good, but then your hear it, and OMG, it doesn't sound at all like it looks :o
I love how it plays! :)
Thanks for this great video, now my son loves to play with his Jsax!
Omg!! I did not know these wonderful instruments exist! Tq for doing this video dude!
I like that J Sax! You are getting a good sound from yours!
Anyone heard of the Venova?
Very cool! The clarinet one was really cool. Watching the rest of the video now.
Awesome! Thank you!
The JSax is amazing.Buy one! I'd also recommend finding a Sax mouthpiece that fits too
I am getting one of those saxophones for me! They sound so good
Do you think these could be played professionally? I struggle financially and want to record these in some mixes.
I always enjoy your reviews. Quick question: I have played a professional level clarinet since HS. I departed to play strings in bands for many years but now wish to return to the woodwinds. I play sax (Yamaha soprano and alto) as well a Nuvo flute (with a professionally fashioned fipple head). I am looking at the clarineo for use at a local Celtic gathering and travel issues. I do not wish to have to transpose the C flute music or take my Buffet on the road. I usually play a Fibracell reed and was wondering if you thought such a reed would be worthwhile for such an instrument. Or is it more like putting square wheels on a Ferrari?
8:00 Sir a recorder is a fully chromatic instrument(not all the sharps and flats are nice and easy fingerings but they all exist). With a range of about 2 and a half octaves it's not too dissimilar to a saxophone or a brass instrument
Hi, a saxophone has chromatic keys specifically designed to play accidental notes. A recorder does not, however it does have fingerings. Fingerings and keys are different. :)
Hello, is it possible really to study with this instrument, or it's necessary to start learning with the real saxophone? Thanks
Get the Clarineo ! It's just the best wind instrument you can have, ever, for that amount of money !
It plays really well, sounds really well, has all the notes you need (you have the extraordinary 3+ octave range of clarinet, with all the chromatic notes !), and it has surprisingly good intonation. Also, it's very light, unbreakable, you don't really have to care for it (or just wash it with water and soap !), just leave it laying somewhere and you can pick it up whenever you want (it makes you play more, which is better !).
You can play outside, in the rain, you can travel everywhere with it (it's light and tough), you can share it with music mates, jam wherever, whenever you want, and you won't even be afraid of it being stolen or broken. This thing just makes you play more, and enjoy more music.
Minor things to keep in mind :
1) The plastic reed given with the clarineo are not bad, and they are good to begin playing, but their sound is a bit plasticky. If you are a confirmed clarinet player, you can just get a good Eb clarinet reed instead and it'll really change the sound of the instrument to something very big and woody much more like a real clarinet.
2) Some keys seem a bit fragile. But if you break them somehow, you can easily order replacement and replace them yourself. So, no worries.
3) It's in C, not Bb. I actually find it a plus point, because I like to jam with people who play tunes in C, D, G, E, and such (like guitar players, and folk, jazz players).
4) It obviously does not sound as full and woody as real clarinet. Who cares, it's just like 100 - 150 dollars !
5) I'm talking here about the one I personally own, which is the Clarineo 2.0 model. It's a little more expensive than the first model, and I don't know if the first model is as good (but from this video, I think it is).
Do you have any information about what have changed on the second version of the clarineo ? I'm interested in buying one to start learning clarinet by myself.
Are you happy with? Some downside ?
Thanks a lot for your comment
Here's what I found :
"The 2.0 Clarineo model has several upgraded features:
Mouthpiece - now fitted with new integral ligature, easy to open with one hand. Remains compatible with Nuvo’s plastic reeds in 1, 1.5 and 2 strength, the Legere Viib or cane Eb size clarinet reeds and now also soprano saxophone reeds.
Key caps - on the original Clarineo model these caps were silver, with the new generation model these are now silicone and coloured to match the trim of your instrument.
Pads - new silicone pads for improved reliability and even seating.
Bell - replacing the original bayonet fitting bell we now have a silicone bell similar to the “Straighten your jSax” bell for additional durability.
Case - the new sleek design is fastened with two sturdy press studs and a patch of hook and loop fabric to keep your instrument secure and make it quick and easy to get out ready to play in no time while also reduced in size compared to the original to make it more child-friendly."
So, it seems it's mainly a bit sturdier. It costs a bit more, though.
I think it's the best way to begin clarinet by yourself, especially because you get a little bit of teaching material bundled with the instrument, and several reeds to try out.
I’m having a difficult time getting sound out of my Clarineo. I have excellent breath support from singing so that’s not a problem. I play other wind instruments, although this is my first reed instrument. I feel like I am having to bust a gut to get any sound out and if I tighten my embouchure enough to prevent my cheeks puffing out, I can’t get a sound out at all. I had my friend try it who played clarinet for several years and she couldn’t get any sound out at all either so I don’t think it is just me being a beginner. I tried a wood reed, but it didn’t help. Everything seems to work right on the Clarineo. I have the reed properly positioned. I’m wondering if the Clarineo is that much harder to play than a Bb clarinet or if I got a defective Clarineo? I thought about changing the mouthpiece out for an Eb clarinet mouthpiece, but I don’t know if it will fit. When I can get a sound out, I love the way it sounds. I also like the advantages of the light weight and of it being in C and non-transposing so I’d really like to make it work.
@@lowcountryhooper The Clarineo should be as easy or easier to play than a clarinet. Getting the embouchure right is not easy at the start, it's not like a flute where you just have to blow and it works. You'll have to try a few positions on the beak to figure it out (more or less beak in the mouth, pinching it more or less). You can practice by trying to get a sound just from the beak without the rest of the instrument at first. When you get the good position, it will be easier to play without having to "bust a gut". You will still need a bit more pressure than singing to play, but you don't need too much air, and it should not be exhausting. If you play with the wood reed, put it in water for a minute before playing. I don't why your friend couldn't play it though. Maybe it's too small and he/she is more used to a bigger clarinet (bigger inside bore), or maybe he is used to thicker/stronger reeds ? Or maybe it is defective. But from what you describe here, I think you most likely just have the normal problems of a beginner and you'll figure it out by trying a few times. Take it easy, keep trying, and good luck for your learning :)
Okay what, this sounds so good for a plastic starter "toy" of sorts. Gives my £1500 Yamaha a run for its money
Edit #1: The flute is actually really good too, like Jesus for £100 that's great, although some cheaper metal ones are avalible
Edit #2: The jSax kinda disappointed me, sounds good but wasn't the best for tone or size, unless you're putting your child on a soprano this would be too big
My gear:
Yamaha YCLCSGII Clarinet
Selmer Ninja Bass Clarinet
Emerson Flute
Pearl PFB-305B bass flute
Trevor James 88 Alto sax
Yanagisawa Baritone Sax
And those Nuvo's gave the tone a run for the money
That was a great video, thanks! Very entertaining and I'm probably gonna buy one of those after seeing and hearing this. :)
Just want to point this out, the clarinet shown here is good for developing an embouchure and learning how to hold the instrument for beginners but for playing, its different. I’ve played clarinet for 4 years and counting and I’ve learned that your typical clarinet is pitched in the key of Bb why the clarinet shown here is in concert pitch. So the fingering is slightly different but good for beginners.
You working on an album?
Would you suggest the jsax to me? I have never played a sax or a woodwind instrument or any instrument to be honest.
What does the jsax lack? And how fast will I grow out of it?
Is it 90% close compared to a real saxophone?
I'd absolutely recommend that for you. It's a small price to get introduced and its tons of fun! :)
How totally cool, All these instruments look and play awesome, also would love your opinion on the Yamaha Venova, I got one for Valentines Day and I JUST love it but I do need to practice on it and I have been.
Hi, I've just bought a clarinéo and i've so much trouble playing notes from the middle to high register.. no problem with the low register, but it's very difficult, when not impossible, with upper notes. I've played saxophone for 5 years and the embouchure is very similar, but yet, i'm very surpised by the difficulty I have in the middle and high regsiter. Did you have the same kind of problem when you started ?
Great review, but I wonder why you always use a reverb in your videos. I know it is a quiet reverb, but it makes any instrument sound better.
+Camdyn Clarke I use a little bit because my room is acoustically treated to be extremely dead. Adding a bit of reverb adds more realism to a real life scenario. Like a large room with hard floors and walls.
Thanks for the inquiry :)
Ah ok understandable. They are still really cool!
do the synthetic reeds need 'premoistening/prep', or can you just play straight out of the case?
They do not need to be wet. Just play it straight out of the case.
@@lowcountryhooper ty :)
I'm an adult playing the Melodica which is a C instrument. I mostly use 2 octaves of the 3 there. I'm playing simple jazz, blues and rock tunes like Smooth Operator, Route 66, Songbird, Love Street, Careless Whisper, and Killing Me Softly, along with some bluesy improv using sharps and flats. Would the jSax be a good instrument for me to learn the same tunes?
Does the jsax have the octive key? I play a regular alto sax but these seem really nice just to mess around with
sound like a saxcello a curved soprano it almost sounds like a 4000 dollar sop in your mic or sound studio i wish i had your nice soft dynamic sound
yup..I ve got it with me now..
and just exactly like what pedro show to us..
but the problem is..I have difficulty to reach upper and lower register..and until now I don't know how to fix it.....
Jsax have C major key.. which is also I feel to low..and you have to know how to do proper scale before you can play some cover version...
its perfect for children....
Is there any other trainy sax like the jsax
+Ranger I don't think it gets more basic than that. Except the DooD which I just reviewed. Check it out!
but can the Sax play careless whisper? Ive never played an instrument and im an older guy. it would be cool to learn this song.
My main question is Do the instruments have the same fingering as the real instruments? I was thinking they should so then the kids don’t have to learn a whole new set of fingering once they move up to a real instrument.
I play Baritone and Trumpet and I want to learn to play some woodwind instruments would the clarinèo be a good start
Magic 8 Ball says no.
Would you recommend these instruments to somebody with a music background (for example, a pianist) who would like to study the real version of these instruments without a teacher?
Which one better..jsax or venova?
You mention that it plays a recorder so would you be able to play what you could play on a tenor recorder?
Hello Pedro ! Great channel, love your content ! What about the Venova, did you try it ? Thanks.
Why would someone need to change after the first year, if they play that well ?
Hi Pedro,
I have a jFlute and I can't get a low D or 4th line D (they come out as Eb). I am fingering the notes right (lt thumb, 1, 2, 3 & rt 1, 2, 3 or lt thumb, 2, 3 & rt 1, 2, 3). It's brand new, so I don't think it's the pads. I use the fipple lip plate instead of the standard one. What do you think I'm doing wrong?
Thank you,
Rachelle
Hi. Thanks for the comment. Thats an easy fix. With your jFlute you should have received a small ring that looks like a small foot. It goes at the bottom of the flute. It will allow you to play the low/high D you're referring to.
I put the ring on, but I still get the Eb's. Is there another small ring, or just maybe try the C foot?
Try the C foot but I don't know why it would do that, as I haven't come across that problem!
I'm 22 old, is it good for learn in a short free time??
Great review, thanks.
Hi Pedro, I have a question about the jsax straightening kit. Other than aesthetics, does it actually change the tone in some way? The description online only says "make it more suitable for adults" but doesn't go into detail so I'm not sure if it's just for looks. Thanks!
Is there oboe?
Would you recommend the Clarinéo for Bb clarinetists looking for a good deal on a C clarinet? I think the F/F# trill keys (both of them) are missing.
What is the lowest and the highest sound on the clarineo?
I'm a student , age 14. I'm looking for a tenor sax of sorts since I am usually absent from practice. So , basically it's a self practice instrument temporarily. Any recommendations?
Wait.. Does this use wooden reeds, plastic reeds, hybrid, or have its own thing?
I don't know about the Clarineo but the JSax has a plastic reed that 'mates' with the built in ligature. You might have to see it to understand but its great
May I know how you think the jSax compares with the Yamaha Venova? I'm trying to decide between these two...
What are the key ranges in Clarineo, flute, jsax?
can you change jsax mouthpiece with other one such as wood, metat, ebonite or yamaha, Selmer alto, sopranos?
These are improvements of the traditional toys for toddlers. However, they do have legitimate sounds.
For Primary/Elementary, Junior High/Intermediate and High School Students, irrespective of experience, the "real deal" is ideal; for, "non-standardized" habits can be an impediment to swift progress; for, they are tedious and time-consuming to be unlearned.
The shortest distance between two points - beginning and ending - is a straight line.
To become a "serious" musician, one can "toy" around with neither music theory nor its practicality.
The readiness time of maturity and preparedness must be keenly noted, and swift and appropriate action must be effected for "true" and "real" instrument shift and acquisition.
Great "instrument" display and demonstration!
Thanks for your comment.
While I agree that some of these instruments can cause different techniques, at a very young age, these are the best to teach basic motor skills while develop the breath control and lung capacity required for the "standard" instruments, as you call them.
These instruments aren't "toys", but simpler adaptations of their father instruments, and can teach so much to the very early and very young musician, from the ergonomics, and weight of the instrument. You wouldn't give an alto saxophone to a 2nd grader or someone around 6 years old. It would be a nightmare for them.
While the shortest distance between two points is a line, these instruments help you start the line now, rather than 2-3 years later, and will be so far ahead of anyone regardless of the shortness of said line.
Thanks for watching! :)
Music By Pedro:
O.K., Pedro; I hear you. We are actually not in disagreement.
I am sure Eddie Daniels, Paquito D'Riviera, Anat Cohen and Victor Goines, among others, will have a word or two about the "clarineo" vis-a-vis the clarinet...
Hubert Laws, Kent Jordan and Jose Valentino Ruiz about the flute...
Charles McPherson, Kenneth Garrett and Alex Hahn, among others, about the alto saxophone...
Wayne Escoffery, Anibal Rojas, Dave Lieberman and Sam Newsome, among others, about the soprano saxophone...
TO START WITH/ON THESE "TRAINING" INSTRUMENTS:
The chronological age of maturity, and not musical experience or its lack thereof, must be the deciding factor (of initial use) for the family that wants its child to become a "serious" musician - professionally speaking.
Excelentissimo advertisement and maravilloso marketing, isn't it, Pedro.
I adore and admire it, nevertheless!
P.S.: Surely, there are immense advantages to and for the toddlers, many of whom have begun on the recorder - mainly, because of its easy acquisition on account of relatively cheap cost, as well as its not being difficult to handle and to obtain a sound - at a glance, so to speak.
Thanks, Pedro.
Does the straight neck is included if you buy it ? Or you buy it separately ?
Nice video!!, a question : Can the mouthpiece change to real saxophone mouthpiece?, if yes , which one? thanks
Any chance of hearing these instruments "dry"?
Excellent, thank you.
Can you play normal clarinet music on the clarineo or is it different?
I used to play saxophone 10 years back, and thinking of getting one for a chill day. I'm looking at this NUVO and another from Yamaha YVS-100 Venova, which one is better what do you reckon?
I own both and the tone of the JSax is much more Soprano sax-ish. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the venova sound but to me the Jsax is better.
I play real saxophone and real clarinet and I’m in performing band...and I have to say this sounds exactly like a clarinet👍🏽
I play alto saxophone and I'm in the 8th grade ^_^ I want that jsax ^_^ ^_^ I would play that walking to class
haha :)
I thought I'd comment that the more recent Jsax has a 2.0 mouthpiece
The Clarinéo's tone is nice but the tuning's not very accurate is it?
Oh I agree the Tone is amazing, the tuning is really good, once you spend a bit of time.
I've been playing saxophone for already 7 years so would you recommend me the jSAX (it has different sound, for proving something different too, for some moments in wich I can't carry my saxophone because of its weight, measure... for that kind of use) or it would be a waste of money?
I have a £1000 Bauhaus Sax but I carry my JSax everywhere and playing this has helped my embouchure on the sax
Hello Sir, do you mind giving me suggestion cz my younger brother wants to learn to play sax recently and as a birthday present I would like to give him such a tool for beginner. Which one should I buy? Nuvo jsax or toot or dood first? And regardless to the things you reviewed, should I buy him the real sax for practicing too?
Thanks before ;)
What’s his age?
Do you find that you feel really restricted in the amount of notes you can play on the JSax? how many notes can it play?
It plays from a low C to G+ Octave. So an octave and a fifth. I don't feel restricted since it does provide me with way more than an octave.
I only played the chalumeau register of my clarinet for quite a while after I first got it. That's about the same available range - E to C plus an octave in Bb clarinet notes making use of the trill keys to reach the C (D to Bb, in concert notes) , or E to Bb without using them.
At the time, it seemed fine and I was quite happy with it for playing by ear, until I started trying to play tunes from sheet music that went outside that range, so I had to learn to play the clarion register too, and the odd bit of altissimo.
I can see why they've stopped there - adding a neck vent and a proper octave mech to go higher would make it much more complicated and less reliable - just like a real sax :)
What bothers me more about it is all the half holing to get notes off the C major scale (i.e. the black notes on a piano). I'm fine with that on a keyless flute, or a recorder, but I was hoping for a more sax-like fingering system. For someone who's never played a sax though, there's no reason why that should be an issue.
I'd be very interested if they made a plastic sax this size with keywork more like the Clarineo, and a full standard range. If it cost twice what this does, I'd buy it on the spot. If it was three times as much, I probably still would.
Great points. I think they're making it more about getting a beginner started. once you feel comfortable with everything the instrument can do, I'd recommend getting a student model sax. :)
Excuse me, do you give online lessons?
Why does he use vibrato on the clarineo?
Is a jsax a plastic curved soprano sax
No. If you haven't watched the video, it is in the key of C, whereas the Soprano Sax is in the key of Bb. Also the soprano sax had a wider range of notes. The jSax is great for young musicians who want to see if saxophone is something they want to try.
It's also a fine inexpensive instrument for someone who wants a "sax lite" without having to worry about maintenance issues. Nope it won't get you into an orchestra or concert band, but it sure is fun and portable!
Hi I would like to ask if I am using a size 3 tenor normal reed, what size reed should I use for a tenor synthetic reed
It depends on the brand and style that you're using. Check out www.legere.com/strength-charts for more information! :)
i might start playing the flute and i wanted to ask if this is a good choice? is it the same as a normal gold flute? does it make a difference? an actuall gold flute is a bit too expensive in my opinion..pls help me hereee
The student flute is perfect since it is more affordable and you can play it like a regular flute.
How much did they cost
what is the price of that sax?
where can ı order that sax?
hi, in which store can I make my request jsax ?? is to pass me a linck, I am Brazilian
I believe this would be the distributor for Brazil - manutencaodeinstrumentos.com.br/
Did you mean to press echo while editing this?
the flute, is it made of pvc
I can play 8 instruments but not the saxophone 🎷 and this was cooooooool
Why not play normal ones?
What mic are you using?
Could you learn clarinet on the clarineo?
Yes, the transition from Clarineo to Clarinet is seamless.
I just received my jSax! It has been 17 years since I last played the alto sax, but I play various recorders in an ensemble. I'm finding the 1.5 Nuvo reed it came with a bit more difficult to use than I was expecting. How does the Nuvo reed hardness compare to the Legere reeds? I'm thinking of trying a couple of softer reeds while I'm finding my feet with the jSax, but might try actual cane ones to save on cost.
+Seamstress y I believe Legere has the "ViiB" reed which you can get directly from them. Let me know what you think. I found them to be very responsive and have a great sound.
That's cool that you wanted to continue playing sax.
Best of luck buddy!!
Also Pedro, they all sounded SO EMOTIONALLLLLLL!!!!!! I would love to have one, buuuuuut they're over 150$... :(
i'm sure you can save up for one. Its relatively inexpensive when you compare to buying a brand new student model instrument. This is a great way to see if you can and would like to pursue this sort of instrument further.
westmusic sells the jsax for 99usd, 15usd for the straighten kit. They have a coupon code for free shipping so there ya go with the jsax.
Thanks fam! :)