Paetzold by Kunath, "Master", "HP-Original" head for basset recorders, natural birch plywood

The instrument with the article number 449HPK-SL-PBK from the "Master" model series from the Paetzold by Kunath workshop is an instrument that provides lasting playing pleasure when making music.
This characteristic is due to the skilful combination of the above-average construction concept in fine tuning with the tone colours of the birch plywood material used.

The exceptional qualities of the material used for this instrument are strikingly pleasing. The characteristics can best be described in the following words, although it is in the nature of things that sounds can only ever be inadequately described in words. This is why the sound of recorders is perceived and described in slightly different ways by each person: Birch plywood: Carrying but soft sound.

The scale

The inner bore of the instrument is cylindrical. This type of bore gives the recorder its typical sound.
In principle, instruments with a wider bore sound warmer, fuller, more fundamental and therefore more suitable for ensembles than models with a narrower scale.

For which musical styles can the instrument be best used?

Birch plywood is ideal for recorders used for this music: All styles.

Who the instrument is aimed at

This means that instruments made of birch plywood are particularly suitable for students and professional players. An additional rule to bear in mind is that a more sophisticated instrument is generally better for learning progress than an instrument of inferior quality.

The windway of a recorder

The windway is the area in the headjoint of the recorder in which the blowing air is moulded into an air blade. This air blade is one of the most important elements of a recorder's sound. In interaction with the labium, the air blade creates the vibration that generates the flute sound. The shape of the windway is therefore one of the basic characteristics for the response and sound of the recorder.

The windway of the model 449HPK-SL-PBK from Paetzold by Kunath is constructed as follows: Straight, conical.
Conical windways accelerate the breathing air more than cylindrically shaped ones.
Windways are of course extremely complex in their geometric design and many parameters interact.

Fingering

The Paetzold by Kunath 449HPK-SL-PBK recorder is supplied in the following fingering: .

Construction method

The way in which a recorder is constructed fundamentally determines the way in which it can be used to ensure uncomplicated handling in terms of easy assembly on the one hand and convenient transport on the other.
This is particularly important when larger instruments or several instruments are to be taken along.
Experienced ensemble players can tell you a thing or two about this.

Packaging and accessories

Instruments in the Master model series are offered with the following accessories as standard:

Things to know about connecting the instrument parts

Paetzold by Kunath recorders are easy to assemble without any special effort. This is due to the special design of the joint between the instrument parts. The double seal developed by Paetzold by Kunath creates a form-fit and airtight connection between the individual parts of the instrument, which stands out pleasantly from the mass of sluggish tenon joints due to its ease of movement. This makes the F basset instruments from Paetzold by Kunath one of the most effortless recorders to assemble and disassemble.

Care of the double seal

To prevent the double seals from being damaged during storage, the F-basset recorder is supplied with red protective caps. You should always usethese protective caps when storing the instrument in its packaging. Then you will be able to enjoy your recorder for a long time. Double seals do not need to be greased.

Hygiene tips

If the recorder is borrowed frequently, it is advisable to disinfect the headjoint at regular intervals to keep it clean. Flautisept has proven to be a good disinfectant in such cases. You can find Flautisept in our collection. It works with the following surfaces: Untreated wooden surfaces, ABS plastics, RESONA, varnished surfaces, waxed surfaces, linseed oil surfaces, spirit-stained surfaces, lacquered surfaces However, before using the product, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure that it does not leave any adverse effects on your instrument.

Optional information on keys

It is not always possible to drill tone holes in places in the instrument body that are comfortable and easy to play with your fingers. Especially on bass instruments, tone holes are not ergonomically accessible for acoustic reasons. On such instruments, keys are fitted by the instrument maker to make playing much easier or even possible in the first place.
The 449HPK-SL-PBK instrument has the following keys: . This makes it easier than average for players with smaller hands to play.

Tips for finding a new recorder

How to find a new instrument safely
Ask people you know!
However, don't let "expert" opinions put you off testing an instrument yourself. Your taste is as unique as you are. Therefore, only you can decide which construction method suits you best.
Our recommendation is therefore: test new manufacturers that you may never have tried before. You can only win.