Gear article

Hercules Bassoon / Bass Clarinet Stand

The Hercules Bassoon / Bass Clarinet Stand is a versatile, adjustable support system designed for large woodwind instruments. It features a customisable soft yoke and a dedicated base support that accommodates both bassoons and bass clarinets, including those with extended floor pegs.

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Overview

The Hercules Bassoon / Bass Clarinet Stand is engineered to provide a stable, hands-free resting position for heavy woodwind instruments. Primarily serving orchestral and jazz musicians, the stand addresses the unique physical dimensions of the bassoon and the bass clarinet. Its design focuses on speed of transition and instrument safety, making it a common fixture in pit orchestras and rehearsal spaces.

Key Design Features

One of the standout mechanical features of the stand is the lever-operated height adjustment. Users can push the lever up to unlock the shaft for positioning and push it down to fix the height securely. This system is designed for efficiency compared to traditional screw-based collars.

The stand employs a soft yoke that cradles the instrument body without scratching the finish. Because the yoke is adjustable, the instrument can be positioned facing toward or away from the performer, depending on the available space or personal preference.

Floor Peg Compatibility

A specific design consideration has been made for bass clarinettists who use an extended floor peg. The rest at the foot of the stand is shaped to receive and secure the peg even when it is in the extended position. This allows the player to move from playing to resting without having to retract the peg, facilitating faster transitions between instruments during a performance.

Suitability and Application

The stand is most suitable for doubled-reed players and clarinettists who require a reliable stationary support during performances. While portable, its robust build is intended for stage and studio use. It is particularly effective for musicians who frequently switch between instruments and need a stand that can accommodate various orientations and peg lengths.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard woodwind stands, the Hercules model offers greater flexibility through its dual-instrument compatibility. While dedicated piccolo stands like the Hercules DS504B are designed for small, lightweight instruments, this stand is built to manage the significantly higher weight and height of a bassoon. It competes with professional-grade hardware from brands like K&M, distinguishing itself through the lever-locking mechanism and the specific peg-rest design.

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Frequently asked questions

What instruments is this stand designed for?
The stand is specifically designed to fit both the bassoon and the bass clarinet, offering adjustable components to support their unique shapes.
How do you adjust the height of the stand?
Height adjustment is managed via a quick-release lever. You push the lever up to unlock the shaft and push it down to lock it firmly at the desired height.
Can a bass clarinet be stored with the floor peg extended?
Yes, the rest on the foot of the stand is specifically designed to accommodate a bass clarinet floor peg even when it is in the extended position.
Is the yoke safe for the instrument's finish?
Yes, the stand features a soft yoke designed to prevent scratches or damage to the instrument's body while providing a secure grip.
Can I change the direction the instrument faces?
Yes, the soft yoke is adjustable, allowing the instrument to face either towards or away from the player.
Who makes this stand?
The stand is manufactured by Hercules Stands, a brand known for specialized instrument supports and hardware.
What is the typical price for this model?
This stand typically retails for approximately £58 in the UK market.
Does this stand work for a piccolo?
No, this is a large stand for heavy woodwinds. The Hercules DS504B is the appropriate model for piccolo players.
Is the stand suitable for quick instrument changes?
Yes, the combination of the peg rest and the adjustable yoke makes it ideal for musicians who need to transition quickly between instruments.
How stable is the locking mechanism?
The lever-action mechanism is designed to provide a secure lock that prevents the shaft from slipping under the weight of the instrument.
Is this stand compatible with microphones?
No, this is a dedicated instrument stand. For vocal needs, a product like the Shure SM58 with a standard mic stand would be required.
Does this stand come in different colours?
The standard Hercules aesthetic usually features a black and yellow finish, though manufacturer specifications focus on the functional adjustable components.