August 15 Note: Royal Global just redesigned their Polaris bass clarinets. (Of course we’ll be getting the new model in.) The three I have right now are the original version, with the “more Buffet Prestige-like bore.” Translation: if you like the Prestige sound but don’t like the Prestige price, these are your shot — and they’re 15% off. You won’t see that discount again… until the next redesign, anyway.
Now, back to our regularly-scheduled program:
Royal Global is a relative newcomer, but in the last 7 years they’ve gone from “promising” to “pro,” tweaking designs, upgrading materials, and generally messing with anything and everything that could be improved. The Polaris sits in the middle of their lineup, and in my opinion, it’s one of the best bass clarinet values out there.
Is it a Buffet or Selmer? No. Is it pretty damn close to a Buffet in feel? Yep. The key work isn’t quite as silky as Buffet’s — and honestly, nobody’s is — but it’s still excellent for this price.
In the Royal lineup, the Polaris and Firebird used to share the same bore until mid-2025. Back then, the Polaris was basically a Firebird without the wood bell, upgraded neck, fancy posts, and a few mechanical perks. Now? Both bores have changed. The Polaris has moved even closer to the Prestige feel, while the Firebird leans more Selmer/Backun.
Royal’s factory setup has improved a ton, but frankly I still think their spring tensions are too tight. So every bass goes upstate for an Earspasm setup: springs adjusted, tone holes sharp and clean, sealing like a champ. This is included in the price — yes, it costs me money. Yes, people say I should charge extra. No, I won’t. This should be standard, and I’m not charging you for what should be standard.
All earspasm instruments come with a 7-day trial. Please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
The instrument comes with:
- Standard Royal case with hideaway backpack straps
- Two pegs, standard.
Notice, the instrument does not come with a mouthpiece. Fortunately for you, I sell those too.
FAQ:
Q: What if I'm in New York and want to try it in person?
A: Contact me to set up an appointment, and let's do it!d.
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard Royal Global warranty against cracks, etc. If you ever have any problem with the instrument, I'm your quarterback. I'll take care of the whole process, just let me know you need help, and I'll take it from there.
Q: What happens if it's damaged during shipping?
A: Inspect the package before you sign off at delivery! If there are any issues resulting from shipping, we have taken out an insurance policy to cover damage (and loss). But we need you to document this damage or we can't do anything to help.
Q: If I decide to return it, do also I have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Yes. And you will also want to insure it!
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes. You can add your shipping address when checking out to see what the shipping costs will be before taking the plunge. Note that VAT and Customs Duties are not included in this cost.
