EG-S Plateau Mechanism Bb Clarinet - Covered Holes for Small Hands

Our review of the EG-S Plateau Mechanism Bb clarinet looks at who benefits most from a covered-hole design and why this model stands out for specific players. The bottom line: this clarinet is aimed at musicians who need an easier ergonomic reach or the ability to play while wearing gloves, and its primary advantage is the plateau mechanism with covered holes that reduces the need for precise fingertip placement. For outdoor ensembles, players with very small hands or hand mobility issues, and saxophonists transitioning to clarinet, this model solves practical problems that open-hole instruments can create.

Key Features

• Plateau mechanism: Covered holes let players hold and finger the clarinet without precise fingertip sealing, making it easier to play with gloves or limited sensation.
• Ebony body: The wooden body provides a familiar feel and traditional weight while remaining suitable for band use outdoors in cool conditions.
• Nickel silver key material: Sturdy key construction offers reliable action and resilience for frequent use.
• Silver-plated keys: Silver finish improves corrosion resistance and gives the instrument a polished appearance for formal ensemble settings.
• Bb soprano tuning: Standard Bb pitch makes the instrument compatible with concert band and orchestra repertoire and parts.

Who It's For

This clarinet is best for military, police and guard orchestras that perform outdoors in winter and need players to retain dexterity while wearing gloves, and for saxophonists who prefer covered holes that feel familiar. It also suits students or adult players with very small hands and musicians with hand handicaps such as reduced fingertip sensation or restricted joint mobility.

Players seeking the brightest professional orchestral tone or those who insist on open-hole techniques for advanced left-hand trill adjustments may want to consider alternative open-hole models. Likewise, players who prioritize a specific aftermarket setup or extensive customization should evaluate options with full service support.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Ergonomic covered-hole design reduces the need for exact finger placement and aids players with small hands or limited sensation.
• Solid ebony body offers a traditional wooden feel preferred by many band musicians.
• Durable nickel silver construction with silver plating produces a clean, serviceable finish for frequent use outdoors.

Cons

• Sound quality receives mixed feedback from customers, so players seeking a particular tonal character should try it first.
• Plateau systems limit certain advanced techniques available on open-hole clarinets.

Specifications

Model	EG-S Plateau Mechanism
Key	Bb (soprano)
Body material	Ebony
Key material	Nickel silver with silver-plated keys
Hole type	Plateau (covered holes)
Number of keys	17 (18-key variant noted)

Our Verdict

The EG-S Plateau clarinet is a practical, well-built option for ensembles and individuals who need covered holes for glove use or ergonomic reasons. It represents good value for players with small hands or hand mobility issues, offering reliable hardware and a traditional ebony body, though those chasing a specific tonal ideal should try the instrument first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this clarinet be played with gloves?
Yes; the plateau construction with covered holes is designed specifically to allow comfortable playing while wearing gloves.

Is it suitable for players with arthritis or reduced sensation?
Yes; the covered holes and ergonomic layout make fingering easier for players with arthritis, diabetes-related loss of sensation, or similar hand challenges.

Does it come in a standard Bb pitch?
Yes; the instrument is tuned to Bb soprano pitch and fits standard band and orchestra parts.