Yes it`s true. No it`s not me or my reed. It`s just a cruddy horn. Ever since I got it I`ve had to replace yearly, 4 pads, two corks 6 springs and fix other things too! It`s a slemer plastic. If anyone has any ideas on how to make my poor lil obie stop braking that would be great. Thanks!
Oboe Baby

Selmer oboes are notoriously bad quality, especially the lower models. As long as you`re getting it at least yearly tune-ups at a double reed shop, there`s probably nothing more you can do. I recommend you just buy a new oboe and avoid years of future repairs on this one.

ok ....Selmer oboes really suck!!!!!!!u should think of renting or buying a Fox or a Loree.....i play a Fox and i love it...hehehe

don`t buy a Loree unless you are serious about playing the oboe. The Loree can get in the $4,800 range. The Fox`s are far better priced more like $2,800 and I suggest buying a Fox 330 (Intermediate oboe).

Well, if you dont really feel like buying a new one, you could try to get as good as possible on the one you`ve got and then get a new one.
Then i guess you would become super-good.
meh, dont ask me, i dont even play oboe.
It works with Cellos though!
bye!

Chris makes an excellent point. Do not get a Loree oboe until you are ready. I would get a nice student model oboe thats reasonable in price and will help you grow. That way, if you do quit you didn`t waste the additional $2,500. Stay on the student instrument until you are SURE that you are serious about it, and then be VERY picky as you upgrade to a Loree/Buffet/Yamaha/Rigoutat/Marigaux etc. This will be the instrument you will have for years and you must be careful. And always, ask your private teacher or local oboe specialist for assistance when buying an oboe. I go to the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and because i waited to get a Loree i got one that is a special edition made by my teacher, James Caldwell. It`s JC edition Loree and it`s by far better than any Loree i have played on. It just proves that if you work with a knowledgeable oboe player you can get an amazing instrument. Good luck on your oboe studies, and if you have any questions, you can email me at oboeadam@yahoo.com or AIM me at Adamdaoboedude. Happy reedmaking!