Seaman Piccolo Pitch Question

[MatekiMan]

I am trying a used Roy Seaman piccolo, #607. The dealer has allowed me to play it for two weeks before making a decision on purchasing the instrument. I am concerned about the pitch being consistently quite sharp throughout all registers. The head joint stopper is adjusted correctly according to the line on the cleaning swab. I have to pull the headjoint out approximately 5/32" to get close to the correct pitch. The instrument plays wonderfully, great response in all registers, ability to speak softly with control on all notes. It is a beautiful instrument to look at as well, well taken care of, the case is in great shape. I perform in an adult community wind ensemble and will be playing it in rehearsal and performance this week, so I will have an opportunity to see how it plays in an ensemble setting. Did Seaman produce these piccolos to play sharp? Any input will be appreciated.

[JButky]

I am trying a used Roy Seaman piccolo, #607. The dealer has allowed me to play it for two weeks before making a decision on purchasing the instrument. I am concerned about the pitch being consistently quite sharp throughout all registers. The head joint stopper is adjusted correctly according to the line on the cleaning swab. I have to pull the headjoint out approximately 5/32" to get close to the correct pitch. The instrument plays wonderfully, great response in all registers, ability to speak softly with control on all notes. It is a beautiful instrument to look at as well, well taken care of, the case is in great shape. I perform in an adult community wind ensemble and will be playing it in rehearsal and performance this week, so I will have an opportunity to see how it plays in an ensemble setting. Did Seaman produce these piccolos to play sharp? Any input will be appreciated.

5/32 is not a lot, If that's what you need to pull out and the D's are relatively in tune, you should be fine. Seaman's are probably 440 given when they were made. That headjoint draw is pretty standard.