Klarinet Archive - Posting 000374.txt from 1994/05

From: Cary Karp <nrm-karp@-----.SE>
Subj: Re: Buffet's Eb
Date: Sun, 22 May 1994 04:09:46 -0400

On Sat, 21 May 1994, Christopher Zello wrote:

> Any thing on the two piece e-flat bodies I had mentioned before?

Sorry that I didn't respond at the time.

Buffet's new 2 piece Eb is not intended to replace their top of the line
instrument which remains a single piece and substantially more expensive.
Their rationale for the new design (quoting the local agent) is that it
provides an extra point of access for adjusting the dimensions of the
bore. I've neither measured the thing nor seen the drawings, so I don't
know to what extent they've utilized this possibility. One way or the
other, I had an easier time producing a louder sound on the new horn and
am prepared to accept their claim that it is easier to play in tune. It
strikes me as a good choice for wind band use. However, I couldn't
perceive a reason in the world for trading in my present instrument (the
top of the line model) for it.

The case for the 2-piecer requires it to be stored assembled, which seems
pretty screwy to me. They say that the tenon is too delicate to withstand
repeated assembling and disassembling, but the extra joint will have to
be dried no matter what, and the cork isn't going to appreciate being
kept under constant pressure.