Klarinet Archive - Posting 000162.txt from 1995/06

From: SCOTT MCCHESNEY <scmcchesney@-----.NET>
Subj: Re: New vs. old, Prestige vs. R-13, Opperman Barrels
Date: Sat, 10 Jun 1995 23:29:29 -0400

> We have had the discussion of New vs. Old on this list before, but
>I thought I might add a FEW notes that had not been previously
>discussed. Someone brought up the point of owning an older Buffet that
>played better than several new instruments etc.
>
> I have to say, that as an experienced crafstman of 20 years, "they
>don't make 'em like they used to!". And I'm glad they don't.

Hmm...must be the area of the country I live in. Most people around
here would like an older model, though now that I think about it that trend is
changing rather quickly.

[lots of interesting info SNIPPED!]

> In the case of Buffet R-13 clarinets, I have noticed changes in
>general playing characteristics of serial number groups, particularly
>in the area of tuning parameters. The groupings as I have perceived
>them are based on my experience only and is not meant as a definitive
>statement about Buffet clarinets. Also I very rarely work on
>instruments with serial numbers earlier than 85,000 so my list starts
>there.
>
> 85.000 - 110,000 very flexible, but twelfths are wide
>
> 111,000 - 224,000 great sound especially around 145,000. Tuning
> parameters better. C#/G# key spring changed
> to needle spring from flat spring.
>
> 225,000 - 300,000? Definitely a new bore design around 225,000.
> These instruments have a different resistance,
> but play better in tune. B natural still sharp
>
> 300,000? - present I have not been able to definitively place the
> change, but the middle B is much better in tune
> on these new models

[other interesting stuff SNIPPED!]

To be honest, I can't even say for sure if the Clarinet I own is an
R-13 - it doesn't say on it anywhere. So we could be comparing apples &
oranges here...in any event, when I saw Mr. Fobes' list, I was distressed to
see that my Clarinet is too old for his list! And here I was, sitting and
thinking I was going to get some good information from one of the more
respected repairmen I've heard of...
Anyway, maybe he can help me out. As I said, my instrument does not
have any "model number" (if that is what R-13 is) on it. All it has is a stamp
on every piece that says "Buffet A Paris; Crampon&C; Made in France". It's on
both joints, the bell, and barrel. The serial # (61,202 - I am told that hails
from the 50's, though I may be wrong) is on both joints. Is this even an R-13?
The throat tones are a bit sharp, relative to the whole instrument, and
the only other nuisance is that the entire instrument seems to be sharp,
necessitating barrel rings to bring it in tune. This may be one of the "flaws"
that Mr. Fobes was referring to. Both the A- and Ab-hole for the throat tones
have been bored wider (done by the previous owner), thus contributing to the
intonation problems. I've never had significant problems with key tarnish, nor
have I developed any cracks - quite a feat when you live in Iowa!

> Clark W Fobes

-- Scott