Klarinet Archive - Posting 000334.txt from 1999/01

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] question
Date: Sat, 9 Jan 1999 21:22:54 -0500

On Sat, 9 Jan 1999, Dee D. Hays wrote:

discussion of the Leblanc vs. the Buffet R-13
>
> They are both fine professional instruments. The LL model was quite a
> popular professional grade horn for Leblanc so used ones do become available
> from time to time. You can't really go wrong with either one assuming that
> they are in comparable condition. Of course on the eBay auction, you cannot
> easily determine the condition so if you bid, bid with the thought that you
> may need to put in a lot more overhaul than the seller might indicate.

Dee's advice is sound. However, from a purely pitch-oriented basis, I
would have to add that, while the LL is a wonderful clarinet (I almost
bought one when I was 15), it still has the pitch problems of the earlier
Leblancs - that is....extremely sharp upper G, A, B, and c in the clarion,
sharp throat tones, and in-tune long notes (Bb concert, low chalumau, etc.

The Buffet R-13 has a few problems, but there is a reason it is still
being made today. I have a student who arrived at school this year with a
1963 Buffet R-13, and it is one of the finest instruments I have ever
played. I told him if he ever wants to sell it, to let me know.

IMHO, the Buffet is a better horn.

RG
Roger Garrett
Professor of Clarinet
Director - Concert Band, Symphonic Winds & Titan Band
Advisor - Recording Studio
Illinois Wesleyan University

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