Klarinet Archive - Posting 001190.txt from 1999/05

From: "Mark Charette" <charette@-----.org>
Subj: Re: [kl] clarinet choice? DON'T BUY A NEW ONE!
Date: Wed, 26 May 1999 19:47:20 -0400

Roger said:
> I know that David Shifrin still plays on the Buffet R-13 that he had
when
> he played in Cleveland in 1972-75. I assume he had it before then -
that
> would be one of the pre 100,000 digit horns wouldn't it?

Assuming he bought it in 1969 or later - No. 1968 was Buffet #'s 99332 -
105617
(http://www.sneezy.org/clarinet/Equipment/HowOld/Buffet.html)

Here's what Clark Fobes has to say over a similar range of serial
numbers (reprinted from
http://www.sneezy.org/clarinet/Equipment/Intonation.html):

"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."

Mark Charette@-----.org

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