Klarinet Archive - Posting 000582.txt from 2002/07

From: Ed Wojtowicz <ewoj@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] odd Buffet accessory
Date: Sun, 21 Jul 2002 20:16:35 -0400

For years I have done a similar thing on my clarinets using those small
wrapped rubber bands that people use to tie back their hair into a ponytail.
My repairman suggested this years ago as a way to keep a good seat on the
large lower pads. Regular rubber bands will mar the plating. Many sax
players use key clamps for this reason.

Ed

> Subject: Re: [kl] odd Buffet accessory
>
> At 04:21 PM 7/21/2002 -0400, David B. Niethamer wrote:
>> I have a student who got a new R-13, and it came with an odd accessory.
>> We can't figure out what it is.
>>
>> This doodad is black plastic, and round, like a plug for the socket at
>> the top of a saxophone where the neck would attach. The top has the
>> Buffet logo on it. There is an arm that sticks out which is spring loaded
>> - it pulls out, but doesn't go in any further if you push on it. At the
>> end of this arm is a curved piece sticking down at a right angle.
>>
>> Anyone know what this is, and why a soprano clarinet should have it in
>> the case? It doesn't fit any of the sockets or tenons on the instrument.
>> Very puzzling.
>
> The device fits into the upper tenon socket of the lower joint. The little
> arm is spring-loaded and goes over the left pinky E/B lever to hold the key
> closed. I think it is merely for shipping purposes, to help keep the pad
> seated, but I suppose it could be used even after purchase if the owned
> choses.

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