Klarinet Archive - Posting 001007.txt from 2002/11

From: Bill Hausmann <bhausmann1@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Buffet RC prestige VS LeBlanc Opus
Date: Wed, 27 Nov 2002 22:05:42 -0500

At 05:55 AM 11/23/2002 -0800, Hong Xianwei wrote:
>Recently I have been given the choice of purchasing
>either the Buffet RC Prestige or the LeBlanc Opus at
>the student rates, but it turns out that I have no
>idea how these two instruments differ in terms of its
>make or its tone production or its tuning processes.
>
>I would appreciate it if someone could tell me which
>instrument is to be purchased if playing in a band
>where the clarinets are mostly Buffet R-13's.
>
>Also, if anyone can provide me some more information
>about these two instruments with regards to the wood
>used, metal used for the keys and springs and the
>tuning, this help would be greatly appreciated.

These two fully professional models are quite comparable in terms of
overall quality of materials and workmanship. Both have silver-plated
keys. The Opus has gold-plated needle and flat springs (I don't know about
the Buffet). Also note that the Opus, unlike most Leblanc products, has
the conventional offset trill keys rather than their usual "jump" trill
keys. As I understand it, the RC's tuning will be somewhat different from
the R-13's, which could be considered good or bad, I suppose. In either
case, it should have less of the Buffet's tendency to sharpness in the
upper clarion. If you WANT that, though, the Leblanc Infinite model mimics
the R-13 in that regard. Either one should be playable in tune with all
those R-13's, though, as long as you use your ear. The best situation, of
course, would be for you to get a chance to try them. Even if you don't
find any significant difference in the tonal qualities, the keywork is
noticeably different and one may fit your hands better.

Bill Hausmann

If you have to mic a saxophone, the rest of the band is TOO LOUD!

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