Klarinet Archive - Posting 000234.txt from 2004/06

From: Andy Raibeck <klari_1@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Repair or buy new?
Date: Wed, 16 Jun 2004 16:27:01 -0400

Steven,

I have an R-13 (made in 1976). I recently tried a new R-13 that I took out on
approval from Muncy Winds (at the University of Oklahoma Clarinet Symposium). I
liked the keywork a lot better -- it felt "snappier", more responsive, but that
might just be the newness of the instrument. Unfortunately the sound was just
not quite what I wanted. First, there was the slightest "fuzziness" to almost
every note. Perhaps that might be fixed with some adjustment. But second and
more important, there was just a certain "dullness" or "hollowness" to the
sound that I didn't like (Others have told me they like the sound, but it just
didn't ring my bell). On the other hand, to my ears, my 1976 R-13 has a very
sweet, full, clear sound.

If you go the new clarinet route, I'd recommend that you make sure you go
someplace where you can try a bunch of clarinets - like 30 or more. And also
consider the higher-end models as well. For now I'm going to stick to my 1976
R-13, but if I start looking again, I'm going to consider a "Vintage" model.
The "Tosca" is very nice too, though I'm not sure it's worth the huge price
difference... I'd have to take one home and play and listen *very* carefully
before jumping into something like that! :-)

With that said, I'd encourage you to not be so quick to go new. You mention
that your instruments need "serious" work, but you didn't provide specifics.
Have a good repair technician take a look at them and give you a repair
estimate (maybe pick the one you like best and have that fixed). It may very
well be that, once fixed up, your older models (I'm guessing mid-to-late
sizties?) may very well be wonderful instruments. You're almost certainly
looking at well over $2,000 for a new silver-plated R-13 (I belive that the
Buffets just underwent a huge price jump).

Your mileage, and that of other folks who respond to you, may vary.

Best regards and best of luck,

Andy

--- Steven Haaser <steven.haaser@-----.edu> wrote:
>
> I have two older Buffet R13s (Bb) that I play regularly.
> The older is a 937xx, and the newer is 1037xx, which
> I prefer. I have no strong objections to either instrument,
> but they need some serious work done on them after
> many years.
>
> My question: given the age and design specs of these
> instruments, in your opinion should I have one or the
> other put in top shape, or consider buying a new Buffet
> Bb?
>
> What improvements might I likely expect with a new R13?
> Should/Must I consider the more expensive, newer models
> in the Buffet line?
>
> If I buy an another Bb, I'll sell one of my current R13s.

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