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 R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: John Noecker 
Date:   2003-04-15 01:05

Hello again, everyone... Sorry to be a bother again, but I was just hoping for your opinions on this... I will shortly be purchasing a new, professional model clarinet... I am kind of set on either the R-13 (because it is very well known) and the Leblanc Opus (looks pretty, aux Eb key, and I like the name)... Now, none of my reasons are very good, I guess, but what do you think? If you had a choice, which would you go with... My parents are actually considering ordering both on approval, and letting me try them, but if this is unneccessary, it would be easier on us... Just hoping to hear your opinons on the horns, how they compare with each other, etc.... Thanks again

John Noecker

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: sfalexi 
Date:   2003-04-15 02:33

Well they are both top-notch instruments. They are both played by professionals. They are both revered to be the best there was ever made (of course Buffet people tell you that the R-13 is the best and Leblanc people tell you that the Opus is the best). Sherman Friedland would say "BUY THE OPUS!" and GBK would say "BUY THE R-13!" (um . . . probably they'd say these things).

I'd say that either one would be fine. The only difference between the two is about 1500 dollars. Have you looked at other clarinets? Rossi I believe has the aux Eb key (or Patricola I'm sure has a clarinet that does also). How about the Amati FB whose review you can see here . . .

http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/read.html?f=1&i=108737&t=108533

Of course, in this respect, it'd be a little absurd to try out every clarinet made to find the best match, but pick a few, and try them out. I'd say about two or three of each. For instance, go to a large store and try out (if possible) a few Opuses, or is that Opi?, R-13s, and whatever else floats your boat.

Bottom line is that they are both great. One may be a little better suited to you though (based on bore, key ergonomics, weight, etc.) and the only way you can tell is to try them out before buying.

Alexi

US Army Japan Band

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: GBK 
Date:   2003-04-15 03:19

Both instruments are used worldwide by working professionals.

There are great R-13's. There are good R-13's. There are awful R-13's.
There are great Opus' (opera? opuses?). There are good Opus'. There are awful Opus'.

Both instruments will probably need a few immediate minor adjustments.
Either instrument could have quality control issues
Either instrument could crack.
Neither instrument plays perfectly in tune.
Don't rush to make a decision.
Try as many samples of both as is possible.
Play them in a variety of applications.
If necessary, have a professional clarinetist you trust help you with the selection.

Your final decision should be the instrument with the best intonation and scale.

Then, take your metronome, tuner and Baermann III and retire to the practice room...GBK (owner of 11 R-13's, an Amati, and other clarinets too numerous to list)



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-15 05:54

As I am a LeBlanc player through and through, and despise most R13s, I will try not to sound too biased. Basically the LeBlanc I would argue is a better clarinet. You might hate it, but it is a higher class instrument, and it all depends on your preferences. The Opus is much greater in value, and price than the R13. Try comparing a Prestige or Festival to the Opus. The Infinite was made primarily for the R13 market, and it is 2 models ( 3 if you count the Ambiance) below the Opus.

Bradley

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Aussie Nick 
Date:   2003-04-15 09:49

Bradley said: "Basically the LeBlanc I would argue is a better clarinet. You might hate it, but it is a higher class instrument"

What a load of rubbish. I could find you LeBlancs that are awful, and I could find you Buffets that are awful. As GBK said, both instruments are used worldwide by working professionals. On a reasonably educated guess, I would tend to think there are more Buffet players in the profession than LeBlanc players.



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: donald 
Date:   2003-04-15 10:36

i have played R 13 clarinets off the shelf that were no better than your average plastic Bundy.... i have played Opusi that were not the greatest, but none that were too awful.
i have heard many times the comment "The Opus is better in tune, the R 13 has better tone" (yes, i know, define "better") and i have to say that whenever i play an opus i am amazed at the great intonation and how easily i can play a wide dynamic range.... but then i swap back to an R13 and hear a sound i prefer. FOR ME the cliche has proved itself a few times, i've got to say.
the Opus has always impressed me with the darkness, or perhaps "absence of shrillness" in the upper register left hand- i can really imagine you trying this horn and falling in love with that. Also the eveness of notes either side of the (lower) break definately feels good.
i play an R13 and seem to do ok for myself, but if i had unrestricted choice i have to say that i'd be tempted by an Opus.
donald

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Rick Williams 
Date:   2003-04-15 10:51

I play an Opus A but I'm not married to brands. Before the Opus I played a Selmer for years. My teacher plays a Yamaha, an ocassional stand mate plays a Buffet, none of us get particularly excited about brands other than my teacher who gets money from Yamaha everytime she mentions them at a master class or lecture..."YAMAHA", send the check.

Now if you want to bankrupt your parents, take a close look at a Symphonie VII. Nice name, rolls off the tongue and it's rosewood yum with an Eb key! Be the only person on your block to own one with a suggested retail of only $7000! Point being the Opus is considerably more than the R-13 which makes a capricious decision rather expensive. "But Rick, you are playing an Opus!" Yes, but I got my Opus at a bargain basement price otherwise I'd be playing something else that I liked as well.

Play both, play others and buy the one that you fall in love with then practice...practice...practice!
Best
Rick

Best
Rick

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: John Noecker 
Date:   2003-04-15 11:50

Actually, the reason the Opus is even an option, is because woodwindbrasswind seems to have it discounted to the extreme... As of the last time I checked, the difference in cost is about $50... I was quite impressed, as I was under the impression (which has been echoed here) that the Opus was comparable to a higher model than the R-13... not sure exactly what's going on... Kinda leaves out the Symphonie idea (I wish it didn't... I would love to have that clarinet)... Oh, another question... is the mouthpiece that comes with the Opus a decent one? I've read that most people hate the R-13 stock mouthpiece, but haven't heard anything about the Opus one... thanks again

John

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Irwin 
Date:   2003-04-15 12:08

One thing for sure that the Opus has and the R-13 doesn't is the auxilliary E flat key. I've had an Opus for about 2 years (I absolutely love it), and don't think I'd ever buy another clarinet that didn't have that key. I have a Master Model I use when my community band plays outdoors. It doesn't have that key, and I really notice the difference.

The above posts about variation among Opuses and R-13's are absolutely correct. Choose carefully.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: D Dow 
Date:   2003-04-15 13:11

Try all clarinets with a blindfold on and then pick. The bias only occurs when you know what brand your playing on. Allow the ear to guide you, not the trademark!

David Dow

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: sfalexi 
Date:   2003-04-15 15:51

The Opus, if I remember correctly, comes with a K10M mouthpiece. Supposedly it's pretty good. People really like it. So no worries there. However when trying out clarinets, I'd say try them out with the same mouthpiece to make sure that it's the clarinet not the mouthpiece that is producing the sound that you want to hear.
Quote:

Try all clarinets with a blindfold on and then pick. The bias only occurs when you know what brand your playing on. Allow the ear to guide you, not the trademark!
Or in my case, the ear can guide me every which way it wants, but the wallet has veto power . . . . . .

Alexi

US Army Japan Band

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: xsagax 
Date:   2003-04-15 21:32

(tradition)R-13<opus<Prestige R13 <the new 'Tosca' (buffet)
if you have enogh money to buy opus. why don't you buy prestige?
or why don't you wait few month and but 'Tosca' i heard Tosca sound similar with Festival. R13 sound similar with Festival. so...you know

hi i love you

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-15 21:53

Aussie Nick

Excuse me?
I never said anything about quality control- I was talking about markets, and instrument levels. The Opus is comparable to the Prestige, and therefore is higher than the R13 period.

Maybe you can find an R13 or an Opus that sucks and one that is great- but I was not touching on that topic at all. I agree with you on that, so please dont try to argue it like its against whatever rubbish I have supposedly said.

People have different preferences. You cant argue that any brand is better as a fact when they are on the same level like these, so only opinions can make them higher or lower. SO WHAT if there are more Buffet players! Everyone has a different preference.

Bradley

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Mark Charette 
Date:   2003-04-15 22:43

Bradley wrote:

> Aussie Nick
>
> Excuse me?
> I never said anything about quality control- I was talking
> about markets, and instrument levels. The Opus is comparable to
> the Prestige, and therefore is higher than the R13 period.

You mean more expensive. Higher is probably not a very good term to use in this kind of reference.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Aussie Nick 
Date:   2003-04-15 23:59

Bradley: It seems I have misunderstood your intentions in your 1st post. Perhaps you could have worded it in a less subjective way so that it didn't sound like you were placing LeBlanc in a complete seperateand higher category to Buffet.



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Synonymous Botch 
Date:   2003-04-16 00:03

An Opus (even from overseas) will cost you $2500 USD

An R13 is STILL an expensive option at $1600 (more or less).

No WAY a 15 year-old, second year player should spend this kind of money.
Take another two years of lessons and save your funds.

You may want one of these, but the horn won't make you a hero...
only practice does that. You'll be better served by;

Further professional instruction and serious practice (no matter the axe).

A proper mouthpiece fit to YOU

The best quality reeds that work on item number two.


Nothing wrong with dreaming about shiny stuff, but c'mon.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: JupiterTC 
Date:   2003-04-16 01:30

John, I play a Leblanc Concerto, which is the acoustical twin of the Opus only without the nifty E-flat key. I bought it when I was 15, and it is worth every penny of it. Recently I was considering the R-13 because I heard so many great things about it, but the Concerto has a respectable reputation as well. Many people on the Klarinet list advised me to simply get an overhaul, which will save me a lot more money then getting a new insturment.

My advice is to try as many clarinets as you can. And I would strongly advise to try several of the same kind of instruments (like trying three different R-13, three different Opus, etc). If you can't do that, then just try as many as you can. You will know when you find the right clarinet.

~SAM~

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: John Noecker 
Date:   2003-04-16 02:21

Synonymous Botch.. thanks for your concern... actually... either clarinet (with Silver Plated keys) will cost about $1800... because you do not know me personally, I don't feel that you're really qualified to judge whether or not I'm ready to move to a professional clarinet.. Whatever the case, my teacher has recommended that I upgrade my current clarinet, and as I plan to pursue a career in music, I think it would be foolish to buy a lesser-grade clarinet and have to upgrade later.. As for practice, I put in about 2 hours of practice per day on my clarinet... I don't think the clarinet will "make me a hero".. I just want to give myself the best chance I can have... A clarinet like this certainly doesn't limit me very much... Thanks for your input, but quite honestly I find you to be curt to the point of rudeness occasionally... But still, thanks, you do make a good point..

John Noecker

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-16 03:00

Aussie- I certainly did not mean to emit the message that LeBlanc was better on a whole than Buffet.....

I think they are different, but not above or below the other.

Sorry for the bad communication

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Rick Williams 
Date:   2003-04-16 03:02

Regarding the price drop mentioned on the Opus, Leblanc to my understanding is introducing the series II instruments so most likely the dealers are trying to clear out their inventory. I know for example that the Concerto's dropped significantly after the Concerto II was announced.

I spoke to some folks at Leblanc about 3 weeks ago and inquired about the fire and they indicated that it would cause only a slight delay in production, hence availablity of the II series instruments.
Best
RW

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: cyso_clarinetist 
Date:   2003-04-16 04:08

wow, doesn't every one love these kinds of topics. Let me see if I can say what i say with as least controversy as possible.

This has been mentioned before and I am going to say it again. The Opus and Concerto are the exact same instrument. The only difference is that the Opus has an Eb Key, metal tenon rings and resonators on the lower joint pads. You can find many a concerto's that will rock. If were you, especially because you are a student, consider the Concerto. When I was a freshman in High School i bought an Opus and if was in the same situation I could have saved myself a grand because like i said they are the same.

As for the R-13. They are pumped out like no other clarinet. Personally I now use a very fine R-13 clarinet which has been touched by the magic of Brannen Woodwinds. For myself I have had the best results with the R-13. The other instruments, the prestige and festival didn't really fit me very well.

I am the first one to declare that when I play on Leblancs, I don't sound to hot but I have seen people just love playing the clarinet more becuase the leblanc fits them.

My recommendation is the R-13? Why? It is cheaper. Good luck in finding a good clarinet.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Dawne 
Date:   2003-04-16 05:18

There are lots of wonderful professional horns on the market...each with it's own personality. Don't limit yourself to just trying out 2! Try out as many as you can, and keep an open mind (as well as your ears). I tried many horns...and ended up with a Yamaha CS-V, and I love it. It is the right "fit" for me. Finding the "right" clarinet is like finding the right spouse.....LOL

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Matt Locker 
Date:   2003-04-16 15:55

Dawne wrote:

> Finding the "right" clarinet is like finding the right spouse.

Right, you search for the right one, finally find it, take loving care of it for years & years, and then one day it cracks. Yep, sounds familiar! {: )}

MOO,
Matt

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: ken 
Date:   2003-04-16 21:52

Pitting Opus against R-13 is a mismatch. An R-13 (nickel/silver, no articulated keys) is essentially an entry-level pro grade horn and in all fairness more comparable to the Leblanc Esprit within marketing hierarchy. An Opus is a premium grade horn, has more bells and whistles and lists for $2,000+ more. Likewise, it's more accurately compared to a Buffet Festival and/or Prestige. How they play from person to person is another kettle of fish. v/r Ken

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-16 21:57

Thank You Ken!

This is what I've been trying to say, and have been misunderstood more than once- I guess I'll never be a great communicator.......

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Morrigan 
Date:   2003-04-17 01:54

Interesting topic, as usual!
I'm currently looking at a new pair of horns. I've considered R13 lines, and LeBlanc. I've tried a few of both, in stores, and other's, as well as Brennenised ones owned by my teacher. I've played on a basic R13 for almost 4 years now.

I'm choosing LeBlanc. Why? Nothing much, just a few small specifics. It's for the feel, it has nothing to do with one being better than the other. They say you'll always end up sounding like yourself no matter what setup you use. I believe this. Which is why changing from Buffet will not be a huge leap.
Things I found between LeBlanc and Buffet:

-High C on Buffet more 'closed', on LeBlanc it feels like just another note in the scale (What I'm saying is that it's more even).

-High B on the A doesn't produce undertones.

-Mechanism all seemed closer to the fingers. On my Buffet, it seems I really have to go out of my way to find some keys.

-Throat notes much more even on LeBlanc.

-On LeBlanc, in an orchestral situation, I didn't need to use venting keys, or add fingers to correct intonation. Buffet I always have to, particularly on throat notes.

At the end of the day, a LeBlanc will suit me better than Buffet. However, Buffet is well capable of making a fine instrument.

Please please PLEASE make your OWN decision John! No-one can tell you what instrument is 'best'. They're all good!



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Aussie Nick 
Date:   2003-04-17 02:16

Morrigan: that is not to say that all LeBlancs wouldn't have that undertone you get on your Buffet. On my pair of Festivals I don't find it to be a problem, and I'm pretty happy with the throat tones intonation, as well as the high C. I guess mine just suit me. Thank god! I can't afford any more!



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Mark Pinner 
Date:   2003-04-17 02:28

Yamaha is also a viable option as is Selmer.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Carmen 
Date:   2003-04-17 02:33

My wife cracked a while after we got married... Shes still in the hospital, although I am currently using another "woman" I know my heart remains true, to my darling Concerto II. Heee

***...so do all who seen such times, but that is not for them to decide. All you can do is decide what to do with the time that is given to you.***

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-17 03:52

Hooray for the brave Concerto II!
I will be getting one of her sistren soon!
Lol
I cant wait to get my new clarinet! It seems like forever I was trying clarinets, especially R13s, because I was trying to find what was so great about them, and unfortunately never did :-/

I guess the feel of a LeBlanc is just for me. I could never get used to the short left hand C on the R13s or the weird feeling ( to me) one gets by pressing the register key or trying to reach with my pinkys over to the harsh feeling pinky keys.

I liked the darker tone I got with several of the R13s, but it was a bit hesitant in certain registers, and just didnt feel right to me. I also liked the loud sound I got from playing a Selmer Recital- but the feeling again just isnt right, and I would never be able to blend in orchestra with that kind of tone and volume.
I have tried the custom Yamahas, and well- to me they just feel like Buffets assembled in Japan. I was not impressed, but they are good clarinets.

Bradley

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Synonymous Botch 
Date:   2003-04-17 12:14

Having some experience with 'tire kickers' and my hoard of older Buffets, I can say this with some support:

The only comparison that matters is the one made with your checkbook open... the rest of it is 'gumption building'.

If you're spending your own money, you'll be VERY careful.

I find it appalling that pre-college age kids are considering these sums...

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: icecoke12 
Date:   2003-04-17 18:13

"Regarding the price drop mentioned on the Opus, Leblanc to my understanding is introducing the series II instruments so most likely the dealers are trying to clear out their inventory. I know for example that the Concerto's dropped significantly after the Concerto II was announced."


Hi
Does this means that the original Opus and Concertos are no longer in production?

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: icecoke12 
Date:   2003-04-17 18:35

Just curious...

How are the Custom Models of Yamaha compared to these two?
The new SE-V and CS-V series...

Seems to be around the same price range of the R-13 too.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: D Dow 
Date:   2003-04-17 19:10

Not impressed as of late with any of the Yam horns. Intonation wise they are somewhat on the low side and lack the flexibility an excellent R13 or Opus Leblanc has. For some reason some people are able to play well on these instruments.

The Yam Reform Boehm is also total write off! i tried several of these a short while ago and was totally dissapointed. Small sound and disastrous intonation! I would reccommend the Yamaha intermediate wood model over the pro models~

David Dow

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-17 22:18

Icecokel- yup, unfortunately it does.....

They are updating their line, and have stopped the Infinite, Concerto, Opus, and Noblet 42 "Laureate"( which in my own opinion was by far the best Noblet).

Bradley

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: icecoke12 
Date:   2003-04-18 01:48

Thanks.

Its a pity for them to stop production for the original models because all the II series are obviously going to be higher priced (and thus less affordable)

Wonder why is there such a great difference in the prices between different websites though. I can find R-13s listed for $2000 on one site and less than $1400 on another. Do buffet produce different variations/batches of R-13s? (other than the plating on keys) or are some retailers simply ripping the buyer off....

icecoke

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Dawne 
Date:   2003-04-18 05:22

In response to D Dow: I have owned a Yam ycl 52 for 8 or ten years....and liked it better than the R-13...I found the 52 to be the better horn believe it or not. My CS-V has a more focused, warm sweet tone, with excellent intonation. It is also very pretty to look at..like a fine English shotgun stock.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: icecoke12 
Date:   2003-04-18 06:25

Hi Dawne

May I know how much you bought your CS-V for?
And have you tried the SE-V?
What exactly is the difference between those two models?

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: DezzaG 
Date:   2003-04-18 14:52

Morrigan: I have seen you comment a couple of times on the undertones on upper clarion notes. The first time I got my A R13 I had them too but when I learnt how to focus my airstream they went away. I don't have this problem at all now, but if it is worrying to people I suggest getting a new vent tube or at least getting it shortened. This is not a big enough deal to discount the buffets.
Dezza

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Dee 
Date:   2003-04-18 22:15

If the pre-college kid can afford it and has the discipline to take care of it, why not. Using good equipment is a joy that enhances the playing experience at all levels of ability.

But remember, I said IF they can afford it.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: sfalexi 
Date:   2003-04-19 01:54

Dee wrote:

> If the pre-college kid can afford it and has the discipline to
> take care of it, why not. Using good equipment is a joy that
> enhances the playing experience at all levels of ability.
>
> But remember, I said IF they can afford it.

Honestly. If I could afford a brand new mercedes S-class, I'd get it. I wouldn't worry that I'm "too young" and should probably start driving on a lesser model such as a mazda 626 before moving up to the mercedes. I don't think we should really challenge what the person buys, but rather help them to make the right decision. THere's nothing wrong with buying an Opus or R-13. Of course, I may say something if they were deciding between buying their clarinet from BJ's wholesale club or to go "all out" with the model that is offerred at the local toy store from the OTHER obscure company.

You've heard some great advice in this thread as to the differences. You've seen how some people lean one way or other which should indicate that both are reputable and worth sticking behind (which these people do). GL with the search for a new instrument and hope everything goes well.

Alexi

US Army Japan Band

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Bradley 
Date:   2003-04-19 02:14

As a high school freshman on the market for a pro clarinet, I have to agree with Dee. I already have an intermediate clarinet, and I must say- I've taken care of it well, and now I think its time for a better horn. I wanted a decent wooden clarinet before I got a really good one, so that I could learn how to properly take care of one before I got the one I might stay with for the rest of my career, and thats with a lot of help, I've taken care of this one well too.

Whats the point of waiting if I can get the best money can buy now?

I second the Mercedes S class comment. My dad just bought a S55 AMG, and wow its awesome! I never thought I would like a Mercedes that much - my family has BMWs and Jaguars for the most part.

Bradley



Post Edited (2003-04-19 03:25)

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Morrigan 
Date:   2003-04-20 08:05

DezzaG
The fact remains that this is a problem, and no matter how you can compensate or take it to a repair technician to fix, it's still a problem and causes more than just undertones. The undertones are a sign that the instrument is not producing all the overtones it could. The clarinet only produces the ODD harmonics in the spectrum, undertones show a weakness in the ammount of harmonics it is able to produce; in my own words, I feel very unstable on a Buffet in the upper register, and almost always feel like my tone is about to 'crack' on the throat G. And to further this, I have looked into the technical conditon of the horn and found it is not a problem with the pads, to all the hiporites out there. I've had this problem seemingly forever, and to compensate, I always drop my soft palate when hitting this G. It has caused disruptions in air flow and listening to my own recordings found this is very apparent. I feel LeBlanc is for me, is all I'm saying.



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Mark Charette 
Date:   2003-04-20 14:39

Morrigan wrote:

> clarinet only produces the ODD
> harmonics in the spectrum, undertones show a weakness in the
> ammount of harmonics it is able to produce; in my own words,

This is actually incorrect. The clarinet does produce the even harmonics, although that are at a significantly lower amplitude than the odd harmonics.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: javier garcia m 
Date:   2003-04-20 16:11

nothing to do with models, and I did not read all the thread.

The noun "opus" means Work in latin.
its plural is "opera"

but this not necessary means that the plural of the Leblanc Opus is Opera.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: William 
Date:   2003-04-20 20:22

I own a set (A & Bb) of both vintage Buffet R13's and LeBlanc Concertos, which are identical accoustically to the Opus models, but lack the aux. Eb key. Both sets are "top drawer" horns, but have different playing characteristics. Generally, I find the Buffets to have more "punch" in their sound, but more difficult to play in tune. The LeBlancs are easier to play in tune and have a "woody" sound with a remarkably even scale, but the sound lacks the articulative "ping" and projection of my good Buffets. I am constantly switching back and forth between the two sets, depending on my current performance "mood"--which is currently "Leblanc."

Curiosly, most listeners--as well as musician colleges--never notice when I switch brands--and that may be good or bad. Apparently, I sound pretty much the same and as good (or bad) on either Buffets or LeBlancs.

Which one should you pick??? NO EASY ANSWER!! It's up to which particular instrument you feel comfortable with and plays the way you want it too--in other simpler words, "Pick the one(s) that you like the best." Both Buffet and Leblanc are reputable professional clarinets--you just have to find "the one" that is good for you.

Enjoy the search!!!!!! (and good luck)

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Karel 
Date:   2003-04-21 03:26

Javier, I composed a brief note to say that "opus" > "opi". Fortunately I went to my Oxford Dictionary to find that you are right before posting. How odd, though.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: cyso_clarinetist 
Date:   2003-04-21 03:37

MOrrigan -

I haven't seen online where have you been? Anyhow.. back to this thread.. I know what you mean about the undertones, they are more present in the R-13 A clarinet. You can find a good R13-A but it is difficult. I also wanted to mention to you that the whole design of the opus/concerto acoustics was to cut off a portion of the over tone serious that buffet has.

- James

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: javier garcia m 
Date:   2003-04-21 21:28

Karel, there are a lot of latin nouns with the form xxx-us > xxx-i; of the 2nd declination, as vinum, vini (wine), domus, domi (House).
But there are others as opus, munus (gift), vulnus (wound, injury), in the form xxx-us > xxx-era. All of these are neuter gender and have their plural with "a".
The thing is more complex than this, but I studied latin some 20 years ago, and I've forgotten almost all.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Morrigan 
Date:   2003-04-22 02:59

Cyso
Really? I've never heard that before, who told you? How do you know? How would you manufacture an instrument to 'cut off' certain overtones?

I know what you mean about a good A. A friend got an R13 Bb from Greg Smith (I think) and it is one of the most beautiful clarinets I've played! But my teacher's brannenized Concertos are better!

Marc C
I didn't know that, I'll discuss this with my 'Harmonic Resources' lecturer. 'Harmonic Resources' is one of my subjects at school. It is where I learned that the clarinet produces ONLY the odd harmonics, however, you may be right. I'll ask.



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Mark Charette 
Date:   2003-04-22 03:17

Morrigan wrote:

> Marc C
> I didn't know that, I'll discuss this with my 'Harmonic
> Resources' lecturer. 'Harmonic Resources' is one of my
> subjects at school. It is where I learned that the clarinet
> produces ONLY the odd harmonics, however, you may be right.

It's not a maybe ...

It's only possible to overblow the odd harmonics (thus the 12ths), but the even harmonics are present in reasonable strength. See http://hughes38.som.ohio-state.edu/spectra.htm.

 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Morrigan 
Date:   2003-04-22 05:26

Very interesting! You learn something new every day.



 
 Re: R-13 vs. Leblanc Opus
Author: Clay 
Date:   2003-07-04 03:00

I purchased a LeBlanc Opus from Brassnwoodwind and it comes with a Larry Combs signed mouthpiece. It plays well, but there are better mouthpieces out there...








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