 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: imabandmom
Date: 2006-06-09 13:46
My daughter is continuing her studies into college in two years. She's been playing her Buffet E11 since 8th grade. Without breaking the bank and knowing she will not make a career out of her music, we would like to upgrade. We are looking at Leblanc Noblet4, but in doing research this has been tagged as a "beginner" wood clarinet. My daughter tried it out and was pleased with the feel and sound. Should I listen to her, or something else?
Thanks
band mom
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Author: LarryBocaner ★2017
Date: 2006-06-09 15:16
I don't think a Noblet clarinet is a significant upgrade from an E11. Your doughter's preference might well be the result of a fresh new clarinet vs a 3-year-old instrument with wear and tear issues.
Some possible strategies:
Look for a good used R13.
Upgrade the E11 with an overhaul by a first-rate technician, and replace the original barrel with a 66mm Moennig (or equivalent).
Look for a bargain in a new pro-quality instrument: Buffet, Selmer, Leblanc or Yamaha -- you might get lucky!
Larry Bocaner
National Symphony Orchestra (retired)
Post Edited (2006-06-09 15:44)
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Author: susieray
Date: 2006-06-09 15:34
Noblet 4 is the new name for the Normandy 4, which is definitely not an upgrade from an E11.
I second the idea of looking for a used pro instrument!
~Sue
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2006-06-09 16:46
I agree with my fellow board members on this one! PLEASE don't go with the Noblet over the Buffet E-11. The E-11 (in my opinion) is a far superior instrument--and I'm a Leblanc player. Look for a good price on a Buffet R-13--new or used in excellent condition: new pads, springs, corks, etc. She can keep the E-11 for a back up instrument.
The R-13 plays well with others and is an excellent choice for all-around types of music. It is also an excellent deal for the money. Upper level Leblancs (such as my Opus II) are quite pricey and should only be considered if your student is going to continue after college, unless the price isn't a factor.
Post Edited (2006-06-09 16:46)
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Author: Dee
Date: 2006-06-12 22:55
I would vote for a complete and thorough overhaul by a really good technician. In addition, I would suggest getting a high quality, professional mouthpiece. With these two actions, your daughter should be quite pleased with her existing E-11.
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Author: joeyscl
Date: 2006-06-20 23:30
if Leblanc Noblet4 is tagged as a Beginner clarinet, then switching to it from an E11 would be considered a downgrade... wouldn't it?
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Author: Clarinetgirl06
Date: 2006-06-21 04:39
I would say wait until your daughter gets into a college studio and see what her teacher says she should buy. Plus, they'll have good resources and possibly know of people selling their instruments, plus they can help her pick out a great horn.
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Author: Pathik
Date: 2006-06-21 08:54
Before spending a lot of money on a new clarinet, consider trying a new mouthpiece. My B flat clarinet is an E11 and I was considering upgrading it, but changed my mind after getting a new mouthpiece, a Vandoren B45, which had a very noticeable effect on tone, ease of playing and the general feel of it. It's just a better clarinet now. I was using the mouthpiece that came with the clarinet, and from what I've read on this board and elsewhere, mps that come with Buffet clarinets aren't worth keeping. Well, I am not an expert on any of this, but to me the B45 mp is much better than the original mp, so it's a (relatively) cheap upgrade that can make all the difference. It doesn't have to be the B45 of course. I presume any quality mouthpiece is bound to make a difference. Something worth considering anyway.
Pathik
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2006-06-21 14:43
I agree with the mouthpiece suggestion--and a thorough exam and repair as needed with a skilled tech person. Then, when she graduates from high school and is ready to go to college, upgrade to a Buffet R-13. She'll need it by then.
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Author: BobD
Date: 2006-06-21 22:47
I suppose there are some valid reasons why a certain Noblet would sound and feel good to someone but in general I agree with others that the R13 is the logical step up from an E11. As has been pointed out maybe the E11 just needs an going over by a technician. Or maybe your daughter is like a lot of us who just want something else to try out. If I were you I'd talk it over with her to get specifics. Maybe a new case for the E11 or the suggested new mouthpiece. I certainly wouldn't even consider trading the E11 for the Noblet under any conditions.
Bob Draznik
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Author: ClarinetMaster
Date: 2006-06-30 22:22
My clarinet is a Yamaha YCL-34 and it plays very well. Also it has a beautiful tone and notes come out easily. I believe it's marked as an intermediate intrument altough I remember being told that it's very similar to an R13. I am very fond of my Yamaha and I would highly suggest this model.
~ClarinetMaster
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Author: Bassie
Date: 2006-07-03 19:44
Noblet / Normandy 4 is 'entry level' wood. Personally I traded my E11 up to a Selmer Prologue.
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