The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Bill Stutsman
Date: 2006-06-27 21:05
Several questions:
I recently purchased what I thought was a slightly used Buffet E-13 for my son to replace another horn that did not play well. The serial number on the E-13 is K148xxx. Is there anyone who can give me an idea as to how old it really is? I have checked several online serial number lists, but have not found where this model was covered. Also, I am not familiar wiith the E-13. I have seen contradictory info online. Can anyone fill me in on this model's place in the Buffet line? Is there any special significance to the "K" in the serial number?
It did not play as well as the Buffett I got from Bernard Portnoy in 1968, but the E-13 was free-blowing, the tone was fine and, when double-checked electronically, the scale seemed good.
He just had a lesson with his teacher and was told that he needed to replace the barrel. It turns out that the barrel is 65mm and his teacher told him that he needed a 66mm. Why would Buffet be selling these horns with short barrels in the USA? Any thoughts?
I have been reading up on Moening, Chadash and the stock Buffett barrels. But I am not sure which to get or if in fact if it is necessary to replace it at all. If I do replace it, it will be with some kind of Buffet product. Any thoughts as to which of the three I should get?
Keep in mind that my son is just 13 and in a highly competitive suburban band program in Texas. It's important that his equipment match that of the other students as much as possible. If he does get serious about playing, I will move him into an R-13.
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Author: bcl1dso
Date: 2006-06-27 21:52
A 65mm barrel is not necessarily short it all depends on what pitch YOU get. For example if I use a 66 mm barrel I will be flat. It is not that Buffet issued a faulty or inadaquate barrel, that is just what came with it. I would recommend a Moenig Barrel when you get a new one. But you need to try them, because with a Moenig you son may not need a 66 mm barrel.
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Author: GBK
Date: 2006-06-27 22:44
The Buffet E13 is issued with a 65mm barrel and is designed to play at A=442.
If your child is sharp, compared to the others he is playing with, a 66mm barrel would help lower the pitch.
The reason that Buffet B10's, B12's ,E11's, E12's and E13's are all issued with either 64.5 or 65mm barrels is because most beginners tend to play under pitch due to the pending development of their embouchure and diaphragm...GBK
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