 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Ben Shaffer
Date: 2015-09-14 20:26
I'm currently playing a Leblanc Normandy 4 with a Hite Artist MP.
In my limited experience the 4 sounds pretty nice.
I now have the opportunity to purchase either a Evette/Schaeffer K series Horn or a Leblanc Classic Horn.
I may or may not be able to test drive these 2 through the Mail
A couple of quick questions..
Would I be dazzled by either of these 2 and really be getting a better sounding and playing Horn over my Normandy 4?
Would one over the other be a hands down better choice?
I believe either of the 2 would sell for $499.
I really do appreciate the advice you Board members have provided me in the past
Ben Shaffer
GSO,NC
Post Edited (2015-09-14 20:34)
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Author: KenJarczyk
Date: 2015-09-14 20:49
Ben -
I claim no expertise in the Evette-Shaeffer line of clarinets, except that they were always a sub-line of student horns from Buffet. The Leblanc Classic, however, was their top-of-the-line horn in the 1950's. Leblanc always had a very dense, high-quality grenadilla wood, and very strong keywork. I would think that one would be a "winner" for you. If you like your Normandy, think of it this way - Topline were Leblanc branded instruments, next down were the Noblet branded instruments, then the Normandy.
Ken Jarczyk
Woodwinds Specialist
Eb, C, Bb, A & Bass Clarinets
Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones
Flute, Alto Flute, Piccolo
Post Edited (2015-09-14 21:27)
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Author: Ursa
Date: 2015-09-14 22:49
Ben, if you're going to buy via the mail without play testing first, you could find either one of these instruments for much, much less than $499 that are in need of an overhaul. You would then have them overhauled to your exact specifications, and very likely spend less than $499 total--and you'd have an instrument that is in top condition.
That's the approach I prefer to take with vintage instruments: find a good fixer-upper on the cheap, and have it fixed up just the way I like.
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2015-09-17 16:22
I have a K-series buffet and it's great. Got a good deal on it, and it's a very good player. I believe, historically, it's equivalent to the top student model, but with a little TLC, this horn can play just as well as a professional model.
I know nothing of the leblanc horn. But the evette and schaeffer k-series is a good horn.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: KenJarczyk
Date: 2015-09-17 23:57
Ben -
How goes your hunt?
I did a wee bit of research on the Evette-Schaeffer clarinet line. Seems there were quite a few that were great instruments, but even still, they are considered a student horn.
As I mentioned previously, the Leblanc Classic is a professional clarinet. $499.00 would be a great deal, if it is in good, playable condition. Try not to get too confused with a lot of choices. Not to counter anyone else's advice, stay away from weird brands of clarinet. Leblanc had always been considered a top-quality instrument, until recently, when the company was absorbed by the giant Conn-Selmer company. Now - they are everything from lousey plastic horns up to very good high-quality student instruments. But - no pro horns. You just may find that a new-to-you Leblanc Classic will become one of your best friends!
Stanley Drucker played one (New York Philharmonic) for many, many years!
Keep me informed on your choice(s).
Happy Clarinetting!
Ken Jarczyk
Woodwinds Specialist
Eb, C, Bb, A & Bass Clarinets
Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones
Flute, Alto Flute, Piccolo
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