 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: kj2008
Date: 2016-02-09 01:11
I started my clarinet learning about 2 years ago with Buffet B12. I am retired recently and this learning and playing is for my hobby/pastime.
And I am currently thinking about upgrading it to an intermediate wood equipment and would like get some input from the board members which one would be the most desirable option among Buffet E11, E12F, and E13 (R13 seems to be too expensive and could be overkill for my needs). Unless there's a compelling reason for switching to other brand, I would like to stick with Buffet since I am very happy with my current Buffet B12.
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Author: ClarinettyBetty
Date: 2016-02-09 01:24
I've played both E11s and R13s, and if you could find a used R13, it really is a huge difference.
That said, if I had to choose an intermediate horn I'd go with a used Normandy 4, (built like a tank, lasts forever), or maybe even a Jupiter.
I am a band director and have watched so many of the newer E11s go to the shop. It's ridiculous! There is a huge gap between the E11s and professional models. If you can find an older, used E11, that might be better.
Just my two cents.
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Author: Tony F
Date: 2016-02-09 01:41
As you wish to stay with Buffet, of the models you list I would buy the E12F. The E11 is a greatly over-rated instrument, although the German-made instruments are, for me, a better choice than the French-built ones. There are great E11's, but you have to kiss a lot of frogs to find one. The E13 is a fine instrument, but again you have to be careful with individual selection. The E12F is a much better made instrument than either and I've been very impressed by them. If you'd be prepared to move away from Buffet, check out Tom Ridenour's offerings. You get a lot of very good clarinet for your money.
Tony F.
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Author: KenJarczyk
Date: 2016-02-09 02:20
Speaking as a Buffet owner, (I love my 1969 R13 Bb, and my Newer R13 Eb) if you're going for a NEW clarinet - on a restricted budget - I second the Ridenour Clarinet idea. If you can go for a great quality used instrument, go Buffet with an R13. None of the Buffet secondary lines can hold a shadow to a good R13, or the Ridenour Libertas, for that matter.
Besides my Buffet R13s, I own a Ridenour Libertas, and a Ridenour C clarinet. They are absolute Quality instruments! I also have and play Selmer Series 10, 10G and Centered Tone clarinets, plus a wonderful vintage Leblanc Dynamic H clarinet.
Ken Jarczyk
Woodwinds Specialist
Eb, C, Bb, A & Bass Clarinets
Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones
Flute, Alto Flute, Piccolo
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Author: Hank Lehrer
Date: 2016-02-09 03:33
Hi,
There is "a compelling reason for switching to other brand..." and that would Ridenour. Actually there are several reasons to switch: excellent value, superb intonation, good responsiveness in all registers...
I keep a TR 147 (the original model) as a backup outdoor instrument but I could play it for just about any gig.
With Ridenour, there is a trial period that if you do not like it, send it back and all it costs you is the shipping.
Good luck,
HRL
I have no affiliation in any way with Ridenour Clarinet Products.
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Author: pewd
Date: 2016-02-09 03:49
Another vote for an E12F
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
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Author: kj2008
Date: 2016-02-09 06:53
Thanks for all of good feedback.
I guess I would get busy to check out on Ridenour clarinets.
A quick check shows a big price difference between 576 model and libertas model (which appears to be a new model).
Any opinion for good reason to buy pricier libertas model for a beginner/intermediate level?
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Author: Ursa
Date: 2016-02-09 12:48
I respectfully recommend making a carefully considered investment into a really good mouthpiece before making any other upgrades. A truly excellent mouthpiece gives you the most "bang for the buck" of any upgrade.
Regarding the Ridenour clarinets, I own a 576BC and would suggest that you audition both it AND the Libertas if possible. I find the 576BC to be a somewhat resistant instrument that requires a certain resistance in the mouthpiece and reed to play its best, and it was a long journey for me to find the optimum setup. However, once you've sorted out the ideal setup, it practically plays itself with ease, control, precision, and impeccable tuning--it really has to be experienced to be believed.
One final point: I say forget intermediate instruments altogether. If you decide to go with a brand new wooden clarinet, keep in mind that the professional Yamaha YCL-650 has a street price comparable to the intermediate Buffet E12F. Try both and see what rings your bells. The YCL-650 has a LOT to offer for the money.
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