 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: ngsclar
Date: 2026-04-01 03:15
For my first post, I would like to share some experiments in improving bass clarinet tone quality and response.
My bass is a beautiful old model Buffet to low C. The neck is in one piece with one speaker hole and a water key, and a detachable mouthpiece socket. I have long felt the need for a better neck, but have found no viable options. A Blashaus neck would be expensive. Buffet Icon does not fit. Having consulted one of the leading makers of 3D printed accessories, it seems a 3D printed neck is not viable for this configuration. Attempts to modify a cheap Chinese neck failed miserably.
My solution is:
(1) A copper ring fitted tightly around the mouthpiece socket. 35mm outer diameter copper pipe, as used by plumbers, is a good fit, with a layer of PTFE tape between the socket and the copper ring. The metal work was more difficult than I had expected, but successful at the second attempt – I can provide details if anyone is interested.
(2) A Bb fabric ligature around the neck. I am experimenting with position and tension.
The results are amazing.
Has anyone tried anything similar ?
NGSCLAR
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Author: donald
Date: 2026-04-01 22:55
You haven't really made it clear what you are trying to achieve, what are your goals with this experimentation?
- also, you say you have an "old model" Buffet Bass, how old? (for reference, I play a 2000s era bass, an early 90's bass and, my favourite, a 1935 bass... all Buffet. Every so often I get to use a Buffet 80's bass)
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Author: ngsclar
Date: 2026-04-02 18:22
Thanks.
I think I did - improved tone quality and response. This gives a more resonant sound, which should provide better projection - not yet used the modification in public. Although it is early days, I think it is also going to help with legato, especially over wide intervals. I am absolutely deiighted with the reusults so far. All desire to own a Blashaus neck has evaporated.
I have not yet worked out the physics. As a mathematican I should be able to, but, so far, it is eluding me.
This bass is quite difficult to date. I bought it second hand in the 1990s (would have to check the exact date). It has a long body, with no keys on the bell.
Pictures in a few days.
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