 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Laoul
Date: 2023-03-31 04:06
Hi all, I'm needing some assistance in my choice. Which is a better choice? A new Backun cocobolo Protege or a mint but used Leblanc Symphonie by Backun? I cannot test play either of them. The Protege is returnable but the Symphonie is not. There is 1k in price between the two. I'm used to the Buffet R13 line but am wanting something more free blowing with presence. What do you all think?
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Author: gwie
Date: 2023-03-31 07:00
Regardless of the price, don't make this purchase without play-testing.
The Backun Protege and Backun-designed Leblanc Symphonie clarinets don't behave like the Buffet R13, and the cocobolo ones in particular feel much different for the player even if there isn't that much difference for the listener.
I played a Leblanc/Backun Symphonie Key of A clarinet for awhile--to me, that was the true standout of all the models they introduced back then in the mid-2000's, including the Legacy, Symphonie, and Cadenza lines.
I would recommend trying one of the gently used Backun Model Q instruments which are rather abundant on Reverb and Ebay, which is less of a leap from the Buffet R13.
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Author: Laoul
Date: 2023-03-31 08:00
Thank you for your advice. I had a Bb symphonie a looong time ago and it projected very well, but I played sharp with that instrument and probably just needed a different barrel. So that's one of the reasons I'm considering it. I've not had any experience with Buckun, but a few clarinet studios I've noticed feature them at conferences. I see there's a used Leblanc Opus from the 90s on ebay, so that's an option and in the right price range. It's so difficult when I don't have the ability to try things out before purchase. I LOVE my R13 Vintage but I've had it since 1999. Its got a dark rich tone but I'd like something that projects more and maybe a tad brighter?
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Author: Slowoldman
Date: 2023-03-31 21:29
Anecdotally, I would recommend against cocobolo. Because of its irregular grain, it seems to be more prone to cracking and binding of pivots than grenadilla, at least among friends of mine who have cocobolo clarinets.
YMMV.
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