 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: David Eichler
Date: 2026-07-21 02:26
I have had this clarinet for a little over a year, and I just noticed that the springs appear to be exhibiting rust. I do not see any such corrosion on my Buffet R13 clarinet or an early 1950s Buffet. I am assuming this is due to cheaper materials on a student instrument. Does this affect the longevity or performance of the springs? Has anyone else seen this on this model?
On a different matter pertaining to this instrument, the spring for the low e key has started slipping out of its position regularly, and on its own. I can see nothing to account for this and have never had this happen on any other clarinet before now.
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Author: David H. Kinder
Date: 2026-07-21 06:54
While rust is never good, it could just be surface rust that needs a bit of silver polish to remove.
You're past the warranty period for plating issues (1 year) but if the spring is coming loose on that low E rod/key, it may have to do with that 'latch' for the spring. If it is defective, the Backun warranty of workmanship defects is 5 years. (They'd just need to swap out the key - or just send it to you / your tech to swap it out.)
However without pics, the official answer is: show it to a local tech.
Even with pics, the official answer would be: show it to a local tech.
There could be something else in the case that may be causing the issue? Or if you're in a more humid environment that may do it? (Do you have a new hard rubber mouthpiece? That can be the source of tarnish, but not sure about rust.)
The Backun Alpha is available in both nickel and silver plating. While silver is more prone to tarnish, nickel wears quicker - especially without wiping the keys off after playing.
If it were me, I'd use a metal polish (such as Flitz or MusicNomad's silver polish) to clean it up and keep an eye out on it. If it happens again, you may want a boveda pack in the case.
Just my novice thoughts.
Ridenour AureA Bb clarinet
Ridenour Artist MT36 mouthpiece
Vandoren Optimum black ligature (plate 1)
Vandoren Traditional #3.5 reeds
Brad Behn HR adjustable barrel
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