CLARINETS DIRECT

020 8893 3172 or 07787 770071

MATCHED PAIR OF BUFFET VINTAGE CLARINETS, £2495

An exceptionally rare and fine pair of Buffet clarinets. These instruments have a larger bore of 14.9mm, and larger tone holes than the contemporary Buffet's. The result is a free and easy playing pair, with excellent intonation, and none of the third register problems inherent in the polycylindrical design. The drawbacks are flatter notes on low E and F, but to some extent this is corrected by the fact that, at this period, Buffet reamed the neck of the bell, continuing the flare of the lower joint: this does result in exceptionally even response across into the second register, a pity this is no longer standard practise.
The Bb has serial number 275E dating to 1890. There are no cracks or damage, in fact the condition is superb. The German silver keywork is in pristine condition throughout. The barrel is not original, it is a modern Buffet of 65mm. All other pieces are matching & original with Buffet stamps. Note particularly the " Brevette SGDG" which is on both top joints. I cannot see a serial number on the A, but in every detail of stamps and keywork it is the twin of the Bb. The barrel is a more modern Moennig Buffet of 67mm length. There is no damage to the wood, which is crack and repair free, with the exception of an old repair to the bell, see photo 8. The German Silver key work is excellent throughout. All pads are new Pisoni Deluxe Tan Leather & both clarinets are sold with our full years warranty. The case is an original Pouchette leather Buffet example from the 1960's in excellent used condition. The m'piece is a brand new Edward Pilinger copy of an original Buffet m'piece with the importer's stamp Carl Fischer. The lay has been accurately copied to 1.01mm by 17mm.