CLARINETS DIRECT

020 8581 1113 or 07787 770071

BUFFET BC20 Bb CLARINET, £1195

When the American investor Martin Tolchin bought Buffet Crampon company he felt that though the R13 sold well in the USA different models would be more successful in Europe. The S1, Continentale and BC20, which evolved into the RC, were all attempts to make darker, more focused sounding clarinets.
This is a BC 20 Bb clarinet serial no. F136537 dating to 1973. This instrument was made therefore prior to the Boosey and Hawkes take over of Buffet, during a period when quality control and standards of manufacture were excellent. Buffet Crampon descibed this model as being designed for Recital and Orchestral playing. The Nickel Silver plated key work is in very good condition, with only minor wear to the RH rings and throat G# key, the plating is about 98%. This instrument also features an additional LH Ab/Eb key, which is now standard with the Prestige range, but previously this was a special order option from Buffet. The wood is in overall excellent condition, however there are two slight chips to the outer edge of the upper joint bottom tenon, see photo 4. These have absolutely no effect on the response as this part does not form the bore. The key regulation is tight and there is no joint wobble. The instrument has had a complete overhaul & re-pad with Pisoni Premium Deluxe fish skin pads, and it is sold with a full years' Clarinets Direct warranty. The m'piece is a Vandoren B45 spot in used condition. The original case is also in good condition. .