Leblanc, Opus, B Flat Clarinet
This Opus Bb clarinet is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct, having come to us from a UK professional. The Opus was Leblanc's flagship model of the 2000's. It was described as the "ultimate orchestral clarinet" by Leblanc, and was designed by Tom Ridenour. Offering a polycylindrical bore of 14.61mm, an inverted taper barrel, and a high placed speaker tube, the intonation was excellent, much improved on the Buffet R13 Prestige, its leading competitor. Again according to Leblanc: "Its mature rich tone possesses great evenness, directnesss and power." Like the Prestige the specification includes, aged, unstained Grenadilla wood, and auxiliary LH Ab/Eb key. The model found much favour with many of Britain's leading young players.
The Silver plating overall is very good, with no loss. The Grenadilla wood is in excellent condition throughout, with no cracks, repairs, or damage. The instrument has the original pads, in good condition, the larger pads having reflectors. The matching serial numbers are 77102, which dates to the mid 2000s. All pieces are original and stamped Leblanc, with 2 barrels of 66mm, and 67mm. The mouthpiece is a still wrapped new Yamaha Custom. The supplied pouchette case wih cover is in fine condition.