Buffet R13 B Flat Clarinet
A very fine condition Buffet R13 Bb clarinet. This example has matching serial numbers, 134840, which dates to 1973. At this time, just prior to the introduction of the RC, the R13 was Buffet's flagship model, and this period has acquired a justly deserved reputation as the "Golden Era" of R13 manufacture. The intonation, response, and evenness of this example are excellent. The Nickel Silver plating shows some wear to ring fingers, low RH F#/C# key, and the top pad cup of the lower joint, but overall is in good condition for the year. The wood is in fine condition with no cracks or damage. The instrument has an "artist quality" pad set up: Cork pads throughout on the upper joint, and white leather on the lower. The cork pads should be good for in excess of 5 years, and the white pads show only light use. This clarinet will be maintenance free some time. The case is not by Buffet, but is of fine manufacture and in good used condition, and the m'piece is a used Vandoren.