Buffet, E11, C Clarinet
A very fine condition Buffet E11 C clarinet, in Grenadilla wood. The E11 C is Buffet's semi-professional model, and this example has matching serial nos. 000025, making it an early example. There are a couple of design differences between this and later E11 C clarinets: 1. The bottom tenon of the upper joint has a reinforcing tenon ring. 2. The stamps on the upper part of the instrument are not transfers, but the logo is actually stamped, as with the more expensive Buffet clarinet models. The Silver plated key work is in very good condition, with only slight marks. All pieces are matching and original. The instrument has used fish skin pads throughout in excellent condition, with some cork pads on the upper joint. The wood is in excellent condition, with no cracks or damage. The thumb rest has been moved higher and the old screw holes left unfilled. The case is in good condition, as is the m'piece which is an upgrade to a Vandoren B45. Current Buffet E13's and E11's are giving a lot of trouble with shrinkage and wood movement, these problems commenced when Buffet moved the manufacture of these models from Germany back to the old Leblanc factory in France. Fortunately this instrument pre-dates this; it was made in Germany. The E11 C is an ideal purchase for the player who wants to use the same mouthpiece that they currently use on their Bb instrument, as the instrument tunes well with all standard French bore Bb m'pieces.