A Historic, Celebrated Professional-level Clarinet
Developed in 1955 by master instrument maker Robert Carrée, the Buffet Crampon R13 endures as one of the most popular professional-grade clarinets in the world. Carrée is a highly important figure in the history of Buffet Crampon, having created two legendary instruments — the French bassoon and the Dynaction saxophone — and revolutionized clarinet design with the poly-cylindrical bore. Unlike a standard conical bore, the R13’s poly-cylindrical bore steps between two bore sizes, resulting in improved intonation as you move between notes. Crafted from seasoned grenadilla, stained to an eye-catching deep black, and populated with carefully forged and sculpted keywork, the R13 is a showpiece clarinet that dazzles onstage. Sonically, this professional-class clarinet boasts a rich, warm sound with a centered tone and ample projection. Its versatile character shines in numerous musical contexts, from symphonies and chamber orchestras to jazz combos and pop ensembles. Let your music flow with this celebrated classic!
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Carefully selected and seasoned grenadilla body
Buffet Crampon is known for meticulously selecting the finest available wood for its instruments. Using a combination of traditional and modern techniques, the wood is then treated to enhance its sonic properties and increase its structural durability. For the R13 Clarinet, Buffet Crampon uses premium grenadilla. Finished with a luxurious deep black stain, the Buffet Crampon R13’s grenadilla body, barrel, and bell collectively serve as a gorgeous backdrop for the clarinet’s sterling keywork.
Superior keywork by master key makers
Showcasing their skill and dexterity, the key makers at Buffet Crampon poured all of their expertise and artistic dedication into the R13 clarinet. A total of 17 sculpted keys, configured to the Boehm system, urge your fingers to glide upon them, exhibiting incredible fluidity and responsiveness. Fitted with air-tight bladder pads, the R13’s keywork ensures crisp, articulate performance to highlight the nuances in your playing. Furthermore, the R13 is equipped with blue steel flat and needle springs, which are guaranteed to provide smooth and accurate key movement. To facilitate a synergistic relationship with your instrument, the R13 includes an adjustable thumb rest that conforms to any hand size.
Buffet Crampon: a tradition of excellence
With an impressive legacy spanning two centuries, Buffet Crampon is one of the world’s most respected and popular makers of woodwind instruments. Buffet Crampon has greatly influenced modern woodwinds through several significant innovations, including the adaptation of Theobald Boehm’s flute fingering system to the clarinet and extending the lower range of the saxophone to Bb. Today, Buffet Crampon continues their tradition of crafting superior quality woodwinds for every level of player, and the company’s clarinets remain the instrument of choice for many top professionals, including Michel Arrignon, Sharon Kam, and Martin Fröst.
Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Bb Clarinet Features:
- Bb clarinet with Boehm key system, featuring 17 keys and 6 rings
- Stained grenadilla body, barrel, and bell provide a bright, projective tone
- 65mm barrel length heightens focus and provides tonal consistency
- Smooth-playing silver-plated keys fitted with air-tight bladder pads
- Blue steel flat and needle springs provide smooth and accurate key movement
- Adjustable thumb rest conforms to any hand size
- Poly-cylindrical bore improves intonation between notes
- Includes a high-quality leather case
