How to Choose the Right Clarinet for You

Begin by comparing several models

Buffet Crampon professional clarinets encompass models with different acoustic concepts and playing characteristics. Rather than limiting your choice at the outset, compare several models according to your experience, intended use and the sound you wish to achieve.

From the perspective of acoustic design, the professional range can be understood through three principal families: the R13 family, the RC family and a third family. Within each family, models can also be viewed in terms of standard, premium and flagship positioning.

The family indicates the model’s acoustic background, while its positioning provides a point of reference for understanding its role within that family. Neither represents a simple hierarchy of quality. Use them to understand the range, then compare the instruments in person to find the model that suits your playing and musical goals.

Once you have chosen a model, choose your instrument

Because natural wood has its own inherent characteristics, clarinets of the same model may present subtle individual nuances in playing feel and resonance.

Where possible, compare several instruments of the chosen model. Make sure the instrument speaks without undue effort, that the keys feel natural under the fingers, and that it is comfortable to hold. These qualities are important for sustained playing over time.

It can also be helpful to ask a teacher or trusted listener to listen from a short distance. This allows you to consider both the sound you perceive while playing and the sound heard farther away.

Three points to assess during a play test

1. Does the instrument allow you to play freely?

First, determine whether the instrument responds naturally without restricting your air or finger movement. Play a short, slightly demanding phrase or a passage that includes articulation. An attractive tone alone may not be enough if the instrument consistently requires excessive effort and limits your freedom of expression.

2. Are intonation and register transitions natural?

Next, assess the balance of intonation and the ease of moving from the low register to the high register. Familiar scales, arpeggios and short phrases that cross registers make it easier to compare the behaviour of different models.

3. Can you readily achieve the sound you are seeking?

Finally, play a slow melodic phrase and listen to the tone and consistency across the full range. Consider the qualities that matter to you, such as richness, purity, roundness, clarity, a defined core and projection. An instrument that brings you naturally closer to the sound you imagine is a strong candidate.

Preparing for a play test

Keep the testing conditions as consistent as possible so that you can distinguish the characteristics of the instruments themselves.

   
• Bring the mouthpiece you normally use.
   
• Prepare several good reeds of the same cut and strength.
   
• Choose a few short phrases for comparison.
   
• Test each instrument under the same conditions and in the same order.
   
• Value your first impression and avoid extending the comparison for too long.
 

Changing the instrument, mouthpiece and reed at the same time makes it difficult to identify what has altered the playing feel or sound. Begin by comparing instruments with your usual setup.

Understand the professional range in greater depth

Discover the acoustic background of the R13 family, RC family and third family, together with the development context of their principal models.