1974 Vintage Buffet R13 Bb Clarinet – ProShop Overhauled

1974 Vintage Buffet R13 Professional Clarinet
Completely ProShop Overhauled – Never Cracked

The modern R13 is the “legendary choice of professionals”… but since the initial release in 1955, the R13 has gone through several revisions. Each of these revisions made performance changes that were both positive and negative depending on the player. Most players find that a Vintage Buffet R13 will posses a richer tonal core and presence than the newer ones.

1974 Buffet R13 #146,671
This particular Vintage Buffet R13 clarinet, serial number 146,671 was made in 1974 and has never been cracked. In fact, it was physically in one of the finest conditions we have seen one come in before. There was no wear on tenons, plating was overall in great shape. We do not know the full history on the clarinet but would assume it was a one owner clarinet that likely never saw a repad in its life – likele spending most of that life unused in a closet. Truly great physical condition, but in need of an overhaul.

So as a result, we have performed our “ClarinetRepairs.com ProShop Overhaul” to this clarinet (a $525 job) and includes a 1 year warranty. The original case is included and is in excellent condition. These “2nd Generation R13” models (approx 1969 – 1979) tend to be our favorite vintage as they possess the rich tone of the 1st gen R13 vintages, but with slightly better response in the upper range of the clarinet. So one of these, fully overhauled to this level is a truly spectacular clarinet!

Vintage Buffet R13 vs. Modern Buffet R13
The various Vintage Buffet clarinets are known for their tone. This tone is richer and thicker than a modern R13. So why did they change? The players’ needs in the 1950’s, 1960’s & 1970’s were different than the players’ needs today. Today, the R13 is designed to emulate the performance style of the original deign while also maintaining improved response and intonation characteristics. Vintage Instruments require a more experienced player who knows how to control their clarinet rather than requiring the clarinet to control them. Neither way is right or wrong, just a reality.

We recommend a properly restored vintage Buffet R13 to the player who prioritizes tone over anything else.

Multiple Financing Options Available!

We have a myriad of different financing options available for your new instrument! From affordable monthly payments over a longer period of time to other options that can include 0% Interest or Deferred Interest options, we can help find a way to make the instrument of your dreams become the instrument of your reality! Give us a call!