1965 Vintage Buffet R13 Bb Clarinet – ProShop Overhauled

1965 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.

1965 Buffet R13 #84,783
This particular Vintage Buffet R13 clarinet, serial number 84,783 was made in 1965, has never been cracked and is a “one owner” clarinet. It was put away in the mid 1980’s and has sat since then (in a climate controlled closet). So obviously, sitting for 40+ years made it in need of a full overhaul! We have performed our “ClarinetRepairs.com ProShop Overhaul” to this clarinet (a $525 job) and includes a 1 year warranty. While there were no cracks in the instrument, there was a small chunk of wood missing in the bore of the upper joint. We have filled that missing wood and ensured that the bore is true. With this repair and the overhaul, this clarinet plays phenomenally!

The original case was toast so we have replaced it with a new ProTec – but also offer BAM or Marcus Bonna upgrade options. This vintage R13 is what we refer to as a “1st Generation” R13 (approx 1955 – 1969) which tend to be the richest sound of all R13 generations. However, most fall into disrepair due to the misconception that older clarinets cannot be restored due to age alone. However, when you play one of these 1st Gen models after a proper restoration like our ProShop Overhaul, you will quickly realize why the R13 commands the respect it does!

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!