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Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet – 2nd Generation
Retail: $4,299.00
$2,499.00
New Batch Coming Early October!
We have another batch of our standard finish Low C Bass Clarinet coming in soon! Current estimate is October 5th! Sign up to be notified when they are back in stock below.
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Kessler Custom Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet
2nd Generation Design | Synthetic Body | Improved Keywork
As a business, we have always sought to provide excellent quality instruments at affordable prices. Many times though the music industry as a whole does not offer instruments that are both affordable and high quality for the customer’s needs. Our Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet was one of the most popular products in our line as a result of this philosophy.
Since our line of bass clarinets release in 2008 with the 1st Generation Low C, there have been steady improvements made on the line. Most notable was the jump to the current 2nd Generation model series in 2017. The 2nd Generation Low C Bass Clarinet quickly became the best selling instrument in our store – our entire store! No one would have ever though that a Low C Bass Clarinet could become a best selling instrument in an entire store like ours! However, the instrument simply fit a huge need in the industry be providing an excellent, affordable instrument.
Better Than Ever Before!
We are always trying to improve our products. Most all of the glowing product reviews were done before any of the recent improvements to our bass clarinets. So if they were that great back then, they are even better now! What have we done? Here’s a quick synopsis:
- In January 2022, we launched a new enhanced setup that improved voicing of notes across the break greatly. This takes much more time in setup but we would rather make sure the instruments plays better.
- In January 2023, we launched a new neck. The new neck is a custom selection of 3 alloys to help produce a richer tone throughout and improve tonal clarity and response, especially in the upper registers.
- In January 2023, we launched a new case. The new case was custom designed for our bass to better protect the instrument and offer customers a stock case that they could be proud to carry their instrument in!
What’s even better is that we did all this without doing massive price increases! Unlike other companies that have raised prices 10% or more in that time frame, we have done one price increase of $40-$50 total in that time, and have no plans on raising the price anytime soon! Our bass clarinet is better than ever before and with inflation hitting everywhere, only becomes a better value with each passing day!!
Mouthpiece, Ligature & Case Add-On Options
We firmly believe that we are providing customers with an exceptional instrument that can grow with them regardless of performance level. This is also why we let our customers build their own preferred outfit rather than saddling you down with a “stock” mouthpiece setup. We want you to get the best instrument & setup for you! If you need advice on any of these customized mouthpiece, ligature or case options, always feel free to give us a call!
Build Your Custom Bass Clarinet Package
No mouthpiece setup is included with our bass clarinet. Instead, we encourage you to build your custom setup the way that you want it. Click the tabs below to see the various discounted upgrade options for choosing the mouthpiece, ligature & case of your choice!
Mouthpiece Add-On Options
No Mouthpiece is Included! Our low C bass clarinet does not include a mouthpiece with it (since most people buying a bass clarinet already have a mouthpiece). However, if you do not have one, or perhaps you want to upgrade your setup, take advantage of our discounted mouthpiece options. Generally, we recommend looking at something with a slightly larger tip opening on a low C bass clarinet since the body tube is much longer than an standard low Eb bass clarinet. We offer options from Clark Fobes, our own Kessler Custom, Vandoren, Selmer Paris & Backun!
If there is a mouthpiece that you are interested in that is not listed here, please feel free to send Dave Kessler an email and he will be able to help you out.
Mouthpiece Add-On Options (pricing valid ONLY with purchase of bass clarinet)
-
- Premiere by Hite (Medium Closed): $30.00
- Fobes Debut (Medium): $50.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise R (Small): $130.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise G (Medium): $130.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise H (Open): $130.00
- Vandoren B45: $150.00
- Vandoren B40: $150.00
- Vandoren B50: $150.00
- Vandoren Black Diamond: $165.00
- Selmer Paris Focus (smaller): $300.00
- Selmer Paris Concept (larger): $300.00
Ligature Add-On Options
No Ligature or Cap is Included! Your ligature has a huge impact on the tonal presence and overall response of your new instrument setup, and especially on the extended length of the Low C bass clarinet, can make an unbelievable impact!
For performance ligatures, we recommend either a Rovner Versa or Vandoren Optimum ligature to your new mouthpiece setup on our low C bass clarinet to achieve the best performance possible! Of course, if there is a ligature that you want that is not listed , please feel free to send Dave Kessler and email and he will be able to help you out!
Ligature Add-On Options (pricing valid ONLY with purchase of bass clarinet, all prices include their fitted cap)
-
- Basic Metal Lig & Cap: $17.00
- Rovner Dark Lig & Cap: $20.00
- Rico Metal 4 Point Lig & Cap: $22.00 – (does not fit Fobes or Hite)
- Vandoren M|O Pewter Ligature & Cap: $45.50 (looks like the nickel keywork)
- Vandoren M|O Black Ligature & Cap: $45.50
- Rovner Versa Ligature & Cap: $49.00
- Bonade Inverted & Bonade Metal Cap: $55.00
- Vandoren Optimum Silver Ligature & Cap: $72.50
- Vandoren Optimum BLACK Ligature & Cap: $72.50
BAM Case Upgrade
As of 2023, our new case is a great fit for our instrument with a solid fit & great materials. However, we also highly recommend the BAM Trekking Series bass clarinet cases for customers. The BAM Trekking case offers great fit & protection overall to the instrument but is a little smaller & lighter case with a much larger external storage pouch. So we offer customers a generous discount when you bundle the BAM case with our low C bass clarinet at the time of purchase!
-
- BAM Trekking: $474.00 Upgrade (normally $632.00) – click here to view –
While BAM makes several cases, we ONLY recommend the Trekking model. The other models, such as the Hightech are great cases, but can put additional pressure on the register mechanism on the top of the body, thus putting it out of alignment. The Trekking case is molded differently and does a better overall job of supporting the instrument.
Stock Case Dimensions
The stock case measures 33.5″ x 9″ x 13″. With the bass clarinet inside of the case, it weighs 18.8 lbs.
Additional Information
Professionally Setup
Every Kessler Custom low C bass clarinet we send out to a customer is not released from us unless it has been completely setup in our shop first. This is because the setup on any low C bass clarinet is of the utmost importance! Sometimes, a clarinet (regardless of who the manufacturer or the price point is) comes in needing 20 minutes of adjustments and then the very next one can require 2 hours!
This is why we perform our setup (in our www.ClarinetRepairs.com ProShop) on your clarinet before delivering it to you. You trust us with your purchase and we want to make sure that you are rewarded by giving you your new low C bass clarinet setup flawlessly!
Pads
Our 2nd Generation Bass Clarinets utilize a premium Pisoni made Lucien Deluxe Leather Pad. Our standard finished models utilize a traditional white leather version of this pad with metal, domed resonators.
International Order Information
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country’s borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. he stock case that we released in Jan 2023 is now capable of international shipment and is actually our recommended model. However, we also can recommend the BAM Trekking case for international customers if they prefer, but there is a little more risk with the BAM case.
So for these reasons, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
-
- International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
There is no way for us to properly solve damage / repairs for international customers due to the shipping costs internationally. Inside the BAM case, the most likely damage is the left hand F/C lever getting bent. This is a fairly inexpensive and simple repair for most technicians. To date, we have seen no damage in the stock case that we introduced in January 2023 - International Payment must be via Bank Wire Transfer
We unfortunately cannot accept international credit cards or PayPal accounts (excludes Canada). So any international order for our bass clarinet must be made via a Bank Wire Transfer. - Additional Import Taxes
Customer is solely responsible for any and all taxes, fees and other costs that are due as a result of international importation. These costs are calculated before delivery, by the delivery company. We can usually estimate these fees through our UPS software for you once you provide us with you shipping address and details of what you want to order. Please note though, these estimates are non-binding as we have no control over that process. These estimates do tend to be accurate as they are provided by UPS and UPS is who acts as the importing agent for you.
- International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
If you would like to proceed with an international order for our Kessler Custom 2nd Generation Low C Bass Clarinet, please use the form below.
Fingerings
Our Low C Bass Clarinet uses standard fingerings but obviously has additional keywork. Here are the additional keys and their function. Please note, when playing any of the key options for Low D, C#/Db or C, we recommend also using the Right Hand Pinky Eb so that you do not have all of the keywork weight and spring tensions being reliant on the one lower key.
Financing Available
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!
United Midwest Savings Bank
UMWSB offers flexible, long term financing with term lengths of up to 60 months at an affordable 12.99% APR. Better yet, their financing has No Pre-Payment Penalty so you can pay off your balance at anytime and only pay for the interest for the length of time you had the loan!
Minimum of $850 required for UMWSB Financing
Synchrony
Synchrony Financial is one of the national leaders in consumer financing. With deferred interest options (Interest if waived if paid off in promotional term) and sometimes, they offer manufacturer partnered promotions to offer you an even better term length.
Minimum of $299 required for Synchrony Financing
Meet the full lineup of our 2nd Gen Kessler Custom Bass Clarinets! All of the models feature the same synthetic material and professional design. The difference is simply in the range (low Eb or low C) and the cosmetics of the instrument.
New Neck & Case Design!
Out of stock
Retail: $3,999.00
$2,299.00
New Neck & Case Design!
Out of stock
Retail: $4,299.00
$2,499.00
New Neck & Case Design!
Retail: $4,699.00
$2,849.00
10 reviews for Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet – 2nd Generation
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
International Order Information
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country's borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. The stock case that we released in Jan 2023 is now capable of international shipment and is actually our recommended model. However, we also ca recommend the BAM Trekking case for international customers if they prefer.
So for these reasons, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country's borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. The stock case that we released in Jan 2023 is now capable of international shipment and is actually our recommended model. However, we also ca recommend the BAM Trekking case for international customers if they prefer.
So for these reasons, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
-
- International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
There is no way for us to properly solve damage / repairs for international customers due to the shipping costs internationally. Inside the BAM case, the most likely damage is the left hand F/C lever getting bent. This is a fairly inexpensive and simple repair for most technicians. To date, we have seen no damage in the stock case that we introduced in January 2023 - International Payment must be via Bank Wire Transfer
We unfortunately cannot accept international credit cards or PayPal accounts (excludes Canada). So any international order for our bass clarinet must be made via a Bank Wire Transfer. - Additional Import Taxes
Customer is solely responsible for any and all taxes, fees and other costs that are due as a result of international importation. These costs are calculated before delivery, by the delivery company. We can usually estimate these fees through our UPS software for you once you provide us with you shipping address and details of what you want to order. Please note though, these estimates are non-binding as we have no control over that process. These estimates do tend to be accurate as they are provided by UPS and UPS is who acts as the importing agent for you.
- International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
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pacifictrailcc (verified owner) –
First off, I want to say I really didn’t expect a $2000 instrument to play at the level of a Selmer. However this is exactly what Kessler and Sons has created. The altissimo register is very easy and clear, the clarion register is very smooth and resonant, and the chalumeau register (low notes) is very controlled. This instrument can be played very quiet or extremely loud while maintaining that sweet bass clarinet sound. It has the professional features of a double register key and an extended range to low C which both perform flawlessly. If you want to save A LOT of money but dont want to sacrifice ANY quality, I highly reccomend this isntrument!
ajkohlhepp0 (verified owner) –
I have had my Kessler Low C for three months now and I love it! I had my professor do a set up on it and there were a few minor leaks but nothing serious. Fixing those leaks did not change the amazing playability of this instrument! The chalumeau range beefy and the clarion register is very smooth. The finish is not the best but this is only cosmetic. I like the worn look so there is a plus for me actually! Overall, if you’re looking for a solid playing instrument whatever level you are because nobody really wants to pay 13,000 on a bass clarinet, this is your instrument.
bassclarinetislife (verified owner) –
The instrument was well packed and no damage was apparent from shipping. Corks did need quite a bit of greasing before the instrument could be put together. The instrument is smooth across all of its register and resonates well. Intonation is really good except on anomaly— the Low E which I have to lip up to bring into tune. Definitely would recommend over any Plastic Low E Flat Bass Clarinet, which are similar in price brand new.
abreed (verified owner) –
This is a great instrument. I was looking for an inexpensive way to get a Low C bass clarinet, and the Michael Lowenstern review convinced me that this instrument was worth a try. Wow! I’m blown away at the quality of the Kessler Cstomer Low C Bass Clarinet , and will likely be letting it replace my Selmer Paris bass clarinet (to low Eb) entirely. It’s exactly as Lowenstern said — maybe better! Highly recommended.
rowdyroberson (verified owner) –
I’ll be frank, this instrument is fantastic! It’s great for those who are beginning the Bass Clarinet. I’ve played on this instrument for a while and it sounds amazing! I already got the fingering down as it’s 99% similar to the Soprano Clarinet (Bb Soprano Clarinets usually don’t go down to low Eb or C). Literally, for anybody who is new to the Bass Clarinet, if the sound isn’t great it’s YOU, not the instrument. Came very quickly (that said I do live in Arizona), and was well packaged. At first, like most instruments, it does require a MEGATON of cork grease to assemble the middle piece, but that’s my only gripe about it. Definitely worth a buy!
Bill Lehecka (verified owner) –
I played bass clarinet in High School 20 some odd years ago. My father gave me a Yamaha YCL-622ii BC as a graduation gift. It was a lovely instrument, but it soon stayed in my closet gathering dust as my passion for music faded. Eventually, I sold it so I could buy a house (As you may know, those Yamahas could cover a nice downpayment). 20 years later, I picked up the bass clarinet again thanks to my girlfriend’s encouragement. I was borrowing horns she had access to and playing in our local community band, but I was missing something. I was missing the feel and the resonance of a low C Bass Clarinet.
On YouTube, I see Michael Lowenstern’s review of this Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet, and I’m like “There’s no way this horn could be a little over two grand and sound this good.” I showed my girlfriend the video to see if this would be a good investment (She is the professional, I trust her judgment) and she was like “Wow, that sounds really good. If you get it, I’m going to have to borrow it!”
Pound for pound, this is a wonderful instrument at its price point. The clarion register is the best I’ve ever heard on a horn I’ve played. It comes out effortlessly. The lower register sounds meaty and tone wise, it’s stellar. I initially bought a Yamaha 4C mouthpiece for this (Since I had it with my YCL-622ii, I figured it would be OK), and Dave Kessler personally recommended that I try the Clark Fobes mouthpiece instead. Of course he was right. This bass clarinet is the best value for your money if you want to explore what a Low C Bass Clarinet can offer you or if you are a doubler. You can’t go wrong with the price point coupled with the excellent customer service.
bekeld (verified owner) –
I had bought Kessler’s bari sax previously and was blown away by the quality, tone, and ease of playing. Michael Lowenstern (if you don’t subscribe to his YouTube channel yet, go now…I’ll wait…) posted a review of the Kessler Custom Low C 2nd Generation. When he did a blind side by side test against his custom Privilege…just wow.
I own a competitor’s low C, which plays fine after over $1000 of overhaul (rods had too much play among other issues). The Kessler’s sound has a darker solid core, an even range from the low C to the altissimo G, and is free blowing. And the price is right. 🙂
annaedwards1 (verified owner) –
I am extremely amazed at how well this instrument plays! The chalumeau notes are nice and beefy. The clarion notes are very smooth! The altissimo notes are amazing!! The keys are sturdy and well thought out. I highly recommend this horn!
yanniswise (verified owner) –
Last week I received my Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet – 2nd Generation!
As I’m not a clarinet player (been playing the soprano saxophone exclusively for 30 years and a bit of alto!) it took me about a week to get used to it’s fingerings and start playing decently in the clarion and altisimo registers and produce a good sound that I can enjoy.
My impressions so far?
I love this instrument!
It has a gorgeous and powerful sound and it looks great! It can play loud but it can also whisper.
The keys and mechanism are solid and working smoothly and without being noisy.
And as for my experience dealing with Dave Kessler was excellent from the very beginning. All his recommendations were spot on. The man knows his stuff and that was the reason I decided to buy from him, oversees with import taxes and extra shipping costs involved. Definitely worth it.
Overall I’m very happy with this instrument and I think it was the best choice considering it’s price.
The only “side effect” I’m having is since I got it I almost stopped playing my beloved saxophones and exclusively playing daily now this beautiful bass clarinet!
Yanni Hatz. Dublin
emmaclarinet (verified owner) –
This bass clarinet has gone beyond my expectations. The tone is absolutely wonderful and the lower register is unbeatable. I was skeptical at first due to the price, but when I received the instrument, I was blown away immediately. It is a joy to play, and easy to play with a solid tone.