Buffet Crampon R13 EB LEVER

An R13 that became a standard: the Buffet Crampon legacy

Among the major professional clarinets, the Buffet Crampon R13 holds a special place. Designed in 1955 by Robert Carrée, it quickly established itself as a standard, especially in the United States, and remains today one of the most played models in conservatories as well as in orchestras. Its sound identity, both centered and rich in harmonics, has made it a reference clarinet for musicians seeking a reliable, expressive, and versatile instrument.

In 1994, Buffet Crampon introduced a major evolution with the Green LinE range. The idea: to offer a composite body made from ebony powder and carbon fibers, in order to improve stability and reduce the risk of cracking caused by humidity and temperature variations. This Green LinE version is aimed at clarinetists who want to retain the aesthetics and response of a high-end instrument while gaining peace of mind in daily use.

Who is this Bb clarinet for?

This Bb clarinet is particularly suited for advanced and professional musicians, as well as demanding late-cycle students who wish to step up to a higher-level instrument. Its playing flexibility allows it to adapt as well to classical contexts (symphony orchestra, chamber music, solo repertoire) as to ensembles where projection and presence are essential (wind bands, military orchestras).

Thanks to its overall balance, it is also suitable for teachers and musicians who need to switch between different styles and venues. The luthier adjustment, advertised as "ready to play," is a real advantage: since mechanics and sealing are at the core of comfort, this promotes easier sound production and a more consistent response from the very first handling.

Sound and design

The R13 Green LinE stands out with a centered timbre and a harmonic richness that add substance to the sound without sacrificing clarity. Projection is described as powerful across all registers, with a response designed to remain homogeneous from low to high notes. This stability is essential for ensemble playing, where solid intonation and consistent tone color are sought, but also for phrasing work as a soloist.

Its Green LinE body is based on a composite material designed to maintain an acoustic personality close to ebony while providing better resistance to everyday stresses. The poly-cylindrical bore (i.e., the internal profile of the tube, crucial for intonation, sound production, and tone color) contributes to the R13's identity, offering a sense of control and sound stability appreciated by many clarinetists.

Mechanically, the clarinet features 18 keys and 6 rings, with a silver-plated finish valued for its feel and aesthetics. The springs (needle and flat springs in blued steel) contribute to a responsive and consistent key action, while the bladder pads ensure sealing: a crucial point for attack precision, note stability during sustained playing, and ease in piano dynamics.

Finally, the adjustable thumb rest, compatible with the use of a neck strap, helps adapt playing position and comfort over time, particularly useful during rehearsals, concerts, or long practice sessions.

Recommended compatible accessories

To get the most out of your Bb clarinet daily, you might consider a Bb clarinet swab (essential for internal maintenance), cork grease to facilitate joint assembly, as well as a neck strap compatible with a thumb rest designed for this purpose. Bb clarinet reeds will of course be needed, to be chosen according to your level and desired resistance.

Technical specifications

Level	Professional	System	Boehm
Tone	Bb	Color	Black
Body material	Grenadilla

Key	Bb	Number of rings	6
Tuning	440 Hz	Key finish	silver-plated
Material	Green LinE	Springs	needle and flat springs in blued steel
Bore	poly-cylindrical	Pads	bladder
Number of keys	18	Thumb rest	adjustable and compatible with the use of a neck strap