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(Jimmy)
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Hi everyone! I`m a high school clarinetist and I`ve been needing a new instrument for a while. My price range is up to about $1,200. Right now I`ve narrowed my search to the Buffet E11, E12, or R13. The Buffet E11 is the cheapest at nearly $700, and extremely popular. The E12 is not very well known, and more expensive at around $1,000. The R13 would obviously be ideal, but with my price range it would have to be a used one.
Now, I have three questions.
What are some differences between the E11 and E12? They both have the same features and the E11 seems like the better choice, but I`m a bit skeptical that such a lower price would have an advantage when they are both from the same model line and company. I`m afraid none of the music stores in my area carry the E12, so I am unable to compare them.
I really wanted to get a R13, even a used one, but I am at a loss of where to find one. I don`t like the idea of purchasing such an instrument online, especially off of ebay, because there is much less security and you may not get what was advertised. Not to mention, I am a poor judge of instrument condition. Does anyone know where to look for one?
I was also considering getting a new mouthpiece, something not too expensive. I`m currently looking at the Vandoren b45 and the lyre, and would love some advice on a good mouthpiece with these clarinets. Currently I`m using a Selmer C* with Mitchell Lurie 4 reeds (prefer them over Vandoren). The Selmer has a very short facing and I`m having a lot of resistance with it, so I wanted something easier to blow through.
Thanks in advance for all your help!
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