Buffet E12F Clarinet Review

We're joined by Elizabeth Drew to take a look at the popular Buffet E12F (and FL) wooden upgrade Clarinet models. This model is available via Dawkes with worldwide shipping. Each clarinet is checked and set-up in our workshop prior to sale.
Buffet E12F: www.dawkes.co.uk/buffet-e12f-...
Buffet E12FL: www.dawkes.co.uk/buffet-e12fl...
Elizabeth Drew is a former tutor at the Royal Academy of Music and plays across the UK in leading ensembles such as the London Symphony Orchestra and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. She is also a member of the examining panel for the ABRSM.

[@Geiger1983]

I have just purchased the E12F and couldn't be happier. It is an amazing instrument and the biggest gift I could have given myself after 20 years without playing the clarinet

[@robkunkel8833]

I’m in the same boat .. I’m rather old but ready to get going again. Music is life.

[@tonywatson414]

As with all these videos demonstrating clarinets, the question is: is the player using the mouthpiece that comes with the instrument or their own rather expensive one? It can make a big difference.

[@dawkesmusic]

Hi - Thanks for watching and for the question. The players in our videos always use their own mouthpieces (unless we specify otherwise). Commonly most players would choose their own mouthpiece from the vast choice available rather than use the one supplied - certainly when we are talking about upgrade wooden models and beyond. The mouthpieces supplied by the manufacturers are usually just basic plastic ones because they know that players at this stage wish to choose their own based on their embouchure, their tonal preference, their level of ability etc. As such they keep the overall outfit price down by inserting a basic mouthpiece, usually knowing no-one will use it. We want to show what can be achieved on these instruments when you have a proper set-up that works for the player, rather than limiting it to what the basic mouthpiece supplied can do - which is often something of a restriction. Hope this helps and thanks for watching :)

[@Nolind]

Question. Do the keys positions on clarinets differ as you upgrade. I'm 60 and playing an Arbiter student model. I find the left hand pinky keys too high up and difficult to reach. I will be upgrading to a Buffet e12 or 13 soon. Will the side keys be suitable placed for an adult?

[@dawkesmusic]

Hi - Yes, key positions (height and layout) vary quite a lot depending on the brand/model. I think you would find the E12/E13 more comfortable under your fingers compared to your current model. We do offer instruments on 14 day home-trial so you can buy one and try it at home to make sure it feels better for you. If not, you can simply return it to us for a refund :) (More Info: www.dawkes.co.uk/sound-room/try-items-at-home/)