Back to navigation


A Historic, Celebrated Professional-level Clarinet





This article was


Written By





Our Product Research Team





Get to know them!





First introduced in 1955, the Buffet Crampon R13 endures as one of the most revered clarinets of all time, thanks to its revolutionary poly-cylindrical bore. This innovative bore design steps between two bore sizes, offering impeccable intonation throughout the clarinet’s entire range. Crafted from seasoned grenadilla, stained to an eye-catching deep black, and populated with carefully forged and sculpted keywork, the R13 is a showpiece clarinet that dazzles onstage. You’ll fall in love with its rich, warm sound and centered tone. From symphonies to jazz bands, Sweetwater knows this instrument's versatility will let you shine in any musical context. Give the Buffet R13 a try and you’ll understand why legions of clarinetists adore it.





Related Videos: R13 Professional A Clarinet with Silver-plated Keys


Carefully selected and seasoned grenadilla body





Buffet Crampon is known for meticulously selecting the finest available wood for their instruments. Using a combination of traditional and modern techniques, they treat the wood to enhance its sonic properties and increase its structural durability. For the R13, Buffet uses premium grenadilla that’s been seasoned to promote stability and prevent cracking. Finished with a luxurious deep black stain, the Buffet Crampon R13’s grenadilla body, barrel, and bell collectively serve as a gorgeous backdrop for the clarinet’s sterling keywork.





Superior keywork by master key makers





Showcasing their skill and dexterity, the key makers at Buffet Crampon poured all of their expertise and artistic dedication into the R13 clarinet. A total of 17 sculpted keys, configured to the Boehm system, urge your fingers to glide upon them, exhibiting incredible fluidity and responsiveness. Fitted with air-tight bladder pads, the R13’s keywork ensures crisp, articulate performance to highlight the nuances in your playing. Furthermore, the R13 is equipped with blue-steel flat and needle springs, which are guaranteed to provide smooth and accurate key movement. To facilitate a synergistic relationship with your instrument, the R13 includes an adjustable thumb rest that conforms to any hand size.





Buffet Crampon: a tradition of excellence





With an impressive legacy spanning two centuries, Buffet Crampon is one of the world’s most respected and popular makers of woodwind instruments. Buffet Crampon has greatly influenced modern woodwinds through several significant innovations, including the adaptation of Theobald Boehm’s flute fingering system to the clarinet and extending the lower range of the saxophone to Bb. Today, Buffet Crampon continues their tradition of crafting superior quality woodwinds for every level of player, and the company’s clarinets remain the instrument of choice for many top professionals, including Michel Arrignon, Sharon Kam, and Martin Frost.





Buffet Crampon R13 Professional A Clarinet Features:


Professional A clarinet with Boehm key system, featuring 17 keys


Stained grenadilla body, barrel, and bell provide a bright, projective tone


65mm barrel length heightens focus and provides tonal consistency


Smooth-playing silver-plated keys fitted with air-tight bladder pads


Blue-steel flat and needle springs provide smooth and accurate key movement


Adjustable thumb rest conforms to any hand size


Poly-cylindrical bore improves intonation between notes


Includes a high-quality leather case