Backun Alpha Bass Clarinet - Low C & Low Eb
Backun Alpha Bass Clarinet - Low C & Low Eb
April, 2025 Update: I have a stack of the Low Eb instruments available, as in: I can ship them to you tomorrow. If that's your jam, then feel free to snag one!
And, I'm almost done shipping Low C Alpha pre-orders, so if you want one of those instead, the wait time is now pretty short!
Now back to our regularly-scheduled program:
The Backun Alpha Bass Clarinet — like the Backun Model Q, it’s a game-changer.
(Possibly even more of a game-changer.)
The Backun Model Q is poised to level-up the bass clarinet. More in tune, more resonant, more comfortable, more value.
THE ALPHA SHARES ITS ENTIRE DESIGN WITH THE MODEL Q. BUT IT’S SYNTHETIC.
It uses same neck, bell and key work (though the Alpha bell/neck/key base metal is brass, while the Q has a nickel-silver base). The only other difference (besides being plastic) is with its pads: the Model Q uses Pisoni leather pads, while the Alpha uses Valentino synthetic pads.
Like the Model Q, Backun also didn’t re-invent the wheel when they didn’t have to. They took some of the best designs from current manufacturers: an automatic third register key just for throat Bb, rods (instead of long keys) for the side trill keys (no more leaky pads from out-of-adjustment keys), an articulated C#/G# system, and a first-of-its-kind bridge stop which allows you to set the exact position of the two joints as you like it, and then every time you put together the instrument, you don’t have to find the “sweet spot” ever again.
IN MY OPINION, THIS IS SIMPLY THE BEST SYNTHETIC BASS CLARINET ON THE MARKET. YES, IT’S BETTER THAN KESSLER.
There is zero question that this instrument is way better than the Kessler Custom. But then again, it’s over $1,000 more expensive. I’ll still carry the Kessler instruments for the foreseeable future for those who are looking for a best lowest-cost instrument.
WAIT, BUT IS IT BETTER THAN THE ROYAL MAX?
That’s a tough one, since the Royal MAX is quite a different-feeling and different-sounding instrument. I think time will tell which instrument more players prefer. I know a LOT of people who adore the way the MAX plays and feels, so I’m hesitant to commit to that answer at the moment.
WHAT ABOUT THE CASE?
The case is a well-designed (but somewhat large) ballistic nylon backpack case. It protects the instrument very well, and has lots of storage space both inside the case and in two outside pouches. I know I need to get a photo of it up here on the site. That's coming.
If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact me!
FEATURES:
- Synthetic body is very resonant, but which will never crack from weather changes.
- Triple-plated keywork (in silver) – note, while I’m not initially stocking it, the nickel version is available as a special order.
- Undercut toneholes with overcut vented “wings” on the lower joint (this is kind of a big deal)
MECHANICS:
- Triple register mechanism for throat Bb tuning
- Articulated G# mechanism with the ability to turn this feature off with the twist of a screw.
- Adjustment screws on damn near everything Adjustable thumb rest and neck strap loop
PADS:
- Valentino
INCLUDES:
- Q Series Bass Clarinet Neck — silver plated
- Q Series Bass Clarinet Bell — silver plated
- Sitting peg — silver plated (Note: Backun decided to not offer the Alpha with a standing peg after all. If you've watched my 2024 video review, you'll hear me talk about the instrument coming with one, but alas...plans changed from prototype to production.)
- Ballistic nylon backpack case
- Polishing cloth
- Large double-sided swab with integrated weight
- Cork grease
- Mouthpiece
- Fabric ligature
FAQ:
Q: What if I'm in New York and want to try it in person?
A: We won't have these in stock unti mid-summer at the earliest. If, after then, you'd like to schedule time, we will try to keep one in stock for trials!
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard 2-year Backun warranty against cracks, etc. If you ever have any problem with the instrument, I'm your quarterback. I'll take care of the whole process, just let me know you need help, and I'll take it from there.
Q: What happens if it's damaged during shipping?
A: Inspect the package before you sign off at delivery! If there are any issues resulting from shipping, we have taken out an insurance policy to cover damage (and loss). But we need you to document this damage or we can't do anything to help.
Q: If I decide to return it, do also I have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Yes. And you will also want to insure it!
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes. You can add your shipping address when checking out to see what the shipping costs will be before taking the plunge. Note that VAT and Customs are not included in this cost, and you likely be responsible for those when the instrument enters your country.
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Michael Lowenstern & Earspasm have gone beyond every expectation insofar as client / customer service, not to mention that the Backun Alpha Low-C Bass Clarinet is an extraordinary specimen of any bass clarinet.
I am a doubler (tenor & soprano saxophones are my main instruments) so take this review with that in mind. I have been playing on a Buffet Prestige (1193) for the past years, which is a spectacular horn, as we all know - the "industry standard" if you will. At the NAMM show 2yrs ago, I first tried the Backun Alpha, as well as both models of the Q Series bass clarinets (Grenadilla & Cocobolo wood) models. I fell in love with all of them, in particular the Cocobolo Q-Series and the Alpha. The resonance, intonation and free-blowing aspects of the instruments were very impressive. I found that all aspects of both horns compared to or exceeded the Buffet 1193 and that the intonation was markedly better (on both the Alpha & Q). This year at the NAMM show, I tested the Alpha once again and was sold. I had already per-ordered one from Earspasm at that point and was 100% sure that I'd made the right choice.
Though the wait was long, Michael kept me (and the other waiting-list per-order clients) abreast of progress. When he received the shipment of over 100 Alpha basses, he sent out pictures and a numerical order of delivery list, which was impressive. I just got the horn a couple days ago and though it had been regulated and adjusted at Earspasm & play-tested by Michael, something happened in shipping that effected the low-F# key mechanism, making it bind. I contacted Michael about ti and we jumped on a video call so he could see what I was talking about. On that call, he offered to pay for the repairs with my local repairman or pay for return shipping back to his shop for repair. Wow!
I had the horn adjusted today and it plays like a dream... beyond my expectations!
Thank you Michael...!!!
My Backun Alpha arrived earlier this month and played beautifully out of the box. I think one or two keys might need a minor adjustment, but I am realistic and understand that shipping instruments can cause a few things to need a little attention. Either way, the instrument was clearly built of good quality, looked over by Mr. Lowenstern’s techs and was a joy to play for the first time.
Looking over the instrument, I have not found anything that is visually concerning. The quality of the keys, the tone holes, bell, and neck are all solidly built, are a healthy weight, and with lots of cork grease (don’t be nervous if it’s difficult to put together at first), the joints fit together beautifully.
Now that I have played it several times, the joints fit together with ease, and I am less nervous!
Throughout the process, Earspasm was in communication with me and, although there was a delay, I am a very satisfied customer. I support Backun’s initiative to build instruments that are forward-thinking and, in order to support that, we must be patient as they expand their production infrastructure.
Overall, the Backun Alpha is a gorgeous low C bass clarinet that I have always dreamed of having. I am already writing lots of new bass clarinet music now that I have one of my own!
Plays great out of the box
The Backun Alpha bass clarinet sounds great and plays great. I've only had a chance to fiddle with it briefly for one practice session, but it responded very well. I found that I could play it almost as easily as the early 90s Buffet R13 I've been playing on for 3 decades.
I’ve had my new Alpha for about two weeks and I’m very pleased. It exceeds expectations, plays easily and in tune, and better every day as I’m getting used to where everything is. Worth the wait!! I have to admit, putting it together for the first ten times or so raised my heart rate. The joint was tight, and I was sure I was going to smash all those complicated bridge keys, but I persevered and used a ton of the world’s slipperiest cork lube from Earspasm. (also Michael’s excellent how-to video).
