Backun Alpha Bass Clarinet - Low C & Low Eb

(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?

You’ll notice that I don’t have pictures of the case — that’s because I haven’t seen the case. Well, not the case you’re going to want. See, the Alpha comes with either a plastic student case (think: high school band instrument cases that can survive the apocalypse), or with a ballistic nylon backpack-style case. I am only offering the instrument with the nylon backpack case, because while the plastic case great for school music programs, it is heavy.

PRE-ORDER NOW IF YOU WANT TO GET YOURS.

If you would like to order one of this batch, you can do so below. I will be carrying both low Eb and low C basses.

“BUT WHAT IF I’M NOT SURE?”

If you aren’t sure at this point whether you want to pre-order the bass clarinet, you can contact me about placing a $1,000 deposit. If you choose to place a deposit, you are not guaranteed one of the initial batch of instruments unless there are some that have not been pre-ordered. In other words, when the instruments come in, they will go to players who have pre-ordered them first. Once pre-orders have been filled, deposits will be fulfilled next in the order received. This is a way to “hedge your bet” without having to commit all of your funds right now.

Pre-orders are not refundable, but still come with a 7-day trial with the right to return it. (Please read my trial policy for more information on the trial process and fees.) Deposits are 90% refundable, meaning that you will get $900 returned if you don’t elect to purchase the instrument. (This is to encourage serious players, while still providing some flexibility at the time the instrument is ready to be shipped.)

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.