Buffet ICON Bb/A Clarinet Barrel

GOD HELP US ALL; WE HAVE YET ANOTHER GOOD CLARINET BARREL ON THE MARKET.

The Buffet ICON Barrel is the newest in a long line of Buffet barrels that goes way back to the early 1950s, when (Hans) Moennig developed his “inverse taper” bore design (where the bottom of the barrel’s bore was smaller than the top, where the mouthpiece would be inserted).

WHY DOES A TAPER MATTER?

The standing waveforms produced by the clarinet reflects up and down within the bore of the clarinet. When it reaches the point of a barrel choke (where the bore gets smaller) this standing wave column is reflected with much greater intensity back upon itself. And, where this choke point exists, and the size of the choke, will have an impact on the sound of the clarinet.

Now, the ICON barrel is actually the inverse of the Moennig barrel taper. It is larger at the bottom, smaller at the top — a more traditional “cone” shape that you can put a (very small) scoop of ice cream inside.

WHAT ABOUT THE DIFFERENT RING MATERIALS?

We carry the Silver-plated ring, Gold-plated ring and the Black Nickel-plated ring versions of the barrel. Do they make a difference? It’s in the ear/mouth (and eye) of the beholder. From Buffet’s perspective, the gold-plated rings provide “more high harmonics.” Um, sure. Your mileage will definitely vary in that department, so I’d just suggest you go with what you think looks cool.

DOES THIS WORK WITH BOTH Bb AND A CLARINETS?

Yes, incredibly you don’t have to buy separate barrels. Which makes a quick change from Bb to A in orchestra much easier — no more slipping ligatures!

DO YOU NEED THIS?

In my opinion, if you have an R13 clarinet, the answer is an unequivocal yes.

DO YOU OFFER TRIALS?

Of course. Head on over to our trials FAQ page for more information about how those work.