This Buffet E11 arrived needing a full overhaul — years of play had worn the pads, leaving the instrument leaking and unresponsive. The E11 is one of Buffet’s most respected student-to-intermediate models, and with the right care it plays like new. Here’s what we did.
Before: Condition on Arrival
After: The Finished Instrument
The Refurbishment Process
Every Buffet E11 that comes through our shop receives the same meticulous attention to detail. We begin with a full disassembly and deep cleaning of the body, barrel, and bell, removing years of built-up grime and residue. All pads are carefully inspected and replaced with quality felt pads, properly seated and leveled to ensure an airtight seal across every tone hole. Keys and keywork are cleaned, polished, and checked for bent or worn components, with all pivot screws and springs adjusted for smooth, responsive action. The instrument is then fully regulated — meaning every key is adjusted in relation to the others so the clarinet plays evenly and in tune from top to bottom. On this particular E11, the tenon corks were inspected and found to be in excellent condition, so they were cleaned and preserved rather than replaced. The result is an instrument that plays, feels, and responds like new.
Ready to give your clarinet the same treatment? View our clarinet refurbishment services and book an appointment today.
