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Emblem Evolution ]

[ Pre-Classic, Stubbins ]  [
Model 176 ]  [ Model 476
/ 576

]  [ C8 or CB ]

Symphonie Line:  [
Symphonie Model ]  [
Symphonie
]  [ Symphonie II ]  [
Classic ]  [ Classic II
] [ Symphonie 3 ]

Dynamic Line:
[ Dynamique
]  [ Dynamique II ]  [ Dynamic
]  [ Dynamic II ]  [ Dynamic H
]  [ Dynamic H w/PF ]  [
Big Easy
]

Leblanc [ LL ]  [ L7/ L70
/L27 /L200 /L300 /LX2000

[ Symphonie / Regency / Sonata / Concerto / Opus ]


 

1952 and 1953 printed ads


Pete Fountain / Dynamic Print Ads




L200 / L300


Feature Comparison

Leblanc / Noblet / Normandy Catalog

Playing Characteristics

1974 Price List

 

 

 

Leblanc
Emblems:

 

From eBay.  A really old Leblanc
emblem from probably the 1920-40s.Identifiers:

  • Thumbrest has one screw on top and one on the bottom
  • Single pivot for lower joint long side keys (C# / B)
  • L designed shared 3 post throat keys
  • The articulated G# mechanism is reminiscent of a 1937 Buffet A




LeBlanc Emblem #1

  • “G.LEBLANC” follows the contour of the upper area.
  • No separate “G”
  • Years: ???? to ???? – 1950s

Leblanc Emblem #2

  • “G” separated from name area
  • “LEBLANC follows contour of area
  • Years:  ????  to ???? – 1960s


LeBlanc Emblem #3

  • “LEBLANC” in block letters.
  • “G” above Leblanc in same areas, but encroaches on the
    main emblem area
  • Years: ???? to ???? – 1970s


 

unmarked “pre-Classic”

 

Leblanc – Stubbins like mechanism for Bb.
Patented in 1933

  • Shared “L” 3 post configuration for throat keys
  • “Leblanc” in emblem with “G” above in crown
  • notice the stubbins-like mechanism to close the throat A key, the A key
    has a lip in front of the pad cup, versus later designs that push down
    the pad cup from the top (as shown in Fig 2 in the 1933 Leblanc
    patent).
  • This was patented in 1933  # 1,926,489 –

    1926 Loomis Patent

  • 1933 Leblanc Patent
      This patent also shows the separate
    posts/mechanism for the RH pinky Eb key.  Normally this is inline
    with the C key

  • click here for writeup with more information


1948 model, sn 59xx

  • “G. Leblanc” in emblem
  • Shared “L” 3 post configuration for throat keys
  • 1950 patent # 2,508,550 –

    Stubbins Patent 1


    Stubbins Patent 2

  • click here for writeup with more information
  • There seems to be 3 versions of Stubbins.  This is identified by
    a letter above the serial number.  An “S” is a full Stubbins.
    A “N” is like 75% stubbins and a “C” is about 50% stubbing.  You
    can see this in the Noblet and Normandy versions.



 

  • Pre-Classic (sn 6554) – notice that even the old Leblancs used an
    extended register tube pip (first picture) rather than flush like
    Buffet.
  • Independent 4 post throat keys
  • “Leblanc” in emblem with “G” above in crown



 

Model 176 – approx 1954 vintage“176” stamped above the Leblanc emblem on top section.
Manufactured before the Classics

  • Independent 4 post configuration for throat keys
  • “G. Leblanc” in emblem

 


Model 476One would think the 476 was
some lineage history relationship to the 176.  But then I saw the
emblem which signifies a different era clarinet.  This model
actually was a later one in the 1961 timeframe and was in same 1961
dated brochure alongside the Leblanc LL (model 1176) and Dynamic H
(model 1276).   This model has the same model # as a Symphonie
Model, though a newer emblem like the Symphonie 2.Leblanc 576 – pics from eBay 6/2013
Leblanc C8
(or possibly CB for Cundy-Bettoney, importer)
unknown age, though trill key guide shows an early model. Possibly late
1940s or early 1950s.  (searching for more pictures)

  • Shared “L” 3 post configuration for throat keys
  • “G. Leblanc” in emblem
  • ringed Left hand 3rd tonehole
  • double hole for low F/clarion C (two bell keys) such as on Reform
    Boehms or bass clarinets
  • register key extra mechanism similar to a Stubbins mechanism

 

 

Leblanc Symphonie models (early)

 

Model Evolution

  • Symphonie Model
  • Symphonie
  • Symphonie II
  • Classic
  • Classic II
  • Symphonie 3

Later in the 1990s Leblanc would reintroduce the “Symphonie line
with the Symphony VII, a separation of over 20 years.


1st – Symphonie Model

  • Symphonie Model – 1950  (raw nickel silver)  ex: sn 172A.
    The original serial numbers were 3 digit with a “A” at the end.
    In 1951 they dropped the “A”.
  • “G. Leblanc” in emblem
  • per brochure, model 476 (see above for stamped model 476 clarinet,
    though a newer emblem)


Click on Below for a full size picture – assuming your browser
configuration doesn’t shrink it.


Below 272A (100 after the above example but with the Stubbins mechanism)


2nd – Symphonie

  • Symphonie – 1955-56

 

3rd – Symphonie II

  • Symphonie II –

 

4th – Classic

  • Classic – late 1950’s”Leblanc” in emblem with “G” in crown

SN235xx made before 1960


 

5th – Classic II

  • Classic II (nickel plated keys)



6th – Symphonie 3

  • Symphonie 3 – mid 1960s (raw nickel silver keys)




  • Symphonie 3 with original baggies and end caps




Symphonie IV

Classic & Classic II – Leblanc reintroduced the Symphonie
in the late 1950’s as the Classic line but then dropped it and
reintroduced the Symphonie.

 

 

Leblanc Dynamique, Dynamic, Pete Fountain
models

 

Model Evolution (model 1610)

  • Symphonie Dynamique
  • Dynamique
  • Dynamique II
  • Dynamic
  • Dynamic II
  • Dynamic H
  • Dynamic H with Pete Fountain on bell
  • Pete Fountain / Big Easy  through 2010 then discontinued

Good alternatives to these models are the L7 and Concerto &
Concerto IIs

Leblanc old Dynamique and newer Dynamic

  • Dynamic in script on top
  • Leblanc emblem similar to #3

Model evolution

  • Dynamique


  • Dynamique II

< pictures >

  • Dynamic (below example sn 67xx)




 

  • Dynamic II (model 776) – made in the 1950s


  • Dynamic H (model 1276) , late 1950s and 1960s




 

  • Dynamic H  with Pete Fountain signature on bell (ex sn 268xx)


  • Pete Fountain/Big Easy model

 

Leblanc LL models

 

Leblanc LL Paris (model 1176)

The LLs were visually
fairly consistent from generation to generations. Other than the emblem
changes one can see the trill key guide changed.  From a sn # 15xxx
FRANCE model with a triangular trill key guide to a 52xxx with a
rectangular trill key guide to 60xxx with a slotted barrel design.

sn # 275xx


PDF Brochure 1


PDF Brochure 2


PDF Brochure 3


PDF Brochure 4

Serial 155xx

serial 341xx


Serial # 528xx





serial # 608xx  (slotted barrel guide)

 

 

 

 

Leblanc L7, L70, L27, L200, L300, LX2000
models

 

LeBlanc L7

In the 1970s through the 1980s
Leblanc simply offered a variety of clarinets for the discerning public.
I’m a fan of the L7 and L27 though in the 1970s Leblanc changed their
process for nickel plating.  Many Leblanc clarinets from this time
frame had nickel that would peel and bubble in high skin contact areas,
such as the ring keys, throat keys, register key etc.  It can
greatly affect the “feel” of the instrument and thus the value.  A
good repair place can sand down the bubbles while still maintaining the
existing plating, or simply get it replated in Silver.

  • L7 –
  • L70 –
  • L27 – replaced the L7 in late 1970s
  • L200 – 14.83mm top to 14.65mm at bottom of UJ
  • L300 LX – model 1185
  • LX2000 –

Model Evolution:
L7– conical bore (measured – ie, smaller at
top UJ bore, larger at bottom UJ bore



  • L70 (model 1170) – silver plated keys)




  • L27 (reverse cone to cylinder of 14.75mm)

  • L200 (reverse cone to 14.6mm)



L300 LX (reverse cone)
LX2000 (reverse cone)

 

 

 

discontinued Symphonie / Sonata / Concerto
/ Opus models

 

Modern Leblanc Symphonie VII
Concerto

The Concerto and
Concerto II (designed by Tom Ridenour ) is probably one of my most
favorite Leblanc Clarinets.  It has an R13ish type bore, though
larger and accompanied by smaller toneholes especially in the trill
keys.  This allows it to have some excellent projection, and with
the larger bore excellent dynamics.  It can hold it’s own with a
Buffet R13 and Buffet RC though may lack the tonal color.  It also is a fantastic replacement for
an older Leblanc Dynamic or L7 model.  The emblems have eliminated
the cut & filled emblem and are simply a gold “sticker” type of emblem,
though very durable (but still a sticker type).  Silver plated
keys, wonderfully modern smooth keywork.


Leblanc Sonata

The Sonata
is an entry-level professional instrument and considered to be the
best instrument to be offered at its price level. The Sonata is
remarkable for its roundness of tone, perfect scale, playing ease and
agility. Its extraordinary evenness and “non-quirky” playing
characteristics make it ideal for the advanced young player or the
professional who doubles but has limited time to devote to the
clarinet.

  • Key: Bb
  • Bore: Polycylindrical, 14.60 mm (.575″)
  • Key mechanism: 17 key, 6 ring
  • Key style: In-line “Jump” trill keys
  • Body material: Aged grenadilla wood
  • Pad cup style: Conical
  • Key finish: Nickel-plated
  • Mouthpiece: 2550K-10M
  • Case: Deluxe wood shell
  • Options: Model 1020 available with backpack case as model 1020-BP;
    model 1020 available with silver-plated keys as model 1020; model
    1020S available with backpack case as model 1020S-BP

 


 

Leblanc Opus II

Leblanc offers the “Opus II” clarinet, designed in collaboration
with Larry Combs. Based on the highly acclaimed Opus acoustic, this
instrument provides the rich, dark sound and playing ease you’ve
come to expect from the Leblanc line of professional clarinets. Its
beautifully sculpted keywork is as pleasing to the eye as to the
touch, and numerous enhancements, such as its adjustable bridge
mechanism and E/B and F#/C# keys, save trips to the repair shop.
Larry Combs says, “The Opus II has redesigned keywork that is
ergonomically superior, decreasing muscle tension and stress.
Ultimately, it may extend a player’s career.”
  • Key: Bb
  • Key mechanism: 18 key, 6 ring
  • Key style: Offset trill keys, auxiliary Ab-Eb key, adjustable
    bridge mechanism, adjustable right hand E/B and F#/C# keys
  • Body material: Aged unstained grenadilla wood
  • Pad cup style: Ronds bombés (rounded)
  • Key finish: Silver-plated
  • Mouthpiece: 2571-LC1
  • Case: Deluxe wood-shell
  • Options: Model 1191S available in the key of A as model 1191AS

 

 

Regency

Serial Number
Log for  Leblanc Clarinets
L27 / L200 / L 300 / 1167 (L7)  / 1189 /
1190 / 1276 / 1610 / 1611 & 1612 models
Leblanc 340
Bass Models #  328 / 330 /
400 / 415 / 417 / 425 / 430
Leblanc France Clarinets
Leblanc 342 Leblanc 350
L27 / L200 / L 300 / 1167  / 1189 / 1190 / 1276 / 1610 / 1611 & 1612
models (Bb clarinets)
1964 16000 21999
1965 22000 22999
1966 23000 25999
1967 26000 27499
1968 27500 30315
1969 30316 32271
1970 32272
1176/LL 32860
33143
1971 33144 35934
1972 35935 37539
1973 37540 40182
1974 40183 41548
1975 41549 42989
1976 42900 44522
1977 44523 47760
1978 47761 48795
1979 48796 50634
1980 50635 52560
1981 52561 52879
1982 52880 53000
1983 53001 55146
1984 55147 57480
1985 57481
Leblanc 340
1964 1000 1189
1965 1190 1408
1966 1409 1539
1967 1540 1650
1968 1651 1762
1969 1763 1899
1970 1900 1977
1971 1978 2075
1972 2076 2176
1973 2177 2275
1974 2276 2310
1975 2311 2389
1976 2390 2433
1977 2434 2482
1978 2483 2490
1979 2491 2500
1980 2501 2507
1981 2508 2510
1982 2511 2518
1983 2519 2530
Leblanc Bass Clarinets

Models #  328 / 330 / 400 / 415 / 417 / 425 / 430

1964 7600 8119
1965 8120 8360
1966 8361 8706
1967 8707 9147
1968 9148 9471
1969 9472 9852
1970 9853 10249
1971 10250 10601
1972 10602 10888
1973 10889 11240
1974 11241 11639
1975 11640 11956
1976 11957 12315
1977 12316 12810
1978 12811 13108
1979 13109 13509
1980 13510 13736
1981 13737 13891
1982 13892 1400
1983 14001 14219
1984 14220 14844
Leblanc France
Clarinets
1964 16000 21999
1965 22000 22999
1966 23000 25999
1967 26000 27499
1968 27500 30315
1969 30316 32271
1970 32272 33143
1971 33144 35934
1972 35935 37539
1973 37540 40182
1974 40183 41548
1975 41549 42989
1976 42900 44522
1977 44523 47760
1978 47761 48795
1979 48796 50634
1980 50635 52560
1981 52561 52879
1982 52880 53000
1983 53001 55146
1984 55147 57480
Leblanc 342
1964 27 136
1965 137 199
1966 200 380
1967 381 469
1968 470 622
1969 623 720
1970 721 780
1971 781 879
1972 880 1009
1973 1010 1079
1974 1080 1130
1975 1131 1202
1976 1203 1212
1977 1213 1281
1978 1282 1330
1979 1331 1349
1980 1350 1365
1981 1366 1375
1982 1376 1395
1983 1396 1409
Leblanc 350
1964 300 331
1965 332 369
1966 370 420
1967 421 445
1968 446 463
1969 464 476
1970 477 490
1971 491 511
1972 512 519
1973 520 543
1974 544 556
1975 557 563
1976 564 574
1977 575 619
1978 620 624
1979 625 630
1980 631 635
1981 636 640
1982 641 645
1983 646 650
Leblanc 352
1964 12 59
1965 60 102
1966 103 150
1967 151 210
1968 211 279
 1969 280 299
1970 300 424
1971 425 441
1972 442 489
1973 490 520
1974 521 529
1975 530 544
1976 545 605
1977 606 636
1978 637 644
1979 645 655
1980 656 659
1981 660 665
1982 666 670
1983 671 675
Leblanc Bass Clarinets Models #400,415,417,425,430,325,330
1964 7600 8119
1965 8120 8360
1966 8361 8706
1967 8707 9147
1968 9148 9471
1969 9472 9852
1970 9853 10249
1971 10250 10601
1972 10602 10888
1973 10889 11240
1974 11241 11639
1975 11640 11956
1976 11957 12315
1977 12316 12810
1978 12811 13108
1979 13109 13509
1980 13510 13736
1981 13737 13891
1982 13892 14000
1983 14001 14219
1984 14220 14844
Leblanc 417 Bass Clarinet
1978 12560 12750
1979 12751 13220
1980 13221 13978
1981 13979 14010
1982 Disc. Disc.
Leblanc Classic 476
1964 18000 22999
1965 23000 23999
1966 24000 25699
1967 25700 28411
1968 28412 30950
1969 30951 31600
1970 31601 33425
1971 33426 34899
1972 34900 37419
1973 37420 39204
1974 39205 42030
1975 8701 8847
1976 8848 8872
1977 8873 8893
1978 Disc. Disc.
Model 7165
1964 1207 1643
1965 1644 1976
1966 1977 2385
1967 2386 2868
1968 2869 3566
1969 3567 4553
1970 4554 5581
1971 5582 6762
1972 6763 7387
1973 7388 7612
1974 7613 8297
1975 8298 8683
1976 8684 9130
1977 9131 9505
1978 9506 9750
1979 9751 1040A
1980 1041A 1172A
1981 1173A 1414A
1982 1415A 1601A
1983 1602A 1800A
1984 1801A 1938A
1985 1939A 2098A
1986 2099A 2154A
1987 2155A 2290A
1988 2291A 2421A
1989 2422A 2551A
1990 2552A 2631A
1991 2632A 2823A
1992 2824A 2976A
1993 2977A 3085A
1994 3086A 3115A
1995 3116A 3197A
1996 3198A 3233A
1997 3234A 3344A
1998 3345A 0170A
1999 0171A 3585A
2000 3586A 3644A
2001 3645A 3737A
2002 3738A 3878A
2003 3879A
Models 7166/7168
1964 101A 989A
1965 990A 2459A
1966 2460A 3525A
1967 3526A 4385A
1968 4386A 7148A
1969 7149A 8594A
1970 8595A 9760A
1971 9761A 1808B
1972 1809B 2025B
1973 2026B 4188B
1974 4189B 5888B
1975 5889B 6949B
1976 6950B 7244B
1977 7245B 8365B
1978 8366B 9445B
1979 9446B 623C
1980 624C 1401C
1981 1402C 2212C
1982 2213C 3109C
1983 3110C 3564C
1984 3565C 4902C
1985 4903C 5797C
1986 5798C 6630C
1987 6631C 7559C
1988 7560C 8544C
1989 8545C 9707C
1990 9708C 1173D
1991 1174D 2650D
1992 2651D 3666D
1993 3667D 5369D
1994 5370D 6265D
1995 6266D 7504D
1996 7505D 8897D
1997 8898D 0616E
1998 0617E 2160E
1999 2161E 4042E
2000 4043E 6353E
2001 6354E 8847E
2002 8848E 1224F
2003 1225F

FYI, I obtained all the Leblanc, Noblet and Normandy serial number lists
from a nice lady at G Leblanc USA about a year before they were bought by
Selmer USA.  These were paper lists faxed to me.  The computers
only had a few years in them by comparison.  No list exists before
these lists – at least not at G Leblanc USA at the time per that nice lady.
Not sure if they exist at all now at Selmer USA since they closed the G
Leblanc facilities.