Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Overview
The G. Leblanc Paris Paperclip contrabass clarinet is a distinctive professional low-clarinet design built around a folded metal bore that makes the instrument more compact than a straight contrabass layout. This instrument began as a low D contra and was fitted with a Carlo Sbisa custom extension to low C, giving specialists additional range for ensemble, contemporary, and low-clarinet work.
Leblanc Paris Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Specifications
- Instrument Type: Contrabass clarinet
- Manufacturer: Leblanc Paris
- Configuration: Folded paperclip-style metal body
- Range: Low C
- Modification: Carlo Sbisa custom low C extension
- Case: Fitted black hard case
- Accessories: Leblanc mouthpiece and Leblanc contra-alto/contrabass clarinet ligature
- Serial Number: 1043
Condition & Setup
This used instrument is in excellent playing order and has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested. The plated body and keywork show widespread tarnish and oxidation spotting, light scratches, scuffs, and localized plating wear. The contrasting brass extension has uneven patina, discoloration, and handling marks. The fitted hard case shows exterior wear, oxidized hardware, and use wear to the red plush lining.
Who the Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Is For
This instrument is intended for professional and advanced low-clarinet players seeking the depth and presence of the contrabass register in a folded configuration. Its extended low C range is particularly relevant to wind ensemble, clarinet choir, contemporary repertoire, chamber scoring, and specialized doubling work. The custom mechanism and substantial keywork make it best suited to a musician prepared for the setup and maintenance requirements of a specialist low clarinet.
Common Questions About the Leblanc Paperclip
Was this instrument originally built to low C?
No. It began as a low D contrabass clarinet and was fitted with a Carlo Sbisa custom extension that expands its range to low C.
What does the paperclip configuration accomplish?
The paperclip configuration folds the instrument's long bore into a more compact vertical format. It retains the contrabass register while reducing the overall height required by a straight-body design.
What service considerations apply to this instrument?
The folded metal body, extensive keywork, and custom low C mechanism call for a technician familiar with contrabass clarinets and custom low-register extensions.
Where can I find more information about the custom low C modification?
Read all about the custom C extension here.
We are proud to be an authorized Leblanc dealer
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days
Financing available. Apply directly at checkout
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
Leblanc Paris Paperclip Professional Low C Contrabass Clarinet
Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Overview
The G. Leblanc Paris Paperclip contrabass clarinet is a distinctive professional low-clarinet design built around a folded metal bore that makes the instrument more compact than a straight contrabass layout. This instrument began as a low D contra and was fitted with a Carlo Sbisa custom extension to low C, giving specialists additional range for ensemble, contemporary, and low-clarinet work.
Leblanc Paris Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Specifications
- Instrument Type: Contrabass clarinet
- Manufacturer: Leblanc Paris
- Configuration: Folded paperclip-style metal body
- Range: Low C
- Modification: Carlo Sbisa custom low C extension
- Case: Fitted black hard case
- Accessories: Leblanc mouthpiece and Leblanc contra-alto/contrabass clarinet ligature
- Serial Number: 1043
Condition & Setup
This used instrument is in excellent playing order and has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested. The plated body and keywork show widespread tarnish and oxidation spotting, light scratches, scuffs, and localized plating wear. The contrasting brass extension has uneven patina, discoloration, and handling marks. The fitted hard case shows exterior wear, oxidized hardware, and use wear to the red plush lining.
Who the Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Is For
This instrument is intended for professional and advanced low-clarinet players seeking the depth and presence of the contrabass register in a folded configuration. Its extended low C range is particularly relevant to wind ensemble, clarinet choir, contemporary repertoire, chamber scoring, and specialized doubling work. The custom mechanism and substantial keywork make it best suited to a musician prepared for the setup and maintenance requirements of a specialist low clarinet.
Common Questions About the Leblanc Paperclip
Was this instrument originally built to low C?
No. It began as a low D contrabass clarinet and was fitted with a Carlo Sbisa custom extension that expands its range to low C.
What does the paperclip configuration accomplish?
The paperclip configuration folds the instrument's long bore into a more compact vertical format. It retains the contrabass register while reducing the overall height required by a straight-body design.
What service considerations apply to this instrument?
The folded metal body, extensive keywork, and custom low C mechanism call for a technician familiar with contrabass clarinets and custom low-register extensions.
Where can I find more information about the custom low C modification?
Read all about the custom C extension here.
We are proud to be an authorized Leblanc dealer
Pairs well with
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days
Financing available. Apply directly at checkout
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
Leblanc Paris Paperclip Professional Low C Contrabass Clarinet
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
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Shipping Information
Orders valued over $99 ship via FedEx 2-Day within the U.S. and via DHL internationally. A physical address (no P.O. Boxes) and signature are required. Smaller accessories ship via USPS (2–5 day service) and do not require a signature if valued under $99. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Return Policy
We offer an unconditional 30-day return policy to ensure you’re completely satisfied. If you’re unhappy for any reason, return the item for a full refund or full exchange credit (reeds and other consumables are non-returnable once opened). Every instrument we sell is guaranteed to be free of mechanical defects—if an issue arises, contact us and we’ll either reimburse a local repair or provide a prepaid return label for repair, exchange, or refund. If you simply change your mind, you may still return the item for a full refund, but return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility unless free returns were purchased through Redo at checkout. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Shop Warranty:
Brand new items are covered by the full manufacturer’s warranty unless otherwise noted (see the individual maker for details). Open box/refurbished, used, and vintage items include a two-year warranty serviced by our in-house repair shop, and we guarantee every instrument will be free of mechanical defects. Warranty coverage does not include damage from accident, misuse, negligence, improper operation, unauthorized alterations or removed serial numbers, normal wear and routine maintenance, environmental damage (including perspiration, corrosion, or extreme temperature and humidity), lacquer or plating wear, or consumable parts such as springs, pads, and felts. Please see our FAQ for additional details.