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Kessler Custom Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet
2nd Generation Design | Synthetic Body | Improved Keywork
As a business, we have always sought to provide excellent quality instruments at affordable prices. Many times though the music industry as a whole does not offer instruments that are both affordable and high quality for the customer’s needs. Our Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet was one of the most popular products in our line as a result of this philosophy. However, while we loved that instrument, there were several things that we felt could be done better on it. So in 2016, the decision was made to improve this product to fix those items that were “OK for the price”  with an instrument that was all around excellent. That instrument is our new 2nd Generation Kessler Custom Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet!
2nd Generation – Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet
Our Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet maintains all of the positive elements of the 1st generation design and improves upon them. The improvements made were to the mechanism, lower note intonation stability, body material, and case. Furthermore, this improvement in design was done by focusing on a 1 factory sourcing. Our previous instrument used parts supplied through 2 different factories.
By sourcing all parts through 1 factory, our new 2nd Generation Artist Series Low C Bass Clarinet is able to see a price reduction compared to the 1st gen model! While most companies would simply pocket the savings, our goal is to provide the customer with the best value always, so when we save, we pass those savings on!
Mouthpiece, Ligature & Case Add-On Options
Build Your Custom Bass Clarinet Package
No mouthpiece setup is included with our bass clarinet. Instead, we encourage you to build your custom setup the way that you want it. Click the tabs below to see the various discounted upgrade options for choosing the mouthpiece, ligature & case of your choice!
Mouthpiece Add-On Options
No Mouthpiece is Included! Our low C bass clarinet does not include a mouthpiece with it (since most people buying a bass clarinet already have a mouthpiece). However, if you do not have one, or perhaps you want to upgrade your setup, take advantage of our discounted mouthpiece options. Generally, we recommend looking at something with a slightly larger tip opening on a low C bass clarinet since the body tube is much longer than an standard low Eb bass clarinet. We offer options from Clark Fobes, our own Kessler Custom, Vandoren, Selmer Paris & Backun!
If there is a mouthpiece that you are interested in that is not listed here, please feel free to send Dave Kessler an email and he will be able to help you out.
Mouthpiece Add-On Options (pricing valid ONLY with purchase of bass clarinet)
- Fobes Debut (Medium): $50.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise R (Small): $130.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise G (Medium): $130.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise H (Open): $130.00
- Vandoren B45: $140.00
- Vandoren B50: $140.00
- Vandoren Black Diamond: $150.00
- Backun/Hawkins Vocalise CG: $160.00
- Selmer Paris Focus (smaller): $235.00
- Selmer Paris Concept (larger): $235.00
Ligature Add-On Options
No Ligature or Cap is Included! Your ligature has a huge impact on the tonal presence and overall response of your new instrument setup, and especially on the extended length of the Low C bass clarinet, can make an unbelievable impact!
For performance ligatures, we recommend either a Rovner Versa or Vandoren Optimum ligature to your new mouthpiece setup on our low C bass clarinet to achieve the best performance possible! Of course, if there is a ligature that you want that is not listed , please feel free to send Dave Kessler and email and he will be able to help you out!
Ligature Add-On Options (pricing valid ONLY with purchase of bass clarinet, all prices include their fitted cap)
- Basic Metal Lig & Cap: $17.00
- Rico Metal 4 Point Lig & Cap: $22.00
- Vandoren M|O Pewter Ligature & Cap: $45.00 (looks like the nickel keywork)
- Vandoren M|O Black Ligature & Cap: $45.00
- Rovner Versa Ligature & Cap: $49.00
- Bonade Inverted & Bonade Metal Cap: $55.00
- Vandoren Optimum Silver Ligature & Cap: $70.00
- Vandoren Optimum BLACK Ligature & Cap: $70.00
Custom Case Stabilizer
Low C Bass Clarinets are large instruments with long keywork that is more susceptible to getting bent. Among the most commonly bent keys are the left hand pinky cluster because the extend beyond the body while inside of the case. The stock case is designed and made by a 3rd partner facility and unfortunately, allows for much “wiggle” in the case. In the event of rough handling of the case, that extra wiggle increases the risk of damage to the keywork inside of the case. This has been a problem for many players as the only option is to either constantly use bubble wrap or upgrade to the more expensive case.
As of October 1, 2021, we are now including a custom made Case Stabilizer for our Low C Bass Clarinet when bought with the stock case! This helps protect the keywork in the stock case.
BAM Case Upgrade
Our bass clarinet with the case stabilizer offers good protection but if you want the best case in terms of fit, portability & protection, we recommend the BAM France cases for low C bass clarinet. Their cases fit our instrument perfectly and offers the most superior protection available on a low C bass clarinet’s sensitive keywork. Take advantage of a generous discount when you bundle the BAM case with our low C bass clarinet at the time of purchase!
While BAM makes several cases, we recommend the Trekking model. The other models, such as the Hightech are great cases, but can put additional pressure on the register mechanism on the top of the body, thus putting it out of alignment. The Trekking case is molded differently and does a better overall job of supporting the instrument.
- BAM Trekking: $480.00 Upgrade (normally $600.00) – click here to view –
Additional Information
Professionally Setup
Every Kessler Custom low C bass clarinet we send out to a customer is not released from us unless it has been completely setup in our shop first. This is because the setup on any low C bass clarinet is of the utmost importance! Sometimes, a clarinet (regardless of who the manufacturer or the price point is) comes in needing 20 minutes of adjustments and then the very next one can require 2 hours!
This is why we perform our setup (in our www.ClarinetRepairs.com ProShop) on your clarinet before delivering it to you. You trust us with your purchase and we want to make sure that you are rewarded by giving you your new low C bass clarinet setup flawlessly!
Pads
Our 2nd Generation Bass Clarinets utilize a premium Pisoni made Lucien Deluxe Leather Pad. Our standard finished models utilize a traditional white leather version of this pad with metal, domed resonators.
International Order Information
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country’s borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. The stock case unfortunately will not adequately protect the instrument without the additional packaging that we perform. The BAM case upgrade does a better job, but is not 100% perfect either.
So for this reason, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
- International Orders Require upgrade to BAM Trekking Case
Even though it isn’t perfect, it is far better and offers less risk to extensive damage in the case of an improper re-package. - International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
There is no way for us to properly solve damage / repairs for international customers due to the shipping costs internationally. Inside the BAM case, the most likely damage is the left hand F/C lever getting bent. This is a fairly inexpensive and simple repair for most technicians. - International Payment must be via Bank Wire Transfer
We unfortunately cannot accept international credit cards or PayPal accounts (excludes Canada). So any international order for our bass clarinet must be made via a Bank Wire Transfer. - Additional Import Taxes
Customer is solely responsible for any and all taxes, fees and other costs that are due as a result of international importation. These costs are calculated before delivery, by the delivery company. We have no way of estimating these fees or pre-paying them.
- International Orders Require upgrade to BAM Trekking Case
If you would like to proceed with an international order for our Kessler Custom 2nd Generation Low C Bass Clarinet, please use the form below.
Fingerings
Our Low C Bass Clarinet uses standard fingerings but obviously has additional keywork. Here are the additional keys and their function. Please note, when playing any of the key options for Low D, C#/Db or C, we recommend also using the Right Hand Pinky Eb so that you do not have all of the keywork weight and spring tensions being reliant on the one lower key.
Financing Available
Click Here for more information on financing program details and to apply!
12.99% APR. Subject to approval by First Mutual Finance.
Kessler Custom 2nd Gen Bass Clarinet Lineup
Meet the full lineup of our 2nd Gen Kessler Custom Bass Clarinets! All of the models feature the same synthetic material and professional design. The difference is simply in the range (low Eb or low C) and the cosmetics of the instrument.
Retail: $3,595.00
$2,099.00Finance Starting @ $47.75 per month
Based on 60 months and 12.99% annual percentage rate
Low C
Retail: $3,995.00
$2,399.00Finance Starting @ $54.57 per month
Based on 60 months and 12.99% annual percentage rate
All Black!
Retail: $4,295.00
$2,749.00Finance Starting @ $62.53 per month
Based on 60 months and 12.99% annual percentage rate
10 reviews for Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet – 2nd Generation
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International Order Information
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country's borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. The stock case unfortunately will not adequately protect the instrument without the additional packaging that we perform. The BAM case upgrade does a better job, but is not 100% perfect either.
So for this reason, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
Shipping a bass clarinet internationally poses a few unique issues that make it sometimes prohibitive. The main issue has to do with international customs inspection as the bass clarinet crosses in to your country's borders. During this process, customs inspectors may open up the package to inspect that the contents of the package match the invoice declaration (so that they can make sure to collect the correct amount of applicable taxes). The issue is not in the inspection, but rather the re-packaging AFTER the inspection.
We take great care to pack our instruments for safe transport, but these inspectors are not required to re-package the instrument in the same manner. When re-packaged incorrectly, the risk of damage to the instrument in shipping greatly increases. The stock case unfortunately will not adequately protect the instrument without the additional packaging that we perform. The BAM case upgrade does a better job, but is not 100% perfect either.
So for this reason, we can only accept an international order if the customer is willing to accept the following terms:
- International Orders Require upgrade to BAM Trekking Case
Even though it isn't perfect, it is far better and offers less risk to extensive damage in the case of an improper re-package. - International Customer accepts full responsibility for any subsequent damage.Â
There is no way for us to properly solve damage / repairs for international customers due to the shipping costs internationally. Inside the BAM case, the most likely damage is the left hand F/C lever getting bent. This is a fairly inexpensive and simple repair for most technicians. - International Payment must be via Bank Wire Transfer
We unfortunately cannot accept international credit cards or PayPal accounts (excludes Canada). So any international order for our bass clarinet must be made via a Bank Wire Transfer. - Additional Import Taxes
Customer is solely responsible for any and all taxes, fees and other costs that are due as a result of international importation. These costs are calculated before delivery, by the delivery company. We have no way of estimating these fees or pre-paying them.
- International Orders Require upgrade to BAM Trekking Case
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pacifictrailcc (verified owner) –
First off, I want to say I really didn’t expect a $2000 instrument to play at the level of a Selmer. However this is exactly what Kessler and Sons has created. The altissimo register is very easy and clear, the clarion register is very smooth and resonant, and the chalumeau register (low notes) is very controlled. This instrument can be played very quiet or extremely loud while maintaining that sweet bass clarinet sound. It has the professional features of a double register key and an extended range to low C which both perform flawlessly. If you want to save A LOT of money but dont want to sacrifice ANY quality, I highly reccomend this isntrument!
ajkohlhepp0 (verified owner) –
I have had my Kessler Low C for three months now and I love it! I had my professor do a set up on it and there were a few minor leaks but nothing serious. Fixing those leaks did not change the amazing playability of this instrument! The chalumeau range beefy and the clarion register is very smooth. The finish is not the best but this is only cosmetic. I like the worn look so there is a plus for me actually! Overall, if you’re looking for a solid playing instrument whatever level you are because nobody really wants to pay 13,000 on a bass clarinet, this is your instrument.
bassclarinetislife (verified owner) –
The instrument was well packed and no damage was apparent from shipping. Corks did need quite a bit of greasing before the instrument could be put together. The instrument is smooth across all of its register and resonates well. Intonation is really good except on anomaly— the Low E which I have to lip up to bring into tune. Definitely would recommend over any Plastic Low E Flat Bass Clarinet, which are similar in price brand new.
abreed (verified owner) –
This is a great instrument. I was looking for an inexpensive way to get a Low C bass clarinet, and the Michael Lowenstern review convinced me that this instrument was worth a try. Wow! I’m blown away at the quality of the Kessler Cstomer Low C Bass Clarinet , and will likely be letting it replace my Selmer Paris bass clarinet (to low Eb) entirely. It’s exactly as Lowenstern said — maybe better! Highly recommended.
rowdyroberson (verified owner) –
I’ll be frank, this instrument is fantastic! It’s great for those who are beginning the Bass Clarinet. I’ve played on this instrument for a while and it sounds amazing! I already got the fingering down as it’s 99% similar to the Soprano Clarinet (Bb Soprano Clarinets usually don’t go down to low Eb or C). Literally, for anybody who is new to the Bass Clarinet, if the sound isn’t great it’s YOU, not the instrument. Came very quickly (that said I do live in Arizona), and was well packaged. At first, like most instruments, it does require a MEGATON of cork grease to assemble the middle piece, but that’s my only gripe about it. Definitely worth a buy!
Bill Lehecka (verified owner) –
I played bass clarinet in High School 20 some odd years ago. My father gave me a Yamaha YCL-622ii BC as a graduation gift. It was a lovely instrument, but it soon stayed in my closet gathering dust as my passion for music faded. Eventually, I sold it so I could buy a house (As you may know, those Yamahas could cover a nice downpayment). 20 years later, I picked up the bass clarinet again thanks to my girlfriend’s encouragement. I was borrowing horns she had access to and playing in our local community band, but I was missing something. I was missing the feel and the resonance of a low C Bass Clarinet.
On YouTube, I see Michael Lowenstern’s review of this Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet, and I’m like “There’s no way this horn could be a little over two grand and sound this good.” I showed my girlfriend the video to see if this would be a good investment (She is the professional, I trust her judgment) and she was like “Wow, that sounds really good. If you get it, I’m going to have to borrow it!”
Pound for pound, this is a wonderful instrument at its price point. The clarion register is the best I’ve ever heard on a horn I’ve played. It comes out effortlessly. The lower register sounds meaty and tone wise, it’s stellar. I initially bought a Yamaha 4C mouthpiece for this (Since I had it with my YCL-622ii, I figured it would be OK), and Dave Kessler personally recommended that I try the Clark Fobes mouthpiece instead. Of course he was right. This bass clarinet is the best value for your money if you want to explore what a Low C Bass Clarinet can offer you or if you are a doubler. You can’t go wrong with the price point coupled with the excellent customer service.
bekeld (verified owner) –
I had bought Kessler’s bari sax previously and was blown away by the quality, tone, and ease of playing. Michael Lowenstern (if you don’t subscribe to his YouTube channel yet, go now…I’ll wait…) posted a review of the Kessler Custom Low C 2nd Generation. When he did a blind side by side test against his custom Privilege…just wow.
I own a competitor’s low C, which plays fine after over $1000 of overhaul (rods had too much play among other issues). The Kessler’s sound has a darker solid core, an even range from the low C to the altissimo G, and is free blowing. And the price is right. 🙂
annaedwards1 (verified owner) –
I am extremely amazed at how well this instrument plays! The chalumeau notes are nice and beefy. The clarion notes are very smooth! The altissimo notes are amazing!! The keys are sturdy and well thought out. I highly recommend this horn!
yanniswise (verified owner) –
Last week I received my Kessler Custom Low C Bass Clarinet – 2nd Generation!
As I’m not a clarinet player (been playing the soprano saxophone exclusively for 30 years and a bit of alto!) it took me about a week to get used to it’s fingerings and start playing decently in the clarion and altisimo registers and produce a good sound that I can enjoy.
My impressions so far?
I love this instrument!
It has a gorgeous and powerful sound and it looks great! It can play loud but it can also whisper.
The keys and mechanism are solid and working smoothly and without being noisy.
And as for my experience dealing with Dave Kessler was excellent from the very beginning. All his recommendations were spot on. The man knows his stuff and that was the reason I decided to buy from him, oversees with import taxes and extra shipping costs involved. Definitely worth it.
Overall I’m very happy with this instrument and I think it was the best choice considering it’s price.
The only “side effect” I’m having is since I got it I almost stopped playing my beloved saxophones and exclusively playing daily now this beautiful bass clarinet!
Yanni Hatz. Dublin
emmaclarinet (verified owner) –
This bass clarinet has gone beyond my expectations. The tone is absolutely wonderful and the lower register is unbeatable. I was skeptical at first due to the price, but when I received the instrument, I was blown away immediately. It is a joy to play, and easy to play with a solid tone.