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LeBlanc 340 "Paperclip"

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Page last updated Mar 30, 2026

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Description

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The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" is a uniquely engineered Bb clarinet that promises to make waves in both school bands and professional orchestras. This instrument is designed with the modern clarinetist in mind, offering a balance of precision, durability, and rich tonal quality. Named for its distinctive paperclip style keywork, the Leblanc 340 offers a responsive playability that appeals to both seasoned players and ambitious students alike.

Crafted with a resonant Grenadilla wood body, this clarinet delivers a warm, full-bodied sound that remains consistent across its range. The innovative design of the cylindrical bore ensures smooth transitions between registers, enhancing your musical expression. The key system, which is plated with durable nickel silver, offers a comfortable grip and reliable action during performances. The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" is not just an instrument; it's a long-term investment in your musical journey, known for its resilience and lasting quality.

Whether you're stepping onto the concert stage or practicing in a classroom, this clarinet will serve as a dependable companion. It comes with a quality mouthpiece and a sturdy case that provides excellent protection for travel and storage, ensuring your instrument remains in peak condition.

Key Features:

Bb clarinet with unique paperclip style keywork
Crafted from Grenadilla wood for a rich, resonant tone
Cylindrical bore design for smooth register transitions
Nickel silver-plated keys for durability and comfortable handling
Includes premium mouthpiece and protective case

Videos

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Hugo Queirós

My 340 Leblanc "paperclip" Contrabass Clarinet

Hugo Queirós

Leblanc 1960s Model 340 Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet

GordonLaSalleMusic

#2821 G Leblanc Contrabass clarinet model 340 paperclip for sale

Ricardo QueroumClarone

Unboxing a Leblanc 340 Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet!

Jared De Leon

Used LeBlanc model 340 Contra Bass Clarinet BBb

Wichita Band Instrument Co

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Leblanc 340 "Paperclip".

Build quality

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Avoid Vito/Leblanc plastic contras due to mechanical issues and poor case design; Bundy is a better alternative.
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Feedback highlights that the key work on the Selmer model is considered too soft, affecting its durability and reliability.
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Features and functionality

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The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" model offers an extended range and is more beginner-friendly, eliminating the need for a stool.
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The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" offers a dedicated tone hole for the throat Bb, improving its intonation compared to other models.
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While the Selmer offers a richer tone, owners find its intonation, particularly in the lower registers, to be problematic, impacting overall performance.
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Leblanc also produced a contrabass clarinet reaching a lower range to low C, beyond the standard low D of the 340 model.
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Mods and upgrades

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Recommended setup includes a Rovner ligature and either a Legere 2.5 or a Vandoren 3 reed for better performance.
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User experience

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Transitioning from bass clarinet to contrabass is manageable, but the higher register requires significant practice for quality sound.
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Owners report that the Leblanc 340 produces a focused, clear sound with a metallic quality, likened to a Tuba, distinguishing it from typical clarinet tones.
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Use cases and applications

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Ideal for expanding the range of clarinet sections in bands, especially when no deeper instruments are available beyond trombones.
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Comparisons

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The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" is noted for being more compact and lightweight compared to the Selmer Paris model 41, which some find cumbersome.
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The Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" is compared to the Leblanc 350, a rarer contra alto paperclip in EEb, usually priced around $3,500.
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Current Selmer designs favor a straight body with a fixed-peg, unlike the paperclip style, which some users prefer for its distinctive aesthetics.
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Value and pricing

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Vintage Leblanc 340 "Paperclip" models in good condition can fetch about $4,500 for the BBb version.
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The scarcity of Leblanc 350 models is noted, with fewer recent sales, highlighting their potential collector value.
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Artist usage

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Wenzl McGowen

Composer

Moon Hooch

Verified via Facebook

Described and visible in this October 18, 2019 Facebook post by Meridian Winds.

Me, I worked on Wenzel’s very vintage paperclip Leblanc Contra Bass clarinet this afternoon. It is serial # 225. I have worked on these Contra’s of all vintages and it’s very interesting to see the changes that were made in the mechanisms through the many years that they were made in France. The earliest one of these that I have worked on had 2 register keys like an oboe or pre-1900 saxophone.