Best A Clarinets (Boehm) for Beginner 2026
So, you're diving into the world of A Clarinets - awesome choice! It's a surprisingly versatile instrument, but picking your first one can be overwhelming. Forget the glossy marketing; we're here to break down what a beginner really needs in an A Clarinet, focusing on playability and avoiding those frustrating early-player pitfalls. Let's get you making music, not fighting your horn.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon RC A-Clarinet 17/6
Professional Performance
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Key Feature:
The RC 17/6 is a fantastic step-up clarinet, offering a professional feel and sound without the extreme cost of the top-tier models. It's beautifully crafted with grenadilla wood, delivering a warm, resonant tone ideal for students and advancing players who want a reliable and expressive instrument.
PROS
- • Grenadilla body provides exceptional warmth and projection.
- • 17 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility.
- • Silver-plated mechanism ensures smooth, responsive action.
- • New bell design contributes to a richer, more focused tone.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • Lack of mouthpiece limits immediate playability; requires separate purchase.
- • Can feel slightly heavy for younger or smaller-statured players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 335784
$4,068
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-13 A-Clarinet 17/6
Chamber Music
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Key Feature:
The E-13 is a fantastic step-up clarinet, offering a professional feel and sound without the absolute top-tier price tag. The grenadilla body provides a lovely warmth, and the keywork is reliable and responsive—ideal for serious students and advancing players looking for a clarinet that will last.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood body delivers rich, warm tonal character
- • Silver-plated keys offer responsive action and durability
- • 17 keys/6 rings provide excellent intonation and versatility
- • Solid build quality; Buffet’s reputation for longevity is well-earned
CONS
- • Can feel a little heavy for younger or smaller players
- • The included mouthpiece is decent, but an upgrade is often desired
- • Higher price point makes it a premium investment
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 213894
$2,155
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Divine A-Clarinet 19/6
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
The Divine 19/6 is a serious instrument for the advanced player or seasoned professional. Buffet has really dialed in the response and projection with the new tenon technology and wood selection—it’s a beautifully balanced clarinet with a rich, singing tone that’s ideal for solo work or orchestral playing. Expect a level of refinement and playability you won’t find in lesser models.
PROS
- • Hand-selected grenadilla wood yields a remarkably warm, complex, and resonant tone.
- • The Gore-Tex and cork tenon combination minimizes air leaks and enhances response.
- • 19 keys and 6 rings offer exceptional technical agility and a refined feel.
- • Eb lever and low F# correction key expand playing range and versatility significantly.
CONS
- • The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible for many student or intermediate players.
- • Grenadilla wood, while beautiful, is susceptible to humidity changes requiring careful maintenance.
- • Lacks a mouthpiece, forcing the buyer to invest in a compatible, high-quality option.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 335787
$8,524
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon Tradition A-Clarinet 19/6
Solo Repertoire
Classical Orchestra
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
The Tradition 19/6 is a beautifully crafted clarinet offering a warm, focused tone – a real step up for serious students and professionals. Its construction and keywork are top-notch, and the inclusion of two barrels allows for subtle intonation adjustments to suit different playing environments. This clarinet excels in classical and orchestral settings where a refined, traditional sound is paramount.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood tone, rich and complex.
- • Robust silver-plated mechanism ensures reliable action.
- • GT pads offer excellent resonance and responsiveness.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning intonation.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most players.
- • Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- • The cylindrical bore favors a darker tone, limiting bright timbral options.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 384445
$6,598
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-11 A-Clarinet 17/6
Solo Repertoire
A Major Keys
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
The E-11 is a fantastic step-up clarinet, offering a genuine wood body tone without the premium price tag of the higher-end models. It's a solid choice for serious students and advancing players who want a reliable, responsive instrument with a beautiful sound. The keywork feels excellent, and it's a joy to play.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
- • Valentino pads ensure airtightness and reliable performance over time.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings allow for extended range and comfortable fingering.
CONS
- • Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to cracking with extreme humidity changes.
- • The silver-plated keys require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The instrument's weight may be tiring for younger or smaller players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 195734
$1,833
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige A-Clar 18/6 - NEW
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
The RC Prestige 18/6 is a serious step up for the advanced clarinetist. Its projection and clarity are outstanding, and the included barrels offer a surprising level of tonal customization. This is a superb instrument for professionals and dedicated students seeking a refined, expressive sound – it's a workhorse that will last a lifetime.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood tone – rich, complex, and responsive.
- • Polycylindrical bore provides a remarkably even scale across registers.
- • Silver-plated keys offer a smooth, precise action with minimal resistance.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning intonation and tonal color.
CONS
- • The natural finish requires diligent care to prevent cracking or warping.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most players.
- • The heavier build may fatigue some players during extended performance.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 557536
$6,158
#7
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Thomann CL-18A A-Clarinet Boehm
by
Thomann
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Solo Repertoire
Key Feature:
The Thomann CL-18A is a surprisingly capable student or intermediate clarinet, offering a solid grenadilla wood body and a well-adjusted mechanism at a very reasonable price point. It's a great option for students building their skills or players looking for a reliable, affordable practice instrument – just plan on upgrading the mouthpiece down the line for a more refined sound.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, resonant tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable response.
- • Eb lever expands range and facilitates complex passages.
- • Includes accessories like barrels and a polishing cloth for immediate playability.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with drastic humidity changes.
- • The included mouthpiece is likely a basic model; an upgrade is recommended.
- • While well-checked, Thomann's QC isn’t quite Yamaha or Selmer level.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 382793
$934
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Thomann CL-17A A- Clarinet Boehm
by
Thomann
Classical Orchestra
Symphony
Chamber Music
Key Feature:
The Thomann CL-17A is a surprisingly solid option for intermediate students or players on a budget. The grenadilla body gives it a pleasing, full sound, and the included accessories are a nice touch. It’s a good starting point for someone looking to move beyond a basic plastic clarinet and experience a more traditional instrument.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of higher-end clarinets.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and responsiveness, minimizing stickiness.
- • Includes multiple barrels for adjusting intonation to suit different playing environments.
- • Thorough master workshop setup ensures a playable and reliable instrument right out of the box.
CONS
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to cracking with extreme humidity changes.
- • The included mouthpiece is likely a decent student model, upgradeable for enhanced tone.
- • While well-made, the overall construction might not match the precision of a Yamaha or Buffet.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 255287
$878
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Tosca A-Clarinet 19/6
Symphony
Professional Performance
Chamber Music
Key Feature:
The Tosca 19/6 is a seriously refined clarinet—it's got that classic Buffet warmth but with modern conveniences like the Low-F and Eb lever. This is a fantastic step-up instrument for intermediate to advanced players who demand a professional-grade sound and feel, and who are committed to the Boehm system.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers exceptional warmth and projection.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and responsiveness.
- • Low-F mechanism expands range and versatility for advanced players.
- • Eb lever enhances intonation and facilitates complex passages.
CONS
- • The all-grenadilla construction makes it relatively heavy for extended playing.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many musicians.
- • The included mouthpiece may not suit every player's preference.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 188367
$8,084
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Légende A-Clarinet 19/6
A Major Keys
Classical Orchestra
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
The Légende is a serious step up in A-clarinet performance—it’s got that classic Buffet warmth and projection, but with modern improvements like the GT pads. This clarinet is perfect for advanced students and professionals who demand a reliable, expressive instrument for orchestral and solo work, and are prepared for the upkeep of a high-quality woodwind.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a rich, warm, and complex tonal palette.
- • 19 keys and 6 rings offer exceptional technical agility and responsiveness.
- • GT-pad combination ensures consistent intonation and minimizes pad leaks.
- • Buffet’s cylindrical bore provides a focused, powerful, and reliable projection.
CONS
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many aspiring players.
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- • The weight can be a factor for younger or smaller-handed players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 420523
$8,138
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon RC A-Clarinet 18/6
Chamber Music
A Major Keys
Symphony
Key Feature:
The Buffet Crampon RC 18/6 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and advancing players. Its robust build, improved keywork, and refined tone offer a professional feel without the top-tier price tag of the Legacy models. It’s a workhorse instrument built to last and deliver a consistent, reliable performance for years to come.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides rich, warm tonal color.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth, responsive action and durability.
- • 18 keys/6 rings enhance technical capabilities and intonation.
- • New cup design improves projection and overall sound quality.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • Requires a skilled player to truly unlock its potential.
- • Grenadilla wood is susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 335785
$4,508
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Gala A-Clarinet 18/6
Classical Orchestra
Professional Performance
A Major Keys
Key Feature:
The Gala 18/6 is a fantastic choice for serious intermediate to advanced players looking for a professional-grade clarinet without the top-tier price tag. It provides a remarkably consistent and pleasing tone, and the shared bore design gives it a familiar feel for those upgrading from student models. It's a workhorse instrument that will serve you well for years.
PROS
- • Grenadilla body delivers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- • Shared bore with inTraditionin/inLégendein models offers excellent projection.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and reliable response.
- • Leaf screw design enhances key stability and intonation accuracy.
CONS
- • The polycylindrical bore might lack the extreme flexibility of a cylindrical design for advanced players.
- • The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • Being a mid-range Buffet, it doesn't have *all* the refinements of the higher-end models.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 503351
$3,464
How to Choose the Best A Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Playability
This is king. A clarinet that's stiff or has a weird action will kill your progress. We're looking for a comfortable neck profile and a responsive action that allows for decent articulation without feeling like you're wrestling the horn.
2
Intonation
A clarinet that's consistently out of tune is a nightmare. Beginners don't have the ear or experience to compensate, so stable intonation across the range is critical. Even slight intonation issues can throw off your ear and make learning harder.
3
Durability
Let's be real, a student clarinet is going to get knocked around. We want something that can handle the bumps and scrapes of a gig bag and a less-than-gentle handling. Plastic bodies are generally more forgiving than wood in this regard.
4
Tone Quality (Beginner-Friendly)
You don't need a dark, smoky tone right away. A bright, clear sound is easier to control and project, especially in ensemble settings. Avoid anything that sounds muffled or has a weird, honky quality - that's a sign of poor construction.
5
Key Mechanism & Response
A well-designed key mechanism allows for easier transitions between notes and a cleaner overall sound. Beginners need a horn that responds evenly across the range without requiring excessive breath support or awkward fingerings.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the cheapest option - those often cut corners on intonation and build quality. A step-up model from a reputable brand (Yamaha, Buffet, Jupiter) will pay off in the long run. Watch out for clarinets with overly complicated key mechanisms; they're not helpful for beginners. Spending a bit more on a horn that's easy to play will make learning far more enjoyable and ultimately accelerate your progress.
Our Methodology
We've put these clarinets through the wringer - not just looking at spec sheets, but actually playing them. We've done A/B comparisons against each other, recorded them in a basic home studio setup, and even subjected them to a rehearsal environment to see how they hold up under pressure. Our goal isn't to find 'the best' in an absolute sense, but to identify the most approachable and rewarding options for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boehm is the standard now for A clarinets. German system clarinets have a different key layout and are much less common. Stick with Boehm - it's what you'll find most instructors use and what's readily available.
For a beginner, plastic (ABS resin) is the way to go. It's more durable, less maintenance, and more affordable. Wood clarinets require more care and are susceptible to cracking, especially in dry climates.
Simply put, it's how much force you need to press down on the keys. A good action feels light and responsive, allowing for clean articulation. A heavy action makes the horn feel sluggish and tiring to play.
Hugely important. If a clarinet is consistently out of tune, it will be frustrating and hinder your ear training. Even slight intonation problems can be difficult to correct later on.
That could be a number of things, but often it's a leak in the pads. It's a common issue, especially on student models. A technician can fix it, but it's something to be aware of.
