Best A Clarinets (Boehm) for Professional 2026
Alright, so you're a pro clarinetist and you're looking to upgrade your Boehm A. That's a serious decision - a good A can be a real extension of your voice, but a bad one? Forget about it. We're not talking about student models here; we're diving into instruments that demand nuanced control, incredible projection, and a tone that can cut through a symphony or a smoky jazz club. Let's find you something that'll inspire your playing.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best a clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are Buffet Crampon Divine A-Clarinet 19/6 (top pick), Buffet Crampon RC Prestige A-Clar 18/6 - NEW for tighter budgets, and Buffet Crampon Tradition A-Clarinet 19/6 for pros — selected from 12 options across 2 brands, priced $877–$8,523, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
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.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 335787
$8,524
#2
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
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.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 557536
$6,158
#3
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
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.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 384445
$6,598
#4
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
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.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 420523
$8,138
#5
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
4/10
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 188367
$8,084
#6
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 335785
$4,508
#7
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 503351
$3,464
#8
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 335784
$4,068
#9
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
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
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 213894
$2,155
#10
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 255287
$878
#11
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 382793
$934
#12
⭐
2.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
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.
⭐
2.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 195734
$1,833
How to Choose the Best A Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Response & Articulation
A pro needs immediate, consistent response across the register, with clean articulation. Sloppy response leads to muddy passages and limits your expressive range - something you can't afford in a concerto or a tight ensemble. It's about that crisp, defined attack.
2
Tone Color & Projection
Forget a generic 'warm' tone. We're looking for tonal complexity - a core that's rich and full, but with enough brightness to cut through the mix without sounding brittle. Projection isn't just about volume; it's about carrying your voice clearly, even when buried in a dense arrangement.
3
Keywork Ergonomics & Action
Comfortable keywork is non-negotiable. A cramped or awkward action will slow you down and introduce unwanted tension, especially during those demanding passages. The feel should be intuitive, allowing for effortless technical facility.
4
Low-End Thump & High-End Sustain
A balanced frequency response is key. You need that solid low-end thump to anchor your sound, but also the sustain and clarity in the upper register to avoid a thin, reedy quality. It's a delicate balance.
5
Mechanical Stability & Intonation
Professional instruments need to hold their intonation under varying conditions (temperature, humidity, extended playing). Consistent mechanics are also vital - a clarinet that suddenly develops sticky keys mid-performance is a career killer.
Buying Guide
Don't be swayed by fancy finishes or marketing hype. Pay close attention to the neck profile - it's a huge factor in playability and intonation. Many cheaper pro models cut corners on bore design and keywork tolerances, resulting in a less responsive and more frustrating experience. Spending a little more on a well-maintained used instrument from a reputable maker is often a smarter move than buying a brand-new, budget-focused model.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 12 a clarinets (boehm) from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Professional models use higher-grade wood (or resin), have more precise keywork, a more refined bore design for better tone, and are built to tighter tolerances. Student models prioritize affordability over nuanced performance; the difference in response and tonal complexity is significant.
Generally, yes. Wood offers a warmth and complexity that resin struggles to replicate. However, wooden clarinets require more care - regular pad shaving, occasional re-corking, and humidity control are essential to maintain their performance. A neglected wooden clarinet will quickly deteriorate.
Silver is standard. Gold plating is primarily for aesthetics and perceived warmth - it's a luxury, not a performance upgrade. The metal itself has minimal impact on the sound; it's the mechanics and bore that matter most.
Several factors could be at play: register hole placement, the clarinet's bore design, or even your embouchure. It's worth having the instrument checked by a qualified technician, and consider getting a second opinion on your playing technique.
'Voicing' refers to the precise shaping and adjustment of the clarinet's internal baffles and tone hole placement. It's a subtle but crucial process that significantly impacts the instrument's tonal color and response. It's something a skilled repair tech can adjust to tailor the clarinet to your playing style.
