AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bassoons 2026
The top pick is Guntram Wolf Fg 5 Quint-Bassoon ($4,090). Schreiber WS5031-2N-0 Bassoon leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
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Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight0.95 kg
The Guntram Wolf Fg 5 Quint is a well-made instrument, offering a higher register and easier fingering for younger players or those seeking a brighter bassoon tone. Its compact size and thoughtful design make it a great starting point, though seasoned professionals might find its range limited.
Pros
- Quint tuning offers a unique, brighter tonal color.
- Sycamore maple body provides excellent resonance and warmth.
- Silver-plated mechanisms ensure smooth, responsive action.
Cons
- Quint bassoons are less versatile for orchestral repertoire.
- Smaller size may feel cramped for larger adult players.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,090 now$4,090€3,650 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.2 kg
This is a compact bassoon made for kids, not grown-ups. It plays a fourth higher than the normal instrument and uses silver keys. The sycamore body has a rubber lining for better protection. It comes with a case and a bow ready to go.
Pros
- Designed specifically for young children to play
- Sounds a fourth higher than standard bassoons
- Modern key system ensures easy fingerings
Cons
- Small size makes it unsuitable for adults
- No internal microphone or pickup mentioned
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,324 now$4,324€3,859 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.9 kg
The Guntram Wolf S 2000 is a seriously refined instrument, built for the professional or advanced student who demands exceptional intonation and a responsive, warm tone. The meticulous construction and adaptable mechanics make it a joy to play across a wide range of repertoire – it's a workhorse bassoon built to last.
Pros
- Sycamore maple provides exceptional warmth and resonance.
- CNC manufacturing ensures precise intonation and repeatability.
- Frosted resin finish offers robust protection against wear and tear.
Cons
- The robust finish may feel less 'traditional' to some players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,514 now$8,514€7,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The S 2000 Plus is a serious instrument for the seasoned bassoonist who demands top-tier response and a refined, complex tone. Guntram Wolf's attention to detail – from the wood selection to the innovative LCBearing system – truly elevates the playing experience; it’s an investment in a lifetime of musicality.
Pros
- Sycamore maple provides exceptional resonance and tonal complexity.
- LCBearing-System eliminates rattles and maintenance, a significant upgrade.
- 3D-adjustable piano lid caters to diverse player preferences and neck profiles.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a substantial investment for most players.
- The specialized wood treatment may require specific humidity conditions.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$12,044 now$12,044€10,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber WS5013-2-0 is a thoughtfully designed bassoon, perfect for younger players or those with smaller hands who want a full-sized instrument. It avoids the compromises often found in student models, offering a robust sound and a comfortable playing experience, setting them up for long-term success.
Pros
- Mountain maple body provides excellent tonal resonance and projection.
- Child-friendly key mechanism minimizes hand strain, ideal for younger players.
- Standard bore maintains full tonal range, avoiding compromises for smaller hands.
Cons
- The silvered mechanism will require periodic polishing to prevent tarnish.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for students or beginners.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,841 now$7,841€6,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The WS5010-2-0GB is a serious instrument for the advanced student or professional. The aged grenadilla gives it a rich, complex tone that’s hard to beat, and the German system keywork is precise and responsive—a fantastic choice for players seeking top-tier performance and a beautiful, traditional sound.
Pros
- Aged grenadilla offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- Sycamore maple contributes to responsive keywork and vibration.
- Silver-plated mechanism ensures smooth, reliable action for years.
Cons
- Aged grenadilla bassoons command a premium-priced investment.
- The weight, typical of grenadilla instruments, can be tiring for younger players.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,065 now$8,065€7,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber WS5016-2-0 is a solid choice for serious intermediate to advanced bassoonists looking for a reliable, well-sounding instrument. It's built with quality materials like sycamore maple and silver-plated keys, offering a great balance of responsiveness and tonal depth. This is a workhorse bassoon designed to support years of musical development.
Pros
- Sycamore maple provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Whisper key lock improves response and intonation accuracy.
- Standard key system offers familiarity for established bassoonists.
Cons
- High-end price point makes it a significant investment.
- Sycamore maple can be susceptible to humidity changes requiring careful maintenance.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,962 now$8,962€7,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber WS5017-2-0 is a beautifully crafted instrument, clearly designed for serious students and professionals. The plateau key and extended mechanics offer a significant upgrade for players seeking greater control and a more comfortable playing experience, especially those with smaller hands. It’s a premium-priced bassoon, but delivers a quality sound and feel that justifies the investment.
Pros
- Sycamore maple provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Extended little finger mechanics enhance agility and reach.
- Lengthened keys improve accuracy and a more comfortable feel.
Cons
- The silver-plated mechanism requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
- Sycamore maple can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$9,522 now$9,522€8,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber WS5031-2N-0 is a seriously refined instrument, built for the seasoned professional or advanced student seeking a responsive and tonally rich bassoon. The ergonomic design and included bocals make it remarkably versatile, and the German craftsmanship shines through in every detail. It’s a workhorse that’ll serve a player incredibly well for years.
Pros
- Exceptional sycamore maple provides rich, complex tonal color.
- Silver-plated nickel mechanisms offer incredibly smooth, responsive action.
- Dual handmade bocals (KER1 & 2) offer tonal flexibility.
Cons
- The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing during extended performances.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$14,509 now$14,509€12,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Oscar Adler & Co. 1350 P Bassoon Children Model
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
This Oscar Adler 1350 P is a thoughtfully designed student bassoon, prioritizing ease of play and a good sound. It’s perfect for younger players or those new to the instrument, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming them with complexity. The build quality is excellent, ensuring it will last through years of learning.
Pros
- Bosnian sycamore maple body offers exceptional tonal warmth and resonance
- Recessed grip and shortened spacing eases hand strain for younger players
- Plexi resonator ensures remarkably clean intonation across the range
Cons
- The limited key count restricts advanced repertoire possibilities
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for beginner students
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,994 now$5,994€5,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 17 bassoons
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Oscar Adler & Co. 1357/125 Bassoon AnniversaryOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$7,729€6,898$7,729€6,898Check ↗
- 12
Oscar Adler & Co. 1357 Bassoon Standard ModelOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$8,459€7,549$8,459€7,549Check ↗
- 13
Oscar Adler & Co. 1361 Bassoon Orchestra ModelOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$15,012€13,398$15,012€13,398Check ↗
- 14
Amati ABN 41 IV BassoonAmati38Stable$5,994€5,349$5,994€5,349Check ↗
- 15
Amati ABN 36 C ContrabassoonAmati38Stable$22,408€19,998$22,408€19,998Check ↗
- 16
Thomann BS-100 Children BassoonThomann36Stable$2,239€1,998$2,239€1,998Check ↗
- 17
Gebrüder Mönnig 214 Topas BassoonGebrüder Mönnig36Stable$22,184€19,798$22,184€19,798Check ↗
Bassoons by the numbers
Measured across all 19 models we track, not a sample.
Median $8,065 — half of all bassoons here cost less.
median of 5 models · 0.95 kg–1.2 kg
How to choose the best bassoons
Wood Type
This is the big one. Maple is standard, but the grain density and figure dramatically impact tone. Tightly grained maple generally gives a darker, more focused sound - good for blending. Looser grain can offer more projection, but can also be prone to cracking if not properly cared for. It's a trade-off.
Keywork & Action
A smooth, responsive keywork is essential. Sloppy action leads to sloppy articulation and makes fast passages a nightmare. Look for consistent spacing between keys and a comfortable feel - this directly impacts your control and speed. Cheap instruments often have sloppy keywork that'll frustrate you quickly.
Tone & Projection
It's not just about "good tone." A bassoon's tone needs to have warmth, a solid low-end thump, and enough projection to be heard without sounding harsh. A well-made bassoon will have a rich, complex sound that doesn't collapse under dynamic pressure. Listen for that 'cut' in the midrange-it's what helps it speak.
Mechanical Stability
Bassoons are complex instruments. Check for consistent intonation across the range, and look for any signs of warping or cracking, especially around the tenon joints. These are areas prone to damage, and repairs can be expensive. A poorly constructed bassoon will go out of tune easily and require constant adjustments.
Neck Profile & Bore Design
The neck significantly impacts the instrument's response and overall character. A well-designed neck will allow for easy access to the upper register and contribute to a more even tonal balance. Bore design-the shape of the instrument's interior-plays a huge role in the instrument's resonance and sustain.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at a bassoon. It's a beast of an instrument, and choosing the right one can make or break your sound - especially if you're trying to cut through a brass section or lay down a solid foundation for a chamber ensemble. This isn't like picking a Fender Strat; there's a lot more nuance, a lot more wood, and a lot more potential for headaches if you don't know what you're looking for. Let's break down what matters, because a cheap bassoon can sound awful and a great one? It's a revelation.
Don't chase the shiny finish or the lowest price tag. A student-level bassoon can be fine to start with, but be prepared to upgrade sooner than later if you're serious. Pay attention to the keywork - it's the most common failure point.
Renting before buying is a smart move; it lets you try before committing to a significant investment, and a reputable rental program will handle maintenance and repairs.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 19 bassoons from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a German and a French bassoon?
German bassoons tend to have a more robust, darker tone with more projection. French bassoons are often brighter, more agile, and favored for solo work, but can be less powerful in a large ensemble.
How much should I spend on a bassoon?
A decent student model starts around $2,500. Professional-level instruments can easily exceed $10,000, and vintage instruments can command even higher prices. Consider renting initially to avoid a large upfront investment.
What about bassoon reeds? Are they a big deal?
Absolutely! Reeds are everything. A bad reed can make a great bassoon sound terrible. Experiment with different reed strengths and manufacturers to find what works best for your embouchure and playing style.
My bassoon is cracking - what should I do?
Stop playing it immediately! Cracks, especially around the tenon joints, are serious and require professional repair. Ignoring them will only make the problem worse and more expensive to fix.
Can I repair a bassoon myself?
Unless you're a skilled woodwind repair technician, absolutely not. Bassoons are complex instruments, and improper repairs can cause further damage. Leave it to the pros.
