AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bassoons for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Oscar Adler & Co. 1361 Bassoon Orchestra Model ($15,012). Guntram Wolf Fg 5 Quint-Bassoon gives you the most for the money at $4,090. Amati ABN 36 C Contrabassoon leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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This Oscar Adler 1361 is a serious instrument built for the dedicated orchestral player. The maple body delivers a rich, focused tone that really cuts through an ensemble, and the comprehensive keywork makes complex passages far more manageable. It’s an investment that pays off in performance and longevity.
Pros
- Bosnian flamed maple body provides exceptional tonal warmth and resonance
- High-gloss silver-plated keys offer smooth, responsive action and durability
- Extensive keywork, including High E and Double Eb, expands playing range and versatility
Cons
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for most players
- The extended keywork might present a learning curve for less experienced players
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$15,012 now$15,012€13,398 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 ↗ -
The Amati ABN 36 C is a serious contender for seasoned professionals needing exceptional low range and responsiveness. Its build quality is superb, and the keywork feels refined – a real workhorse for orchestral and solo performance. This is an instrument built for the dedicated contrabassoonist focused on achieving maximum tonal depth.
Pros
- Exceptional low-end extension reaching sub-contra Bb, a significant advantage.
- The matte lacquered maple provides a warm, resonant tone and visual appeal.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
Cons
- The sheer size and weight will demand significant physical strength and stamina.
- Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for many aspiring contrabassoonists.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$22,408 now$22,408€19,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a solid workhorse bassoon for players who want reliable performance without extra bells and whistles. The flamed maple body sounds warm and the extra strong plating stands up to heavy use. It suits intermediate players and pros who need a dependable instrument for their daily repertoire.
Pros
- Long seasoned flamed maple body ensures warm resonance
- Extra strong high-gloss silver-plating resists daily wear
- Fine adjustment screws allow precise key tuning
Cons
- Basic model lacks some high-end features
- No specific wood grain or tone color described
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$22,184 now$22,184€19,798 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 ↗ -
- 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 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 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗
All 17 bassoons
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Schreiber WS5013-2-0 BassoonSchreiber41Stable$7,841€6,998$7,841€6,998Check ↗
- 12
Schreiber WS5010-2-0GB BassoonSchreiber41Stable$8,065€7,198$8,065€7,198Check ↗
- 13
Oscar Adler & Co. 1350 P Bassoon Children ModelOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$5,994€5,349$5,994€5,349Check ↗
- 14
Oscar Adler & Co. 1357/125 Bassoon AnniversaryOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$7,729€6,898$7,729€6,898Check ↗
- 15
Oscar Adler & Co. 1357 Bassoon Standard ModelOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$8,459€7,549$8,459€7,549Check ↗
- 16
Amati ABN 41 IV BassoonAmati38Stable$5,994€5,349$5,994€5,349Check ↗
- 17
Thomann BS-100 Children BassoonThomann36Stable$2,239€1,998$2,239€1,998Check ↗
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
Response & Articulation
Advanced players need immediate, nuanced response. A sluggish horn will bury you in an orchestra or make solo passages feel labored. We're looking for a horn that sings effortlessly, with clean articulation across the range, not just a general 'good sound'.
Tonal Complexity
Forget a one-dimensional tone. We want a bassoon with richness and depth, capable of producing everything from a warm, woody low register to a focused, almost vocal upper register. The ability to shape the tone - to coax out that fat midrange honk or a brighter, more cutting edge - is vital.
Keywork Ergonomics & Action
Playing complex passages demands flawless keywork. Sloppy action, awkward lever placement, or a neck profile that fights your embouchure will slow you down and introduce unwanted errors. It's about feeling like the horn is an extension of your own body.
Dynamic Headroom
A pro-level bassoon needs to handle a huge dynamic range - from whisper-quiet passages to full-throttle orchestral swells. Limited headroom will result in a muddy, compressed sound when pushed, and that's no good for any serious gig.
Intonation Stability
Let's be honest, student horns are often all over the place. Advanced players demand consistent intonation across the entire range, even when playing at different dynamic levels. Subtle adjustments are expected, but a horn that requires constant tweaking is a pain.
Buying guide
Alright, so you've been wrestling with a student bassoon and you're finally ready to step up your game. It's a big jump - the nuances you've been glossing over start to matter. We're talking about instruments that respond to your breath with a level of detail that'll surprise you, and frankly, make your old horn feel like a toy. This isn't about finding something 'nice sounding'; it's about finding a tool that lets you really express what's in your head.
Don't chase the 'expensive' label. A pricier horn doesn't automatically equal better playability. Pay attention to the bore - it's the biggest factor in tone.
Used instruments are your friend - you can often find fantastic horns at significant discounts, but be prepared to have a tech check them over. The action is critical - don't be afraid to walk away if it feels off, even if the tone is beautiful.
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 French bassoon?
German horns generally have a darker, more powerful sound, favored in orchestral settings. French horns tend to be brighter and more agile, often preferred for solo work and chamber music. It's a tonal preference, not inherently about quality.
Should I consider a bocal upgrade?
Absolutely. The bocal dramatically affects response and tone color. A well-chosen bocal can make a surprisingly big difference, even on a decent horn. Experiment - different metal alloys and bore designs will have a noticeable impact.
How important is bore oil?
Essential. Wood expands and contracts with humidity, and bore oil helps maintain stability and prevent cracking. Neglecting it is a recipe for disaster. Regular maintenance is key.
I'm having trouble cutting through the mix - what can I do?
Beyond the horn itself, check your embouchure and reed. A brighter reed and a more focused airstream can make a world of difference. Sometimes it's about technique, sometimes it's about the horn, and sometimes it's a combination of both.
What's the deal with undercut tone holes?
Undercut tone holes are designed to create a more complex and responsive sound. They allow for a more gradual change in pitch and volume, resulting in a more even and controlled tone. They're common on higher-end instruments, but require a skilled player to fully exploit.
