AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bassoons for Professional 2026
The top pick is Amati ABN 36 C Contrabassoon ($22,252). Guntram Wolf Bassoon S 2000 gives you the most for the money at $8,454. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 12, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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$22,252 now$22,252€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$22,029 now$22,029€19,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.9 kg
You get a bassoon with a body of long-seasoned sycamore maple, cut on CNC machines for accurate repeats. The keys are silvered, the springs and screws are stainless steel, and the finger holes have rubber sleeves. It comes with a bag and a nickel-silver silvered neck, so it suits you if you want a complete instrument with a lot of key work and hardware built to last.
Pros
- Body made of long-seasoned sycamore maple from slowly growing layers
- Body is cut on CNC machines for high pass and repeat accuracy
- Wing and first hole are filled, making them fully moisture-resistant
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,454 now$8,454€7,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
If you have small hands, this bassoon is worth a look. Its keys are extended for both little fingers, and it has a large key guard and a balance holder to help you hold it steady. It comes with a gig bag, two necks, and a shoulder strap, so you have what you need to get started and take it to lessons or rehearsals.
Pros
- Based on the 5016 model with a flat flap for the left ring finger
- All keys extended for both little fingers, particularly suitable for small hands
- Silver-plated key system with a large key guard and a balance holder
Cons
- German system layout, which differs from other bassoon key systems
46AudioFu
Index↓ 10.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$9,456 · Aug 17$8,454 now$8,454€7,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a bassoon made from long-seasoned sycamore maple, with a special dipping treatment on the wood and a silk matte lacquer finish. Its mechanics run on a protected, wear-free bearing system, so you won't need to readjust them, and it comes with a bag and two necks. This one suits you if you want a carefully built instrument with a lot of accessories included.
Pros
- Made from long-seasoned sycamore maple from slow-growing locations
- Specially selected woods give the instrument its individual sound characteristics
- Mechanics use a protected wear-free LCBearing system with no readjustment needed
Cons
- Weighs approximately 3 kg, which is heavy to carry and hold for long sessions
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$11,960 now$11,960€10,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a standard-size German system bassoon made from sycamore maple, with 25 keys, a High D key, and two S-bends. It comes with a case and accessories and is made in Germany. It suits you if you are a student or player who wants an instrument with room to grow, since it has a whisper key lock, a second ring-finger B key, and a C# trill key.
Pros
- Sycamore maple wood body
- 25 keys including a High D key
- Silver-plated mechanisms
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,899 now$8,899€7,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a professional bassoon made in Germany, with a sycamore maple body, 25 keys and two handmade necks. It suits a serious player who wants a well-built instrument with a sturdy case that has a backpack carry. Because it is a professional model with a high price, it is a big step if you are just starting out.
Pros
- Specially selected sycamore maple wood body
- 25 keys with 4 rollers and a High D key
- Permanently closed piano mechanisms with high-gloss, silver-plated nickel mechanisms
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$14,408 now$14,408€12,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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$14,908 now$14,908€13,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The 1357 is a seriously well-built bassoon, offering a warm, resonant tone that’s fantastic for orchestral playing and solo work. It’s a step up for intermediate to advanced players who want a reliable, high-quality instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag. The included bows are a nice bonus, making it a complete package.
Pros
- Bosnian sycamore maple provides exceptional tonal warmth and projection
- High-gloss silver-plating ensures smooth key action and durability
- Comprehensive keywork (24 keys, 5 rings) offers advanced technical capabilities
Cons
- The instrument’s weight, typical of professional bassoons, can be tiring for younger players
- Premium-priced, representing a substantial investment for many musicians
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,400 now$8,400€7,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a limited special edition bassoon made in Germany. It has a body of aged grenadilla wood and selected sycamore maple, 22 keys including a high D key, and a silver-plated mechanism. If you want a special bassoon that comes with a sturdy gig bag and backpack straps for easy carrying, this one is worth a look.
Pros
- Body made of aged grenadilla wood, a classic bassoon material
- Body also uses selected sycamore maple for added build variety
- Features 22 keys, including a high D key for extra range
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,009 now$8,009€7,198 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$7,787€6,998$7,787€6,998Check ↗
- 12
Guntram Wolf Fg 4 Plus Quart BassoonGuntram Wolf · 2 finishes64Stable$4,560€4,098$4,560€4,098Check ↗
- 13
Oscar Adler & Co. 1357/125 Bassoon AnniversaryOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$7,675€6,898$7,675€6,898Check ↗
- 14
Oscar Adler & Co. 1350 P Bassoon Children ModelOscar Adler & Co.40Stable$5,952€5,349$5,952€5,349Check ↗
- 15
Amati ABN 41 IV BassoonAmati38Stable$5,952€5,349$5,952€5,349Check ↗
- 16
Guntram Wolf Fg 5 Quint-BassoonGuntram Wolf · 2 finishes64Stable$4,061€3,650$4,061€3,650Check ↗
- 17
Thomann BS-100 Children BassoonThomann36Stable$2,223€1,998$2,223€1,998Check ↗
Bassoons by the numbers
Measured across all 19 models we track, not a sample.
Median $8,009 — 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
A professional bassoon needs immediate, clear response across the entire range. Sloppy articulation in the low register is a dealbreaker - you need that low-end thump to anchor the ensemble, but it can't be muddy. The ability to execute rapid passages cleanly is vital.
Tonal Complexity
Forget a one-dimensional tone. We're talking about a bassoon that offers a range of colors, from a dark, woody warmth to a more focused, almost reedy character. The ability to manipulate the tone with subtle embouchure adjustments is paramount; you need headroom to shape your sound.
Keywork Ergonomics & Reliability
Professional gigs aren't the place to be wrestling with sticky keys or a poorly designed layout. Key placement needs to be intuitive, the action consistent, and the mechanism robust enough to handle constant use. A frustrating keywork will impact your performance.
Wood Quality & Stability
The type of wood (Grenadilla being the gold standard) and its seasoning are crucial. A bassoon needs to be stable - minimal cracking, consistent intonation across temperature and humidity changes. This directly impacts the sustain and overall tonal quality. Cheap wood just won't hold up.
Intonation & Adjustment
A professional bassoon shouldn't require constant tweaking. While adjustments are always necessary, a well-made instrument should be reasonably close to perfect right out of the case, and respond predictably to adjustments. Consistent intonation across the range is non-negotiable.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're a serious bassoonist. You're past the student models and you're looking for something that'll actually respond to the nuances of your playing and hold up under gigging pressure. Let's be honest, a bassoon isn't just an instrument, it's a commitment - a hefty one. This isn't about finding something 'nice sounding'; it's about finding a tool that lets you shape your tone and cut through a full orchestra or a loud rock band without choking out.
Don't be swayed by marketing hype. A bassoon is a long-term investment, so buy used from a reputable dealer who specializes in wind instruments. A well-maintained older model from a respected maker (Moores, Schreiber, Heckel) often represents better value than a brand-new, less-established instrument.
Be prepared to spend money on a good reed setup - it's the most critical factor in your tone, and cheap reeds will expose any shortcomings in the instrument.
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 'professional' and 'advanced student' bassoon?
The construction quality, wood type, and keywork complexity are vastly different. A pro bassoon offers a far wider tonal palette and better response, while an advanced student model will still be limiting your potential.
Are Heckel bassoons really worth the price?
They're the benchmark for a reason. The tonal consistency, responsiveness, and overall feel are exceptional, but they're an investment. Consider a used model to make it more accessible.
What about Moores bassoons? Are they a good alternative?
Moores are fantastic - often considered to have a slightly darker, more focused tone than Heckels. They're incredibly well-made and a popular choice among professionals, and often available at a lower price point.
How much should I expect to spend?
Realistically, you're looking at $4,000+ for a decent used professional bassoon. Expect to spend more for a Heckel or a newer model. Factor in the cost of reeds, a good case, and potential repairs.
Should I consider a hybrid bassoon (e.g., a wooden body with a synthetic neck)?
Hybrid models can offer some benefits in terms of stability and maintenance, but you'll generally sacrifice some tonal complexity and warmth. They're a decent option for gigging situations where you need something reliable, but a full wood bassoon will always offer the most expressive potential.
