Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Advanced 2026
So, you're past the beginner Bb clarinet struggles and looking to really dig in? It's not just about hitting the notes anymore - it's about nuance, projection, and having a horn that responds to the subtleties of your playing. The right Bb clarinet can unlock a whole new level of expression, but stepping up means understanding the details that separate a decent horn from one that'll truly sing. Let's talk about what advanced players really need.
Last updated: May 13, 2026 • Next update: May 20, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Students
For Band
For Orchestra
For Jazz
For All Genres
For General Performance
#1
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6
Band
General Performance
Students
Key Feature:
This RZmagoo is a seriously interesting clarinet – the hybrid construction genuinely delivers a warmer, more responsive sound than a traditional all-wood model. It’s designed for the seasoned professional seeking a unique tonal palette and enhanced playability, especially those who prioritize a rich, resonant core tone and appreciate innovative design.
PROS
- • Cocobolo wood provides exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- • Hybrid construction genuinely improves resonance and intonation stability.
- • RZ leather pads offer excellent sealing and responsiveness for years.
- • Innovative bore design facilitates easier articulation and a quicker response.
CONS
- • The cocobolo construction makes it susceptible to humidity and temperature changes.
- • Composite materials, while innovative, might affect long-term tonal evolution.
- • The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many aspiring professionals.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589365
$10,118
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Students
General Performance
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Andante is a solid choice for serious students and those stepping up from a basic student clarinet. The grenadilla body provides a noticeably richer sound than many plastic alternatives, and the extra keys improve playability. It’s a well-rounded package offering a good balance of quality and affordability.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of higher-end instruments.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer improved ergonomics and comfortable fingerings for varied playing.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright aesthetic, resisting tarnish better than raw nickel.
- • Included barrels allow for slight intonation adjustments to suit different climates and playing styles.
CONS
- • The student mouthpiece, while adequate, won't inspire advanced players to fully explore tonal possibilities.
- • Grenadilla wood, while beautiful, can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • The silver-plated finish, while durable, will eventually require polishing to maintain its appearance.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589350
$1,428
#3
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Students
Orchestra
Band
Key Feature:
This RZ clarinet is a solid choice for beginners or students on a budget. The ABS body makes it surprisingly robust, and the 'RZ bore' gives it a warmer tone than you'd typically expect from plastic. It’s a great entry point to the clarinet world, offering good value and a decent playing experience.
PROS
- • Durable ABS plastic resists damage, ideal for students.
- • RZ bore design convincingly emulates grenadilla's warmth.
- • Includes multiple barrels for tuning flexibility and experimentation.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and resist tarnish.
CONS
- • ABS plastic lacks the tonal complexity of wood clarinets.
- • Student mouthpiece is functional but will likely be upgraded soon.
- • Keywork, while smooth, may feel slightly less refined than higher-end models.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589348
$868
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mopane
Students
Orchestra
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Tosca Mopane is a truly exceptional clarinet, delivering a rich, resonant tone and enhanced technical capabilities thanks to the 19/6 key system. It’s a fantastic step up for serious intermediate to professional players seeking a unique voice and improved response—especially those who appreciate the warmth and character of Mopane wood.
PROS
- • Mopane wood offers exceptional warmth and projection.
- • 19/6 key system enhances technical agility and intonation.
- • GT-pads provide reliable, consistent performance and longevity.
- • Polycylindrical bore delivers a focused, responsive tone.
CONS
- • Mopane wood, while beautiful, can be more susceptible to humidity changes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • The complex keywork requires careful maintenance and occasional adjustment.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 569840
$8,304
#5
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Jazz
All Genres
Students
Key Feature:
The Capriccio is a seriously impressive clarinet – the grenadilla wood delivers a rich, focused tone, and the extra keys really improve the feel under your fingers. It's an excellent choice for advanced students and professionals seeking a high-quality, responsive instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag, though you'll want to be meticulous about keeping that finish clean.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla tone with surprising warmth and projection.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced ergonomics and technical agility.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and responsive feel.
- • Included barrels allow for subtle tuning adjustments and tonal flexibility.
CONS
- • The unstained finish shows every fingerprint and requires diligent care.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • While versatile, may lack the extreme low register depth of some top-tier models.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589359
$6,048
#6
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Band
General Performance
All Genres
Key Feature:
The RZ Allegro is a seriously capable clarinet, built with quality materials and a thoughtful keywork layout. It's a great step up for advanced students and gigging professionals who want a reliable, responsive instrument with a pleasing, focused tone. It’s a fantastic value for a clarinet of this caliber.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and comfortable fingering.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and responsiveness for years.
- • Includes two barrels for subtle intonation adjustments across registers.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • Professional-level clarinet requires dedicated practice and maintenance to realize its potential.
- • Lacks a mouthpiece, necessitating a separate, often premium, purchase.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589353
$3,738
#7
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 18/6 Gig Bag
Orchestra
Students
All Genres
Key Feature:
The E-13 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and professionals. It offers a noticeably richer tone and improved mechanics compared to entry-level models, without the extreme cost of a top-tier instrument. The 18/6 configuration provides a broader range of expression for more demanding repertoire.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and consistent responsiveness.
- • 18 keys and 6 rings provide enhanced intonation and versatility for advanced players.
- • The included gig bag offers excellent protection and convenient transport.
CONS
- • The grenadilla wood can be susceptible to temperature and humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The 18/6 configuration isn't ideal for beginners; it's geared towards experienced players.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616161
$2,067
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
All Genres
General Performance
Students
Key Feature:
The RZ Conservatory is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a well-built, responsive instrument. The grenadilla body delivers a pleasing warmth, and the extra keys make complex passages easier to navigate. It's a great value proposition, offering professional-level features without the truly premium price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer improved ergonomics and technical facility.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and responsiveness for years.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning pitch and response characteristics.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • Silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
- • The included case, while functional, may not offer the ultimate protection for touring professionals.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 589351
$2,034
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Gig Bag
General Performance
All Genres
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The E-13 is a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a classic Buffet sound without the premium price tag of their top-tier models. Its 17/6 configuration lends a slightly darker, richer tone, making it ideal for classical, jazz, and even some folk styles. The included gig bag is a nice touch, offering solid protection for your investment.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, focused, and resonant tonal quality.
- • Silver-plated keys provide a smooth, responsive action and excellent durability.
- • The 17-key, 6-ring design provides a slightly more traditional voicing than modern models.
- • Included gig bag offers reliable protection and convenient transport for the instrument.
CONS
- • The 17/6 configuration may feel slightly less flexible for advanced players.
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- • The silver plating necessitates occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616160
$1,891
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
Yamaha
Band
Orchestra
All Genres
Key Feature:
The YCL-450E-02 is a fantastic step-up clarinet – it nails the fundamentals. The grenadilla body gives it a lovely, focused tone that’s a real improvement over plastic models. It’s a solid choice for intermediate students or players looking for a reliable, well-rounded instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tonal color.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and durability.
- • Eb lever expands playing range and technical possibilities.
- • Well-built and reliable, consistent with Yamaha's reputation.
CONS
- • The included 4C mouthpiece is serviceable, but limits advanced tone shaping.
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity changes.
- • 18/6 key system may feel slightly cramped for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 601849
$1,208
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
Yamaha
Orchestra
General Performance
Students
Key Feature:
The YCL-450-02 is a solid, reliable student-intermediate clarinet. The grenadilla body delivers a surprisingly rich tone for its price point, and the keywork is well-built. This is an excellent choice for serious students and advancing players who want a dependable instrument without the premium price tag of Yamaha’s top-tier models.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood offers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and corrosion resistance.
- • 17 keys/6 rings enhance technical agility and intonation.
- • Yamaha 4C mouthpiece is a reliable starting point for developing tone.
CONS
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes.
- • The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing.
- • The 4C mouthpiece is adequate but may limit advanced players’ tonal exploration.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 601836
$1,176
#12
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb-Clarinet Mopane
All Genres
Orchestra
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Légende Mopane is a serious step up for the advanced clarinetist. The Mopane wood gives it a truly unique voice – warm, dark, and incredibly expressive. This is ideal for players seeking a refined, professional instrument capable of nuanced phrasing and exceptional projection.
PROS
- • Mopane wood offers a uniquely warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • Blue steel springs provide exceptional responsiveness and a quick, clean action.
- • GT/cork pad combination ensures optimal breath support and consistent intonation.
- • The included barrels allow for fine-tuning across a range of climates and performance needs.
CONS
- • The Mopane wood can be more susceptible to environmental changes than grenadilla.
- • The premium-priced point puts it out of reach for many student or intermediate players.
- • The cylindrical bore, while providing a focused tone, can limit versatility in extreme musical styles.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568309
$9,107
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6
General Performance
Band
All Genres
Key Feature:
This RZmagoo Bohema Hybrid is a fascinating blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern material science. The composite body creates a surprisingly mellow and responsive instrument, making it ideal for advanced students and professionals seeking a unique, easy-playing clarinet with a refined sound. It's a real departure from the norm, and the results are impressive.
PROS
- • Cocobolo/composite hybrid construction yields a remarkably warm, focused tone.
- • RZ 'MM progress 21' bore promotes effortless response and improved intonation.
- • Grenadilla tonehole inserts contribute to a refined, even timbre across the range.
- • Six rings and 18 keys offer a comfortable, customizable playing experience.
CONS
- • The composite material usage might be a concern for purists seeking all-wood instruments.
- • Cocobolo wood is prone to cracking with inconsistent humidity, requiring diligent care.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589364
$7,258
#14
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
General Performance
Orchestra
Students
Key Feature:
The RZ Conservatory is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a well-built, responsive Bb clarinet. The grenadilla body delivers a lovely tone, and the extra keys/rings provide comfortable access to the higher register. It's a great balance of quality and playability without the premium price tag of top-tier brands.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer improved ergonomics and extended range.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and durability.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning response and intonation.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- • Silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The included case, while functional, may lack premium protection.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589352
$2,308
#15
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Selmer Récital Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
Selmer
Orchestra
Students
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Récital Evo is a solid step-up clarinet, blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. The resin upper joint adds a unique tonal character, offering greater projection while retaining a warm core. This is an excellent choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a reliable and expressive instrument.
PROS
- • Synthetic resin upper joint enhances projection and tonal color.
- • Grenadilla wood body provides warmth and rich fundamental tones.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable response.
- • 442 Hz tuning ensures stability for demanding performance situations.
CONS
- • The synthetic resin bore might lack the ultimate complexity of all-wood models.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • The included Selmer Concept mouthpiece is adequate, but not exceptional.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 567719
$6,048
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Response & Intonation
It's not just about being in tune; it's about how the clarinet responds to your breath and embouchure. Advanced players need immediate, predictable response across the range, and stable intonation under pressure - especially when you're pushing for complex phrasing.
2
Action & Keywork
Sloppy keywork and a stiff action kill articulation. We're looking for smooth, precise action that allows for lightning-fast passages and subtle dynamic shifts without feeling like you're wrestling the horn.
3
Tone Color & Projection
Forget generic 'warmth.' We want a clarinet with a distinct tonal character - maybe a dark, woody tone for chamber music, or a brighter, more focused sound for cutting through a big band. Projection is about more than just volume; it's about clarity and sustain.
4
Upper Register Playability
The real test of an advanced clarinet is how it handles the high register. A good horn shouldn't feel like a complete embouchure workout up there, and it shouldn't choke out the overtones. It needs to allow for control and expression.
5
Construction & Materials
Grenadilla wood is the gold standard, but cheaper horns often use synthetic materials or lower-grade wood. These impact tone, durability, and how the instrument ages - and how much maintenance it'll require down the line.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the flashiest brand name. Advanced players often find themselves wanting a horn with a specific voicing, and that's not always found on the most popular models. Be wary of horns that promise 'easy' high registers - it usually means compromises elsewhere, like a muffled tone or poor intonation. The action will likely need adjustment no matter what you buy, factor that into your budget.
Our Methodology
We aren't relying on manufacturer specs here. We've spent years playing these horns - in sweaty rehearsal rooms, on dimly lit club stages, and tracking in professional studios. Our evaluations involve direct A/B comparisons, focusing on how the clarinet responds to varied playing styles and how it sits in a mix - because that's what matters when you're actually making music.
Frequently Asked Questions
Undercutting creates a more complex vibration pattern, generally leading to a richer tone and improved response, especially in the upper register. It's a sign of a well-crafted instrument, but it also means more careful maintenance to prevent air leaks.
Vintage horns can be amazing, but they're also a gamble. You're likely dealing with repairs and adjustments. If you're not experienced with clarinet repair or know a reliable tech, a newer horn with a warranty might be a safer bet.
Simple system clarinets are easier to maintain but offer less flexibility in voicing and articulation. Complex system clarinets (like most Boehm models) allow for more nuanced playing, but require more careful regulation and are more prone to issues.
Absolutely. Cheap pickups often sound brittle and lack headroom. Invest in a good quality condenser mic and a decent preamp to capture the clarinet's true tone. Even the best clarinet sounds bad with a poor mic setup.
As an advanced player, you're pushing the horn harder. Aim for a professional check-up and adjustment at least once a year, or more often if you're gigging heavily or notice any issues with action or intonation.
