Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for All Genres 2026
So, you're looking for a Bb clarinet that can handle everything? That's a tall order - a clarinet that's equally comfortable laying down a smooth jazz ballad, cutting through a rock band, or nailing a classical concerto. It's not just about finding something that plays; it's about finding a horn with the tonal flexibility and build quality to survive the rigors of diverse gigs and recording sessions. Let's break down some solid choices for the all-genre clarinetist.
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
⭐
4.5/5
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
#3
⭐
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
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
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
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
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
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Jazz
General Performance
Band
Key Feature:
The Bohema 18/6 is a serious contender for advancing players and professionals. The grenadilla wood provides a beautiful, focused tone, and the extra keys/rings give you the fingerings you need for complex passages. It's a beautifully crafted instrument that's ready to be personalized with your mouthpiece of choice.
PROS
- • Excellent grenadilla wood provides warm, resonant tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and durability.
- • Included barrels allow for subtle tuning adjustments across registers.
CONS
- • Unstained finish may not appeal to players preferring a lacquered look.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many musicians.
- • Lack of mouthpiece necessitates an additional purchase for immediate playability.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 589357
$4,838
#9
⭐
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
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
Yamaha
General Performance
Orchestra
All Genres
Key Feature:
The YCL-450M-02 is a solid step-up clarinet, striking a good balance between quality and affordability. The grenadilla body delivers a pleasing tone, and the thermoplastic lining minimizes common maintenance headaches. It’s a fantastic choice for intermediate students or players looking for a reliable, well-built instrument without premium pricing – a great all-around workhorse.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, resonant tone.
- • Thermoplastic lining prevents moisture absorption, ensuring stability.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable responsiveness.
- • 17 keys/6 rings offer a comfortable and ergonomic playing experience.
CONS
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to temperature/humidity changes.
- • Yamaha 4C mouthpiece is adequate, but a significant upgrade is likely desired.
- • The silver-plated finish can tarnish with regular use requiring maintenance.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601838
$1,187
#11
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-Clarinet
by
Selmer
Jazz
Orchestra
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Prologue II is a fantastic step-up clarinet, offering a noticeably improved sound and feel over student models. The keywork is well-designed for comfortable playing, and the grenadilla body delivers a surprisingly rich tone. This is an excellent choice for intermediate players or those seeking a professional-level instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced ergonomics and smoother transitions.
- • Valentino pads ensure reliable sealing and consistent response across registers.
- • Silver-plated keys offer durability and a bright, responsive feel.
CONS
- • The polycylindrical bore can feel slightly less flexible than a conical bore.
- • While ergonomically improved, the keywork might still be a challenge for smaller hands.
- • The Selmer Focus mouthpiece is a decent starting point, but upgrading will significantly improve tone.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 600614
$2,198
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Band
Jazz
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Bohema 17/6 is a serious contender for the advancing student or professional seeking a refined sound and improved technical capabilities. The unstained grenadilla provides a naturally rich tone, while the 17-key configuration enhances agility. It’s a fantastic instrument if you value responsiveness and nuanced control, but be prepared for the upkeep that comes with unstained wood.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla tone with surprising warmth for unstained wood.
- • 17 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and comfortable ergonomics.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel.
- • Includes two barrels for easy intonation adjustment across different climates.
CONS
- • Unstained finish may require more careful maintenance to prevent stickiness.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • Lack of mouthpiece limits immediate playability; requires separate purchase.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589358
$4,618
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
Selmer
Band
Orchestra
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Présence II is a solid step up for intermediate to advanced players. Selmer's blended construction – grenadilla and resin – gives a surprisingly focused and powerful sound, while the included barrels offer a good deal of tonal flexibility. It’s a great instrument for those looking for professional quality without the absolute top-tier price tag of their flagship models.
PROS
- • Synthetic resin bore enhances projection and clarity, a noticeable improvement.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth, responsive action and a bright feel.
- • Grenadilla wood body provides warmth and tonal complexity; beautifully finished.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning pitch and timbre to suit different playing styles.
CONS
- • The Echo mouthpiece is a basic option; experienced players will likely upgrade.
- • Grenadilla wood, while beautiful, is susceptible to temperature and humidity changes.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many students or hobbyists.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610053
$3,724
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Tonal Versatility
A truly all-genre clarinet needs to avoid extremes. We're looking for a core tone that isn't overly bright or dark, allowing for adjustments with embouchure and reeds to achieve different colors - a warm, breathy sound for ballads, a more focused and assertive tone for rock or pop. That 'fat midrange honk' is a huge plus for cutting through a mix.
2
Response & Articulation
Sloppy response and mushy articulation kill any genre. You want a clarinet that responds quickly and cleanly across the range, allowing for precise phrasing and dynamic control - crucial for everything from fast-paced jazz runs to delicate classical passages.
3
Keywork Ergonomics & Action
Gigging for hours with uncomfortable keywork is brutal. We prioritize smooth, well-placed keys, a comfortable neck profile (so you don't get neck cramps), and a responsive action - not too light, not too heavy, allowing for effortless playing and quick technical passages.
4
Construction & Durability
Let's be real, an all-genre clarinet is going to take a beating. Solid construction (durable key mechanisms, a well-fitted bore) is essential for longevity. Cheap plastic parts and sloppy assembly will lead to leaks and headaches down the road.
5
Intonation Stability
A clarinet that's consistently out of tune is unusable. We look for horns with stable intonation across the range, minimizing the need for constant adjustments - a real time-saver in live performance and a frustration-reducer in the studio.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the cheapest option - you'll almost always pay for it in compromised tone and build quality. While you don't need a top-tier pro model, avoid student horns that are clearly built down to a price point. Pay attention to the key mechanisms; plated keys are a good sign. And remember, the mouthpiece makes a huge difference - factor that cost into your budget.
Our Methodology
We're not basing this list on manufacturer claims or spec sheets. We've spent years playing clarinets - in smoky bars, sterile studios, and everything in between. Our evaluations involve extensive hands-on playing, A/B comparisons against each other and benchmark instruments, and, crucially, testing them in realistic performance scenarios - from quiet bedroom practice to loud band rehearsals and recording. It's about what sounds and feels good in your hands, not what a datasheet says.
Frequently Asked Questions
Student models are typically made with less durable materials (often harder plastics) and have simpler key systems. Pro models use grenadilla wood (or high-grade resin), have more complex keywork for improved ergonomics and intonation, and offer a wider tonal palette.
Absolutely. A wider bore generally produces a darker, more powerful tone, while a narrower bore tends to be brighter and more focused. For all-genre versatility, a medium bore is usually the sweet spot, offering a balance of warmth and projection.
Realistically, you should plan to spend at least $800-$1200 for a decent all-genre clarinet. Anything cheaper will likely have significant compromises in tone, action, or durability.
Silver plating is standard and perfectly adequate. Gold plating is primarily for aesthetics and to prevent tarnish, but it doesn't significantly affect tone or playability. It's a luxury, not a necessity.
Massively important. The mouthpiece is the primary factor shaping the clarinet's tone. Experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that complements the clarinet's characteristics and suits your playing style - a good mouthpiece can transform a mediocre horn.
