AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb Clarinet ($3,687). Startone SCL- 25 Bb- Clarinet gives you the most for the money at $144. Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 GL leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 71 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
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All Bb Clarinets (Boehm)Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb Clarinet
YCL-CSV R Clarinet · Yamaha
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This clarinet has a warm tone thanks to its grenadilla wood body. The silvered keys and extra keys make it easy to play. It suits players who like a lively sound. It is a solid choice for serious players.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood offers a warm, rich tone.
- Heavily silvered mechanism resists corrosion well.
- Conical tone-holes create a lively sound.
Cons
- No barrel length is provided in details.
- Weight is not listed in the specs.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,687 now$3,687€3,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
Cons
- The 17/6 configuration may feel slightly less flexible for advanced players.
- Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 12.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,922 · Aug 14$1,675 now$1,675€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb Clarinet
YCL-650-E Clarinet · Yamaha
6 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The YCL-650-E is a solid step-up clarinet, offering a noticeably improved sound and feel compared to student models. It’s a great choice for serious intermediate to advanced players looking for a professional-level instrument without the premium price tag of the flagship models. The new barrel design really makes a difference in responsiveness.
Pros
- Grenadilla body offers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- New barrel shape improves response and intonation consistency.
- Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and durability.
Cons
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to cracking with extreme humidity changes.
- Yamaha mouthpiece is adequate, but serious players will likely upgrade for personalized voicing.
55AudioFu
Index↑ 1.2%since Aug 14$1,765 · Aug 14$1,787 now$1,787€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/
6 Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size21"
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.
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.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$7,377 now$7,377€6,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YCL-255 S is a solid, dependable clarinet perfect for students or players needing a reliable, affordable instrument. It offers a bright, clear tone and comfortable ergonomics, making it easy to learn and play for extended periods. It's a great step up from a truly entry-level horn, offering improved build and feel.
Pros
- ABS body provides excellent durability and consistent intonation.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and resist tarnish.
- Improved thumb rest enhances comfort and control during playing.
Cons
- ABS construction lacks the warmth and tonal complexity of wood.
- Silver plating requires occasional polishing to prevent discoloration.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$647 now$647€579 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The E12F is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and advancing players. It offers the renowned Buffet tonal character and reliable mechanics at a more accessible price point than the higher-end models—a solid choice for those seeking professional-level quality without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Grenadilla body delivers a rich, warm, and focused tone.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
- 17 keys/6 rings enhance intonation and technical facility.
Cons
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes.
- The included mouthpiece is adequate, but an upgrade is often desired.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,452 now$1,452€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The R13 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and advancing players. Its Grendilla body delivers a warm, full tone with excellent projection, and the improved keywork makes it a joy to play – a true workhorse instrument built to last.
Pros
- Exceptional Grendilla wood provides a rich, focused tone.
- Silver-plated mechanisms offer smooth, responsive action.
- 17 keys and 5 rings enhance technical capabilities and intonation.
Cons
- The Grendilla wood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- The silver plating necessitates regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$3,968 now$3,968€3,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Tosca 19/6 GL is a serious step up for advanced players and professionals. Its Greenline body delivers a rich, focused sound, while the silver-plated keys offer a refined feel. This clarinet truly excels in classical and orchestral settings, offering a blend of power and nuanced expression.
Pros
- Greenline construction offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- Silver-plated keys provide a smooth, responsive action and beautiful aesthetics.
- The 19-key, 6-ring design enhances intonation and versatility across registers.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- Silver plating requires careful maintenance to prevent tarnish and maintain playability.
42AudioFu
Index↑ 1.5%since Aug 14$7,489 · Aug 14$7,601 now$7,601€6,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Startone SCL-25 is a surprisingly solid entry-level clarinet. It's a great option for beginners, school band programs, or anyone needing a dependable, affordable instrument for practice. While it won’t compete with pro-level horns, it delivers a decent tone and a reliable playing experience.
Pros
- ABS body offers excellent durability and resists cracking.
- Silver-plated nickel silver keys provide smooth action and responsiveness.
- Includes a complete accessory pack – swab, grease, ligature, case.
Cons
- ABS plastic body lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- Silver-plated mechanism may tarnish and require occasional cleaning.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Startone SCL-65 is a surprisingly solid entry point for aspiring clarinetists. Its durable construction and included accessories make it a great value for students or those wanting a backup instrument. Don't expect a professional sound, but it's well-suited for learning the basics and casual playing.
Pros
- ABS body offers durability, resisting cracks common in wood instruments
- Silver-plated nickel silver keys provide a responsive, relatively smooth action
- Includes multiple barrels for slight tuning adjustments and tonal variation
Cons
- ABS plastic body lacks the tonal complexity of wood, sounding somewhat 'plastic'
- Silver-plated keywork, while decent, won't match the feel of solid silver keys
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 71 bb clarinets (boehm)
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 12
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$770€689$770€689Check ↗
- 13
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 14
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,197€2,859$3,197€2,859Check ↗
- 15
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,576€3,198$3,576€3,198Check ↗
- 16
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38↓ 0.8%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 17
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEWBuffet Crampon38Stable$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 18
Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet NewBuffet Crampon38↑ 0.9%$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 19
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.Buffet Crampon38Stable$6,930€6,198$6,930€6,198Check ↗
- 20
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clar. 19/6 Mopane LtdBuffet Crampon38Stable$8,495€7,598$8,495€7,598Check ↗
- 21
Buffet Crampon Divine Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$8,607€7,698$8,607€7,698Check ↗
- 22
Buffet Crampon BCXXI Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$8,831€7,898$8,831€7,898Check ↗
- 23
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb-Clarinet MopaneBuffet Crampon38Stable$9,278€8,298$9,278€8,298Check ↗
- 24
Thomann CL-17BB CG Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann · 2 finishes37Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 25
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.4%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 26
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEWBuffet Crampon37↑ 2.9%$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 27
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb- Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.5%$8,340€7,459$8,340€7,459Check ↗
- 28
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 MopaneBuffet Crampon37↑ 1.5%$8,564€7,659$8,564€7,659Check ↗
- 29
RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 30
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$882€789$882€789Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,195€1,069$1,195€1,069Check ↗
- 32
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,206€1,079$1,206€1,079Check ↗
- 33
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$1,451€1,298$1,451€1,298Check ↗
- 34
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,067€1,849$2,067€1,849Check ↗
- 35
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,346€2,098$2,346€2,098Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,681€2,398$2,681€2,398Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,850€2,549$2,850€2,549Check ↗
- 38
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,799€3,398$3,799€3,398Check ↗
- 39
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,911€3,498$3,911€3,498Check ↗
- 40
Yamaha YCL-CSG III L 02 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$4,102€3,669$4,102€3,669Check ↗
- 41
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,694€4,198$4,694€4,198Check ↗
- 42
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,917€4,398$4,917€4,398Check ↗
- 43
RZ Clarinets Allegro D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$5,253€4,698$5,253€4,698Check ↗
- 44
RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 45
RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$8,384€7,498$8,384€7,498Check ↗
- 46
RZ Clarinets Solo D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$8,441€7,549$8,441€7,549Check ↗
- 47
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 SetBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes35Stable$688€615$688€615Check ↗
- 48
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$1,967€1,759$1,967€1,759Check ↗
- 49
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$2,234€1,998$2,234€1,998Check ↗
- 50
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer35Stable$3,532€3,159$3,532€3,159Check ↗
- 51
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$3,785€3,385$3,785€3,385Check ↗
- 52
Selmer Privilege Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$5,700€5,098$5,700€5,098Check ↗
- 53
Selmer Muse 18/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$5,981€5,349$5,981€5,349Check ↗
- 54
Selmer Récital Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 55
Selmer Muse 19/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$6,483€5,798$6,483€5,798Check ↗
- 56
Selmer Privilege Bb-Clarinet 18/6 BKSelmer35Stable$7,824€6,998$7,824€6,998Check ↗
- 57
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Yamaha34↑ 4.6%$1,285€1,149$1,285€1,149Check ↗
- 58
Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer34↑ 1.9%$5,924€5,298$5,924€5,298Check ↗
- 59
Yamaha YCL-CSG III 03 Bb-ClarinetYamaha33↑ 6.4%$4,247€3,798$4,247€3,798Check ↗
- 60
Nuvo Band Bb-Clarinet BlackNuvo Band32↓ 3.9%$300€268$300€268Check ↗
- 61
Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann32Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 62
F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$815€729$815€729Check ↗
- 63
F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,765€1,579$1,765€1,579Check ↗
- 64
RZmagoo Clarinets Heirassa Hyb Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$5,476€4,898$5,476€4,898Check ↗
- 65
RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$10,284€9,198$10,284€9,198Check ↗
- 66
JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$893€799$893€799Check ↗
- 67
JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 68
Oscar Adler & Co. 911 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.31Stable$2,569€2,298$2,569€2,298Check ↗
- 69
F.A. Uebel Classic L Bb Clarinet Eb keyF.A. Uebel30↑ 5.4%$1,884€1,685$1,884€1,685Check ↗
- 70
Oscar Adler & Co. 912 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.30↑ 4.0%$2,905€2,598$2,905€2,598Check ↗
- 71
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 17/6Martin Foag29↑ 2.0%$5,700€5,098$5,700€5,098Check ↗
Bb Clarinets (Boehm) by the numbers
Measured across all 84 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,905 — half of all bb clarinets (boehm) here cost less.
How to choose the best bb clarinets (boehm)
Material (Wood vs. Resin)
Wood (grenadilla is the gold standard) offers a warmer, more complex tone with better sustain, but it's more fragile and expensive. Resin (plastic) is durable, consistent, and cheaper, but often lacks the depth and responsiveness of wood - that subtle bloom in the upper register just isn't there. Wood's a trade-off: beauty and tone versus care and cost.
Keywork & Mechanism
Smooth, reliable keywork is essential. Look for well-placed levers, consistent action across all keys, and a comfortable grip. Sloppy keywork means intonation headaches and fighting the instrument, especially when you're trying to nail a fast passage.
Tone & Projection
Forget 'bright' or 'dark' - we want a clarinet that has character. A good Bb clarinet should have a solid low end, a focused middle register, and a clear, articulate upper range without sounding ice-picky. It needs to cut through a band without getting lost - that's projection, not just volume.
Intonation
This is critical. Even the best player can't compensate for a clarinet that's consistently sharp or flat. Listen carefully for consistent intonation across the range, especially in the problem areas like the altissimo register. A poorly intonated clarinet will make you sound sloppy, no matter how good you are.
Neck Profile & Adjustability
The neck is a huge part of the clarinet's overall sound and feel. A comfortable neck profile reduces fatigue during long gigs. The ability to adjust the neck angle is also important for fine-tuning intonation and optimizing the tone - a tight neck can choke the sound.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a Bb clarinet. Smart move - they're incredibly versatile, killer for jazz, klezmer, even rock if you want that reedy edge. Unlike the traditional A clarinet, the Bb is a transposing instrument, which can be a bit of a brain-bender at first, but the tonal possibilities are huge. Let's break down what to look for to avoid dropping serious cash on something that'll leave you frustrated or sounding thin in a band setting.
Don't be swayed by flashy finishes or marketing hype. A cheap resin clarinet will work, but you'll notice the lack of sustain and that one-dimensional tone. Spending a bit more on a well-made student or intermediate model (Yamaha 62 or similar) will pay dividends in terms of playability and sound.
If you're serious, a grenadilla wood clarinet from a reputable brand is the real upgrade, but factor in the cost of regular pad leaks and occasional 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 84 bb clarinets (boehm) 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 Boehm and Albert system clarinet?
Boehm is what we're talking about here - the modern, more common design with the ring keys. Albert system clarinets have a different key layout and a slightly different sound, often preferred by historical performance specialists.
My clarinet sounds stuffy - what can I do?
Likely a pad leak or a clogged tone hole. Take it to a qualified repair tech - don't try to fix it yourself unless you're experienced. A professional cleaning and adjustment can make a huge difference.
Is it worth getting a professional-level clarinet if I'm still a student?
It depends. If you're truly dedicated and progressing rapidly, a pro clarinet can unlock a new level of expression. But be realistic about your skill level and budget - a great clarinet in the hands of a beginner is wasted potential.
What about Bb clarinet pickups for recording?
Pickup voicing is incredibly important. Some pickups thin out the tone, while others add unwanted coloration. Listen critically - you want a pickup that captures the clarinet's natural character without introducing artificial artifacts. DPA and AKG are often good starting points.
How do I care for a wooden clarinet?
Keep it oiled regularly (especially the pads), store it in its case when not in use, and avoid extreme temperature and humidity changes. Wood is a living material, and it needs proper care to prevent cracking and warping.
