Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) 2026
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.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Students
For Band
For Orchestra
For Jazz
For All Genres
For General Performance
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon R13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
All Genres
General Performance
Students
Key Feature:
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.
- • Buffet’s renowned craftsmanship ensures long-term durability and reliability.
CONS
- • The Grendilla wood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • The silver plating necessitates regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 233803
$3,904
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
General Performance
All Genres
Students
Key Feature:
The Buffet Crampon E-11 is a fantastic entry point into the world of serious clarinet playing. It offers a surprisingly rich tone and solid construction for its class, making it ideal for students and advancing players who want a reliable, professional-level instrument without the premium price tag of the higher-end models.
PROS
- • Grenadilla body provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer responsive action and a bright aesthetic.
- • 17 keys/6 rings enhance intonation and technical capabilities.
- • Durable stainless steel springs ensure reliable and consistent performance.
CONS
- • The African Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- • The silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The E-11 might feel a bit heavy for younger or smaller players.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 127960
$1,098
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Set
Orchestra
Band
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Prodige 17/6 is a fantastic entry-level clarinet—it's built to withstand the rigors of student practice and offers a surprisingly good tone for an ABS instrument. The bundled ClariMate mute is a neat bonus for silent practice and digital exploration, making it a compelling package for beginners or those needing a reliable, low-maintenance option.
PROS
- • Durable ABS body resists cracking, ideal for student use.
- • Poly-cylindrical bore offers a responsive, focused tone.
- • Blue steel springs provide a lighter, quicker key action.
- • ClariMate mute offers versatile practice options and MIDI connectivity.
CONS
- • ABS construction, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- • Included mouthpiece is basic, a future upgrade is likely desired.
- • The ClariMate, while innovative, adds another device to manage.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 580931
$930
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Orchestra
Jazz
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet, especially for students or players needing a reliable, low-maintenance instrument. Its robust ABS construction and comfortable keywork make it a joy to play, and the bore design delivers a surprisingly full sound. It's a great choice for those wanting a solid-performing instrument without the fragility or upkeep of a wood clarinet.
PROS
- • Durable ABS body resists cracking and temperature changes.
- • Poly-cylindrical bore offers a responsive, even tone across registers.
- • Blue steel springs provide a lighter, faster action for improved agility.
- • Well-matched leather pads ensure reliable sealing and consistent intonation.
CONS
- • ABS body lacks the acoustic richness of traditional wood.
- • Included mouthpiece is serviceable but may limit tonal exploration.
- • Silver-plated keywork requires occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 384430
$648
#5
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
General Performance
Students
Band
Key Feature:
This RZ Solo Bb clarinet is a serious contender for the advanced player or seasoned professional. The unstained grenadilla wood really lets the instrument sing, offering a depth of tone you won't find in cheaper models, and the extra keys/rings make complex passages much more manageable. It's a beautifully crafted instrument built for expressive playing.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood resonance delivers a rich, dark tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer extended technical capabilities and ergonomics.
- • Gold-plated posts minimize corrosion and ensure smooth key action.
- • RZ patent cracking system provides peace of mind for a valuable investment.
CONS
- • The weight will be noticeable for players accustomed to lighter instruments.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Lack of mouthpiece limits immediate playability; requires separate purchase.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589360
$8,248
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEW
Orchestra
Students
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Festival 18/6 is a fantastic step-up instrument for serious intermediate to advanced players. It provides a genuine Buffet experience – the cylindrical bore delivers a pleasing, focused tone – without the premium price tag of their top-tier models. A great choice for students progressing to a professional-grade instrument or players seeking a reliable, quality clarinet.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer a smooth, responsive action and bright aesthetics.
- • The inclusion of two barrels allows for subtle tuning adjustments and tonal flexibility.
- • GT pads provide exceptional airtightness and longevity, minimizing maintenance.
CONS
- • The all-grenadilla construction makes it relatively heavy compared to some composite models.
- • The silver-plated finish requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
- • Lacks the advanced features (articulation keys, trill keys) found on higher-end professional models.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 594309
$5,718
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon E12F Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Students
Orchestra
All Genres
Key Feature:
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.
- • Lightweight case simplifies transport and protects the instrument.
CONS
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes.
- • The included mouthpiece is adequate, but an upgrade is often desired.
- • Silver-plated keys require regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 296648
$1,429
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Divine Bb-Clarinet 19/6
General Performance
Orchestra
Students
Key Feature:
The Divine is a serious contender for top-tier professionals. The blackwood delivers a beautiful, focused sound, and the keywork is exceptionally refined. It’s a superb instrument for advanced players seeking a nuanced and expressive tone – truly a benchmark for modern clarinet design.
PROS
- • Exceptional African blackwood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • 19 keys/6 rings offer extended technical capabilities and versatility.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth, responsive action and durability.
- • Dual barrels (65/66mm) allow for fine-tuning of intonation and timbre.
CONS
- • The price point places it firmly in the high-end professional category.
- • The blackwood body can be sensitive to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • Weight can be a factor for younger or smaller-statured players.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 335786
$8,468
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.
Jazz
General Performance
Band
Key Feature:
The Festival is a fantastic step-up clarinet—the Mopane wood gives it a really beautiful, mature sound, and the extra keys provide flexibility. It's a great choice for serious students and advancing amateurs who want a professional instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag. Just be prepared for a bit more heft than some other models.
PROS
- • Mopane body delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keywork ensures smooth, responsive action and durability.
- • 19 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical capabilities and versatility.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning intonation and timbre.
CONS
- • The Mopane construction can be slightly heavier than grenadilla wood.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Lacks a fully underthrown Eb lever – a feature some advanced players prefer.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 597393
$6,818
#10
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 17/6
by
Martin Foag
Jazz
Band
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Martin Foag 17/6 is a serious instrument for the seasoned player. The metal body delivers a rich, focused tone with excellent projection – perfect for orchestral work, solo performance, and demanding recording situations. It’s a significant investment, but the quality and playability are truly exceptional.
PROS
- • Exceptional projection and resonance thanks to the brass body
- • Improved intonation and response with the 17-key, six-ring design
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and durability
- • German craftsmanship ensures a high level of precision and build quality
CONS
- • The brass body contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument
- • Satin chrome finish can be prone to fingerprints and minor scratches
- • The price point places it firmly in the high-end professional market
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 588330
$5,498
#11
⭐
4.4/5
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.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616160
$1,891
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha YCL-650 Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Jazz
Band
Students
Key Feature:
The YCL-650 is a fantastic option for serious student and advancing intermediate players. Its grenadilla body delivers a professional tone, and the conical tone holes really help with evenness across the register. This clarinet provides a solid foundation for developing advanced playing techniques.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, rich, and focused tone.
- • Inset tone holes improve intonation and response across the range.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and durability, resisting tarnish.
- • Newly shaped barrel enhances projection and a more centered sound.
CONS
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- • The included 4C mouthpiece is adequate but may limit tonal exploration for advanced players.
- • While a step up, the YCL-650 still lacks some of the refinements of higher-end models.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 149523
$1,484
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
RZmagoo Clarinets Heirassa Hyb Bb-Clarinet 18/6
Band
All Genres
Students
Key Feature:
The Heirassa Hyb is a fascinating clarinet – the hybrid construction really does deliver a unique blend of warmth and responsiveness. It’s clearly designed for serious players seeking a refined, modern instrument with excellent intonation and a touch of European craftsmanship. This would be a fantastic choice for advanced students and professionals who want a clarinet that feels truly special.
PROS
- • Cocobolo/composite hybrid body yields a remarkably warm, resonant tone
- • Grenadilla tonehole inserts enhance projection and clarity noticeably
- • 18 keys and 6 rings offer expanded range and advanced technical capabilities
- • Included barrels allow for subtle intonation adjustments across different climates
CONS
- • The composite material construction may not appeal to purists preferring all-wood instruments
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
- • The unstained cocobolo finish requires careful maintenance to prevent discoloration
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589363
$5,388
#14
⭐
4.9/5
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589350
$1,428
#15
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-Clarinet
by
Selmer
All Genres
Band
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The Prologue II is a solid, dependable student/intermediate clarinet. Its ergonomic design and extra keys are a real boon for developing players, particularly those with smaller hands. It’s a great step up from a basic student model, offering a noticeably improved sound and build quality.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers warmth and responsiveness.
- • 17 keys/6 rings improve ergonomics for smaller hands.
- • Valentino pads provide reliable sealing and consistent tone.
- • Silver-plating enhances durability and aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • Polycylindrical bore can lack the complexity of a true cylindrical bore.
- • Selmer Focus mouthpiece is a decent start, but upgrade potential exists.
- • Weight can feel substantial for younger or smaller players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596415
$1,935
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. Every clarinet we consider gets time in our hands - serious playing, from quiet practice to cutting through a rehearsal band. We A/B them against each other and, crucially, against a baseline Yamaha 475, because it's a reliable benchmark for decent tone and playability. It's about real-world performance, not just marketing buzzwords.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
