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 11, 2026
⚡ The best bb clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6 (top pick), Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6 for tighter budgets, and Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEW for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $5,387–$10,117, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
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
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 589364
$7,258
#2
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
Selmer
General Performance
Band
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Selmer Signature Evo 18/6 is a serious step up for advanced players and professionals. It offers a remarkably consistent and controlled tone, making it ideal for orchestral work and solo performance. The build quality is superb, reflecting Selmer’s legacy of crafting top-tier instruments.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood provides a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable responsiveness.
- • The 14.50mm bore delivers a powerful projection across all registers.
- • Evolution top piece minimizes moisture buildup and enhances intonation stability.
CONS
- • The instrument's weight can be tiring for extended practice or performance.
- • The premium price point puts it out of reach for many student or intermediate players.
- • The included Selmer Concept mouthpiece is decent but may limit tonal exploration.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 578221
$5,718
#3
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEW
General Performance
Orchestra
Band
Key Feature:
The RC Prestige 18/6 is a serious step up for the advancing student or seasoned professional. The bore design makes it incredibly responsive, and the grenadilla wood gives it a rich, professional sound. This clarinet will hold its own in any ensemble and offers a fantastic balance of playability and tonal quality, especially for players who value a darker, more nuanced clarinet voice.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood delivers a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • Poly-cylindrical bore promotes effortless response across the range.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright, responsive feel.
- • Adjustable thumb rest and Eb lever enhance playing comfort and versatility.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Grenadilla wood can be sensitive to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • The silver-plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 489952
$5,554
#4
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
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.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 569840
$8,304
#5
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
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.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 594309
$5,718
#6
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
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
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589363
$5,388
#7
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
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
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 589365
$10,118
#8
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
3/10
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
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 568309
$9,107
#9
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb- Clarinet 19/6
Students
General Performance
Band
Key Feature:
The Légende 19/6 is a serious instrument for the advanced student or seasoned professional. Buffet's cylindrical bore delivers a focused, controlled tone – perfect for classical, orchestral, and chamber music where precision is paramount. It’s a beautifully crafted instrument that will reward dedicated practice and care.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla wood provides rich, complex tonal color.
- • 19 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical capabilities and agility.
- • GT-pad system ensures consistent response and long-lasting performance.
- • Adjustable thumb rest and low F# key improve comfort and playability.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • Grenadilla wood can be sensitive to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • Cylindrical bore may not suit players seeking a more 'open' sound.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 420674
$8,084
#10
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
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.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589359
$6,048
#11
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet New
Jazz
Band
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The Tradition is a fantastic entry point into the world of professional-grade clarinets. It offers the signature Buffet sound – rich, focused, and beautifully resonant – without the extreme cost of their top-tier models. This is ideal for serious students and advancing players looking for a reliable, great-sounding instrument that will serve them well for years to come.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a warm, complex, and resonant tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable responsiveness.
- • Includes two barrels for slight tuning adjustments and tonal flexibility.
- • GT upholstery and needle strings ensure exceptional durability and playability.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many musicians.
- • The cylindrical bore might not appeal to players seeking a more complex overtone series.
- • New clarinet requires a break-in period for optimal performance and tonal maturity.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 465217
$5,994
#12
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
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.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 597393
$6,818
#13
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
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.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 335786
$8,468
#14
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Buffet Crampon BCXXI Bb-Clarinet 19/6
General Performance
Jazz
Band
Key Feature:
The BCXXI is a truly refined instrument; Buffet has clearly focused on addressing common clarinet weaknesses. The lengthened lower section and resonance hole deliver a wonderfully warm and responsive low end, while the overall design provides exceptional stability throughout the range—a top-tier choice for advanced players and professionals seeking a consistent, expressive voice.
PROS
- • Enhanced low register with full, lively E tone thanks to resonance hole.
- • Improved chalumeau register offers a richer, more consistent tone.
- • Stable and light high register provides effortless playing across the range.
- • Shorter bell allows for improved fundamental pitch accuracy and resonance.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Extended lower section may feel slightly unwieldy for smaller hands.
- • Third middle Bb fingering requires adaptation and practice for optimal results.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 540486
$8,688
#15
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6
Orchestra
All Genres
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Tosca is a serious step up for intermediate to advanced players looking for a professional-grade clarinet. Its grenadilla body and refined keywork contribute to a remarkably responsive and nuanced tone, making it incredibly versatile across genres. It's a workhorse instrument built to last, offering exceptional value for the discerning musician.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection
- • 19 keys/6 rings provide enhanced technical agility and intonation
- • Poly cylindrical bore delivers a focused, responsive, and versatile sound
- • GT/cork pad combination ensures optimal resonance and consistent playability
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
- • Grenadilla wood is susceptible to temperature and humidity changes requiring careful maintenance
- • The complex keywork demands a higher level of technical proficiency to fully exploit
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 173966
$7,368
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.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 bb clarinets (boehm) from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
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.
