AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Advanced 2026
The top pick is RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6 ($7,377). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 71 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 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 ↗ -
This special mopane wood clarinet sounds distinct because of its rare body material. It comes with extra rings and waterproof pads for better playability. Perfect for collectors who want something unique and well-made.
Pros
- Rare mopane wood body offers unique resonance
- 19 keys with six rings provide full flexibility
- Waterproof GT pads ensure long-term durability
Cons
- No mouthpiece included in the box
- Lack of specific weight data in description
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,495 now$8,495€7,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
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.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$8,607 now$8,607€7,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- Extended lower section may feel slightly unwieldy for smaller hands.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$8,831 now$8,831€7,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
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.
38AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 14$9,257 · Aug 14$9,278 now$9,278€8,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- Grenadilla wood can be sensitive to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
37AudioFu
Index↑ 1.5%since Aug 14$8,217 · Aug 14$8,340 now$8,340€7,459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
Cons
- Mopane wood, while beautiful, can be more susceptible to humidity changes.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
37AudioFu
Index↑ 1.5%since Aug 14$8,441 · Aug 14$8,564 now$8,564€7,659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
Cons
- The weight will be noticeable for players accustomed to lighter instruments.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$8,384 now$8,384€7,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a solid choice for players who want a durable, professional clarinet without the cracking risks. The grenadilla wood and German register key give you reliable control and tone. It comes with two barrel sizes and a nice case, but you will need to buy a mouthpiece separately.
Pros
- Sturdy grenadilla wood resists cracking risks
- German register system offers precise control
- Silver and gold plating ensures smooth action
Cons
- No mouthpiece included in the box
- Weight is not listed in the specs
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,441 now$8,441€7,549 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
Selmer Privilege Bb-Clarinet 18/6 BKSelmer35Stable$7,824€6,998$7,824€6,998Check ↗
- 12
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.Buffet Crampon38Stable$6,930€6,198$6,930€6,198Check ↗
- 13
RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$10,284€9,198$10,284€9,198Check ↗
- 14
Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet NewBuffet Crampon38↑ 0.9%$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 15
Selmer Muse 19/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$6,483€5,798$6,483€5,798Check ↗
- 16
RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 17
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEWBuffet Crampon38Stable$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 18
Selmer Récital Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 19
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEWBuffet Crampon37↑ 2.9%$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 20
Selmer Muse 18/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$5,981€5,349$5,981€5,349Check ↗
- 21
Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer34↑ 1.9%$5,924€5,298$5,924€5,298Check ↗
- 22
Selmer Privilege Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$5,700€5,098$5,700€5,098Check ↗
- 23
RZ Clarinets Allegro D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$5,253€4,698$5,253€4,698Check ↗
- 24
Buffet Crampon R13 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$4,247€3,798$4,247€3,798Check ↗
- 25
RZmagoo Clarinets Heirassa Hyb Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$5,476€4,898$5,476€4,898Check ↗
- 26
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,917€4,398$4,917€4,398Check ↗
- 27
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 17/6Martin Foag29↑ 2.0%$5,700€5,098$5,700€5,098Check ↗
- 28
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,694€4,198$4,694€4,198Check ↗
- 29
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38↓ 0.8%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 30
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.4%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha YCL-CSG III L 02 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$4,102€3,669$4,102€3,669Check ↗
- 32
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,911€3,498$3,911€3,498Check ↗
- 33
Yamaha YCL-CSG III 03 Bb-ClarinetYamaha33↑ 6.4%$4,247€3,798$4,247€3,798Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb ClarinetYCL-CSV R Clarinet · Yamaha64Stable$3,687€3,298$3,687€3,298Check ↗
- 35
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Gig BagBuffet Crampon · 4 finishes55↓ 12.9%$1,675€1,498$1,675€1,498Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb ClarinetYCL-650-E Clarinet · Yamaha · 2 finishes55↑ 1.2%$1,787€1,598$1,787€1,598Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha YCL-255 S Bb-ClarinetYamaha · 3 finishes44Stable$647€579$647€579Check ↗
- 38
Buffet Crampon E12F Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$1,452€1,299$1,452€1,299Check ↗
- 39
Startone SCL- 25 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes38Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 40
Startone SCL- 65 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes38Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 41
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 42
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$770€689$770€689Check ↗
- 43
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 44
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,197€2,859$3,197€2,859Check ↗
- 45
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,576€3,198$3,576€3,198Check ↗
- 46
Thomann CL-17BB CG Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann · 2 finishes37Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 47
RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 48
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$882€789$882€789Check ↗
- 49
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,195€1,069$1,195€1,069Check ↗
- 50
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,206€1,079$1,206€1,079Check ↗
- 51
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$1,451€1,298$1,451€1,298Check ↗
- 52
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,067€1,849$2,067€1,849Check ↗
- 53
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,346€2,098$2,346€2,098Check ↗
- 54
Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,681€2,398$2,681€2,398Check ↗
- 55
Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,850€2,549$2,850€2,549Check ↗
- 56
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,799€3,398$3,799€3,398Check ↗
- 57
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 SetBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes35Stable$688€615$688€615Check ↗
- 58
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$1,967€1,759$1,967€1,759Check ↗
- 59
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$2,234€1,998$2,234€1,998Check ↗
- 60
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer35Stable$3,532€3,159$3,532€3,159Check ↗
- 61
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$3,785€3,385$3,785€3,385Check ↗
- 62
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Yamaha34↑ 4.6%$1,285€1,149$1,285€1,149Check ↗
- 63
Nuvo Band Bb-Clarinet BlackNuvo Band32↓ 3.9%$300€268$300€268Check ↗
- 64
Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann32Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 65
F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$815€729$815€729Check ↗
- 66
F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,765€1,579$1,765€1,579Check ↗
- 67
JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$893€799$893€799Check ↗
- 68
JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 69
Oscar Adler & Co. 911 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.31Stable$2,569€2,298$2,569€2,298Check ↗
- 70
F.A. Uebel Classic L Bb Clarinet Eb keyF.A. Uebel30↑ 5.4%$1,884€1,685$1,884€1,685Check ↗
- 71
Oscar Adler & Co. 912 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.30↑ 4.0%$2,905€2,598$2,905€2,598Check ↗
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 deal with 'undercutting' the tone holes?
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.
Should I go for a vintage horn?
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.
What's the difference between a simple and a complex system clarinet?
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.
I'm recording - does the pickup matter?
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.
How often should I get my clarinet serviced?
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.
