AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Startone SCL- 25 Bb- Clarinet ($144). RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6 leads the high end. 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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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 ↗ -
The Thomann CL-17BB is a solid entry-level clarinet, offering a good balance of playability and affordability. The combination of grenadilla and composite gives it a pleasing tone, and the included barrels let you tweak the intonation. It's perfect for students or players looking for a reliable, budget-friendly instrument to get started with.
Pros
- Grenadilla/composite body offers a surprisingly warm and resonant tone.
- Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
- Two barrel options allow for tuning adjustments and tonal flexibility.
Cons
- Composite construction may not fully replicate the tonal complexity of all-wood instruments.
- The included mouthpiece is functional but likely a limiting factor for advanced players.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$368 now$368€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This clarinet is super light and tough enough for any weather. It plays softly and comes with everything you need to start. It is perfect for kids or beginners who want something durable without the weight.
Pros
- ABS and polycarbonate body is very light at 420 grams.
- Sturdy design works in rain, snow, or dusty conditions.
- Silicone padding protects fingers on all 14 keys.
Cons
- Plastic construction may lack resonance of wood.
- ABS material can feel less premium than wood.
32AudioFu
Index↓ 3.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$312 · Aug 17$300 now$300€268 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 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.
Cons
- ABS body lacks the acoustic richness of traditional wood.
- Included mouthpiece is serviceable but may limit tonal exploration.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$659 now$659€589 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight0.149 kg
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet – a solid choice for students or players needing a reliable, durable instrument. It provides a surprisingly good tone for an ABS body, and the included accessories make it a complete package. It's a great way to get started without a huge investment.
Pros
- Durable ABS body withstands student use and travel well.
- Poly-cylindrical bore delivers a surprisingly rich, focused tone.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and responsiveness.
Cons
- ABS body, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- Basic mouthpiece limits advanced players' tonal exploration.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$688 now$688€615 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet—seriously well-made for the price. The ABS body makes it incredibly durable, a huge plus for students, and the tone is surprisingly rich for a synthetic instrument. It's an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for reliability and a good foundation.
Pros
- Durable ABS body resists cracking, ideal for students
- Poly-cylindrical bore offers a surprisingly warm, responsive tone
- Blue steel springs provide a lighter, quicker key action
Cons
- ABS body lacks the tonal complexity of grenadilla wood
- Included mouthpiece is adequate but a significant upgrade is recommended
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$770 now$770€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The RZ Largo is a solid choice for beginning clarinetists needing a robust and affordable instrument. The plastic build ensures it can withstand the rigors of student use, and the included barrels offer a bit of intonation tweaking. While it won’t replicate a high-end wooden clarinet’s tone, it’s a surprisingly decent starting point for those just getting into the clarinet family.
Pros
- ABS plastic offers excellent durability for student use.
- RZ bore design aims for a warmer, wood-like tonal character.
- Includes two barrels for slight intonation adjustment flexibility.
Cons
- ABS plastic inherently lacks the complex tonal nuances of grenadilla wood.
- Beginner mouthpiece may limit advanced players' tonal expression.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$780 now$780€698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann CL-18BB is a surprisingly capable clarinet, offering a solid foundation for students and intermediate players. The grenadilla body lends a pleasing warmth, and the included barrels let you fine-tune the tone. It's a well-equipped package for someone looking for a good-sounding, reliable instrument without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tone and excellent projection
- Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel
- Includes two barrels for tonal flexibility and easy adjustment
Cons
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes requiring diligent care
- The included mouthpiece is likely a basic model, upgrade recommended for serious players
32AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$780 now$780€698 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
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$882€789$882€789Check ↗
- 12
F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$815€729$815€729Check ↗
- 13
JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$893€799$893€799Check ↗
- 14
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 15
JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 16
Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb ClarinetYCL-CSV R Clarinet · Yamaha64Stable$3,687€3,298$3,687€3,298Check ↗
- 17
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Gig BagBuffet Crampon · 4 finishes55↓ 12.9%$1,675€1,498$1,675€1,498Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb ClarinetYCL-650-E Clarinet · Yamaha · 2 finishes55↑ 1.2%$1,787€1,598$1,787€1,598Check ↗
- 19
RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets47Stable$7,377€6,598$7,377€6,598Check ↗
- 20
Buffet Crampon E12F Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$1,452€1,299$1,452€1,299Check ↗
- 21
Buffet Crampon R13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$3,968€3,549$3,968€3,549Check ↗
- 22
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 GLBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes42↑ 1.5%$7,601€6,798$7,601€6,798Check ↗
- 23
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,197€2,859$3,197€2,859Check ↗
- 24
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,576€3,198$3,576€3,198Check ↗
- 25
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38↓ 0.8%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 26
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEWBuffet Crampon38Stable$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 27
Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet NewBuffet Crampon38↑ 0.9%$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 28
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.Buffet Crampon38Stable$6,930€6,198$6,930€6,198Check ↗
- 29
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clar. 19/6 Mopane LtdBuffet Crampon38Stable$8,495€7,598$8,495€7,598Check ↗
- 30
Buffet Crampon Divine Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$8,607€7,698$8,607€7,698Check ↗
- 31
Buffet Crampon BCXXI Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$8,831€7,898$8,831€7,898Check ↗
- 32
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb-Clarinet MopaneBuffet Crampon38Stable$9,278€8,298$9,278€8,298Check ↗
- 33
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.4%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 34
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEWBuffet Crampon37↑ 2.9%$5,812€5,198$5,812€5,198Check ↗
- 35
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb- Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.5%$8,340€7,459$8,340€7,459Check ↗
- 36
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 MopaneBuffet Crampon37↑ 1.5%$8,564€7,659$8,564€7,659Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,195€1,069$1,195€1,069Check ↗
- 38
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,206€1,079$1,206€1,079Check ↗
- 39
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$1,451€1,298$1,451€1,298Check ↗
- 40
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,067€1,849$2,067€1,849Check ↗
- 41
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,346€2,098$2,346€2,098Check ↗
- 42
Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,681€2,398$2,681€2,398Check ↗
- 43
Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,850€2,549$2,850€2,549Check ↗
- 44
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,799€3,398$3,799€3,398Check ↗
- 45
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,911€3,498$3,911€3,498Check ↗
- 46
Yamaha YCL-CSG III L 02 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$4,102€3,669$4,102€3,669Check ↗
- 47
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,694€4,198$4,694€4,198Check ↗
- 48
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,917€4,398$4,917€4,398Check ↗
- 49
RZ Clarinets Allegro D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$5,253€4,698$5,253€4,698Check ↗
- 50
RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 51
RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$8,384€7,498$8,384€7,498Check ↗
- 52
RZ Clarinets Solo D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$8,441€7,549$8,441€7,549Check ↗
- 53
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$1,967€1,759$1,967€1,759Check ↗
- 54
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$2,234€1,998$2,234€1,998Check ↗
- 55
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer35Stable$3,532€3,159$3,532€3,159Check ↗
- 56
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$3,785€3,385$3,785€3,385Check ↗
- 57
Selmer Privilege Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$5,700€5,098$5,700€5,098Check ↗
- 58
Selmer Muse 18/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$5,981€5,349$5,981€5,349Check ↗
- 59
Selmer Récital Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$6,147€5,498$6,147€5,498Check ↗
- 60
Selmer Muse 19/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer35Stable$6,483€5,798$6,483€5,798Check ↗
- 61
Selmer Privilege Bb-Clarinet 18/6 BKSelmer35Stable$7,824€6,998$7,824€6,998Check ↗
- 62
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Yamaha34↑ 4.6%$1,285€1,149$1,285€1,149Check ↗
- 63
Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer34↑ 1.9%$5,924€5,298$5,924€5,298Check ↗
- 64
Yamaha YCL-CSG III 03 Bb-ClarinetYamaha33↑ 6.4%$4,247€3,798$4,247€3,798Check ↗
- 65
F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,765€1,579$1,765€1,579Check ↗
- 66
RZmagoo Clarinets Heirassa Hyb Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$5,476€4,898$5,476€4,898Check ↗
- 67
RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets32Stable$10,284€9,198$10,284€9,198Check ↗
- 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)
Playability
A forgiving action and comfortable keywork are vital. Beginners often struggle with finger coordination, so a clarinet that doesn't require superhuman dexterity is key. Stiff keys and a high action will make learning a nightmare.
Intonation
Out-of-tune notes are demoralizing. A beginner-friendly clarinet should have a reasonably stable intonation across its range, minimizing frustration and allowing you to focus on tone production and technique.
Material (Resonance & Durability)
Most beginner Bb clarinets are made from ABS resin. It's durable, resists moisture, and is budget-friendly. Wood clarinets offer a richer, more complex tone, but they're more delicate and expensive - not ideal for someone still learning the fundamentals.
Keywork Design
Simpler is better. Avoid models with overly complex mechanisms or unusual key placements. A straightforward design minimizes confusion and allows you to focus on the essential fingerings.
Tone Quality (Beginner Perspective)
Don't expect a concert hall sound. A beginner horn should have a clear, focused tone - not overly bright or muffled. A little bit of 'honk' can actually be helpful for articulation, but avoid anything that sounds thin or ice-picky.
Buying guide
So, you're diving into the Bb clarinet world? Smart move - it's a versatile horn. But as a beginner, you need something that won't fight you every step of the way. Forget chasing that professional-level, dark, complex tone right now; you need something playable, reliable, and won't leave you frustrated trying to hit a simple G.
Don't fall for the trap of thinking a higher price tag automatically equals a better learning experience. Many beginner horns cut corners on the action and keywork, making them harder to play than they need to be. Look for a horn with a comfortable neck profile - that's a huge factor in ease of playing.
A decent case and a few reeds are essential; factor those into the overall cost. It's better to spend a little more upfront for a playable instrument than to struggle with something cheap that discourages you.
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 a Albert system clarinet?
Boehm is the standard for Bb clarinets these days, with the more familiar oval key design. Albert system is older, and less common. Stick with Boehm - it's what you'll encounter most often.
Should I rent or buy a beginner clarinet?
Renting is a good option if you're unsure about committing. But be aware that rental fees can quickly exceed the cost of a decent beginner instrument. Buying is usually more economical in the long run.
What reed strength should I use?
Start with a 2.0 or 2.5 reed. They're softer and easier to blow. As you develop your embouchure, you can experiment with harder reeds.
My clarinet sounds stuffy - what can I do?
Make sure your reed is properly soaked before playing. Also, check for any obstructions in the mouthpiece or bore. A quick swab can often solve the problem.
I'm having trouble with my intonation - is the clarinet faulty?
Intonation is complex! It's affected by your embouchure, breath support, and reed choice. Get your teacher to check your playing and the horn's setup. It might just need a minor adjustment.
