AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Intermediate 2026

Q: What's the difference between a 'student' and an 'intermediate' Bb clarinet?

Student models often have simpler key systems, less precise intonation, and a more basic tone. Intermediate instruments have improved keywork, better intonation, and a more developed tonal palette - they're designed to support more advanced playing techniques.

Q: I've heard about 'rolled tone holes'. Do I really need them?

Rolled tone holes are a design feature intended to improve response and intonation, especially in the upper register. While they're not a magic bullet, they're more common on intermediate and professional models and contribute to a more even tone.

Q: What reed strength should I be using now that I'm an intermediate player?

Experiment! It really depends on your embouchure and the clarinet's response. Most intermediate players find themselves gravitating towards 2.5 to 3.5 reeds, but don't be afraid to try different strengths to find what works best for your style and the clarinet's voicing.

Q: Is a silver-plated clarinet worth the extra money?

Silver plating can offer a slightly brighter, more focused tone, but it's often more about aesthetics. The underlying bore and construction are far more important. A well-made, solid polymer clarinet will often outperform a poorly made silver-plated one.

Q: I'm thinking about getting a pickup system for recording. What should I look for?

Pickup voicing is crucial - you want something that captures the clarinet's natural tone, not a sterile, electronic sound. Look for systems that focus on a balanced frequency response and minimal coloration. Test it out with your own instrument and playing style before committing.

The top pick is Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb Clarinet ($3,687). Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 gives you the most for the money at $1,117. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 71 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 13, 2026

71models in this chart

12brands

$2,905median price

5price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Bb Clarinets (Boehm) Showing: For Intermediate · clear

Price

Skill level

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

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
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker78
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$3,687 now

$3,687€3,298 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Gig Bag
Buffet Crampon
Not on Reverb yet4 finishes at Thomann
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
- Demand30
- Lineup100
- Price89
- Specs0
- Maker100
↓ 12.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,922 · Aug 14$1,675 now

$1,675€1,498 at Thomann · in stock
Check 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
- Demand66
- Lineup68
- Price46
- Specs0
- Maker78
↑ 1.2%since Aug 14
$1,765 · Aug 14$1,787 now

$1,787€1,598 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Buffet Crampon E12F Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Buffet Crampon
Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann
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
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup68
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$1,452 now

$1,452€1,299 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Buffet Crampon
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
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.
Cons
- The African Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- The silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
38AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stablesince Aug 14
$1,116 · Aug 14$1,117 now

$1,117€999 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Buffet Crampon
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
The Gala is a fantastic step-up clarinet, offering a significant upgrade in tone and response compared to student models. It nails that sweet spot between professional quality and approachability, making it ideal for serious intermediate to advanced players who want a reliable, expressive instrument without the full price tag of a flagship model. The included barrels give you extra flexibility in adjusting your sound.
Pros
- Grenadilla body offers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- Polycylindrical bore provides excellent projection and intonation stability.
- Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and reliable responsiveness.
Cons
- The silver plating requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to cracking with extreme temperature changes.
38AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$3,197 now

$3,197€2,859 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 18/6
Buffet Crampon
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
The Gala is a fantastic step up for intermediate to advanced players seeking a professional-grade clarinet. It offers the core tonal character of Buffet’s higher-end models, with a comfortable keywork and a versatile response. This is a great choice for students progressing towards a conservatory level or professionals wanting a reliable, excellent-sounding instrument.
Pros
- Grenadilla body delivers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- Polycylindrical bore promotes even response across the range.
- 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and comfort.
Cons
- The silver-plated mechanism, while durable, requires regular polishing.
- Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to humidity changes; care is essential.
38AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$3,576 now

$3,576€3,198 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Yamaha
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
The YCL-450-02 is a solid, reliable student-intermediate clarinet. The grenadilla body delivers a surprisingly rich tone for its price point, and the keywork is well-built. This is an excellent choice for serious students and advancing players who want a dependable instrument without the premium price tag of Yamaha’s top-tier models.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood offers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and corrosion resistance.
- 17 keys/6 rings enhance technical agility and intonation.
Cons
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes.
- The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing.
36AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker78
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$1,195 now

$1,195€1,069 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Yamaha
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
The YCL-450M-02 is a solid step-up clarinet, striking a good balance between quality and affordability. The grenadilla body delivers a pleasing tone, and the thermoplastic lining minimizes common maintenance headaches. It’s a fantastic choice for intermediate students or players looking for a reliable, well-built instrument without premium pricing – a great all-around workhorse.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, resonant tone.
- Thermoplastic lining prevents moisture absorption, ensuring stability.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable responsiveness.
Cons
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to temperature/humidity changes.
- Yamaha 4C mouthpiece is adequate, but a significant upgrade is likely desired.
36AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker78
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$1,206 now

$1,206€1,079 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6
RZ Clarinets
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
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.
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.
36AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker78
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$1,451 now

$1,451€1,298 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 71 bb clarinets (boehm)

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$2,067€1,849
$2,067€1,849Check ↗
12
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$2,346€2,098
$2,346€2,098Check ↗
13
Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$2,681€2,398
$2,681€2,398Check ↗
14
Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$2,850€2,549
$2,850€2,549Check ↗
15
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$3,799€3,398
$3,799€3,398Check ↗
16
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$3,911€3,498
$3,911€3,498Check ↗
17
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$1,967€1,759
$1,967€1,759Check ↗
18
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$2,234€1,998
$2,234€1,998Check ↗
19
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$3,532€3,159
$3,532€3,159Check ↗
20
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$3,785€3,385
$3,785€3,385Check ↗
21
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Yamaha

Index 34↑ 4.6%
34
↑ 4.6%$1,285€1,149
$1,285€1,149Check ↗
22
F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$1,765€1,579
$1,765€1,579Check ↗
23
JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$1,117€999
$1,117€999Check ↗
24
Oscar Adler & Co. 911 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$2,569€2,298
$2,569€2,298Check ↗
25
F.A. Uebel Classic L Bb Clarinet Eb keyF.A. Uebel

Index 30↑ 5.4%
30
↑ 5.4%$1,884€1,685
$1,884€1,685Check ↗
26
Oscar Adler & Co. 912 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.

Index 30↑ 4.0%
30
↑ 4.0%$2,905€2,598
$2,905€2,598Check ↗
27
Yamaha YCL-255 ES Bb-ClarinetYamaha · 3 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$780€698
$780€698Check ↗
28
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 SetBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes

Index 35↓ 0.7%
35
↓ 0.7%$938€839
$938€839Check ↗
29
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$882€789
$882€789Check ↗
30
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$770€689
$770€689Check ↗
31
JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$893€799
$893€799Check ↗
32
RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$780€698
$780€698Check ↗
33
Thomann CL-17BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann · 2 finishes

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$726€649
$726€649Check ↗
34
F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$815€729
$815€729Check ↗
35
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$659€589
$659€589Check ↗
36
Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$780€698
$780€698Check ↗
37
RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$7,377€6,598
$7,377€6,598Check ↗
38
Buffet Crampon R13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$3,968€3,549
$3,968€3,549Check ↗
39
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 GLBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes

Index 42↑ 1.5%
42
↑ 1.5%$7,601€6,798
$7,601€6,798Check ↗
40
Startone SCL- 65 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$200€179
$200€179Check ↗
41
Nuvo Band Bb-Clarinet BlackNuvo Band

Index 32↓ 3.9%
32
↓ 3.9%$300€268
$300€268Check ↗
42
Startone SCL- 25 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$144€129
$144€129Check ↗
43
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon

Index 38↓ 0.8%
38
↓ 0.8%$4,080€3,649
$4,080€3,649Check ↗
44
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEWBuffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$5,812€5,198
$5,812€5,198Check ↗
45
Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet NewBuffet Crampon

Index 38↑ 0.9%
38
↑ 0.9%$6,147€5,498
$6,147€5,498Check ↗
46
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.Buffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$6,930€6,198
$6,930€6,198Check ↗
47
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clar. 19/6 Mopane LtdBuffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$8,495€7,598
$8,495€7,598Check ↗
48
Buffet Crampon Divine Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$8,607€7,698
$8,607€7,698Check ↗
49
Buffet Crampon BCXXI Bb-Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$8,831€7,898
$8,831€7,898Check ↗
50
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb-Clarinet MopaneBuffet Crampon

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$9,278€8,298
$9,278€8,298Check ↗
51
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon

Index 37↑ 1.4%
37
↑ 1.4%$4,080€3,649
$4,080€3,649Check ↗
52
Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEWBuffet Crampon

Index 37↑ 2.9%
37
↑ 2.9%$5,812€5,198
$5,812€5,198Check ↗
53
Buffet Crampon Légende Bb- Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon

Index 37↑ 1.5%
37
↑ 1.5%$8,340€7,459
$8,340€7,459Check ↗
54
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 MopaneBuffet Crampon

Index 37↑ 1.5%
37
↑ 1.5%$8,564€7,659
$8,564€7,659Check ↗
55
Yamaha YCL-CSG III L 02 ClarinetYamaha

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$4,102€3,669
$4,102€3,669Check ↗
56
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$4,694€4,198
$4,694€4,198Check ↗
57
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$4,917€4,398
$4,917€4,398Check ↗
58
RZ Clarinets Allegro D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$5,253€4,698
$5,253€4,698Check ↗
59
RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$6,147€5,498
$6,147€5,498Check ↗
60
RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$8,384€7,498
$8,384€7,498Check ↗
61
RZ Clarinets Solo D Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$8,441€7,549
$8,441€7,549Check ↗
62
Selmer Privilege Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$5,700€5,098
$5,700€5,098Check ↗
63
Selmer Muse 18/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$5,981€5,349
$5,981€5,349Check ↗
64
Selmer Récital Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$6,147€5,498
$6,147€5,498Check ↗
65
Selmer Muse 19/6 Bb ClarinetSelmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$6,483€5,798
$6,483€5,798Check ↗
66
Selmer Privilege Bb-Clarinet 18/6 BKSelmer

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$7,824€6,998
$7,824€6,998Check ↗
67
Selmer Signature Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer

Index 34↑ 1.9%
34
↑ 1.9%$5,924€5,298
$5,924€5,298Check ↗
68
Yamaha YCL-CSG III 03 Bb-ClarinetYamaha

Index 33↑ 6.4%
33
↑ 6.4%$4,247€3,798
$4,247€3,798Check ↗
69
RZmagoo Clarinets Heirassa Hyb Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$5,476€4,898
$5,476€4,898Check ↗
70
RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$10,284€9,198
$10,284€9,198Check ↗
71
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 17/6Martin Foag

Index 29↑ 2.0%
29
↑ 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.

Price distribution

Median $2,905 — half of all bb clarinets (boehm) here cost less.

<$150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k–10k$10k+

How to choose the best bb clarinets (boehm)

Response & Intonation

As an intermediate player, you're starting to hear subtle intonation quirks. A good Bb clarinet should offer a more consistent and reliable intonation across the range, especially in the upper registers. We're looking for evenness and minimal need for constant adjustment.

Tone Color

You're beyond the 'just making a sound' phase. Now you're chasing that warm, focused core tone with a little bit of edge - not a thin, reedy sound, and not a honky, unfocused mess either. It needs to cut through a band without being harsh.

Keywork & Ergonomics

Intermediate players are developing more complex fingerings and techniques. The keywork needs to be smooth, reliable, and comfortable, with a good action that doesn't fight you. A well-designed neck profile also makes a huge difference in overall playability.

Durability & Construction

Let's be real, you're gigging now. The clarinet needs to hold up to the bumps and scrapes of regular use. We're looking for solid construction, durable pads, and a mechanism that won't start seizing up after a few months.

Dynamic Range & Articulation

You're starting to explore nuanced phrasing. A good clarinet will give you headroom to shape your dynamics - a whisper-quiet passage needs to be just as controllable as a full-blown blast. Clear articulation is crucial for clean, precise playing.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're past the student clarinet and feeling the itch for a Bb Boehm - smart move. They open up a whole different world of repertoire and gigging opportunities. But stepping up isn't just about a fancier finish; it's about finding an instrument that'll respond to your growing skill and let you shape your tone. This isn't a beginner's guide - we're talking about clarinets that can handle some serious playing.

Don't fall for the shiny lacquer and fancy engraving. At this level, it's about the fundamental response and build quality. A clarinet with a slightly older, but well-maintained, bore will often play better than a brand-new model with flashy features.

Pay attention to the pad material and the spring tension on the keys - those are indicators of longevity. It's often worth spending a little more for a reputable brand known for its consistent quality control.

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 'student' and an 'intermediate' Bb clarinet?

Student models often have simpler key systems, less precise intonation, and a more basic tone. Intermediate instruments have improved keywork, better intonation, and a more developed tonal palette - they're designed to support more advanced playing techniques.

I've heard about 'rolled tone holes'. Do I really need them?

Rolled tone holes are a design feature intended to improve response and intonation, especially in the upper register. While they're not a magic bullet, they're more common on intermediate and professional models and contribute to a more even tone.

What reed strength should I be using now that I'm an intermediate player?

Experiment! It really depends on your embouchure and the clarinet's response. Most intermediate players find themselves gravitating towards 2.5 to 3.5 reeds, but don't be afraid to try different strengths to find what works best for your style and the clarinet's voicing.

Is a silver-plated clarinet worth the extra money?

Silver plating can offer a slightly brighter, more focused tone, but it's often more about aesthetics. The underlying bore and construction are far more important. A well-made, solid polymer clarinet will often outperform a poorly made silver-plated one.

I'm thinking about getting a pickup system for recording. What should I look for?

Pickup voicing is crucial - you want something that captures the clarinet's natural tone, not a sterile, electronic sound. Look for systems that focus on a balanced frequency response and minimal coloration. Test it out with your own instrument and playing style before committing.