AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb Clarinet ($3,685). Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb Clarinet gives you the most for the money at $1,562. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 71 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,685 now$3,685€3,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb Clarinet
YCL-650 Clarinet · Yamaha
7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
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.
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.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,562 now$1,562€1,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,674 now$1,674€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,451 now$1,451€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,116 now$1,116€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,194 now$3,194€2,859 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,573 now$3,573€3,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,194 now$1,194€1,069 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,205 now$1,205€1,079 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YCL-450E-02 is a fantastic step-up clarinet – it nails the fundamentals. The grenadilla body gives it a lovely, focused tone that’s a real improvement over plastic models. It’s a solid choice for intermediate students or players looking for a reliable, well-rounded instrument without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tonal color.
- Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and durability.
- Eb lever expands playing range and technical possibilities.
Cons
- The included 4C mouthpiece is serviceable, but limits advanced tone shaping.
- Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity changes.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,284 now$1,284€1,149 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.
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RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$1,450€1,298$1,450€1,298Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,066€1,849$2,066€1,849Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,344€2,098$2,344€2,098Check ↗
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Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,679€2,398$2,679€2,398Check ↗
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Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,848€2,549$2,848€2,549Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,796€3,398$3,796€3,398Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,908€3,498$3,908€3,498Check ↗
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Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$1,965€1,759$1,965€1,759Check ↗
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Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$2,232€1,998$2,232€1,998Check ↗
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Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer35Stable$3,529€3,159$3,529€3,159Check ↗
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Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$3,782€3,385$3,782€3,385Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,764€1,579$1,764€1,579Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel Classic L Bb Clarinet Eb keyF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,882€1,685$1,882€1,685Check ↗
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JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$1,116€999$1,116€999Check ↗
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Oscar Adler & Co. 911 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.31Stable$2,567€2,298$2,567€2,298Check ↗
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Oscar Adler & Co. 912 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.31Stable$2,902€2,598$2,902€2,598Check ↗
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Yamaha YCL-255 ES Bb-ClarinetYamaha · 3 finishes44Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 SetBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes35Stable$937€839$937€839Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$881€789$881€789Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$770€689$770€689Check ↗
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JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$893€799$893€799Check ↗
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RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
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Thomann CL-17BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann · 2 finishes37Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$814€729$814€729Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$658€589$658€589Check ↗
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Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann32Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
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RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZmagoo Clarinets47Stable$7,371€6,598$7,371€6,598Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon R13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$3,965€3,549$3,965€3,549Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 GLBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes43Stable$7,595€6,798$7,595€6,798Check ↗
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Startone SCL- 65 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes38Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
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Nuvo Band Bb-Clarinet BlackNuvo Band32↓ 3.9%$299€268$299€268Check ↗
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Startone SCL- 25 Bb- ClarinetStartone · 2 finishes38Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$4,077€3,649$4,077€3,649Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$4,077€3,649$4,077€3,649Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon RC Prestige Bb-Clar 18/6 - NEWBuffet Crampon38Stable$5,807€5,198$5,807€5,198Check ↗
- 46
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 18/6 NEWBuffet Crampon38Stable$5,807€5,198$5,807€5,198Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Tradition Bb- Clarinet NewBuffet Crampon38Stable$6,142€5,498$6,142€5,498Check ↗
- 48
Buffet Crampon Festival Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mop.Buffet Crampon38Stable$6,924€6,198$6,924€6,198Check ↗
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Buffet Crampon Légende Bb- Clarinet 19/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$8,333€7,459$8,333€7,459Check ↗
- 50
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clar. 19/6 Mopane LtdBuffet Crampon38Stable$8,488€7,598$8,488€7,598Check ↗
Bb Clarinets (Boehm) by the numbers
Measured across all 84 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,902 — half of all bb clarinets (boehm) here cost less.
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.
