Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Intermediate 2026
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.
Last updated: June 24, 2026 • Next update: July 1, 2026
⚡ The best bb clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are RZmagoo Clarinets Solo Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6 (top pick), Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Clarinet 19/6 Mopane for tighter budgets, and RZmagoo Clarinets Bohema Hybrid Bb-Clarinet 18/6 for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $867–$10,117, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
GENRES & STYLES:
For Students
For Band
For Orchestra
For Jazz
For All Genres
For General Performance
#1
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589365
$10,118
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 569840
$8,304
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589364
$7,258
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Jazz
General Performance
Band
Key Feature:
The Bohema 18/6 is a serious contender for advancing players and professionals. The grenadilla wood provides a beautiful, focused tone, and the extra keys/rings give you the fingerings you need for complex passages. It's a beautifully crafted instrument that's ready to be personalized with your mouthpiece of choice.
PROS
- • Excellent grenadilla wood provides warm, resonant tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and durability.
- • Included barrels allow for subtle tuning adjustments across registers.
CONS
- • Unstained finish may not appeal to players preferring a lacquered look.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many musicians.
- • Lack of mouthpiece necessitates an additional purchase for immediate playability.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 589357
$4,838
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
All Genres
General Performance
Students
Key Feature:
The RZ Conservatory is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a well-built, responsive instrument. The grenadilla body delivers a pleasing warmth, and the extra keys make complex passages easier to navigate. It's a great value proposition, offering professional-level features without the truly premium price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer improved ergonomics and technical facility.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and responsiveness for years.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning pitch and response characteristics.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • Silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
- • The included case, while functional, may not offer the ultimate protection for touring professionals.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 589351
$2,034
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Dolce Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
All Genres
General Performance
Jazz
Key Feature:
The RZ Dolce is a serious contender for intermediate to advanced players seeking a professional-grade instrument without the stratospheric price tag. The grenadilla body delivers a lovely, controlled sound, and the extra keys and rings noticeably improve fingerwork. It's a fantastic option for students progressing beyond beginner models or professionals needing a reliable, high-quality secondary instrument.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and durability over time.
- • Included barrels allow for fine-tuning of pitch and response.
CONS
- • Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • Lacks a fully under-stated mechanism, which might be a drawback for some advanced players.
- • The silver-plating, while durable, requires periodic polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589356
$2,848
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
General Performance
Students
Band
Key Feature:
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.
- • RZ patent cracking system provides peace of mind for a valuable investment.
CONS
- • The weight will be noticeable for players accustomed to lighter instruments.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Lack of mouthpiece limits immediate playability; requires separate purchase.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589360
$8,248
#8
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Vivo Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Jazz
Band
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The RZ Vivo is a solid, dependable option for beginner clarinetists or those needing a reliable practice instrument. The ABS body means it can take a beating, and the 'Special Bore' design does a surprisingly good job of mimicking a wooden clarinet's tone. It's a fantastic value for students and school programs.
PROS
- • Durable ABS plastic resists dents and damage, ideal for students.
- • RZ 'Special Bore' convincingly emulates grenadilla wood's tonal warmth.
- • Included barrels offer easy intonation adjustment for varied playing.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and resist tarnish.
CONS
- • ABS plastic lacks the complex tonal nuance of wood, a noticeable difference.
- • Leather pads, while good, may require more frequent maintenance than synthetic alternatives.
- • The included mouthpiece is serviceable, but advanced players will likely upgrade.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589349
$945
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Set
Orchestra
Band
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Prodige 17/6 is a fantastic entry-level clarinet—it's built to withstand the rigors of student practice and offers a surprisingly good tone for an ABS instrument. The bundled ClariMate mute is a neat bonus for silent practice and digital exploration, making it a compelling package for beginners or those needing a reliable, low-maintenance option.
PROS
- • Durable ABS body resists cracking, ideal for student use.
- • Poly-cylindrical bore offers a responsive, focused tone.
- • Blue steel springs provide a lighter, quicker key action.
- • ClariMate mute offers versatile practice options and MIDI connectivity.
CONS
- • ABS construction, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- • Included mouthpiece is basic, a future upgrade is likely desired.
- • The ClariMate, while innovative, adds another device to manage.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 580931
$930
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568309
$9,107
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589359
$6,048
#12
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-Clarinet
by
Selmer
All Genres
Band
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The Prologue II is a solid, dependable student/intermediate clarinet. Its ergonomic design and extra keys are a real boon for developing players, particularly those with smaller hands. It’s a great step up from a basic student model, offering a noticeably improved sound and build quality.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers warmth and responsiveness.
- • 17 keys/6 rings improve ergonomics for smaller hands.
- • Valentino pads provide reliable sealing and consistent tone.
- • Silver-plating enhances durability and aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • Polycylindrical bore can lack the complexity of a true cylindrical bore.
- • Selmer Focus mouthpiece is a decent start, but upgrade potential exists.
- • Weight can feel substantial for younger or smaller players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596415
$1,935
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 18/6 Gig Bag
Orchestra
Students
All Genres
Key Feature:
The E-13 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and professionals. It offers a noticeably richer tone and improved mechanics compared to entry-level models, without the extreme cost of a top-tier instrument. The 18/6 configuration provides a broader range of expression for more demanding repertoire.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and consistent responsiveness.
- • 18 keys and 6 rings provide enhanced intonation and versatility for advanced players.
- • The included gig bag offers excellent protection and convenient transport.
CONS
- • The grenadilla wood can be susceptible to temperature and humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The 18/6 configuration isn't ideal for beginners; it's geared towards experienced players.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616161
$2,067
#14
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Students
Orchestra
Band
Key Feature:
This RZ clarinet is a solid choice for beginners or students on a budget. The ABS body makes it surprisingly robust, and the 'RZ bore' gives it a warmer tone than you'd typically expect from plastic. It’s a great entry point to the clarinet world, offering good value and a decent playing experience.
PROS
- • Durable ABS plastic resists damage, ideal for students.
- • RZ bore design convincingly emulates grenadilla's warmth.
- • Includes multiple barrels for tuning flexibility and experimentation.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and resist tarnish.
CONS
- • ABS plastic lacks the tonal complexity of wood clarinets.
- • Student mouthpiece is functional but will likely be upgraded soon.
- • Keywork, while smooth, may feel slightly less refined than higher-end models.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589348
$868
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 578221
$5,718
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these instruments, both in the studio and on stage, putting them through their paces with different reed strengths and musical styles. Our evaluations are based on feel, response, tonal character, and how well they handle the demands of real-world performance - no sterile showroom conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
