Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) for Professional 2026
Alright, let's talk Bb clarinets. You're a pro, you need something that breathes, something that responds to your nuances, not something that fights you. Forget the student models; we're looking at instruments that can handle a late-night jazz gig, a demanding orchestral passage, or a clean recording session without breaking a sweat. This isn't about 'nice' - it's about delivering the sound you hear in your head.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Students
For Band
For Orchestra
For Jazz
For All Genres
For General Performance
#1
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Students
General Performance
Orchestra
Key Feature:
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.
- • Silver-plated keys provide a smoother action and visual appeal.
CONS
- • ABS plastic inherently lacks the complex tonal nuances of grenadilla wood.
- • Beginner mouthpiece may limit advanced players' tonal expression.
- • Plastic construction can feel less resonant compared to wood instruments.
- • Limited key configuration restricts advanced technical passages.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589347
$768
#2
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568309
$9,107
#3
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589365
$10,118
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
General Performance
Jazz
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Allegro is a seriously capable instrument, offering a professional feel and sound at a competitive price point. It's ideal for ambitious intermediate to advanced players looking to step up from student models and explore a more nuanced tonal palette. The included barrels are a thoughtful touch, letting you dial in your perfect pitch.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and a bright, responsive feel.
- • Included barrels allow for easy fine-tuning of pitch and timbre.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with significant humidity changes.
- • Professional-level instrument demands a skilled player to fully realize its potential.
- • Lack of mouthpiece requires an additional investment for a suitable setup.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589354
$3,848
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Band
General Performance
All Genres
Key Feature:
The RZ Allegro is a seriously capable clarinet, built with quality materials and a thoughtful keywork layout. It's a great step up for advanced students and gigging professionals who want a reliable, responsive instrument with a pleasing, focused tone. It’s a fantastic value for a clarinet of this caliber.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and comfortable fingering.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and responsiveness for years.
- • Includes two barrels for subtle intonation adjustments across registers.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care and humidity fluctuations.
- • Professional-level clarinet requires dedicated practice and maintenance to realize its potential.
- • Lacks a mouthpiece, necessitating a separate, often premium, purchase.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589353
$3,738
#6
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Students
General Performance
Jazz
Key Feature:
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.
- • Included barrels allow for slight intonation adjustments to suit different climates and playing styles.
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.
- • The silver-plated finish, while durable, will eventually require polishing to maintain its appearance.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589350
$1,428
#7
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589349
$945
#8
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 578221
$5,718
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
RZ Clarinets
General Performance
Orchestra
Students
Key Feature:
The RZ Conservatory is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a well-built, responsive Bb clarinet. The grenadilla body delivers a lovely tone, and the extra keys/rings provide comfortable access to the higher register. It's a great balance of quality and playability without the premium price tag of top-tier brands.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • 18 keys/6 rings offer improved ergonomics and extended range.
- • Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and durability.
- • Includes two barrels for fine-tuning response and intonation.
CONS
- • Grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- • Silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • The included case, while functional, may lack premium protection.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589352
$2,308
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-13 Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Gig Bag
General Performance
All Genres
Orchestra
Key Feature:
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.
- • Included gig bag offers reliable protection and convenient transport for the instrument.
CONS
- • The 17/6 configuration may feel slightly less flexible for advanced players.
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- • The silver plating necessitates occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616160
$1,891
#11
⭐
4.7/5
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.
⭐
4.7/5
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:
10/10
Value:
8/10
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Band
Jazz
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Bohema 17/6 is a serious contender for the advancing student or professional seeking a refined sound and improved technical capabilities. The unstained grenadilla provides a naturally rich tone, while the 17-key configuration enhances agility. It’s a fantastic instrument if you value responsiveness and nuanced control, but be prepared for the upkeep that comes with unstained wood.
PROS
- • Exceptional grenadilla tone with surprising warmth for unstained wood.
- • 17 keys/6 rings offer enhanced technical agility and comfortable ergonomics.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel.
- • Includes two barrels for easy intonation adjustment across different climates.
CONS
- • Unstained finish may require more careful maintenance to prevent stickiness.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • Lack of mouthpiece limits immediate playability; requires separate purchase.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589358
$4,618
#13
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616161
$2,067
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Selmer Privilege Evo Bb-Clarinet 18/6
by
Selmer
Band
Students
General Performance
Key Feature:
The Selmer Privilege Evo is a beautifully crafted clarinet, offering a professional-level playing experience. The Evolution system is a smart addition for longevity, and the included barrels give you tuning flexibility. It's an excellent choice for serious students and advancing players seeking a reliable, resonant instrument with a refined tone.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, rich, and responsive tone.
- • Evolution system minimizes bore cracking, extending instrument lifespan.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable performance.
- • Included barrels allow for tuning adjustments across a range of climates.
CONS
- • The Privilege Evo is premium-priced, a significant investment for many players.
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent moisture damage.
- • The included Selmer Concept mouthpiece is adequate, but a serious player will likely upgrade.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 549356
$5,608
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Response & Articulation
Pro players need immediate response across the range, clean articulation without needing to force the reed. A sluggish clarinet will bury you in a band setting; you need to cut through without sounding harsh.
2
Tonal Color & Projection
That 'fat midrange honk' is essential for jazz, but you also need clarity for classical. Projection isn't just about volume - it's about the tone carrying across a room without sounding brittle or thin. Headroom is key to avoiding that pinched, squeezed sound when you really push it.
3
Keywork Ergonomics
Comfortable, reliable keywork is non-negotiable. You're going to be sweating on stage, fingers flying. Sticky keys or awkward fingerings will kill your performance. Consider the overall balance and weight distribution too.
4
Intonation Stability
A clarinet that's consistently out of tune is a liability. Pro models should have better intonation across the entire range, minimizing the need for constant adjustments. This often relates to bore design and key placement precision.
5
Construction Quality & Durability
Pro clarinets take a beating. We're looking for solid construction, durable pads, and a mechanism that can withstand years of gigging and touring. Cheap gear will fail at the worst possible moment.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the hype. The biggest trade-off is often between outright tonal richness and responsiveness. Some models have a gorgeous, dark sound but require a lot of effort to make sing. Consider your playing style and the genres you work in. Spending a bit more on a reputable brand generally means better intonation and a more consistent playing experience - it's an investment, not just an expense.
Our Methodology
We're not basing this on spec sheets - those numbers are just a starting point. We've spent years playing these clarinets in all sorts of situations: rehearsal rooms, concert halls, and recording studios. Our evaluations are based on feel, response, tonal character, and how well they hold up under pressure - because that's what you're going to be dealing with.
Frequently Asked Questions
German bores are typically brighter and more focused, great for classical. French bores tend to be darker, warmer, and more flexible, preferred by many jazz players. It's a tonal preference, really.
Gold keys are a matter of feel and perceived luxury - they're lighter and slightly warmer to the touch. Functionally, they offer no real advantage over silver keys. It's an aesthetic and comfort choice.
Hybrids can be interesting, attempting to blend the best of both worlds. However, they often end up being a compromise, lacking the distinct character of either a true German or French model. Try before you buy.
There will be a learning curve. Pro clarinets are more sensitive; you'll need to adjust your embouchure and air support to get the most out of them. Be prepared to spend time dialing it in.
Absolutely. The reeds that come with most clarinets are generally just 'starter' reeds. Experiment with different brands and strengths to find what complements the clarinet's tonal character and your playing style. It's the biggest lever you have to shape your sound.
