Best RZ Clarinets Bb Clarinets (Boehm) 2026
Alright, so you're looking at a Bb Boehm clarinet? Good choice, it's the workhorse for a lot of us. But wading through the options can be overwhelming. Rz Clarinets have been quietly building a reputation for solid, reliable instruments that don't break the bank, and offer a surprisingly sweet tone - especially once you dial them in. Let's break down what makes these things tick and whether one might be right for you.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best bb clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are RZ Clarinets Capriccio Bb-Clarinet 18/6 (top pick), RZ Clarinets Solo Bb-Clarinet 18/6 for tighter budgets, and RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6 for pros — selected from 13 options, priced $767–$8,247, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
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1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
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.
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4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589359
$6,048
#2
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
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.
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4.2/5
AudioFu Score
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1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 589360
$8,248
#3
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3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
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.
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3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589357
$4,838
#4
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589358
$4,618
#5
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3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
7/10
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.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 589356
$2,848
#6
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3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
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.
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3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589352
$2,308
#7
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3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589354
$3,848
#8
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589353
$3,738
#9
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589351
$2,034
#10
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 589349
$945
#11
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 589347
$768
#12
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
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.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589350
$1,428
#13
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 589348
$868
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Tone
Rz clarinets tend to have a warmer, more focused sound than some of the brighter, more aggressive competitors. It's not a dark, muddy tone, mind you, but it's got a lovely sustain and a pleasing, almost vocal quality that really shines in lyrical passages. It's a tone that blends well, which is a huge plus for gigging.
2
Action & Response
The action on Rz instruments is generally quite good right out of the box - not requiring a ton of adjustment. They respond well to a lighter touch, giving you good dynamic control, which is crucial for nailing those subtle nuances in jazz or classical playing. The voicing is clean, not overly stuffy.
3
Build Quality
You're not getting a Selmer Reference here, but Rz consistently uses decent materials and solid construction. The keywork feels reasonably robust, and the pads seem to hold up well under regular use. It's a solid, reliable build - not flashy, but dependable.
4
Intonation
Like any clarinet, intonation can be a bit finicky. Rz clarinets are generally pretty good, but they do require a bit of careful tuning and potentially some minor adjustments to the keys to get perfectly spot-on, especially in the higher registers. This is where a good tech can really make a difference.
5
Value
This is the big one. Rz offers a compelling price-to-performance ratio. You're getting a usable, well-sounding clarinet without needing to take out a second mortgage. It's a sweet spot for students, gigging musicians on a budget, or anyone who wants a reliable instrument without the premium price tag.
Buying Guide
Look, these aren't hand-crafted masterpieces, so don't expect perfection. The finish might not be flawless, and the silver-plating isn't as thick as you'd find on higher-end horns. But for the price, you're getting a clarinet that will gig reliably and sound good. A good tech for a basic setup is a worthwhile investment to really dial in the intonation and action.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 13 bb clarinets (boehm) from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. They're forgiving to play, the action isn't too stiff, and the tone is encouraging - not harsh or discouraging like some cheaper options. They're a solid starting point.
Yamahas are known for their bright, precise tone and consistency. Rz are generally warmer and a bit more 'vocal'. Yamaha's tend to cut through a mix better, while Rz blend more easily. It's a matter of preference really.
Experiment! But generally, a mid-strength reed (around 2.5 or 3) will work well. You'll want to find something that balances projection with a warm, even tone - avoid anything too bright initially.
Like any woodwind, they need regular pad cleaning and occasional oiling of the keys. Don't let them dry out - swab them after every playing session. Basic maintenance goes a long way.
Definitely! The warmer tone can be a real asset in a recording situation, especially for genres like jazz, blues, or folk. Just be mindful of the intonation and make sure you've got a good mic setup.
