AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb Clarinet ($3,687). Startone SCL- 25 Bb- Clarinet gives you the most for the money at $144. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 46 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 13, 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$3,687 now$3,687€3,298 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.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 12.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,922 · Aug 14$1,675 now$1,675€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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↑ 1.2%since Aug 14$1,765 · Aug 14$1,787 now$1,787€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YCL-255 S is a solid, dependable clarinet perfect for students or players needing a reliable, affordable instrument. It offers a bright, clear tone and comfortable ergonomics, making it easy to learn and play for extended periods. It's a great step up from a truly entry-level horn, offering improved build and feel.
Pros
- ABS body provides excellent durability and consistent intonation.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and resist tarnish.
- Improved thumb rest enhances comfort and control during playing.
Cons
- ABS construction lacks the warmth and tonal complexity of wood.
- Silver plating requires occasional polishing to prevent discoloration.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$647 now$647€579 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 14Aug 14$1,452 now$1,452€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The R13 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and advancing players. Its Grendilla body delivers a warm, full tone with excellent projection, and the improved keywork makes it a joy to play – a true workhorse instrument built to last.
Pros
- Exceptional Grendilla wood provides a rich, focused tone.
- Silver-plated mechanisms offer smooth, responsive action.
- 17 keys and 5 rings enhance technical capabilities and intonation.
Cons
- The Grendilla wood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- The silver plating necessitates regular polishing to prevent tarnish.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$3,968 now$3,968€3,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Startone SCL-25 is a surprisingly solid entry-level clarinet. It's a great option for beginners, school band programs, or anyone needing a dependable, affordable instrument for practice. While it won’t compete with pro-level horns, it delivers a decent tone and a reliable playing experience.
Pros
- ABS body offers excellent durability and resists cracking.
- Silver-plated nickel silver keys provide smooth action and responsiveness.
- Includes a complete accessory pack – swab, grease, ligature, case.
Cons
- ABS plastic body lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- Silver-plated mechanism may tarnish and require occasional cleaning.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Startone SCL-65 is a surprisingly solid entry point for aspiring clarinetists. Its durable construction and included accessories make it a great value for students or those wanting a backup instrument. Don't expect a professional sound, but it's well-suited for learning the basics and casual playing.
Pros
- ABS body offers durability, resisting cracks common in wood instruments
- Silver-plated nickel silver keys provide a responsive, relatively smooth action
- Includes multiple barrels for slight tuning adjustments and tonal variation
Cons
- ABS plastic body lacks the tonal complexity of wood, sounding somewhat 'plastic'
- Silver-plated keywork, while decent, won't match the feel of solid silver keys
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet, especially for students or players needing a reliable, low-maintenance instrument. Its robust ABS construction and comfortable keywork make it a joy to play, and the bore design delivers a surprisingly full sound. It's a great choice for those wanting a solid-performing instrument without the fragility or upkeep of a wood clarinet.
Pros
- Durable ABS body resists cracking and temperature changes.
- Poly-cylindrical bore offers a responsive, even tone across registers.
- Blue steel springs provide a lighter, faster action for improved agility.
Cons
- ABS body lacks the acoustic richness of traditional wood.
- Included mouthpiece is serviceable but may limit tonal exploration.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$659 now$659€589 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet—seriously well-made for the price. The ABS body makes it incredibly durable, a huge plus for students, and the tone is surprisingly rich for a synthetic instrument. It's an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for reliability and a good foundation.
Pros
- Durable ABS body resists cracking, ideal for students
- Poly-cylindrical bore offers a surprisingly warm, responsive tone
- Blue steel springs provide a lighter, quicker key action
Cons
- ABS body lacks the tonal complexity of grenadilla wood
- Included mouthpiece is adequate but a significant upgrade is recommended
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$770 now$770€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 46 bb clarinets (boehm)
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Buffet Crampon E-11 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 12
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,197€2,859$3,197€2,859Check ↗
- 13
Buffet Crampon Gala Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon38Stable$3,576€3,198$3,576€3,198Check ↗
- 14
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon38↓ 0.8%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 15
Thomann CL-17BB CG Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann · 2 finishes37Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 16
Buffet Crampon RC Bb-Clarinet 18/6Buffet Crampon37↑ 1.4%$4,080€3,649$4,080€3,649Check ↗
- 17
RZ Clarinets MR Largo Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 18
RZ Clarinets Base Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$882€789$882€789Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha YCL-450-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,195€1,069$1,195€1,069Check ↗
- 20
Yamaha YCL-450M-02 Bb-Clarinet 17/6Yamaha36Stable$1,206€1,079$1,206€1,079Check ↗
- 21
RZ Clarinets Andante Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$1,451€1,298$1,451€1,298Check ↗
- 22
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,067€1,849$2,067€1,849Check ↗
- 23
RZ Clarinets Conservatory Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$2,346€2,098$2,346€2,098Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha YCL-CX 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,681€2,398$2,681€2,398Check ↗
- 25
Yamaha YCL-CX-E 04 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$2,850€2,549$2,850€2,549Check ↗
- 26
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,799€3,398$3,799€3,398Check ↗
- 27
RZ Clarinets Allegro Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$3,911€3,498$3,911€3,498Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha YCL-CSG III L 02 ClarinetYamaha36Stable$4,102€3,669$4,102€3,669Check ↗
- 29
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 17/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,694€4,198$4,694€4,198Check ↗
- 30
RZ Clarinets Bohema Bb-Clarinet 18/6RZ Clarinets36Stable$4,917€4,398$4,917€4,398Check ↗
- 31
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 SetBuffet Crampon · 2 finishes35Stable$688€615$688€615Check ↗
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Selmer Prologue II 17/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$1,967€1,759$1,967€1,759Check ↗
- 33
Selmer Prologue II 18/6 Bb-ClarinetSelmer35Stable$2,234€1,998$2,234€1,998Check ↗
- 34
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 17/6Selmer35Stable$3,532€3,159$3,532€3,159Check ↗
- 35
Selmer Présence II Bb-Clarinet 18/6Selmer35Stable$3,785€3,385$3,785€3,385Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha YCL-450E-02 Bb-Clarinet 18/6Yamaha34↑ 4.6%$1,285€1,149$1,285€1,149Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha YCL-CSG III 03 Bb-ClarinetYamaha33↑ 6.4%$4,247€3,798$4,247€3,798Check ↗
- 38
Nuvo Band Bb-Clarinet BlackNuvo Band32↓ 3.9%$300€268$300€268Check ↗
- 39
Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet BoehmThomann32Stable$780€698$780€698Check ↗
- 40
F.A. Uebel Etude Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$815€729$815€729Check ↗
- 41
F.A. Uebel Classic Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel32Stable$1,765€1,579$1,765€1,579Check ↗
- 42
JazzMaxx Winds Vintage Soul Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$893€799$893€799Check ↗
- 43
JazzMaxx Winds Showtime Acryl Bb-ClarinetJazzMaxx Winds31Stable$1,117€999$1,117€999Check ↗
- 44
Oscar Adler & Co. 911 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.31Stable$2,569€2,298$2,569€2,298Check ↗
- 45
F.A. Uebel Classic L Bb Clarinet Eb keyF.A. Uebel30↑ 5.4%$1,884€1,685$1,884€1,685Check ↗
- 46
Oscar Adler & Co. 912 Bb-Clarinet BoehmOscar Adler & Co.30↑ 4.0%$2,905€2,598$2,905€2,598Check ↗
Bb Clarinets (Boehm) by the numbers
Measured across all 58 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,765 — half of all bb clarinets (boehm) here cost less.
How to choose the best bb clarinets (boehm)
Tone
Forget 'warm' or 'bright' - we're looking for a balanced response across the registers, with enough body to cut through a rock band but also clarity for chamber ensembles. That's a tall order, and compromises are inevitable, but a good clarinet will have a core that's pleasing even when pushed.
Intonation
A clarinet that's consistently out of tune is a nightmare. We're judging based on how much tweaking is needed - minimal adjustment across the range is key, especially when you're playing with a rhythm section.
Keywork & Action
Smooth, reliable keywork is essential for gigging. Sticky keys or a sloppy action will kill your articulation and slow you down. The action should be comfortable without being too light or too heavy - finding that sweet spot is crucial for expressive playing.
Construction & Materials
At this price, you're mostly looking at hard rubber bodies and nickel-silver keys. The quality of the wood (for the bore) and the metal finishing will impact the instrument's longevity and overall feel. Look for even, consistent key placement.
Register Transitions
This is where a lot of cheaper clarinets fall apart. A smooth, seamless transition between registers (especially from low to middle) is a sign of a well-designed instrument. A jumpy or stuffy response in the upper register is a dealbreaker.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a solid Bb clarinet without emptying your bank account? It's a tricky balance - you want something that'll cut through a band rehearsal, record cleanly, and not drive you insane with a wonky action. Under $5000, you're in a sweet spot where you can get a genuinely playable instrument, but you'll still need to know what to look for to avoid the real budget traps. Let's break down the best options.
Realistically, at this budget, you're going to be making compromises. Expect some minor intonation quirks that you'll need to address with your tuning. Don't be swayed by fancy finishes - focus on the fundamentals: solid construction, reliable keywork, and a core tone that you enjoy.
A well-maintained used instrument from a reputable brand often represents better value than a brand-new, budget-focused model.
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 58 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 'professional' and 'student' model clarinet?
Generally, pro models have better wood (or resin) for the bore, more precise keywork, and a more refined overall design. They're built to handle more demanding playing and offer a wider dynamic range, but the difference isn't always night and day - a good student model can be perfectly adequate for many players.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always a better value. You can get a higher-quality instrument for the same price. Just be sure to have it checked by a technician before you buy - pads can be expensive to replace.
What about synthetic (resin) bodies?
Resin bodies are more durable and resistant to temperature/humidity changes, making them great for gigging. However, they often lack the nuanced tonal complexity of a good wood body. It's a trade-off - convenience versus character.
What does 'voicing' mean when talking about clarinets?
Voicing refers to how the tone is shaped and colored. It's about the subtle adjustments made to the bore and tone holes to optimize the instrument's sound. It's a skill that takes a craftsman years to master, and you'll notice the difference in the instrument's overall responsiveness and projection.
I'm a beginner. Is it worth spending a lot on a clarinet?
Not necessarily. A decent student model will get you started, and focusing on good technique is more important than having the most expensive instrument. As you progress and your playing demands increase, then consider upgrading.
