Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm) Under $800 2026
So, you're in the market for a Bb clarinet and you're trying to be smart about it - good on you. Let's be real, dropping serious cash on a horn isn't always practical, especially when you're just starting out or gigging a few times a month. This list isn't about the Selmer Reference 54; it's about getting the most bang for your buck under $800, finding something that won't make your ears bleed and can hold its own in a band setting.
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
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6
Orchestra
Jazz
General Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Well-matched leather pads ensure reliable sealing and consistent intonation.
CONS
- • ABS body lacks the acoustic richness of traditional wood.
- • Included mouthpiece is serviceable but may limit tonal exploration.
- • Silver-plated keywork requires occasional polishing to prevent tarnish.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 384430
$648
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Yamaha YCL-255 S Bb-Clarinet Set
by
Yamaha
Orchestra
Students
Jazz
Key Feature:
The YCL-255 S is a solid choice for student and intermediate players looking for a reliable, durable clarinet. Its ABS body provides consistent performance, and the improved thumb rest enhances comfort. While the sound isn't as rich as a full wood model, it's a great value and a fantastic foundation for building skills.
PROS
- • ABS body offers durability and consistent intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and resist tarnish.
- • New thumb rest improves comfort and playing stability.
- • Included reeds offer a good starting point for tone exploration.
CONS
- • ABS construction lacks the tonal complexity of a full wood body.
- • 4C mouthpiece is basic; an upgrade will significantly improve sound.
- • Lighter bell design might sacrifice some projection at higher volumes.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 559911
$743
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 17/6 Set
Orchestra
Students
All Genres
Key Feature:
The Prodige is a fantastic entry-level clarinet – a solid choice for students or players needing a reliable, durable instrument. It provides a surprisingly good tone for an ABS body, and the included accessories make it a complete package. It's a great way to get started without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Durable ABS body withstands student use and travel well.
- • Poly-cylindrical bore delivers a surprisingly rich, focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and responsiveness.
- • Includes a Bari reed and stand, adding immediate value.
CONS
- • ABS body, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of wood.
- • Basic mouthpiece limits advanced players' tonal exploration.
- • Limited key configuration restricts advanced technical passages.
- • Gig bag is functional, but not exceptionally protective.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 537893
$677
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Thomann CL-17BB Bb- Clarinet Boehm
by
Thomann
General Performance
Jazz
Students
Key Feature:
The Thomann CL-17BB is a solid, well-equipped option for intermediate students or players seeking a reliable, affordable instrument. The grenadilla body delivers a surprisingly good tone for the price point, and the included accessories are a real bonus. It’s a great starting point for anyone serious about learning the clarinet.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of higher-end instruments.
- • Six rings provide improved key action and a more secure feel compared to simpler designs.
- • Two barrels (64/66mm) allow for easy adjustment of intonation and tonal color.
- • Includes a comprehensive accessory pack, offering immediate playability and care supplies.
CONS
- • Silver-plated keys, while durable, won’t offer the same nuanced feel as solid silver.
- • The included mouthpiece is likely a basic model, limiting advanced tonal possibilities.
- • Grenadilla wood, while beautiful, can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 255284
$714
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Yamaha YCL-255 ES Bb-Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Band
Students
Jazz
Key Feature:
The YCL-255 ES is a solid, reliable clarinet – a fantastic choice for students and intermediate players. Its robust ABS body and comfortable keywork make it easy to learn on, and it delivers a bright, clear tone. It's a workhorse instrument that’ll hold up to years of practice and performance.
PROS
- • ABS body offers excellent durability and consistent intonation.
- • Lightweight cup design promotes easier airflow and faster response.
- • Silver-plated keys provide a bright tone and resist tarnish.
- • Adjustable thumb rest enhances comfort and playing stability.
CONS
- • ABS material lacks the tonal complexity of wood, a noticeable difference for advanced players.
- • Yamaha 4C mouthpiece is serviceable but a significant upgrade is recommended for richer tone.
- • Limited upper register projection compared to higher-end models.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 583812
$768
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/6
All Genres
General Performance
Band
Key Feature:
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
- • Well-matched leather pads ensure reliable sealing and intonation
CONS
- • ABS body lacks the tonal complexity of grenadilla wood
- • Included mouthpiece is adequate but a significant upgrade is recommended
- • Silver-plated keys can tarnish, requiring occasional polishing
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 426637
$758
#8
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Yamaha YCL-255 S Bb-Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Students
General Performance
Jazz
Key Feature:
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.
- • Yamaha 4C mouthpiece provides a reliable, student-friendly tone.
CONS
- • ABS construction lacks the warmth and tonal complexity of wood.
- • Silver plating requires occasional polishing to prevent discoloration.
- • Limited upper register response compared to higher-end models.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 279396
$637
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Thomann CL-18BB Bb- Clarinet Boehm
by
Thomann
General Performance
Orchestra
Students
Key Feature:
The Thomann CL-18BB is a surprisingly capable clarinet, offering a solid foundation for students and intermediate players. The grenadilla body lends a pleasing warmth, and the included barrels let you fine-tune the tone. It's a well-equipped package for someone looking for a good-sounding, reliable instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers a warm, resonant tone and excellent projection
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel
- • Includes two barrels for tonal flexibility and easy adjustment
- • Comprehensive accessory package adds significant value and convenience
CONS
- • Grenadilla, while beautiful, can be susceptible to humidity changes requiring diligent care
- • The included mouthpiece is likely a basic model, upgrade recommended for serious players
- • Silver plating will tarnish over time and require periodic polishing
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 255286
$768
How to Choose the Best Bb Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Tone
Forget 'bright' or 'dark'; we're talking about sustain, warmth, and that crucial low-end thump. A clarinet that sounds thin and reedy won't cut it in a jazz combo or a rock band. It needs some body.
2
Intonation
A clarinet that's consistently out of tune is a headache, plain and simple. We're looking for something that's reasonably in tune straight out of the box, minimizing the tuning adjustments needed on gig.
3
Action & Keywork
The action shouldn't be too high - it'll kill your speed and articulation. Smooth, responsive keywork is essential for clean, fast playing, especially when you're trying to nail those tricky passages.
4
Construction & Materials
Resin bodies are the norm at this price point. They're durable, but don't expect the resonance of grenadilla wood. Pad quality is also a tell - cheap pads leak and affect tone and intonation.
5
Articulation & Dynamics
A good clarinet responds well to your breath control, giving you a full dynamic range. You should be able to whisper a soft phrase and then really project without sounding honky or strained.
Buying Guide
Under $800, you're making compromises. Resin bodies are the standard, which means you won't get the complex overtones of a wood clarinet - expect a more focused, but less nuanced sound. Pad leaks are a common issue - check them carefully before you buy. Don't chase the 'perfect' tone; focus on something that's reliable, playable, and won't break the bank. A good technician can often improve a decent horn more than a 'better' horn can perform out of the box.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these clarinets - everything from quiet bedroom practice to sweaty rehearsals and even a few recording sessions. Our evaluations are based on tone, intonation, action, and how well they cut through a mix, because that's what matters when you're actually using the horn.
Frequently Asked Questions
They're not inherently bad, just different. You lose some of the warmth and complexity you get from grenadilla, but they're much more durable and less susceptible to cracking, which is a huge plus for gigging.
Silver plating looks nice, but it doesn't drastically improve the sound. It's more of a cosmetic upgrade. Focus on the overall build quality instead.
Reasonably good, but don't expect perfection. You'll almost certainly need to tweak the pads and possibly have the bore adjusted by a technician. Budget for that.
An intermediate clarinet will typically have better keywork, more consistent intonation, and a slightly improved tone - but the differences are subtle at this price range. A well-maintained beginner clarinet can often outperform a neglected intermediate one.
Used is a great option to maximize your budget, but be very careful. Inspect the pads, check for cracks, and have a tech look it over before committing.
