AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (German) 2026
The top pick is Thomann GCL-416 Synthetic Line ($618). Schreiber D-42 Bb-Clarinet Austria leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 34 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 12, 2026
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All Bb Clarinets (German)Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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This is a junior Bb clarinet made of synthetic material, with German fingering and a key system sized for kids. It has 16 keys, 6 rings and an adjustable thumb rest, and it comes with a set of accessories and a light case with backpack straps. It suits a young player who wants a clarinet that is easy to carry to school and ready to play right away.
Pros
- Made of synthetic material, a sturdy choice for a student instrument
- Silver-plated key system with 16 keys and 6 rings
- Key system suited to children, with an adjustable thumb rest with ring for the strap
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$618 now$618€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a German-fingered Bb clarinet made entirely of natural grenadilla wood, with a silver-plated key system and 20 keys. It comes with a mouthpiece, ligature, case and cleaning items, and each one is checked in the Thomann workshop before it ships. It suits you if you want a full-wood clarinet with German fingering and a complete starter kit.
Pros
- Made entirely of natural grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon)
- Silver-plated key system with 20 keys and 6 tone holes
- Each instrument is checked and readjusted in the Thomann master workshop before sale
Cons
- Comes with two barrels, 58 mm and 60 mm, so you choose the length that fits you
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$999 now$999€898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a German-system Bb clarinet made from grenadilla wood, with 20 keys and four trill keys. It comes with two barrels, a mouthpiece case with backpack straps, and a 5-year guarantee on the body and key system. It suits you if you want a well-equipped German-system clarinet, since it is a special edition marking Schreiber's 80th anniversary.
Pros
- Made in Germany, with a body of Grenadilla wood in natural finish
- Silver-plated rings and black-nickel-plated tapered rings
- Additional resonance hole on the upper joint helps the high forked Bb
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,667 now$1,667€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a Bb clarinet made entirely from grenadilla wood, with German fingering, 22 keys and six rings. It comes with an ESM mouthpiece, a Rovner ligature, a light case with carrying strap and basic care items. It suits you if you want a complete clarinet kit with a wooden body and a German-style key setup.
Pros
- Made entirely from natural grenadilla wood
- Silver-plated key system with 22 keys
- German fingering with six rings
Cons
- Not suited to players who need a Boehm fingering system
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,167 now$1,167€1,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber D-12 is a solid, well-built clarinet that’s a great option for students and advancing players. It offers a warm, focused tone and a comfortable key system, making it surprisingly easy to play while still providing a professional feel. This is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable German-made instrument without the premium price tag of some top-tier brands.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood body provides a warm, resonant tone characteristic of German clarinets
- Narrower key system simplifies fingering, especially beneficial for younger or smaller hands
- Optimized bore and tone hole design enhance projection and intonation accuracy
Cons
- The silver plating, while durable, may require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish
- Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to cracking with extreme temperature or humidity changes
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,444 now$1,444€1,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber D-16 is a solid step-up instrument, well-suited for serious student and intermediate clarinetists looking for a German-made horn with improved ergonomics and a refined sound. The adjustments to the bore and key placement make it surprisingly responsive, and the included barrels offer some flexibility in tuning and tonal character. It's a well-built instrument that balances affordability with quality craftsmanship.
Pros
- Grenadilla body provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Tight keywork enhances responsiveness and precision for advanced players.
- Optimized bore and tone hole design improve intonation and projection.
Cons
- The W5A mouthpiece may not suit all players and might require upgrading.
- Grenadilla wood can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,444 now$1,444€1,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber D-13 is a Bb clarinet made 100% in Germany from grenadilla wood. Its keys are set for smaller hands, so it suits you if your hands are on the small side. It comes with a mouthpiece, ligature and a lightweight backpack case, and it has a 5-year warranty against cracking.
Pros
- Made of carefully selected grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon)
- Keys adjusted in position for smaller hands
- Advanced tone hole configuration, optimised inner bore and new bell shape
Cons
- Keys are set for smaller hands, so larger hands may find it less comfortable
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,556 now$1,556€1,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a new Bb clarinet with a German fingering system, made in Germany and built from grenadilla wood. You get 20 keys, 6 rings, two barrels, a mouthpiece and a case, plus a 5-year warranty on the body and keywork. It suits you if you want a clarinet with a German fingering system and a full set of parts in one package.
Pros
- Made in Germany, based on an Austrian model design
- Made of grenadilla wood, Dalbergia melanoxylon
- German fingering system with 20 keys and 6 rings
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,112 now$2,112€1,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Schreiber D-41 is a seriously well-made German clarinet, offering a level of refinement often found in much pricier instruments. Its improved bore and keywork really make it sing – a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a professional-grade instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag. It’s a solid step up for those outgrowing student models.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood provides a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- Advanced tone hole design enhances projection and intonation accuracy.
- Optimized bore and bell shape offer improved response and a richer sound.
Cons
- The grenadilla body can be susceptible to cracking with improper care.
- Premium-priced, potentially prohibitive for student or beginner clarinetists.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,334 now$2,334€2,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a Bb clarinet from Austria with German fingering and a body made of grenadilla wood. It comes with two barrels, a mouthpiece and a case, and has a 5-year warranty on the body and keywork. It suits you if you want a German-system clarinet with a newer design and accessories included.
Pros
- Made of grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon), a dense hardwood
- New generation 2.0 model with an advanced tone hole configuration
- Optimised inner bore and a new bell shape for this model
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,725 now$2,725€2,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 34 bb clarinets (german)
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Schreiber D-45 Virtuoso Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$2,781€2,499$2,781€2,499Check ↗
- 12
Schreiber brillanT Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$3,892€3,498$3,892€3,498Check ↗
- 13
Schreiber D-51 Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$4,071€3,659$4,071€3,659Check ↗
- 14
Schreiber D-56 Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$4,861€4,369$4,861€4,369Check ↗
- 15
Schreiber D-61 Prestige Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$6,953€6,249$6,953€6,249Check ↗
- 16
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 174T B/SMartin Foag · 2 finishes37Stable$3,815€3,429$3,815€3,429Check ↗
- 17
F.A. Uebel 621KH Bb-Clarinet ChildrenF.A. Uebel36Stable$1,778€1,598$1,778€1,598Check ↗
- 18
F.A. Uebel 621 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$1,779€1,599$1,779€1,599Check ↗
- 19
F.A. Uebel 621AU Bb-Clarinet "Austria"F.A. Uebel36Stable$1,946€1,749$1,946€1,749Check ↗
- 20
F.A. Uebel 622 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$2,223€1,998$2,223€1,998Check ↗
- 21
F.A. Uebel 632 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$2,668€2,398$2,668€2,398Check ↗
- 22
F.A. Uebel 634 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$3,170€2,849$3,170€2,849Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel 638 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$4,560€4,098$4,560€4,098Check ↗
- 24
F.A. Uebel 638 Bb-Clarinet MopaneF.A. Uebel36Stable$6,118€5,498$6,118€5,498Check ↗
- 25
Oscar Adler & Co. 320 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$2,992€2,689$2,992€2,689Check ↗
- 26
Oscar Adler & Co. 322 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$3,437€3,089$3,437€3,089Check ↗
- 27
Oscar Adler & Co. 323 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$4,560€4,098$4,560€4,098Check ↗
- 28
Oscar Adler & Co. 324 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$5,339€4,798$5,339€4,798Check ↗
- 29
Oscar Adler & Co. 325 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$6,563€5,898$6,563€5,898Check ↗
- 30
Oscar Adler & Co. S 25 B Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$8,232€7,398$8,232€7,398Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha YCL-457II-20 ClarinetYamaha34Stable$1,434€1,289$1,434€1,289Check ↗
- 32
Yamaha YCL-457II-22 ClarinetYamaha34Stable$1,601€1,439$1,601€1,439Check ↗
- 33
Yamaha YCL-657-24 II ClarinetYamaha34Stable$4,003€3,598$4,003€3,598Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha YCL-857 II ClarinetYamaha34Stable$7,276€6,539$7,276€6,539Check ↗
Bb Clarinets (German) by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,334 — half of all bb clarinets (german) here cost less.
How to choose the best bb clarinets (german)
Bore Design
The German bore tends to be more cylindrical than the French, resulting in a darker, more focused tone. This isn't necessarily 'better,' just different - it tends to have a bigger low end thump and can cut through a rock band a bit better than a French horn, but might lack some of the high-end sparkle.
Keywork & Action
Smooth, reliable keywork is essential. Look for even spacing and minimal slop in the mechanics. The action - how easily the keys respond - should be light and consistent across all registers; a sticky action will kill your articulation and dynamic range.
Tone & Projection
Listen for a consistent tone throughout the instrument's range. German Bb clarinets are known for their projection, but listen for any unwanted 'honk' or a muddy low register. A good horn will have a solid core tone without being overly bright or shrill.
Material & Construction
Many German Bb clarinets are made from Grenadilla wood, which offers a good balance of density and workability. Check for consistent grain and even finish - inconsistent grain can lead to cracking down the line. Cheaper models might use African Blackwood, which is often less dense and can be more prone to issues.
Neck Profile & Adjustability
The neck profile dramatically affects the instrument's response and intonation. A well-shaped neck allows for easier tuning and a more even tone across the registers. Check if the neck is adjustable - this allows for fine-tuning the intonation to your specific embouchure and playing style.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a Bb German clarinet? Smart move - they're the workhorses of the woodwind world, heard everywhere from jazz big bands to classical orchestras. Unlike their French counterparts, German Bb clarinets have a slightly different bore design, giving them a darker, more robust tone - think less shimmer, more body. Let's break down what to look for if you want one that'll cut through a mix and feel good under your fingers.
Don't get swayed by flashy finishes or brand names alone. A well-maintained student model from a reputable maker (like Yamaha or Jupiter) can often outperform a neglected pro horn. If you're serious, get it checked by a qualified repair tech before you buy - they can spot potential issues like cracks or uneven keywork that you might miss.
Pay attention to the pads; they're the first thing to go and a costly repair if you buy a horn with leaky pads.
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 42 bb clarinets (german) 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 German and French Bb clarinet?
The bore is the big one. German horns are generally darker, more robust, with a bigger low end. French horns have a more open, brighter sound with better high-register response, but can sometimes be a bit thin in a full band.
Are vintage German Bb clarinets worth the investment?
Potentially, but proceed with caution. A well-maintained vintage Selmer or Buffet can sound incredible, but they often require extensive repairs. Factor those costs in before you commit.
I'm a beginner - which German Bb clarinet should I get?
Start with a student model from a reputable brand. Focus on playability and a comfortable action rather than chasing a 'perfect' tone. You can always upgrade later.
What's the deal with adjustable necks?
Adjustable necks allow you to fine-tune the intonation - moving the neck in or out slightly affects the pitch. It's a useful tool for compensating for embouchure differences or tuning variations.
My clarinet sounds 'honky' - how do I fix it?
A 'honky' sound often indicates an intonation problem or a resonance issue. Try adjusting the neck position, experimenting with different reeds, and having a tech check the bore for irregularities. It could also just be your embouchure - practice makes perfect!





