AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bb Clarinets (German) for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Schreiber D-26 t-Edition Bb-Clarinet ($1,667). Schreiber D-45 Virtuoso Bb-Clarinet leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 34 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 12, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
If you want a German-system clarinet made of grenadilla wood, this one is worth a look. It has 22 keys, a 5-year warranty on wood cracking, and it comes with a case, two barrels and an ESM mouthpiece. It suits you if you want a full setup in one box.
Pros
- Body, barrel and bell are made of grenadilla wood, treated to resist moisture and cracking
- Comes with a 5-year warranty on wood cracking
- Has 22 keys, a forked F, a forked Bb and C double key and a high E key
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,781 now$2,781€2,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Uebel 621KH is a fantastic choice for younger players or adults with smaller hands looking for a solid, German-made clarinet. It delivers a surprisingly rich tone for an instrument aimed at beginners, and the ergonomic design helps build good habits. It’s a great stepping stone to more advanced instruments down the road.
Pros
- Grenadilla body offers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of Uebel’s quality.
- Ergonomic design eases playing for smaller hands, promoting good technique early on.
- Forked Eb/Bb key and F-lever enhance intonation and facilitate complex passages.
Cons
- ESM mouthpiece is basic; an upgrade will likely be desired for serious playing.
- The instrument’s build, while solid, might lack the refinement of higher-end Uebel models.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,778 now$1,778€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Uebel 621 is a fantastic step-up clarinet for serious students and intermediate players. It offers a noticeably improved sound and mechanics compared to entry-level instruments, and the German fingering system is a real asset for developing a strong technique. It’s a well-built, reliable instrument that will serve a player well for years.
Pros
- African Blackwood body provides exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- Forked Eb/Bb mechanism offers incredibly smooth and responsive trills.
- Monel tubes contribute to a focused, stable, and rich tone quality.
Cons
- The ESM mouthpiece is adequate but many will want an upgrade for optimal tone.
- The silver plating requires regular maintenance to prevent tarnish.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,779 now$1,779€1,599 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.
- 11
F.A. Uebel 621AU Bb-Clarinet "Austria"F.A. Uebel36Stable$1,946€1,749$1,946€1,749Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel 622 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$2,223€1,998$2,223€1,998Check ↗
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F.A. Uebel 632 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$2,668€2,398$2,668€2,398Check ↗
- 14
Oscar Adler & Co. 320 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$2,992€2,689$2,992€2,689Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha YCL-457II-22 ClarinetYamaha34Stable$1,601€1,439$1,601€1,439Check ↗
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Yamaha YCL-457II-20 ClarinetYamaha34Stable$1,434€1,289$1,434€1,289Check ↗
- 17
Thomann GCL-416 MKII Bb-ClarinetThomann · 4 finishes48Stable$1,110€998$1,110€998Check ↗
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Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb-ClarinetThomann · 2 finishes42Stable$1,167€1,049$1,167€1,049Check ↗
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Thomann GCL-420 MKII Bb-ClarinetThomann · 3 finishes45Stable$999€898$999€898Check ↗
- 20
Schreiber brillanT Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$3,892€3,498$3,892€3,498Check ↗
- 21
Schreiber D-51 Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$4,071€3,659$4,071€3,659Check ↗
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Schreiber D-56 Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$4,861€4,369$4,861€4,369Check ↗
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Schreiber D-61 Prestige Bb-ClarinetSchreiber38Stable$6,953€6,249$6,953€6,249Check ↗
- 24
Martin Foag Bb-Metal Clarinet 174T B/SMartin Foag · 2 finishes37Stable$3,815€3,429$3,815€3,429Check ↗
- 25
F.A. Uebel 634 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$3,170€2,849$3,170€2,849Check ↗
- 26
F.A. Uebel 638 Bb-ClarinetF.A. Uebel36Stable$4,560€4,098$4,560€4,098Check ↗
- 27
F.A. Uebel 638 Bb-Clarinet MopaneF.A. Uebel36Stable$6,118€5,498$6,118€5,498Check ↗
- 28
Oscar Adler & Co. 322 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$3,437€3,089$3,437€3,089Check ↗
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Oscar Adler & Co. 323 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$4,560€4,098$4,560€4,098Check ↗
- 30
Oscar Adler & Co. 324 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$5,339€4,798$5,339€4,798Check ↗
- 31
Oscar Adler & Co. 325 Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$6,563€5,898$6,563€5,898Check ↗
- 32
Oscar Adler & Co. S 25 B Bb-ClarinetOscar Adler & Co.35Stable$8,232€7,398$8,232€7,398Check ↗
- 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)
Playability
It's gotta feel good under your fingers. An overly stiff action or a neck profile that cramps your hand will kill your progress faster than you can say 'register bend'. We're looking for something with a manageable resistance, allowing for clean articulation and a comfortable reach across the range.
Tone
Forget 'bright' or 'dark'. We want to hear a clarinet with a core that's focused, with a warmth that doesn't get muddy in a band setting. A little bit of that characteristic German 'honk' is desirable, but not so much that it's overwhelming and masks your phrasing. It needs to cut through the mix without being harsh.
Intonation
Let's be honest, student models can be all over the place. A good intermediate clarinet should have demonstrably better intonation, especially in the upper register. Consistent intonation across the range is crucial for playing in ensemble situations.
Keywork & Mechanism
As you start tackling more complex passages, reliable keywork becomes essential. We're looking for smooth, accurate action and a well-designed mechanism that responds predictably, avoiding sticky keys or unwanted squeaks. The less you're fighting the horn, the more you can focus on the music.
Construction & Durability
Gigs happen. Clarinets get knocked around. A horn built with solid construction and decent hardware will last longer and withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes of a working musician's life. It doesn't need to be indestructible, but it shouldn't feel like it'll fall apart after a few months.
Buying guide
So, you're stepping up your Bb clarinet game. Great! Moving beyond a student model to a proper German system horn opens up a whole new world of tonal possibilities and technical nuance. But choosing the right one as an intermediate player isn't just about throwing money at a fancy brand - it's about finding something that complements your skill level and helps you grow. This guide's about finding that sweet spot between playability and potential.
Don't chase the biggest name - a slightly less prestigious but well-maintained horn will often play better than a top-tier instrument that's been abused. Pay close attention to the pads; leather pads are generally preferable for their sealing properties, but require more maintenance. The neck is critical; a mismatched neck can ruin an otherwise good horn, so make sure it's the original or a known good match.
And, crucially, try before you buy if you can - what feels good in one player's hands might be a nightmare for another.
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 a Boehm clarinet?
German system clarinets have a more complex keywork designed to facilitate the characteristic 'honk' and wider tonal palette. Boehm clarinets have a simpler key system, often favored for their ease of use, but they lack some of the expressive capabilities of a German system.
I'm struggling with the upper register - is it the clarinet's fault?
It could be! A poorly designed horn or a mismatched neck can exacerbate intonation problems. However, it's more likely a technique issue - consistent airflow and embouchure control are vital. A better clarinet can reveal those issues more clearly, too.
Are wooden clarinets really worth the extra money for an intermediate player?
Wooden clarinets offer a richer, more complex tone, but they require more care and are more susceptible to temperature and humidity changes. For an intermediate player, a high-quality composite or resin clarinet can often provide a very similar playing experience at a lower cost and with less maintenance.
What about pickups? Are they necessary?
Not necessarily, but if you're planning on recording or performing amplified, a good pickup system can be a game-changer. Look for one with adjustable voicing to avoid that harsh, ice-picky top end - you want to capture the clarinet's natural tone, not add artificial distortion.
I've heard about 'register bending' - what is it, and how does it affect my choice of clarinet?
Register bending is a subtle shift in pitch caused by slight changes in embouchure and breath support. A well-made clarinet will allow for controlled register bending, adding expressiveness. A poorly made one will make it unpredictable and frustrating - something to listen for when trying out instruments.
