AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Buffet Crampon Other Clarinets (Boehm) 2026
The top pick is Buffet Crampon Tosca Professional Bb Clarinet ($16,012). Buffet Crampon E-11 C-Clarinet 17/6 gives you the most for the money at $2,112. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 12, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Buffet Crampon Tosca Professional Bb Clarinet
Tosca Bb-Bass Clarinet · Buffet Crampon
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This is a Bb bass clarinet with a Böhm key system that reaches down to low C. Its body is made entirely of selected grenadilla wood, and it comes with a case and accessories. It suits you if you want a bass clarinet with a new bore and a newly designed key system.
Pros
- Body is made entirely of selected grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon)
- Features a newly designed key system and a new bore
- Silver-plated mechanism, bell and bow give it a finished look
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$16,012 now$16,012€14,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a Bb bass clarinet with a low C extension, a G resonance key and an Eb/Ab lever. It is made from unstained African grenadilla wood with a silver-plated key system, and it comes with a mouthpiece, case and accessories. You might like this if you want a bass clarinet with a full set of extra keys and a case to carry it in.
Pros
- Made from unstained African grenadilla wood, a traditional material for clarinets
- Silver-plated key system gives you a metal finish on the keywork
- Includes a mouthpiece, case and accessories, so you have what you need to start playing
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$12,561 now$12,561€11,289 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a C clarinet built on the Boehm system, with a grenadilla body and 17 keys. It comes with a case and accessories, so you have what you need to get going. It suits a player who wants a C clarinet with a standard key layout and a lacquered grenadilla body.
Pros
- Made of African grenadilla, a dense hardwood long used for clarinets
- Body is treated and lacquered for a finished surface
- Silver-plated key system with stainless steel springs
Cons
- Tuned to 442 Hz, so it will not match 440 Hz ensembles without adjustment
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,112 now$2,112€1,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is an alto clarinet in Eb with a body of unstained Grenadilla wood, and its mouthpiece, keys and bell are made from nickel silver. It has a silver-plated finish and comes with accessories and cases. It suits you if you want an alto clarinet with a range down to low Eb and a complete set of accessories in one package.
Pros
- Body is made from unstained Grenadilla wood, a classic clarinet material
- Mouthpiece, keys and bell are made from nickel silver
- Silver-plated finish on the instrument
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$12,015 now$12,015€10,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
How to choose the best other clarinets (boehm)
Tone Color
Buffet's signature 'French' tone isn't a myth. It's a complex blend - a core of warmth, a subtle richness in the midrange, and a clarity that avoids being brittle. Different models emphasize different aspects - some lean towards a darker, more mellow sound, while others have a brighter, more focused articulation.
Mechanical Action
Buffet's known for its reliable keys and smooth action. But even within Buffet, there are variations. Higher-end models often have more refined keywork, better voicing, and a more consistent feel across the register. A sticky action can kill your speed and intonation, plain and simple.
Material and Construction
The wood (or resin) used has a massive impact. Older, seasoned grenadilla wood tends to have a more complex, resonant tone than newer wood or resin. Construction tolerances matter too - a well-fitted clarinet will vibrate more freely and respond better to your breath.
Intonation
Let's be honest, most clarinets need tweaking. But Buffet's generally consistent intonation is a huge plus. Still, the specific model and even the neck profile can influence how easily it plays in tune - especially in the upper register. Expect to have it adjusted by a good tech.
Overall Durability
These aren't disposable instruments. Buffet clarinets are built to last, but even the best can suffer from wear and tear. The finish quality and key plating are indicators of how well it'll hold up to gigging and regular use. Cheap plating will corrode, keys will loosen - it's a trade-off to consider.
Buying guide
So, you're looking beyond the standard Buffet Crampon R13 or Legend? Smart move. Buffet Crampon's got a wider range of Boehm system clarinets than most players realize, and some of them offer serious character - that warm, woody bloom you just don't get from a cookie-cutter instrument. This isn't about chasing the 'best' clarinet, but finding the right one for your ear, your playing style, and your budget.
Don't get blinded by the name. A 'Buffet' doesn't automatically equal 'amazing.' The lower-end models, while still decent, often have simpler construction and less seasoned wood, meaning a more generic tone. Spending a bit more usually gets you better wood, more precise keywork, and that characteristic Buffet warmth.
Have a tech check it over before you commit - intonation is king, and a little adjustment can make a world of difference.
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 6 other clarinets (boehm) from the Thomann catalogue (of 27 in the category). 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 'French' and 'German' bore?
The French bore (like on most Buffet models) generally has a more open, resonant sound with a quicker response. German bore clarinets are typically darker, more focused, and might be preferred for orchestral playing where blending is key.
Are Buffet clarinets easy to repair?
Absolutely. They're a common instrument, so finding a qualified tech isn't a problem. Parts are readily available, which is a huge plus if something goes wrong down the line.
I've heard about 'vintage' Buffet clarinets. Are they better?
Vintage models (pre-1960s) can be fantastic, but they often come with their own set of issues - cracks, repairs, and unpredictable intonation. Unless you're experienced or working with a trusted repair tech, stick with newer models.
Can I use a standard mouthpiece on any Buffet clarinet?
Generally, yes. Buffet uses a standard shank. However, the voicing of the clarinet will dramatically affect how a mouthpiece sounds. Experimentation is key to finding the right pairing.
Is resin construction a good option?
Resin clarinets are more durable and resistant to temperature and humidity changes, making them good for beginners or gigging in challenging environments. However, they often lack the complex tonal qualities of grenadilla wood - the 'soul' of a traditional Buffet.
