AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Other Clarinets (Boehm) for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Buffet Crampon Tosca Professional Bb Clarinet ($16,089). Thomann CL-17C Synthetic C-Clarinet gives you the most for the money at $301. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 23 models across 8 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.
-
Buffet Crampon Tosca Professional Bb Clarinet
Tosca Bb-Bass Clarinet · Buffet Crampon
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Tosca is a serious contender for the discerning bass clarinetist. Buffet’s new bore design and key system really deliver a responsive, focused sound, and the grenadilla body provides a rich, woody tone. This is a top-tier instrument ideal for advanced students and professionals seeking a reliable, high-quality instrument for orchestral, solo, and chamber work.
Pros
- Exceptional grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- Newly designed keywork offers significantly improved ergonomics and response.
- Silver-plated keys ensure smooth action and resistance to wear.
Cons
- The instrument's substantial weight can be challenging for younger or smaller players.
- The price point places it firmly in the high-end professional market.
80AudioFu
Index↓ 0.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$16,201 · Aug 14$16,089 now$16,089€14,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Prestige Bass Clarinet is a serious instrument for the seasoned professional. The grenadilla wood provides a depth of tone rarely found, and the low D/C extension opens up a world of possibilities for composers and soloists seeking a truly unique voice. It’s a top-tier choice for orchestral players and those pushing the boundaries of bass clarinet performance.
Pros
- Exceptional grenadilla wood resonance delivers a rich, complex tone.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable response across the range.
- Low D/C extension expands versatility for extended techniques and lower registers.
Cons
- The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing for extended performances.
- The unstained finish requires careful maintenance to prevent discoloration.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 4.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$15,204 · Aug 14$14,533 now$14,533€12,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Selmer CP 25/II is a serious instrument for the seasoned bass clarinetist—orchestral players and advanced soloists will find it a fantastic workhorse. The grenadilla wood provides a beautiful, full tone, and the black chrome keys feel incredibly responsive. It’s a premium-priced investment, but the build quality and sound are truly top-tier.
Pros
- Grenadilla wood body delivers a rich, warm, and resonant tone.
- Black chrome-plated keys offer exceptional durability and a smooth action.
- Eb lever extends range and versatility for complex passages.
Cons
- The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing for extended performance.
- The black chrome finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints.
52AudioFu
Index↓ 4.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$15,987 · Aug 14$15,306 now$15,306€13,689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Selmer C 28 is a serious instrument for seasoned professionals needing that deep, foundational low-end. The rosewood gives it a gorgeous, dark tone that blends beautifully in orchestral or experimental settings – it’s built to last and project, but be prepared for a workout!
Pros
- Rosewood body provides a warm, resonant, and complex tonal character
- Silver-plated keys offer excellent durability and a smooth, responsive action
- Leather upholstery enhances the instrument's projection and overall tone quality
Cons
- The sheer size and weight (approximately 18 lbs) makes it physically demanding to play
- Limited repertoire compared to more common clarinet sizes restricts its versatility
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$33,541 now$33,541€29,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is the world's lowest-pitched clarinet, playing an octave below the standard contrabass. Its brass body gives it a unique metallic sound that no other woodwind matches. The simplified key system makes it surprisingly easy to play, but the massive case makes moving it a real challenge. It suits players who need that deep C note and don't mind the bulk. You'll need a strong case, but the sound is truly one-of-a-kind.
Pros
- World's lowest pitch on C for unique range
- Simplified Boehm system with single fingering per note
- Brass body offers a distinct metallic resonance
Cons
- Extremely long case makes storage and transport difficult
- No weight listed makes shipping and handling unclear
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$80,501 now$80,501€71,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This BC1503-2-0 is a serious instrument for the seasoned clarinetist or orchestral player. The Grenadilla wood provides a gorgeous, dark tone, and the Eb tuning opens up unique voicing options. It’s a beautifully crafted, professional-grade instrument that truly shines in a variety of settings.
Pros
- Grenadilla body delivers exceptional warmth and projection.
- Nickel silver keys offer precise action and durability.
- Silver plating enhances brilliance and responsiveness.
Cons
- The unstained finish can show handling marks more readily.
- Eb alto clarinets aren’t as widely utilized as their Bb counterparts.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$12,073 now$12,073€10,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Uebel Emperior is a serious instrument, built for the professional or dedicated advanced student. The grenadilla body delivers a beautifully focused and resonant tone, and the adjustable neck is a game-changer for intonation. It’s a workhorse bass clarinet that will serve you well for years, offering exceptional projection and a refined feel.
Pros
- Exceptional grenadilla wood provides a rich, warm tonal foundation.
- Tuneable neck allows for precise intonation adjustments across registers.
- Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and excellent durability.
Cons
- The weight can be fatiguing for extended performances, especially for younger players.
- The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many aspiring bass clarinetists.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$12,744 now$12,744€11,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
RZ has really delivered a top-tier bass clarinet here. The grenadilla body provides a rich, dark tone that's characteristic of the instrument, while the silver keys offer a snappy feel. This is an excellent choice for professional players and advanced students seeking a high-quality, reliable instrument for orchestral work or solo performance.
Pros
- Unstained grenadilla wood offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- Silver-plated keys provide a responsive, quick action and attractive aesthetics.
- Fully automatic mechanism simplifies playing, especially for advanced students.
Cons
- The heft of a silver bass clarinet can be tiring for extended performances.
- Limited versatility; best suited for orchestral and solo performance.
46AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$11,402 · Aug 14$11,170 now$11,170€9,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann CL-17C is a solid entry-level option for students or anyone needing a low-maintenance clarinet. Its all-plastic build is a huge plus for marching bands or humid climates, and the included accessories are a real bonus. Don't expect a professional sound, but it's surprisingly capable for the price.
Pros
- Durable, all-plastic construction resists humidity and damage.
- Nickel-plated keys offer decent action for the price point.
- Includes multiple barrels for some tonal flexibility.
Cons
- Plastic body limits tonal resonance compared to wood instruments.
- Key mechanism feels somewhat stiff; requires some break-in.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$301 now$301€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a solid entry-level bass clarinet for students who want a reliable instrument without the weight of wood. The Boehm system and included accessories mean you can start playing right away. While the plastic body makes it durable, you might miss the deep resonance found in higher-end models.
Pros
- Boehm system ensures precise intonation and reliable response.
- Plastic body keeps the instrument lightweight and durable.
- Includes a case and mouthpiece for immediate playability.
Cons
- Plastic construction may lack the resonance of wood.
- No weight specification provided for potential portability issues.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,675 now$1,675€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 23 other 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 C-Clarinet 17/6Buffet Crampon46Stable$2,122€1,898$2,122€1,898Check ↗
- 12
Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet SyntheticThomann46Stable$3,074€2,749$3,074€2,749Check ↗
- 13
Thomann BCL-EB Bass ClarinetThomann46Stable$3,352€2,998$3,352€2,998Check ↗
- 14
Thomann BCL-C Bass ClarinetThomann46Stable$5,588€4,998$5,588€4,998Check ↗
- 15
RZ Clarinets C-Clarinet Professional 17/6RZ Clarinets44Stable$2,380€2,129$2,380€2,129Check ↗
- 16
RZ Clarinets G-Clarinet Professional BoehmRZ Clarinets44Stable$2,793€2,498$2,793€2,498Check ↗
- 17
Yamaha YCL-221 II S Bass ClarinetYamaha44Stable$3,297€2,949$3,297€2,949Check ↗
- 18
RZ Clarinets Coda Bass ClarinetRZ Clarinets44Stable$6,483€5,798$6,483€5,798Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha YCL-621 II Bass ClarinetYamaha44Stable$9,592€8,579$9,592€8,579Check ↗
- 20
Yamaha YCL-622 II Bass ClarinetYamaha44Stable$10,732€9,598$10,732€9,598Check ↗
- 21
Yamaha YCL-631 II Alto ClarinetYamaha40↑ 7.5%$8,048€7,198$8,048€7,198Check ↗
- 22
Jupiter JBC1000S Bass ClarinetJupiter39Stable$2,626€2,349$2,626€2,349Check ↗
- 23
Martin Foag G-Clarinet Model 85 "Isa Pini"Martin Foag39↑ 4.8%$4,125€3,689$4,125€3,689Check ↗
Other Clarinets (Boehm) by the numbers
Measured across all 27 models we track, not a sample.
Median $8,048 — half of all other clarinets (boehm) here cost less.
How to choose the best other clarinets (boehm)
Response & Intonation
Advanced players need a clarinet that responds evenly across the entire range, not just the comfortable middle register. Consistent intonation, especially in the upper register, is critical for ensemble playing and solo work - chasing notes all night gets old fast.
Tonal Complexity & Color
Forget that thin, generic tone. We're looking for instruments with a rich harmonic spectrum - a warmth in the lower register, a focused core, and enough overtones to add character and cut through a mix. That subtle 'honk' can make all the difference.
Keywork Ergonomics & Action
Advanced playing demands precision and speed. Keywork needs to be comfortable, logically laid out, and the action needs to be light and responsive without feeling spongy. A clumsy key layout will hinder your articulation and speed.
Material & Construction
The type of wood (or composite) and the overall construction significantly impact the clarinet's tonal qualities and response. Grenadilla wood is the gold standard, but composite options can offer consistent performance and durability - each with its own sonic fingerprint.
Altissimo Capabilities
Reaching those high notes cleanly and reliably is a hallmark of an advanced player. The clarinet's design - bore size, voicing, and keywork - all contribute to how easily you can access and control the altissimo register.
Buying guide
Alright, so you've mastered the basics on a student model Boehm clarinet and are ready to seriously level up your game. Moving beyond the standard Yamaha or Buffet student horns opens up a whole new world of tonal possibilities and playability nuances. This isn't about just getting louder; it's about sculpting your sound, nailing those tricky altissimo passages, and finally getting that resonance you've been chasing. Let's dive into some solid options for advanced players.
Don't fall for the hype of the most expensive horn. Often, the incremental improvements beyond a certain price point become more about aesthetics than genuine performance gains. Pay attention to the neck profile - a comfortable neck is essential for long gigs.
Used instruments can be a great value, but have a tech check the pads and springs before you commit - a bad pad job can ruin an otherwise excellent clarinet. And seriously, try before you buy - what sounds amazing to one player might feel clunky and unresponsive to 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 27 other 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 'advanced' clarinet?
Professional models often incorporate more complex features like undercut tone holes and more intricate keywork, pushing the boundaries of performance. 'Advanced' models strike a balance, offering substantial upgrades over student horns without the extreme cost or learning curve of a top-tier pro horn.
I've heard grenadilla wood is the best. Is it always worth the extra money?
Grenadilla generally offers a richer, more complex tone, but the quality of the wood itself varies. A well-made composite clarinet can sometimes outperform a poorly-made grenadilla one. It's about the overall voicing, not just the wood type.
How much of a learning curve is there when moving to a higher-end clarinet?
There's definitely an adjustment period. You'll need to retrain your embouchure and fingerings to take full advantage of the instrument's capabilities. Expect a few weeks to a month of dedicated practice to really dial it in.
Are there any good options for gigging musicians who need a durable and reliable instrument?
Buffet Prestige models are a solid choice - they're known for their durability and consistent performance. Yamaha Custom models are also good, offering a slightly brighter, more focused tone. Consider a composite body if you play in particularly demanding environments.
Should I consider a clarinet with a power key or other advanced features?
A power key can be a huge help for altissimo, but it's not a magic bullet - it's best learned after establishing a solid embouchure. Other features like a high D# key are nice-to-haves but not essential for most advanced players.
