Best Other Clarinets (Boehm) for Beginner 2026
So you're looking at a Boehm clarinet, not a standard student model. That's a cool move - they offer a different feel and tonal possibility. But jumping into a non-standard clarinet as a beginner can be tricky. Let's break down which ones will actually help you learn, and which ones will just frustrate you with unnecessary complexity.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
⚡ The best other clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are Thomann CL-17C Synthetic C-Clarinet (top pick), Thomann CL-17C C-Clarinet Boehm for tighter budgets, and Thomann BCL-1000 Bass Clarinet for pros — selected from 15 options across 7 brands, priced $311–$83,445, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Thomann CL-17C Synthetic C-Clarinet
by
Thomann
Contemporary Music
Professional Doubling
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Comprehensive accessory pack adds significant value for beginners.
CONS
- • Plastic body limits tonal resonance compared to wood instruments.
- • Key mechanism feels somewhat stiff; requires some break-in.
- • Mouthpiece is basic, likely needs upgrading for serious playing.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 298133
$312
Thomann CL-17C C-Clarinet Boehm
by
Thomann
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
The Thomann CL-17C is a surprisingly solid entry point into the world of C clarinets, especially for students or players looking for an affordable instrument with a warm tone. The Boehm system makes it more accessible than some other C clarinet designs, and the included accessories are a real bonus. It's a good option for those prioritizing value and a comfortable playing experience over top-tier professional features.
PROS
- • Leadwood body provides a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
- • Comprehensive accessory package adds significant value for beginners.
- • Boehm fingering system facilitates easier transition from Bb clarinet.
CONS
- • Leadwood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance.
- • The included mouthpiece is likely a basic model, limiting advanced tonal possibilities.
- • Silver plating, while attractive, requires polishing to prevent tarnish.
- • Build quality, while adequate, doesn't match premium, established brands.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 298132
$659
Thomann BCL-1000 Bass Clarinet
by
Thomann
Contemporary Music
Unique Sounds
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
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.
- • Silver-plated keys offer bright touch and clean articulation.
CONS
- • Plastic construction may lack the resonance of wood.
- • No weight specification provided for potential portability issues.
- • Description omits specific mouthpiece brand or tip size.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 622770
$1,736
#4
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Buffet Crampon E-11 C-Clarinet 17/6
Unique Sounds
Professional Doubling
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The E-11 is a fantastic, reliable clarinet for the serious student or advancing player. It provides a remarkably balanced tone, a comfortable feel, and a solid build that will last for years. It’s a great step up from a beginner instrument and offers a taste of what a truly professional Buffet clarinet can deliver.
PROS
- • Grenadilla body offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth, responsive action and durability.
- • 17 keys and 6 rings enhance intonation and technical capabilities.
- • Stainless steel springs ensure reliable performance and longevity.
CONS
- • The African grenadilla can be susceptible to cracking with extreme humidity changes.
- • The silver plating requires regular polishing to prevent tarnishing.
- • The E-11’s tone, while versatile, might lack the extreme brightness of some more modern clarinets.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 513850
$2,200
RZ Clarinets C-Clarinet Professional 17/6
by
RZ Clarinets
Unique Sounds
Specialty Performance
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
This is a solid professional clarinet made from unstained grenadilla wood. It comes with two barrels so you can swap sizes easily. The silver keys and adjustable rest look built to last. It is a great choice for players who want a reliable instrument without a mouthpiece.
PROS
- • Professional grade grenadilla wood body
- • Includes two barrel size options
- • Features adjustable thumb rest
- • Silver-plated key system included
CONS
- • Mouthpiece is not included
- • Weight is not specified
- • No stated warranty details
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 589379
$2,468
#6
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Jupiter JBC1000S Bass Clarinet
by
Jupiter
Unique Sounds
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
The Jupiter JBC1000S is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players. It offers a surprisingly good tone and a reliable, easy-to-maintain build. This is a great instrument for those needing a dependable bass clarinet without a premium-priced investment.
PROS
- • Silver-plated neck enhances tone and response significantly.
- • ABS body with metal ring offers surprising durability for the price.
- • Low Eb key expands range and offers greater versatility.
- • Inline triller keys provide accurate and consistent intonation.
CONS
- • ABS body, while durable, lacks the resonance of a wood body.
- • Silver plating requires regular cleaning to prevent tarnish.
- • Can feel a bit heavy for extended playing sessions, especially for younger players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 254554
$2,722
RZ Clarinets G-Clarinet Professional Boehm
by
RZ Clarinets
Experimental Works
Contemporary Music
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
This clarinet uses solid grenadilla wood and comes with two barrel sizes. It has a silver-plated key system and an adjustable thumb rest. You will need to buy a mouthpiece separately. It is a solid professional tool for players who want standard size options.
PROS
- • Uses durable grenadilla wood for the body
- • Includes two barrel options for size adjustment
- • Features adjustable thumb rest for comfort
- • Silver-plated key system for smooth action
CONS
- • Does not include a mouthpiece in the box
- • Lacks a stated weight measurement in the text
- • No specific sound character is described
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 638550
$2,895
#8
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Martin Foag Octocontrabass Clarinet
by
Martin Foag
Experimental Works
Unique Sounds
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
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
- • Four automatic register keys ensure smooth response
CONS
- • Extremely long case makes storage and transport difficult
- • No weight listed makes shipping and handling unclear
- • Only one mouthpiece included rather than multiple options
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 642540
$83,446
#9
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
2/10
Selmer C 28 Contrabass Clarinet
by
Selmer
Contemporary Music
Professional Doubling
Unique Sounds
Key Feature:
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
- • Selmer’s meticulous craftsmanship ensures exceptional intonation and playability
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
- • The premium-priced nature places it out of reach for many players
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 460784
$34,768
#10
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Bass Clarinet
Extended Range
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
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.
- • Robust build quality guarantees longevity and professional-level performance.
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.
- • Bb tuning limits versatility for some extended range or orchestral passages.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 335780
$16,678
#11
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Selmer CP 25/II Bass Clarinet, black
by
Selmer
Contemporary Music
Unique Sounds
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
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.
- • Leather pads with resonators ensure reliable response and consistent intonation.
CONS
- • The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing for extended performance.
- • The black chrome finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Limited tonal flexibility compared to some more customizable models.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 460408
$15,866
#12
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low D/C
Extended Range
Contemporary Music
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Buffet’s renowned craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and longevity.
CONS
- • The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing for extended performances.
- • The unstained finish requires careful maintenance to prevent discoloration.
- • Its premium-priced nature makes it inaccessible to many players.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 462920
$15,065
#13
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low C GL
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
This Prestige Bass is a serious instrument built for the demanding professional. The Green Line composite gives it incredible stability and a powerful, focused tone that cuts through any ensemble. It's ideal for orchestral players, soloists, and anyone needing a reliable, high-performance bass clarinet.
PROS
- • Green Line composite body offers exceptional durability and resonance
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel
- • Low C mechanism expands range and tonal possibilities for advanced players
- • G resonance key enhances the instrument's warmth and projection
CONS
- • The composite body, while durable, lacks the traditional wood's nuanced tonal complexity
- • The instrument's weight can be fatiguing for extended performance or younger players
- • The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many aspiring bass clarinetists
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 221306
$14,601
#14
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
F.A. Uebel Emperior Bb- Bass Clarinet
by
F.A. Uebel
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Unique Sounds
Key Feature:
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.
- • BAM case provides premium protection and convenient transport.
CONS
- • The weight can be fatiguing for extended performances, especially for younger players.
- • The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many aspiring bass clarinetists.
- • Low C key placement might require adjustment for players accustomed to other systems.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 297934
$13,210
#15
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low C
Professional Doubling
Specialty Performance
Contemporary Music
Key Feature:
This Prestige Bass Clarinet is a serious instrument for seasoned professionals and advanced students seeking the pinnacle of Buffet’s craftsmanship. The unstained grenadilla delivers a beautifully warm and complex tone, while the low C extension and G resonance key add incredible versatility for orchestral, solo, and contemporary music. It's a workhorse instrument built to last a career.
PROS
- • Unstained grenadilla offers exceptional tonal warmth and projection.
- • Silver-plated keys provide a responsive, articulate feel and durability.
- • Low C mechanism extends range and adds significant low-end richness.
- • G resonance key improves intonation and enhances overall resonance.
CONS
- • The weight, typical of bass clarinets, can be fatiguing during extended performance.
- • The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible for many students or hobbyists.
- • Grenadilla wood requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking or warping.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 111365
$13,084
Every other clarinets (boehm) that matches
27 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Selmer CP 25/II Bass Clarinet Low C | not published | $12,978 |
| 17 | Buffet Crampon BC1503-2-0 Alto Clarinet | not published | $12,515 |
| 18 | RZ Clarinets Bass Clarinet Silver | not published | $11,578 |
| 19 | Yamaha YCL-622 II Bass Clarinet | not published | $11,124 |
| 20 | Yamaha YCL-621 II Bass Clarinet | not published | $9,943 |
| 21 | Yamaha YCL-631 II Alto Clarinet | not published | $8,342 |
| 22 | RZ Clarinets Coda Bass Clarinet | not published | $6,720 |
| 23 | Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet | not published | $5,793 |
| 24 | Martin Foag G-Clarinet Model 85 "Isa Pini" | not published | $4,276 |
| 25 | Thomann BCL-EB Bass Clarinet | not published | $3,475 |
| 26 | Yamaha YCL-221 II S Bass Clarinet | not published | $3,418 |
| 27 | Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet Synthetic | not published | $3,186 |
Other Clarinets (Boehm) by the numbers
Measured across all 27 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $8,342
from $659 to $16,678
How to Choose the Best Other Clarinets (Boehm)
1
Playability
A forgiving action and comfortable keywork are paramount. A stiff action will fight you every step of the way, hindering articulation and making it tough to develop a consistent embouchure. We're talking about a clarinet you can actually play, not one you admire from afar.
2
Tone
Beginners need a clarinet that produces a relatively even tone across the range, without too much of that ice-picky harshness. A darker, warmer tone is generally easier on the ear and more encouraging for a developing player. We're looking for something that breathes, not chokes.
3
Keywork Ergonomics
The layout and feel of the keys matter. Smaller hands will appreciate a more compact design, while others might prefer a more traditional layout. Unnecessary levers or awkward key placements just add to the learning curve.
4
Material
Plastic (Resonite or similar) is the most common and beginner-friendly material. While wood offers a potentially richer tone, it's more sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, and requires more maintenance - a big hassle when you're just starting out.
5
Durability
Let's be honest, student instruments take a beating. Gigs, band practice, the occasional drop... you need something that can handle the abuse without falling apart. A robust build and quality plastic construction are key for longevity.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'pro' feel right away. Many 'other' Boehm clarinets are built for intermediate to advanced players, and the increased complexity will slow your progress. Look for models marketed as 'step-up' or 'intermediate' - these often strike a good balance between features and playability. And yes, you'll pay a bit more than a standard student model, but that's an investment in a better learning experience. Avoid anything with a ton of extra keys or unusual voicing unless you're specifically seeking a niche sound; those are just distractions.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 27 other clarinets (boehm) from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boehm is the more common system now, with the register key on the front. Albert has it on the back, and it's a different key layout - not something a beginner should mess with.
For a beginner? Absolutely not. Plastic is more durable and less prone to cracking. Wood offers a potentially better tone, but it's a long-term investment when you have good embouchure control and proper maintenance routines.
It refers to how the clarinet's tone is shaped - the balance of overtones. A well-voiced clarinet will have a more even tone across its range. Beginners are better off with something relatively neutral; don't chase a specific 'color' just yet.
A pickup is fine if you plan to record or play amplified, but it's not essential for learning. Focus on getting a good sound acoustically first. The pickup voicing is often a compromise anyway, and cheap ones sound terrible.
Realistically, $500-$1200 will get you a decent 'step-up' Boehm clarinet that won't hold you back. Spending less means cutting corners - and those corners will be felt in playability and tone.
