Best Other Clarinets (Boehm) for Intermediate 2026
Okay, so you're past the student clarinet and starting to actually want something with a bit more character. The Boehm system other clarinets - the Bb, A, Eb - open up a whole new world of possibilities, but jumping in without knowing what you need can be frustrating. This isn't about beginner horns; it's about finding that sweet spot where playability meets a bit of sonic personality without completely emptying your bank account. Let's find you a clarinet that'll actually inspire you to play.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
⚡ The best other clarinets (boehm) in 2026 are RZ Clarinets Bass Clarinet Silver (top pick), Yamaha YCL-622 II Bass Clarinet for tighter budgets, and Yamaha YCL-621 II Bass Clarinet for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $1,736–$11,578, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
RZ Clarinets Bass Clarinet Silver
by
RZ Clarinets
Experimental Works
Contemporary Music
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
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.
- • Leather pads ensure airtightness and a consistent, reliable tone across the range.
CONS
- • The heft of a silver bass clarinet can be tiring for extended performances.
- • Limited versatility; best suited for orchestral and solo performance.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 589366
$11,578
#2
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
Yamaha YCL-622 II Bass Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Experimental Works
Professional Doubling
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
The YCL-622 II is a seriously well-built professional bass clarinet – Yamaha’s flagship model for a reason. It delivers a beautiful, focused tone and a comfortable, reliable mechanism, making it ideal for orchestral players and serious soloists who demand high performance without the absolute top-tier price tag.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and reliable response.
- • Height-adjustable peg enhances playing comfort and ergonomics.
- • Boehm system simplifies fingering for advanced players.
CONS
- • The instrument’s weight can be fatiguing during extended performances.
- • The included 4C mouthpiece is adequate, but a higher-end option is preferable.
- • Limited low-register responsiveness compared to some custom-built instruments.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 184148
$11,124
Yamaha YCL-621 II Bass Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Professional Doubling
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
This instrument plays a rich, low Bb note thanks to its solid Grenadilla wood body. The silver keys move smoothly, and the adjustable peg makes it easier to fit on different players. It comes with a case and a 4C mouthpiece ready to play. Great for students needing a professional tool or pros wanting a reliable backup.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood body offers deep, warm bass response
- • Silver-plated mechanism ensures smooth key action
- • Height adjustable peg fits various player sizes
- • Boehm system provides precise intonation control
CONS
- • Heavy instrument may be difficult for small hands
- • No weight specification listed in the description
- • Limited to standard Bb pitch only
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 184147
$9,943
#4
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Yamaha YCL-631 II Alto Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Professional Doubling
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
The YCL-631 II is a seriously well-built instrument, offering a professional-level experience without the absolute top-tier price tag. Its warm tone and responsive keys make it ideal for advanced students and semi-professional players looking for a reliable, versatile Eb clarinet. It’s a fantastic upgrade from student models, opening up a wider range of musical possibilities.
PROS
- • Grenadilla wood provides a warm, resonant, and complex tonal palette.
- • Silver-plated keys offer exceptional responsiveness and a bright, articulate feel.
- • Yamaha's meticulous key-sealing ensures consistent intonation across the range.
- • The 4C mouthpiece is a solid starting point, offering a balanced and versatile sound.
CONS
- • The Eb key can feel slightly stiff initially, requiring some adjustment and practice.
- • Grenadilla wood is susceptible to cracking if not properly cared for and humidity-controlled.
- • While versatile, its Eb tuning limits its use in standard orchestral settings.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 184142
$8,342
RZ Clarinets Coda Bass Clarinet
by
RZ Clarinets
Professional Doubling
Contemporary Music
Specialty Performance
Key Feature:
This is a great choice if you need a durable, low C instrument for big bands. The ABS body stays strong in freezing weather, and the silver keys play very smoothly. Just remember you have to buy your own mouthpiece. It suits players who want reliability without the weight of wood.
PROS
- • Solid ABS body resists cracking in cold stages
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth, consistent action
- • Adjustable thumb rest fits every player's hand
- • Includes RZ case and cleaning set for travel
CONS
- • No mouthpiece means you must buy one separately
- • ABS plastic lacks the resonance of wood
- • Weight isn't listed so it might feel heavy
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 638551
$6,720
Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet
by
Thomann
Unique Sounds
Experimental Works
Professional Doubling
Key Feature:
This Thomann BCL-C is a solid entry point into the world of bass clarinets, offering a surprisingly refined sound and build quality for its class. It's a great option for advanced students and semi-professional players looking for a reliable and resonant instrument without the premium-priced tag of established brands. Expect a dark, woody tone ideal for classical, jazz, and contemporary music.
PROS
- • Blackwood body provides rich, warm, and complex tonal character
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and responsive feel
- • Thorough workshop adjustment ensures consistent intonation and playability
- • Includes essential accessories, a real value for the price
CONS
- • Bass clarinets are inherently heavy; this one will demand a strong player
- • Blackwood can be susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature
- • The included mouthpiece is adequate, but an upgrade will likely be desired
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 255293
$5,793
#7
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Foag G-Clarinet Model 85 "Isa Pini"
by
Martin Foag
Specialty Performance
Contemporary Music
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
The Foag Isa Pini is a beautifully crafted G clarinet built specifically for the demands of Balkan music. Its rich, focused tone and responsive keywork make it a joy to play, though its unique tuning and the care needed for grenadilla wood will appeal to experienced players seeking a specialized instrument.
PROS
- • Grenadilla body delivers a warm, complex tone ideal for Balkan folk music.
- • Silver-plated keys offer smooth action and a bright aesthetic.
- • Foag’s custom voicing excels in the lower register, crucial for traditional melodies.
- • Includes a Vandoren 7JB mouthpiece—a well-matched choice for projection and tone.
CONS
- • The G clarinet’s tuning can be challenging, requiring careful embouchure control.
- • Grenadilla wood demands careful maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- • The 17-key layout might feel restrictive for players accustomed to more modern systems.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 444848
$4,276
Thomann BCL-EB Bass Clarinet
by
Thomann
Contemporary Music
Extended Range
Experimental Works
Key Feature:
This Thomann BCL-EB is a surprisingly solid entry into the bass clarinet world, particularly for clarinetists looking to expand their range. The Grendilla body delivers a pleasingly dark and resonant tone, and the silver keys feel quite nice. It's a great option for student ensembles, hobbyists, or anyone needing a reliable, premium-priced bass clarinet.
PROS
- • Grendilla body offers rich, warm tone and excellent resonance
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and bright visual appeal
- • Boehm fingering familiar to clarinetists, easing the learning curve
- • Thorough workshop adjustment ensures optimal playability out of the box
CONS
- • Grendilla wood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance
- • Bass clarinets are inherently heavy; this one will be a workout
- • Limited availability of specialized repair technicians for Grendilla instruments
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 255291
$3,475
#9
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha YCL-221 II S Bass Clarinet
by
Yamaha
Contemporary Music
Extended Range
Unique Sounds
Key Feature:
The YCL-221 II S is a fantastic entry point into bass clarinet playing, especially for students and those needing portability. The ABS body makes it significantly lighter than traditional wood models, and the silver-plated keys offer a bright, responsive sound. It's a solid, reliable instrument that delivers a good playing experience without the premium price tag of professional models.
PROS
- • Silver-plating enhances tone and offers corrosion resistance.
- • ABS body provides durability and ease of transport compared to wood.
- • Leather pads ensure reliable response and good sealing for consistent tone.
- • Well-executed keywork promotes smooth, accurate playing across the range.
CONS
- • ABS body, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of a wood instrument.
- • 4C mouthpiece is adequate but limits tonal possibilities for advanced players.
- • Keywork, while good, might feel slightly less refined than higher-end models.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 197701
$3,418
#10
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet Synthetic
by
Thomann
Unique Sounds
Specialty Performance
Contemporary Music
Key Feature:
This Thomann BCL-C is a solid entry point into the world of bass clarinets, especially for students or players needing a reliable, durable instrument. The composite body keeps things consistent and easy to maintain, and the pre-adjustment from Thomann's workshop is a genuine bonus. It's a great option for those needing a workhorse instrument without the premium price tag of a professional-grade model.
PROS
- • Composite body offers excellent durability and consistent intonation.
- • Silver-plated keys provide smooth action and a bright, responsive feel.
- • Pre-adjusted by Thomann’s workshop ensures playability out of the box.
- • Includes essential accessories, a real value for a bass clarinet.
CONS
- • Composite material lacks the tonal complexity of traditional wood.
- • The silver plating, while durable, will require occasional polishing.
- • Bass clarinets are inherently heavy; this one will take some getting used to.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 451141
$3,186
#11
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
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
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
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
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
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
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 | Thomann CL-17C C-Clarinet Boehm | not published | $659 |
| 17 | Martin Foag Octocontrabass Clarinet | not published | $83,446 |
| 18 | Selmer C 28 Contrabass Clarinet | not published | $34,768 |
| 19 | Buffet Crampon Tosca Bb-Bass Clarinet | not published | $16,678 |
| 20 | Selmer CP 25/II Bass Clarinet, black | not published | $15,866 |
| 21 | Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low D/C | not published | $15,065 |
| 22 | Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low C GL | not published | $14,601 |
| 23 | F.A. Uebel Emperior Bb- Bass Clarinet | not published | $13,210 |
| 24 | Buffet Crampon Prestige Bass low C | not published | $13,084 |
| 25 | Selmer CP 25/II Bass Clarinet Low C | not published | $12,978 |
| 26 | Buffet Crampon BC1503-2-0 Alto Clarinet | not published | $12,515 |
| 27 | Thomann CL-17C Synthetic C-Clarinet | not published | $312 |
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
Action & Response
As an intermediate player, you need an action that's consistent and reliable, allowing for clean articulation and a responsive feel. A sticky action will kill your dynamics and make complex passages a chore; a too-light action can feel vague and uncontrolled. Look for something that's adjustable but forgiving.
2
Tone Color
The cheap student horns often have a fairly generic, bright sound. Intermediate horns start to offer more nuanced tonal palettes - a warmer core, a more focused projection, maybe even a touch of that desirable 'fat midrange honk'. It's about finding something that complements your style and cuts through the mix.
3
Keywork Ergonomics
Intermediate players are developing their technique; uncomfortable keywork will only slow progress. Look for a comfortable key layout, well-placed thumb rests, and generally ergonomic design. This isn't just about comfort; it's about efficiency.
4
Intonation
Let's be honest, student horns are often a nightmare for intonation. A good intermediate clarinet should be noticeably better, but even then, minor adjustments might be needed. Consistent intonation across the range is crucial for playing in ensemble settings.
5
Build Quality & Materials
You're moving beyond plastic. Intermediate horns often incorporate more durable materials like harder rubber or even some metal components. This translates to better overall durability and a slightly richer, more complex tone - although it's a trade-off; more metal can sometimes lead to a brighter, less focused sound.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the flashiest lacquer or the most bells and whistles. Focus on playability and a tone that you genuinely connect with. Many intermediate horns will still require some minor adjustments (pad seating, spring tension) - factor that into your budget or be prepared to have a tech look at it. And remember, a slightly used, well-cared-for horn from a reputable brand is almost always a better value than a brand-new, budget-oriented model.
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 what most players are familiar with - the modern, straight key design. Albert systems have a slightly different key layout and are often associated with a darker, more 'vintage' sound, but they can be trickier to play and are less common.
Bb is the most versatile and common; it's a good starting point. An A clarinet offers a slightly darker, richer tone. Eb clarinets are higher pitched and less common, used for specific repertoire and solo work.
Realistically, you're looking at $800 - $2000 for a decent intermediate model. Spending less might mean significant compromises in playability or tone, while spending more doesn't always guarantee a huge leap in quality.
If you're recording or playing amplified, a pickup can be useful. The voicing of the pickup is important - avoid anything that sounds overly harsh or artificial. Consider a professional setup to optimize the pickup's placement and tone.
Absolutely. Even good instruments often need a little tweaking to play their best. Pad seating, spring tension - these are common adjustments. Budget for a basic setup by a qualified technician.
