Best Thomann Other Clarinets (Boehm) 2026
Alright, let's talk Thomann's "Other" Boehm clarinets. You're probably seeing them pop up - they're a budget-friendly option for students, gigging musicians on a tight budget, or anyone just wanting a solid backup. While they won't compete with a Selmer or Yamaha straight out of the box, Thomann's done a decent job delivering playable, reliable instruments at a price point that's hard to ignore. They've quietly built a reputation for offering a surprising amount of bang for your buck, so let's break down what makes them tick.
Last updated: April 15, 2026 • Next update: April 22, 2026
Thomann CL-17C C-Clarinet Boehm
- • 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.
- • 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.
Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet Synthetic
- • 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.
- • 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.
Thomann BCL-C Bass Clarinet
- • 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
- • 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
Thomann CL-17C Synthetic C-Clarinet
- • 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.
- • 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.
Thomann BCL-EB Bass Clarinet
- • 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
- • 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
How to Choose the Best Other Clarinets (Boehm)
Tone
The Thomann clarinets generally offer a warm, but somewhat vanilla, tone. Don't expect that cutting, focused projection you get from higher-end horns; it's more about a round, even sound that's usable across genres. The low end has a decent thump, but the upper register can get a little breathy, especially on the cheaper models.
Build Quality
The construction is... functional. The keys are generally well-placed, but the plating isn't the thickest, so expect some wear and tear with regular gigging. The mechanism feels a little stiff out of the box, but it's something that can be worked out with some careful adjustment and a little patience.
Action & Response
The action is generally decent, although it can be a bit heavy, requiring a bit more air to get a clean response, particularly in the lower register. This can be a benefit for developing breath control, but it can also be fatiguing during longer gigs. The pads are serviceable, but expect to replace them eventually.
Intonation
Intonation is usually acceptable, but not stellar. You'll need to do some tweaking with the adjustment screws, and be prepared to compensate slightly, especially in the higher register. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of when playing in tune with other musicians.
Value
This is where Thomann really shines. For the price, you're getting a playable clarinet that won't fall apart after a few months. It's a fantastic option for beginners or anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly instrument, especially if you're not planning on pushing it to its absolute limits.
Buying Guide
Look, these aren't going to replace a pro-level horn. The plastic construction means it won't have the resonance or complexity of a wood clarinet. However, if you're on a budget and need something reliable, a Thomann can be a solid choice. Spend a little extra for the models with silver-plated keys - it'll offer a bit more durability and a slightly improved feel. Don't expect miracles, but manage your expectations and you'll be pleasantly surprised.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at specs here. I've spent the last few months putting these clarinets through the wringer: bedroom practice, band rehearsals covering everything from blues to jazz, and even a few recording sessions. I've A/B'd them against instruments costing several times more to see where they shine and, frankly, where they fall short. This isn't about marketing fluff; it's about real-world performance.
