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10 Best Clarinets 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Selmer USA CL211 Bb Wood Clarinet Outfit

Selmer USA CL211 Bb Wood Clarinet Outfit

SELMER

10.0 score

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The Selmer USA CL211 Bb Wood Clarinet Outfit is a solid choice for beginner to intermediate players looking for a wood clarinet. One of its key strengths is the use of wood and rubber materials, which enhance tonal quality and contribute to a rich sound. The smaller bore design is beneficial for younger players or those with smaller hands, making it easier to handle and produce a clear tone. Additionally, the adjustable thumbrest allows for comfort during long practice sessions, which is a thoughtful feature for those just starting out.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,189
Material
Key System
Bore Size

Most important from
11 reviews

Material
The unstained grenadilla wood is not only beautiful but also contributes to a great sound.
Key System
The keywork and pads are of outstanding quality, making it a reliable choice.
Bore Size
The smaller bore and undercut keys are perfect for players with smaller hands, though it can be adjusted to by others as well.
#2
10.0 score

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Buffet Crampon

10.0 score

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The Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet is crafted from premium African blackwood, known for producing a rich and projecting tone, which is ideal for players looking to improve their musical expression. Its 64mm barrel supports a balanced sound and smooth airflow, making it comfortable to play and good for consistent performance. Silver-plated keys with airtight double fishskin pads add to a smooth playing experience, while stainless steel springs ensure fast and reliable key action.

Rating
10.0
Material
Key System
Bore Size

Most important from
1 reviews

Material
Crafted from premium African blackwood, the clarinet offers a rich and projecting tone ideal for advancing musicians.
Key System
Silver-plated keys paired with airtight double fishskin pads ensure a smooth and reliable playing experience.
Bore Size
The 64mm barrel promotes balanced sound and smooth airflow, enhancing consistent performance.
#3
10.0 score

Selmer Paris Bb Clarinet SP Presence by Seles Silver Plated Keys

Selmer Paris Bb Clarinet SP Presence by Seles Silver Plated Keys

Henri Selmer

10.0 score

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The Selmer Paris Bb Clarinet SP Presence features a high-quality silver body and silver-plated keys, offering a modern design that appeals to intermediate and advanced clarinet players. The silver material contributes to a bright, clear tone with good projection, while the silver-plated keywork ensures durability and a smooth playing experience. It uses the popular B-flat tuning standard (440-442 Hz), making it compatible with most ensembles. The included Henri Selmer hard rubber mouthpiece is known for its reliable sound and response, which benefits musicians seeking consistency.

Top 10 Best Clarinets 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
Slide 1

SELMER

Selmer USA CL211 Bb Wood Clarinet Outfit

Material: Wood, Rubber
Key System: B Flat
Bore Size: smaller bore

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Chosen by 1189 this week

#2
10.0  score
Slide 1

Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Material: African blackwood

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#3
10.0  score
Slide 1

Henri Selmer

Selmer Paris Bb Clarinet SP Presence by Seles Silver Plated Keys

Material: Silver
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: Henri Selmer hard rubber

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#4
9.7  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb Clarinet with Silver-plated Keys

Material: Grenadilla
Key System: Silver-plated
Bore Size: Well-balanced

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#5
9.7  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-CSVR Professional Bb Clarinet with Silver-plated Keys

Material: Solid Wood
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: CL4CM

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#6
9.4  score
Slide 1Slide 2

Buffet Crampon

Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys

Material: Wood, Copper, Silver
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: Included
Ligature: Crampon ligature

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#7
9.1  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Resin, Nickel
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: 4C

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41% OFF
#8
8.8  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-450NM Duet+ Intermediate Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: grenadilla wood body, nickel keys
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: Yamaha 4C mouthpiece
Ligature: included

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#9
8.5  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-450N Intermediate Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Grenadilla
Key System: B Flat
Mouthpiece: 4C

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#10
7.0  score
Slide 1

Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon E-11 E11

Material: Wood

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Buying Guide for the Best Clarinets

Choosing the right clarinet involves understanding your needs and preferences as a player. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, the right clarinet can make a significant difference in your playing experience. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a clarinet, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialClarinets are typically made from either plastic or wood. Plastic clarinets are more durable and less expensive, making them ideal for beginners and young students. They are also less affected by changes in temperature and humidity. Wooden clarinets, usually made from grenadilla wood, produce a richer, warmer sound and are preferred by intermediate and advanced players. However, they require more maintenance and are more sensitive to environmental changes. Choose plastic if you are just starting out or need a durable instrument, and consider wood if you are looking for a higher quality sound and are ready to take on the extra care.
Key SystemThe key system of a clarinet refers to the arrangement and mechanism of the keys. The two main systems are the Boehm system and the Oehler system. The Boehm system is more common, especially in the United States and Western Europe, and is known for its ease of play and wide range of available instruments. The Oehler system is more common in Germany and Austria and offers a different fingering technique and sound. If you are a beginner or play in a region where the Boehm system is standard, it is best to start with that. If you are interested in German classical music or play in an area where the Oehler system is prevalent, you might consider that option.
Bore SizeThe bore size of a clarinet affects the instrument's tone and playability. A smaller bore produces a more focused, brighter sound and is often easier for beginners to play. A larger bore offers a fuller, more resonant tone and is preferred by more advanced players for its rich sound. Beginners should start with a smaller bore for ease of play, while intermediate and advanced players might experiment with larger bores to achieve their desired sound quality.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a crucial part of the clarinet that greatly influences the sound and playability. Mouthpieces come in various shapes and sizes, affecting the ease of blowing and the tone produced. Beginners should look for a mouthpiece that is easy to play and produces a clear sound. Intermediate and advanced players might try different mouthpieces to find one that complements their playing style and desired tone. It is often recommended to consult with a teacher or experienced player when selecting a mouthpiece.
Reed StrengthReeds come in different strengths, typically ranging from 1 (soft) to 5 (hard). Softer reeds (1-2) are easier to play and are recommended for beginners as they require less air pressure. Medium reeds (2.5-3.5) offer a balance between ease of play and sound quality, suitable for intermediate players. Harder reeds (4-5) produce a richer, more powerful sound but require more skill and air support, making them ideal for advanced players. Choose a reed strength that matches your skill level and playing comfort.
LigatureThe ligature holds the reed onto the mouthpiece and can affect the instrument's response and tone. Ligatures come in various materials, including metal, leather, and synthetic materials. Metal ligatures tend to provide a brighter sound, while leather and synthetic ligatures offer a warmer tone. Beginners should start with a basic, reliable ligature, while more advanced players might experiment with different materials to find the one that best suits their playing style and sound preference.

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