10 Best Clarinets 2025 in the United States

The Glory GLY-PBK Professional Ebonite Bb Clarinet is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players. Made from ebonite, a durable and high-quality material, it offers excellent sound quality and longevity. The B flat key system is standard for most clarinets, making it easy to find sheet music and play with other musicians. The bore size is typical for a professional clarinet, providing a good balance between ease of play and sound projection.

The included mouthpiece is decent, though some more advanced players might prefer to upgrade it for better performance. Having 10 reeds included is a nice bonus, as it allows you to start playing immediately without needing to purchase additional accessories. The ligature is functional but might not hold up under intense use over time. The hard case, stand, cleaning cloth, cork grease, mouthpiece brush, and pad brush are all useful accessories that help maintain the instrument's condition and ease of use.

The item weight of 4 pounds might be slightly heavy for younger players or those needing to transport it frequently. This clarinet provides a comprehensive starter package with good value for money, suitable for students and casual players looking for durability and decent sound quality.

The Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet is designed specifically for novice players. It features a durable matte ABS resin body, making it lightweight and easy to handle. Additionally, the nickel-plated keys contribute to the overall durability and a modern aesthetic. With a 4C mouthpiece included, beginners can expect a standard and comfortable playing experience right out of the box.

The clarinet is tuned in B flat, suitable for a wide range of musical styles, which makes it versatile for any beginner exploring different genres of music. Measuring at 14.96 x 5.91 x 12.2 inches and weighing 4.63 pounds, it is compact and portable, adding to its convenience for young musicians or students.

However, one drawback could be its resin body, which may not provide the same warm tone as a wooden clarinet might offer. Yet, for beginners, this material ensures longevity and easier maintenance. In essence, the Yamaha YCL-255 is a commendable choice for those new to the clarinet, balancing ease of use with quality construction.

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.

The ergonomic fixed thumb rest enhances comfort during longer play sessions, which is a thoughtful feature for students and advancing musicians. Weighing just over 5 pounds, it’s reasonably manageable for most players. This clarinet fits well as an intermediate instrument, bridging the gap between beginner and professional models with quality materials and reliable mechanics.

Its price and specification might be more than what absolute beginners need, and some players may want to choose their own mouthpiece and reeds to match their style.