10 Best Clarinets 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

On the technical side, the undercut tone holes help facilitate better intonation, which is crucial for developing musicians who want to play in tune across different registers. The silver-plated keys not only add a touch of elegance but also contribute to smooth action and durability, ensuring that the clarinet can withstand regular use.

There are some limitations to consider. The smaller bore might not provide the depth of sound that more advanced players seek, as it is tailored more towards beginners. Additionally, it might not have the same level of craftsmanship or tonal complexity found in higher-end models. This could be a factor for players who are considering this instrument as they progress in their skills. In terms of portability, the clarinet weighs around 6 pounds, which is manageable but could be slightly heavier compared to plastic alternatives, making it less ideal for those looking for a lightweight option. The Selmer USA CL211 Bb Wood Clarinet Outfit stands out as a commendable choice for new clarinetists, offering a good balance of quality, playability, and comfort.

The Yamaha YCL-450N Intermediate Clarinet is a well-rounded choice for clarinetists looking to advance their skills. Its Grenadilla body offers a rich, warm tone, which is essential for both solo performances and ensemble playing. The nickel-plated keys are durable and provide smooth action, making it user-friendly for intermediate players. The included 4C mouthpiece is known for its comfortable playability and clear sound, which is beneficial for developing embouchure and tone quality.

One of the strengths of this model is its build quality. Yamaha is known for producing reliable instruments, and the YCL-450N is no exception. The clarinet is lightweight for its size, which can be an advantage during long practice sessions. Additionally, the bore size is appropriate for creating a balanced sound that caters to various musical styles, making it versatile for different genres.

The Yamaha YCL-450N stands out as a solid choice for intermediate players seeking a reliable and quality instrument. While it is designed for those advancing from beginner to intermediate levels, its performance and ease of use make it a great option.