If you are a beginner and want to buy a clarinet with awesome sound and playability, I will do my best to help you.
With numerous options available, it’s always daunting to pick one, especially if you have little experience. So, this is the article that will give you a clear idea of what to look for in beginner clarinets.
What’s The Best Beginner Clarinet?
Following are the best beginner clarinets that produce exceptional sound, have awesome features and it’s very comfortable to play them.
1. Wilmington 902
Features
A popular type of clarinet for beginners with awesome sound – Wilmington 902. Also, it’s a very beautiful instrument with black and silver colors. Made from stainless steel, this is a perfect Bb clarinet for students with a reasonable price tag.
Wilmington 902 clarinet offers exceptional sound quality and intonation thanks to its carefully crafted undercut tone holes. Locking posts ensure perfect alignment, while blue steel needle springs provide smooth key action for beginners. Additionally, comes with adjustable thumb rest, strap ring, and fine-tuning is made easy with an F/C key adjustment screw and adjustable crow’s foot. A perfect clarinet for students and beginner players.
2. Buffet Crampon Bb
Features
Buffet Crampon Bb is one of the best clarinets for beginners and students with one of my favorite sounds. Not only does it sound good but also looks beautiful and style is very important to me when it comes to woodwind instruments.
Although it’s a cheap instrument, it’s a featured-pack and a great clarinet. For example, the unique sound of this instrument is due to its bell without a ring and flat bottom and black nickel tenon rings enhance its appearance. Also, comes with 17 keys and 6 rings and silver-plated keys provide smooth and responsive playability. One of my favorite things is the adjustable thumbrest and neckstrap hook because it allows players to customize the clarinet to their liking.
3. Yamaha YCL255
Features
Yes, Yamaha YCL255 is a clarinet great for beginners but I think this particular model can be used by professionals too. The reason is simple – Yamaha quality. This model offers comfortable playability, amazing features, and outstanding sound qualities.
YCL255 is designed with a Boehm key system that includes 17 keys and 6 rings. The 65mm barrel helps produce a clear and focused tone, while the bell’s resonance chamber improves projection and intonation, especially in lower notes. It features nickel-plated keys and Valentino pads, ensuring a responsive and reliable performance. If you’re starting your musical journey, the Yamaha YCL255 is the ideal choice.
4. Selmer CL221
Features
Selmer CL211 is one of the best beginner clarinets with a medium-small bore that is designed to produce a warm, well-controlled, and focused tone. It’s made from wood and rubber and looks fantastic and classy.
This clarinet with silver-plated keys, produces rich and resonant sound due to the undercut tone holes, while the double skin pads and blue steel springs enhance its responsiveness and longevity. Also, the Boehm (French) key system makes it easy to play, and the adjustable thumb rest adds to the comfort during long practice sessions.
5. Duo Shine ST2
Features
Duo Shine ST2 is an intermediate clarinet that is perfect for new players. You might never heard of this clarinet brand but believe me, this instrument offers amazing sound. And another good thing is the price of it which makes it a great deal.
This clarinet is made with a strong ABS body, and two-tone colors add a personal touch to it. ST2 clarinet features an 18 Keys and 6 Ring system, synthetic keypads, and an adjustable thumbrest with a neckstrap hook, providing a comfortable and customizable playing experience. This precision-crafted instrument combines innovation with style and deserves a place on this list.
Conclusion
Here are my recommended beginner clarinets that offer excellent sound quality, craftsmanship, and user-friendly features. Your musical journey will be enjoyable with any of these instruments, as they are all perfect in their way. Have fun playing the clarinet and may your musical adventures be as special as the one you choose to start with.