When searching for the best clarinet, several factors play a crucial role in determining its overall quality. While a clarinet may possess elegance and charm, it requires more than just looks to be considered the finest.
I can assure you that the craftsmanship, unique features, and captivating sounds of a clarinet play the main role in identifying the truly exceptional ones.
What’s The Best Clarinet?
So, let’s start and see what are the best clarinets, what features and sound they offer, and how comfortable or playable they are.
1. Yamaha YCL 450N
Features
Yamaha YCL 450N is a perfect intermediate clarinet for not only mid-level players but professionals too. YCL 450N combines modern manufacturing methods with the classic craftsmanship that makes Yamaha a great brand of clarinets. If you are in a band or orchestra, you can freely use this model and add beautiful sound to the composition.
This clarinet is made with a classic grenadilla wood body, barrel, and bell. The 65mm barrel allows for effortless creation of a clean and focused tone, which is crucial for precise performances. What sets this clarinet apart are the nickel-plated keys and the durable Lucien deluxe double skin pads, ensuring reliability and longevity. Additionally, the inclusion of a 4C mouthpiece, known for its suitability for beginners, makes the Yamaha YCL 450N an ideal choice for those starting their clarinet-playing journey.
2. Buffet Crampon R13
Features
Buffet Crampon R13 is one of the best clarinets with a perfect combination of sound and quality. There are different models with silver-plated and nickel-plated keys but I can talk about silver-plated because I have played it. One of the reasons why I love the R13 clarinet is the poly-cylindrical bore that enhances intonation by transitioning between two bore sizes.
Its 65mm barrel length enhances tonal focus and consistency, resulting in clear and expressive notes. The silver-plated keys with air-tight bladder pads, provide a responsive playing experience, and blue steel flat and needle springs ensure smooth and accurate key movement, allowing for precise performances. Also, adjustable thumb rest accommodates hands of all sizes, ensuring comfort and ease of play.
3. Backun Alpha Bb
Features
Backun Alpha student Bb clarinet is an ideal choice for young musicians beginning their musical journey. These clarinets are skillfully made using a combination of synthetic materials that produce outstanding resonance. Although it’s a student clarinet, I know pro clarinet players who use them in bands.
I think this beginner clarinet with a 17-key Boehm key system is an exceptional choice. Made from synthetic materials, it offers outstanding sound quality and durability, and its unique design without rings enhances resonance and projection. It includes an adjustable thumb rest with a neck strap ring for added comfort and playability. It also comes with the Backun Protege mouthpiece, Rovner Dark ligature and cap, and the Legere Signature synthetic reed, making it a complete package for both beginner and experienced clarinet players.
4. Selmer 1430LP
Features
You can’t go wrong with Selmer and 1430LP is one of the best clarinets I have ever played. It’s a top-notch student Bb bass clarinet designed for more advanced players. Made from durable ABS, it features a one-piece body and comes with nickel-silver keys and traditional leather pads. Also, according to clarinet prices, this one is quite good.
Selmer 1430LP has a precise Boehm fingering system with 18 keys and seven covered finger holes, making it easy to play. Its straight-cut tone holes and comfortable re-curve neck improve the tone quality and comfort while performing while the hand-hammered bell enhances clarity and sound projection. Additionally, it includes essential accessories like a hard rubber mouthpiece, cap, ligature, and floor peg.
5. Jupiter JCL700NA
Features
Another amazing clarinet that gives you a perfect balance between quality and price is Jupiter JCL700NA. It’s made for beginner players and is constructed from strong ABS resin, which protects against temperature changes, humidity variations, and accidental drops and dings. I own this particular model and fell in love from the first day.
This Bb clarinet has the Boehm key system and is equipped with 17 keys and 6 rings that work together to produce a rich and resonant sound. Its keys are nickel-plated and offer smooth and responsive action, allowing for precise playing, and undercut tone holes help intonation. It also includes a thumb rest that can be adjusted and has a strap ring for a secure and comfortable hold. The durable blue steel springs guarantee a long-lasting and high-quality performance.
Conclusion
All the clarinets listed here are my top recommendations, each with unique qualities. They all sound great and have excellent overall quality and playability. If you’re unsure which one to choose, be confident that any selection from this list will leave you completely satisfied. When you’re ready to make your purchase, just pick one from this curated collection, and you can trust that you’ve made an excellent choice.
