10 Best Clarinets 2026 in the United States

The Buffet R13S Clarinet with Silver Plate Keys is a top-tier choice for professional musicians. Its highest quality unstained Grenadilla wood body offers superior acoustic properties and a visually appealing look. The instrument is finished with a silver plate over copper, which ensures durability and an elegant appearance. This clarinet is in the key of B flat, a common key for clarinets, making it versatile for various musical settings.

It comes with essential accessories such as a reed, Crampon ligature, mouthpiece, swab, and cork grease, providing everything you need to start playing right away. The Buffet R13S sits at a higher price point, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious musicians. Weighing just 2.58 pounds, it's also relatively lightweight, adding to the comfort during use.

This clarinet is best suited for advanced players or professionals seeking a high-quality instrument that delivers exceptional sound and performance.

The Yamaha YCL-650II Professional Bb Clarinet is an ideal choice for serious clarinetists, thanks to its high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The body is made from Grenadilla, which is known for its rich tone and durability, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced players. The silver-plated keys not only enhance the instrument's aesthetic appeal but also provide a smooth and responsive playing experience, which can be particularly beneficial for those who perform regularly.

In terms of playability, the design features a well-balanced bore size that supports excellent intonation and projection. This can help musicians achieve a clearer sound, whether they are playing in an orchestra or a solo setting. The inclusion of a barrel and bell further contributes to the clarinet’s sound quality.

The YCL-650II may not be the best fit for absolute beginners, primarily due to its professional-grade features and price point, which is higher than entry-level models. Players just starting out may find it more challenging to manage the reed strength and mouthpiece adjustments that come with more advanced instruments. Additionally, at 5.83 pounds, it could feel somewhat heavy for younger or less experienced players who require a lighter option.

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.