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Student Clarinets

10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Yamaha

10.0 score

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The Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet is a strong option for students. It's made with nickel, which makes it durable and resistant to tarnish. The nickel-plated keys add to its sleek modern look and help with smooth playability. The clarinet is in the key of B Flat, which is standard and suitable for a wide range of student music pieces.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,477
Material
Case
Brand Reputation

Most important from
33 reviews

Material
This clarinet offers excellent playability, with smooth key action and a beautiful wooden finish.
Case
While the clarinet itself meets expectations, there were some concerns about receiving a different, inferior case than advertised.
Brand Reputation
Yamaha's reputation for quality and reliability shines through with this clarinet, making it a trusted choice for students.
#2
9.7 score

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Buffet Crampon

9.7 score

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The Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet is a solid choice for serious students and advancing players who want quality and reliability in their instrument. It features a body made from African Blackwood, a material known for producing a warm, rich tone that stands out in school bands or solo performances. The 64mm barrel helps balance the sound and airflow, making it easier to play smoothly. Its silver-plated keys not only look good but also provide smooth action and durability, while airtight double fishskin pads help keep the instrument well-sealed for consistent sound. Stainless steel springs enhance key responsiveness, which means quicker, more precise finger movements.

Rating
9.7
Material

Most important from
1 reviews

Material
The clarinet impresses with its beautiful appearance and solid build quality.
#3
9.4 score

Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys

Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys

Buffet Crampon

9.4 score

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The Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys is a professional-grade instrument that stands out due to its high-quality construction and acoustic properties. Crafted from unstained Grenadilla wood, known for its superior sound and aesthetic appeal, this clarinet promises excellent performance. The silver-plated keys add a touch of elegance and durability, enhancing the clarinet's feel and longevity.

Top 10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Yamaha

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Nickel
Keywork: Nickel-plated keys
Case: CLC-400EII
Brand Reputation: Yamaha is well-regarded

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Chosen by 1477 this week

#2
9.7  score
Slide 1

Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Material: African Blackwood
Keywork: silver-plated keys
Brand Reputation: Buffet Crampon respected brand

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#3
9.4  score
Slide 1Slide 2

Buffet Crampon

Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys

Material: Unstained Grenadilla wood, Silver-plated keys
Keywork: Silver-plated keys
Mouthpiece: Included
Brand Reputation: Solid reputation in instrument industry

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#4
9.4  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: ABS resin, Nickel
Keywork: Nickel-plated keys
Bore Size: well-designed
Mouthpiece: 4C
Brand Reputation: Yamaha makes reliable instruments

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38% OFF
#5
9.1  score
Slide 1

Henri Selmer

Selmer Student Model CL301 Bb Clarinet

Material: Plastic with wood-like finish
Keywork: Nickel-plated
Mouthpiece: Rubber

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#6
9.1  score
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Jean Paul USA

Jean Paul USA CL-300 Student Clarinet B Flat

Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Keywork: French Boehm key system
Case: hard case
Brand Reputation: solid reputation

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#7
9.1  score
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Jupiter

Jupiter Intermediate Grenadilla Bb Clarinet, JCL750N

Material: Wood, ABS, grenadilla
Keywork: Nickel
Bore Size: Optimized for play

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#8
9.1  score
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HERCHE

Herche Clarinet Bb Superior X5 - UPGRADED - Educator Approved - Intermediate - Free Service Plan

Material: ABS Resin, Nickel, Silver, Steel
Keywork: nickel-silver
Mouthpiece: upgraded mouthpiece
Case: plush-lined case with handle, straps
Brand Reputation: good reputation, 30+ years experience

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#9
9.1  score
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GKW MUSIC

GKW Bb Clarinet – Student & Intermediate, Complete Set with Accessories, Easy Maintenance, Clear Sound, Ideal for School Band and Beginners

Material: Ebonite, Wood Grain Effect
Keywork: Yellow brass
Bore Size: Optimized
Case: Premium case
Brand Reputation: Founded by musician-educators

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#10
7.0  score
Slide 1

LE BLANC

LE BLANC Clarinet, black (L225S)

Material: Wood
Keywork: Innovative design
Mouthpiece: Hard rubber
Case: Practical with carrying options

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Buying Guide for the Best Student Clarinets

Choosing the right clarinet as a student can be a rewarding experience. It's important to find an instrument that suits your level of play, is comfortable to handle, and produces a good sound. As a student, you want a clarinet that is durable, easy to maintain, and offers good value for your investment. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a student clarinet and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
MaterialClarinets are typically made from either plastic (resin) or wood. Plastic clarinets are more durable and less affected by changes in temperature and humidity, making them ideal for beginners and younger students. Wooden clarinets, usually made from grenadilla wood, offer a richer, warmer sound but require more care and maintenance. For most students, a plastic clarinet is a practical choice due to its resilience and lower maintenance needs.
KeyworkThe keywork of a clarinet refers to the metal keys and rods that cover the tone holes. Nickel-plated keys are common on student clarinets because they are durable and resistant to tarnish. Silver-plated keys are also available and offer a more professional look and feel, but they require more maintenance to keep them shiny. For students, nickel-plated keys are generally sufficient and easier to maintain.
Bore SizeThe bore size of a clarinet affects the instrument's tone and playability. Student clarinets typically have a standard bore size, which provides a balanced tone and is easier to play for beginners. Larger bore sizes can produce a fuller sound but may be more challenging to control. As a student, sticking with a standard bore size will help you develop your playing skills without added difficulty.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a crucial part of the clarinet as it greatly influences the sound and ease of play. Student clarinets usually come with a basic mouthpiece that is designed to be easy to play and produce a good tone. As you progress, you might want to experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that suits your playing style. For beginners, the stock mouthpiece provided with the clarinet is typically adequate.
Reed StrengthReeds come in various strengths, usually ranging from 1 (soft) to 5 (hard). Softer reeds (1.5 to 2.5) are easier to play and produce sound with less effort, making them ideal for beginners. Harder reeds (3 and above) offer more resistance and can produce a richer tone but require more control and embouchure strength. As a student, starting with a softer reed will help you develop your technique and gradually move to harder reeds as you improve.
CaseA good case is essential for protecting your clarinet when not in use. Student clarinets usually come with a hard case that provides adequate protection against bumps and drops. Some cases also have extra compartments for accessories like reeds, cleaning supplies, and sheet music. Ensure the case is sturdy and has a secure closure to keep your instrument safe.
Brand ReputationThe reputation of the brand can be an indicator of the quality and reliability of the clarinet. Established brands with a history of producing quality instruments are generally a safer choice for students. Research reviews and ask for recommendations from teachers or experienced players to find a reputable brand. Choosing a well-regarded brand can give you confidence in the durability and performance of your clarinet.

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