Every musician wants to go for an instrument brand with a good reputation, and if you’re a budding clarinettist, there are lots to choose from.
In this article, we explore the best clarinet brands out there, focusing on why names like Buffet Crampon, Selmer Paris, Leblanc, and Yamaha top the list. These stand out for their quality craftsmanship, their range of models that suit all different skill levels, and their consistent performance, making them favourites among tutors and professionals alike.
Other notable brands like Jupiter, Stagg, Roy Benson, Grassi, and G4M also offer unique features that cater to various musical needs and budgets, ensuring every musician finds their perfect match.
If you’re struggling to find the right one for you, read on as we discover all the key things that these brands have to offer.
In a hurry?
Here are our top three clarinet brands, why they’re so popular, and our clarinet recommendation:
Brand | What They Offer | Our Clarinet Recommendation |
---|---|---|
Selmer Paris | Selmer Paris produce extremely high-quality clarinets that are built to last through your playing journey. | Selmer Paris Prologue Bb Clarinet Outfit |
Buffet Crampon | With premium materials, such as grenadilla wood or Reso-tone ABS, Buffet Crampon clarinets offer high-quality sound and excellent durability. | Buffet Prodige Bb Clarinet |
Leblanc | Leblanc clarinets are affordable, but they still boast the features of high-quality instruments, such as specially designed keywork. | Leblanc LCL211S Debut Bb Clarinet |
The best clarinet brands
1. Selmer Paris
Selmer Paris are renowned for their superior quality clarinets that come from a rich heritage and premium craftsmanship.
The company was founded in 1885 by Henri Selmer, initially focusing on reeds and mouthpieces before expanding into clarinets and further saxophones. These instruments gained prominence after being showcased by Henri’s brother, clarinettist Alexandre Selmer, at the 1904 Universal Exhibition. The first clarinet was made in 1900.
Selmer Paris clarinets are known for their exquisite attention to detail and visual appeal, making them pieces of art as well as musical instruments.
In fact, the brand has been endorsed by legendary musicians like Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, and Benny Goodman, so if you’re a professional musician who wants to follow in the footsteps of icons in the industry, Selmer Paris clarinets are for you.
These clarinets offer a distinct, rich sound; excellent intonation; superb constructions; and the finest attention to detail. It’s this quality and craftsmanship that makes Selmer Paris highly valued by professionals and enthusiasts alike.
They also feature some innovative designs that enhance playability and sound clarity, for example, the three axes thumb rest of the Prologue Bb Clarinet allows for perfect hand positioning as it can move up, down, left, and right.
The unique aesthetics – hand engravings and beautiful finishes – of Selmer Paris instruments make them stand out. Plus, they cater to a wide range of musicians with products that vary in price, ensuring that both aspiring and professional players can find an instrument that meets their needs.
Our recommendation: Selmer Paris Prologue Bb Clarinet Outfit
2. Buffet Crampon
Buffet Crampon showcase the pinnacle of clarinet quality. Established in 1825 in Paris, this historic brand’s clarinets are known for their rich tones and precise intonation, ideal for all ability levels.
Buffet Crampon’s clarinet line includes models from the beginner-friendly E13 and the Prodige to the professional-grade R13, renowned for its dynamic sound.
Higher-end models like the Tosca and Divine feature superior ergonomics and acoustics, favoured for their exceptional sound clarity and playability. Made from select woods and wood alternatives with advanced design elements, each Buffet Crampon clarinet delivers an outstanding musical experience.
Combining tradition with innovation, Buffet Crampon use premium grenadilla wood in most of their clarinets and meticulous engineering to produce their unique engravings.
An exception to the rule is the Buffet Prodige Bb Clarinet, which has a Reso-tone ABS construction that is resistant to any changes in temperature, unlike wood which can expand and contract in various climates.
The brand covers a wide price range, ensuring there is a perfect match for every musician’s skill level and budget. In terms of budget, Buffet Crampon clarinets can cost between £500 and nearly £3000, depending on the playing level it’s aimed at and the materials used.
Our recommendations: Buffet E13 Bb Clarinet with Gig Bag Case & Buffet Prodige Bb Clarinet
Please note: We only stock various Buffet products but have access to the whole buffet range/catalogue. If there are any products you are interested in, please get in touch with our customer service team.
3. Leblanc
Leblanc is a distinguished name in the clarinet market. Founded in 1750 as a family business called the Noblet Company, the company was sold to Georges Leblanc in 1904 in La Couture-Boussey, France, where it got its name Leblanc.
Leblanc clarinets are known for their easy playability, smooth sound, precise craftsmanship, and reliable performance, making them favourites among students and professional musicians.
The brand offers a diverse range of clarinets, from traditional Bb models to bass and contrabass clarinets, catering to all levels of musicianship.
Something you can expect with Leblanc clarinets is a host of advanced features designed to facilitate easy playability and exceptional sound production.
These include Low E reinforcement bars to maintain key adjustment and specially designed keywork that reduces unnecessary weight and allows for a smooth playing action.
Our recommendation: Leblanc LCL211S Debut Bb Clarinet
4. Yamaha
Yamaha are renowned for a range of instruments and amongst them are their high-quality clarinets which offer precise intonation. They’re also adaptable across various musical styles and skill levels.
Yamaha’s range includes clarinets that are suited to solo and ensemble settings, whilst models like the YCL-255S cater to developing musicians.
Committed to sustainability, Yamaha use environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes.
Their clarinets are crafted from selected woods and ABS resin and all feature advanced design elements to enhance playability and sound projection.
Yamaha provide options from affordable beginner instruments to high-end professional models, ensuring quality across all price points.
Our recommendation: Yamaha YCL255S Student Bb Clarinet
5. Jupiter
Jupiter, founded in 1979 by KHS Musical Instruments, are a prominent brand in the school band scene.
With a focus on supporting music education and performance, Jupiter offer a range of clarinets that are ideal for educational settings.
Not only are they excellent value, but they’re also designed with the input of teachers and professional players, making them some of the best clarinets for students. Features like adjustable thumb rests, ergonomic key placements, and durable materials make Jupiter clarinets a practical choice for young musicians.
Better still, the brand actively participate in various educational initiatives and aim to get students inspired and excited by music.
So, if you opt for a Jupiter clarinet, not only will you be getting a superb quality instrument, but you’ll also be supporting music education!
Our recommendation: Jupiter JCL-700 Series Beginner Bb Clarinet
6. Stagg
Stagg, originally established in Japan in the 1970s and revitalised in 1995 by Leonardo Baldocci of EMD Music, have grown into a globally recognised brand that offer an extensive range of musical instruments.
Stagg clarinets are well-suited to students and budget-conscious musicians, so they’re great in music education settings. They’re known for their durable ABS bodies and the popular Boehm key system, which makes them able to withstand the rigours and consistency of beginner use.
The WS-CL210S is great for young players as its lightweight design ensures it’s easy to handle. On the other hand, the Stagg CL211S Bb Clarinet caters to both beginner and intermediate players.
Like Jupiter, Stagg are committed to making music accessible, offering affordable instruments that don’t sacrifice quality.
Their clarinets are recognised for their practical features, such as nickel-plated or silver-plated keys, which enhance playability and durability. With Stagg, new musicians can enjoy a smooth, encouraging start on their musical journey.
Our recommendation: Stagg CL211S Bb Clarinet
7. Roy Benson
Roy Benson offer a blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and affordability in all their musical instruments, including clarinets. Established to cater to the needs of both aspiring and experienced musicians, Roy Benson have become a go-to brand for those who want an all-round clarinet that balances value and quality.
With a Roy Benson clarinet, you can expect an ergonomic design and durable materials. They suit educational and performance settings, and thanks to their easy playability and consistent intonation, they produce a clear, rich sound across various musical genres.
The price range of Roy Benson clarinets makes them ideal for budget-conscious families and educational programs, offering high-quality instruments without the cost typically associated with professional clarinets.
Each model boasts features such as adjustable thumb rests, undercut tone holes, and high-quality pads that enhance the player’s comfort and the instrument’s response.
Our recommendations: Roy Benson CB217 Bb Clarinet & Roy Benson CG220 Bb Clarinet, German System
8. Grassi
Grassi come from a tradition of artisanal craftsmanship enhanced by modern technology.
Known for their precise intonation, robust build, and exceptional tone quality, Grassi clarinets are tailored to novice and professional musicians.
Each clarinet features an adjustable thumb rest, meticulously machined tone holes, and superior materials.
However, despite their high-end designs, Grassi accommodate budget-conscious students as well as professionals, making them a great versatile brand for any setting.
Opting for a Grassi clarinet means investing in a durable, high-performance instrument that supports a musician’s growth and creative expression, offering excellent value for money and a commitment to quality that musicians trust.
Our recommendation: Grassi CL200 Master Series Clarinet, 17 Keys
9.Gear4music
Gear4music clarinets cater to both beginners and intermediate players.
They’re recognised for their affordability and reliability, making them an ideal choice for students. And to ensure they’re comfortable to play and last for years to come, the clarinets incorporate features like adjustable thumb rests, durable body materials, and precision-engineered keys.
Priced affordably, Gear4music clarinets are extremely accessible, aiming to provide good value without compromising on the quality of sound or playability. This makes them particularly appealing to schools, music tutors, and parents looking for a clarinet for their child.
If you’re just starting out and you don’t want to make the leap into advanced instruments too soon, Gear4music clarinets are ideal. They promote proper technique thanks to their comfortable, lightweight construction, quick-response keys, and the 17-key Boehm configuration included in their beginner range, which most teachers recommend for students.
Our recommendation: playLITE Clarinet by Gear4music
FAQs
What makes a good-quality clarinet?
Good clarinets are defined by their construction and features that allow for easy playability and high-quality sound, such as an adjustable thumb rest and a bell that’s shaped to boost projection. Typically, higher quality clarinets are made from a higher quality grade wood, along with other build materials.
What are the best student clarinets?
The best student clarinets are usually Bb clarinets. If you’re a student, you should also look out for lighter materials, such as ABS resin, which makes the clarinet more comfortable to play.
What is the most commonly played clarinet?
The most commonly played clarinet is the Bb clarinet, which tends to be the clarinet that most players start on when learning to play the clarinet. This is due to the versatile nature of the Bb clarinet, as well as the size of the clarinet itself.

Final thoughts
Each clarinet brand, whether it’s the historic Buffet Crampon or the student-focused Jupiter, offers something special. We’ve listed the best of the best clarinet brands here, but remember that the right one for you depends on your playing style and requirements.
Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or advice for budding clarinettists!
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