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Student Clarinets

10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

47%OFF

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Yamaha

9.8 score

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The Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet is designed specifically for novice players, making it a solid choice for students starting their musical journey. One of its main strengths is the matte ABS resin body, which offers durability and a lighter weight compared to wooden clarinets. This is particularly beneficial for young players who may struggle with heavier instruments. The nickel-plated keys provide a smooth action, enhancing playability and ensuring that beginners can easily navigate the instrument.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,207
Material
Keywork

Most important from
139 reviews

Material
The Yamaha YCL-255 offers the highest quality of sound and material, making it a fantastic starter model.
Keywork
The keys and pads are smooth and extremely responsive, contributing to a wonderful playing experience.
#2
9.6 score

EASTROCK Bb Clarinet 17 Keys ABS Material Wide Range of Tones Particularly Beginner & Students-friendly with Using Tools and 2 Replaceable Barrels

EASTROCK Bb Clarinet 17 Keys ABS Material Wide Range of Tones Particularly Beginner & Students-friendly with Using Tools and 2 Replaceable Barrels

EASTROCK

9.6 score

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The EASTROCK Bb Clarinet is designed with beginners and students in mind, offering several features that cater to their needs. Made from ABS plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), it ensures durability and resilience, making it ideal for young players who might be rougher on their instruments. The 17-key, 6-ring setup, coupled with nickel-plated keys, facilitates easy tone production and smooth playability, which is essential for those just starting out.

Rating
9.6
Mouthpiece
Case

Most important from
690 reviews

Mouthpiece
Upgrading the mouthpiece, ligature, and reeds significantly improves playability.
Case
The included case with a strap and cleaning accessories is a nice touch.
#3
9.4 score

Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Bb Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Bb Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Buffet Crampon

9.4 score

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The Buffet Crampon R13 is a professional-level Bb clarinet made from solid wood with nickel keywork, which gives it a rich, warm tone often favored by advanced players and professionals. Its wooden body is a key feature that enhances sound quality compared to plastic student models. The included deluxe naugahyde-covered case with a plush interior offers good protection for the instrument, which is useful for students who need to carry it to lessons or performances.

Rating
9.4
Material
Case

Most important from
12 reviews

Material
Durability is generally strong, but there have been instances of multiple repairs needed even on new instruments.
Case
The included deluxe case provides excellent protection, ideal for students transporting their clarinet regularly.

Top 10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 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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47% OFF

Chosen by 1207 this week

#2

9.6 score

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EASTROCK

EASTROCK Bb Clarinet 17 Keys ABS Material Wide Range of Tones Particularly Beginner & Students-friendly with Using Tools and 2 Replaceable Barrels

Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Keywork: 17-key, 6-ring, nickel-plated keys
Case: Included

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#3

9.4 score

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Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Bb Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Wood, Nickel, Metal
Keywork: Nickel
Case: Deluxe naugahyde case, plush interior
Brand Reputation: Strong quality and durability reputation

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#4

9.1 score

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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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#5

8.9 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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#6

8.6 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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#7

8.4 score

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Selmer

Selmer Student Model CL301 Bb Clarinet

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

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#8

8.1 score

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LE BLANC

LE BLANC Clarinet, black (L225S)

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

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#9

7.8 score

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Jupiter

Jupiter JCL700NA Student Bb Clarinet

Material: ABS resin
Keywork: nickel-plated nickel silver
Brand Reputation: reputable brand for student instruments

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#10

7.5 score

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Jinqu

YANASON B Flat Clarinet,Bb Beginner Student Clarinet Bb Nickel-Plated 17 Key Clariet for School Band Orchestra adult kid with Hard Foam Case,Barrels*2,Pads*8,Stand, Cleaning Kit,Gloves,Strap,Reeds*8

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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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