Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet Review

If you wish to introduce a child to clarinet playing, you need to get a beginner-friendly model. One of the clarinets you may encounter during your search is Etude ECL-100.

My daughter showed interest in musical instruments when she was around ten years old. She loved spending time around her father as he played an advanced model. I started renting a clarinet that she could use to practice at home. When she joined a marching band at school, I decided to buy her a student clarinet. I had to do some research to get a good model. Here is everything I learned regarding Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet before purchasing it.

Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet breakdown and review

Though Etude is a small brand, it has produced affordable musical instruments, including student clarinets. One of the student clarinets you can pick from this brand is Etude ECL-100. Like most student clarinets, this model comes in a plastic body. The classic look of this clarinet is also captivating.

The manufacturer uses nickel keys in its construction. This clarinet not only looks good but is also durably constructed. Though the nickel keys enhance playability, they can be quite fragile. Most players reveal that it also delivers strong projection. Though cheap, this model comes with some useful accessories to help you save some cash. Some of them include a ligature, cap, mouthpiece, and case. The hard case can protect the delicate parts of the clarinet, especially while in transit.

You may not find such accessories in some clarinets within the same price range. It also features a reed and a reinforced thumb rest that enhances comfort during playing. Most users also reveal that it is easy to assemble. Once you purchase this model, you will get a one-year warranty. You can use this warranty to get a replacement if you receive a defective clarinet. Unfortunately, this clarinet does not come with some advanced features such as a stand or 2 barrels for adjusting intonation.

What we liked

• It is budget-friendly
• The clarinet is easy to play
• Delivers strong projection
• Putting it together is a breeze
• Comes with a durable case

What we didn’t like

• It comes with fragile keys
• Has a poor quality mouthpiece

 

View price here

 

Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet specifications

Body	Plastic
Keys	Nickel- silver
Thumb rest	Reinforced
Reed	1
Accessories	Cap, stock mouthpiece, ligature, case
Weight	3.65 pounds
Availability	Check price here

Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet features

Construction

Most student clarinets come in a plastic model, and Etude ECL-100 is no exception. Though it may not sound as good as a wooden clarinet, the material makes it durable and easy to maintain. It is made from ABS plastic which is not affected by temperature or humidity changes. Unlike wooden clarinets, you can use this model outdoors in different weather conditions.

Since this material can withstand rough handling, you can rely on the clarinet for a long time without worrying about it getting damaged easily. This clarinet is not only less fragile but also cheap. Most players also like the nice tone that this clarinet produces.

Keys

This clarinet also comes with nickel keys that are also durable and lead to strong projection. The nickel keys of Etude ECL-100 feature a nickel-silver plating that gives them a more attractive look. Though these keys are great, some users reveal that they tend to bend, while others report breaking.

Therefore, you should be careful with them as you assemble or disassemble this clarinet to avoid such issues. Ensure that you wipe down the keys of this clarinet from time to time to keep it looking good and apply key oil on them.

Accessories

You should also expect more accessories when you invest in this clarinet. It comes with a reed, ligature, and mouthpiece that work together to help you create sound. Etude ECL-100 also comes with a cap that can protect the mouthpiece and reed since these are fragile. Though the manufacturer includes these accessories, they are not of the best quality.

You may need to replace the stock mouthpiece it comes with to enhance the sound quality of this clarinet. If you pick this musical instrument, you should consider buying more reeds separately. The clarinet also comes with a hard shell case that makes it easy to carry around. This durable case can also protect the delicate parts of the clarinet as you move around.

Who is it best suited for?

Etude ECL-100 is suitable for a beginner looking for an affordable student clarinet. You can also buy it for a young player who shows commitment to clarinet playing.

Are there alternatives to Etude ECL-100?

Yes. If you feel that this is not the best model for you, focus on its alternatives. Some include Jean Paul USA CL-300, Eastar ECL-300, and Yamaha YCL 255.

Features of alternative student clarinets

Name	Jean Paul USA CL-300	Eastar ECL-300	Yamaha YCL 255
Body	Ebonite	ABS Bakelite	ABS resin
Keys	Nickel-plated	Nickel-plated	Nickel-plated
Thumb rest	Adjustable	Adjustable	Adjustable
Case	Available	Available	Available
Weight	3.95 pounds	3.96 pounds	4.63 pounds
Availability	Check price here	Check price here	Check price here

Verdict: So, should you buy Etude ECL-100 Student Clarinet

Yes, you can do this if you are making a first-time purchase on a clarinet. Though this model is not perfect, it is worth it for beginners since it is easy to assemble and play. It is also durable and has different accessories. Though this clarinet does not include advanced features, it is worth it since it also has great ergonomics. You should also consider it since the low cost can help you save some extra cash.

FAQs

Can I start playing Etude ECL-100 as soon as I buy it?

Yes, you can since it comes with all the features you need. All you have to do is set it up to start playing.

What kind of finish does this clarinet have?

The manufacturer uses a matte finish in its construction to give it a classic look. Its finish makes it stand out even in concerts.