Glory B flat and Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat are great clarinets for beginner and intermediate musicians. In terms of quality and durability, the Mendini MCT-SB clarinet by Cecilio is better due to the ABS plastic body, and nickel-plated keys.
As an aspiring artist, learning how to play the clarinet is the most recommended musical instrument you can start with. But unfortunately, there are plenty of brands selling clarinets and this can be quite confusing. If you do not do more research, you can end up spending a lot of money on low-quality clarinets that may not help you to learn how to play.
When I started learning to play the clarinet, I was always in search of the best clarinet to use. I used different brands and spent a lot of money on clarinets. Unfortunately, I wasn’t informed about the best beginner clarinets available on the market. You can imagine how much I spent on low-quality clarinets.
I decided to do my research and asked professional clarinet players about the best beginner clarinet the market had.
This is what most professionals recommended:
They recommended the Glory B flat or the Cecilio Mendini MCT for the best beginner clarinets on the market. Cecilio and Glory are renowned clarinet brands that produce quality and inexpensive student clarinets.
This article will provide a detailed review of both clarinets to choose from.
What are the differences between Glory B flat and Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B flat clarinets?
Clarinet model | Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet | Glory B Flat clarinet |
Weight | 3.5 pounds | 3.4 pounds |
Dimensions | 14×10×4 inches | 16.1×9.62×5.2 inches |
Color | Sky blue. Comes in 8 colors | Black Matte finish |
Material | ABS plastic construction | Ebonite ABS body |
Check price | Check the price | check the price |
Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet VS Glory B Flat clarinet– How do they compare?
Both Mendini MCT and Glory B flat clarinets are recommended for students, aspiring musicians, and hobbyists. So, how do they compare?
1. The Body
B flat clarinets are considered the best clarinets for beginners, students, and hobbyists. Due to their versatility, they are recommended for aspiring musicians looking to learn the Wind instruments. The body features an adjustable thumb rest to ensure that you are comfortable when playing the instrument. The Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet is made from an ABS plastic construction that enhances durability which makes it able to withstand abuse from students.
The Glory B flat clarinet is the most famous clarinet for amateurs and intermediate players. The clarinet has a high-quality ebonite ABS body construction to ensure secure handling and keep the clarinet lightweight. The body is designed with an adjustable knock rest designed to offer enjoyment when playing the clarinet.
If you are getting a clarinet for an aspiring musician, the Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B flat clarinet is the better choice because of the plastic body. While ebonite and ABS plastic bodies are typically identical in terms of density, ABS plastic construction is more durable.
2. Keys
The Glory B flat clarinet features nickel-plated keys that are designed to be durable. The keys are black and silver to give it a smooth and sleek finish. The Glory B flat keys are designed in the key of Bb. The inline trill nickel-plated keys are placed to enhance the sound production and playability of the clarinet.
The Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet features inline trill keys plated with nickel to deliver a higher resonance and endure a range of note projections.
Nickel-plated instruments like the Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet are better because the trill keys deliver a higher resonance and endure an unbeatable range of tonal projection and playability Glory B flat cannot.
3. Reeds and barrel
Both Glory B flat and Mendini come with additional reeds for the clarinets. The Mendini MCT-SB has an additional 10 reeds and only one barrel while Glory B flat has 11 additional reeds that are fully functional and a second barrel.
In terms of reeds and barrels, the Glory B flat clarinet is a better option. The clarinet comes with an additional fully functional 11 reeds compared to the Mendini MCT-SB which only comes with 10 reeds. The Glory B flat second barrel keeps a beginner from playing below standard pitches.
Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet VS Glory B Flat clarinet breakdown and overview.
Mendini MCT-SB+SD+PB ABS B Flat clarinet overview
If you are looking for a student clarinet, the Mendini MCT-SB B flat clarinet is by far the best budget-friendly clarinet. This little gem features an ABS plastic body construction with nickel-plated keys and an adjustable armrest. The ABS plastic body makes it more durable especially because it is used by young players
The Mendini MCT-SB keys offer a high tonal projection and greater playability. The clarinet has a gorgeously glossy, sleek, and smooth finish that stands out. The clarinet comes in an array of 8 colors.
The Mendini MCT-SB also comes with additional features such as a lightweight case, 10 reeds, a stand, cork grease, and a pocketbook to practice. When you purchase a Mendini clarinet, you can be assured of the quality. All clarinets manufactured by the Cecilio brand are inspected by technicians before they are distributed.
This is a quality and budget-friendly clarinet for beginners and young students but not ideal for intermediate clarinet players.
Pros:
- Nickel-plated keys for durability
- Adjustable thumb-rest
- Inexpensive
- Elegant design
- Compact but sturdy
Cons:
- Poor sound quality
- Breaks easily
Glory B Flat clarinet overview
The Glory B flat is them is the most famous clarinet from the Glory brand. The clarinet is perfect for students and intermediate players. The clarinet features a high-quality ebonite ABS body that is lightweight with a flexible design. The clarinet has a matte finish that makes it look like a wooden professional clarinet.
The clarinet has an adjustable thumb rest to allow for comfort when playing. The keys are plated with nickel to give it a black and silver elegant look that is durable. This clarinet comes with additional features such as 2 barrels, 11 functional reeds, cork grease, gloves, and a hard-shell case to carry around easily.
If you are a beginner or an intermediate clarinet player, we recommend the Glory B flat clarinet.
Pros:
- Inexpensive clarinet. A good starter clarinet
- Adjustable thumb rest for comfort
- Easy to assemble clarinet body
- Perfect for beginner and intermediate musicians
Cons:
- Pads are not well designed
- Wrongly placed keys
- Large. Not ideal for young players
Verdict: So, which one is better?
If you are just a beginner looking for a clarinet, the Mendini MCT-SB and Glory B flat clarinets are the best option for you. Mendini MCT-SB is a budget-friendly clarinet that comes with a plastic ABS body for durability. Don’t count on this clarinet for its build but you should consider it a low-budget, cool-looking clarinet for a beginner or a young musician.
The Glory B flat clarinet is an ideal option for an intermediate player with a high-grade ABS plastic body lined with nickel-plated keys. The clarinet has inline trill keys and adjustable thumb rest. The clarinet also has mouthpiece cushion pads to practice easily and comfortably. This is a good inexpensive clarinet for beginners and intermediate players.
FAQS
1. How much does a beginner clarinet cost?
Most beginner clarinets are Bb clarinets. A quality clarinet will cost around $400- $1000 words. A good playable clarinet costs $200- $400.
2. Is the B flat clarinet suitable for 8-10 yrs. old?
Yes, the clarinets are suitable for young players. Since they are suitable for beginners, young musicians can use them to learn the clarinet.