How much do clarinets cost?

Beginner clarinets cost between $200 and $1,100, while intermediate ones cost between $1,300 and $2,800. On the other hand, most professional clarinets cost above $2,000.

Buying a clarinet is usually expensive, but it is an investment that you should consider making if you are passionate about musical instruments. Rather than picking the first model you come across, you have to consider all the crucial factors to get one that can give you the most value for your money. Here is everything you should know before buying a clarinet.

The cost of clarinets

Clarinets come at different prices depending on the quality and type of the instrument. If, for instance, you want to learn how to play this musical instrument for the first time, you should focus on beginner clarinets. Such clarinets can cost any amount between $200 and $1,100.

The market also has clarinets meant for intermediate and advanced players. If you want a clarinet to help you advance your skills, you may get it at a price between $1,300 and $2.800. Clarinets for professional players are the most expensive since they often cost above $2,000.

Factors that influence the cost of clarinets

If you are buying a clarinet for the first time, you are probably wondering why there is such a big price difference. Here are some things that determine this instrument’s cost.

Material

Clarinets are made from different materials. While some of the materials are cheap, others are expensive, leading to the high cost of some clarinets. For instance, most student clarinets come in an ABS resin body. This plastic material is usually strong and long-lasting. It is great for someone who is learning how to play the clarinet since it is more forgiving.

Plastic clarinets often come at a lower price compared to wooden ones. The manufacturers of clarinets use wood to make more advanced models. Such clarinets produce better sound than plastic ones but are easily affected by things like humidity and heat.

If you have some experience in playing the clarinet and need an advanced model, you should consider paying more to get one from high-quality wood like grenadilla. Such a clarinet can serve you for long since the material is less prone to cracking.

Apart from the body, the material used to make the keys of a clarinet can also have an impact on the cost. Most cheap clarinets come with nickel keys, while expensive models are made from an alloy of nickel and silver.

Brands

Clarinets also come from different manufacturers that set varying prices. Though some of the most reputable brands may set higher prices for their clarinets, focusing on them can help you get a high-quality musical instrument. Some of the top-rated brands known for making good clarinets include Jean-Paul, Yamaha, and Buffet.

Such brands often subject their clarinets to rigorous quality checks before selling them. Buying a clarinet from such brands can therefore prevent you from disappointment. You should avoid getting a clarinet from a brand with a poor reputation just because it sells them at a cheaper cost. Check out some of the average prices of clarinets by brand.

Bb Clarinets from different brands	The cost of intermediate/ student clarinets
Yamaha	$1326
Buffet Crampon	$1389
Jupiter	$1456
Selmer	$1653
Etude	$282

Type

Clarinets also come in different variations. Each variation affects the price. If, for instance, you choose an alto clarinet, you should expect to pay a minimum of $2,000. On the other hand, the cost of most bass clarinets begins at $2,500. This is for a student model. If you want a professional bass clarinet, you may have to pay between $13,000 and $15,000. On the other hand, most contrabass clarinets cost between $6,000 and $30,000.

Condition

Apart from the brand, the condition of clarinets also determines how much they cost. While some people choose to buy new clarinets, there is also the option of buying a used one. The price of most used beginner clarinets often ranges between $150 and $300, while new ones cost between $200 and $1,100. Though a new clarinet may cost you more, sometimes it is better than a used one.

If you are considering a used one, you should only choose one that is in great condition. Ensure that the used clarinet produces a high-quality sound that you enjoy and does not have any cracked parts. Be keen on things such as the condition of the horn and its brand. You should also assess how much maintenance the used clarinet needs before buying one.

Features and accessories

The different features and accessories included in clarinets also lead to a difference in price. For instance, while some clarinets come with a mouthpiece, reeds, and a case, others don’t. As you compare clarinets, look at the quality of such features to determine whether it is worth paying for.

For instance, most student clarinets come with cheap plastic mouthpieces, while advanced ones have a hard rubber mouthpiece that delivers a more professional sound. You can also choose a clarinet with a hard case since it can give the musical instrument more protection, especially if you plan on playing it from different locations. Sometimes, buying a clarinet with accessories can save you from spending extra cash getting them separately.

Conclusion

A clarinet is among the most versatile woodwind instruments that you can play. If you are looking for one, you should consider your level of experience with this instrument and work with a budget. Also, pay attention to the factors we have discussed to find the right clarinet.

FAQs

Should I buy a clarinet or rent one?

This depends on your needs. If, for instance, you want a clarinet for a young one who has shown interest in such instruments, you can start by renting them one. Once they continue learning, you can then consider buying them one.

What kind of keys should I expect from a professional clarinet?

These keys should be more tightly spaced and quieter. They should also be well constructed using high-quality materials.