Jean-Paul clarinets are known to maintain their functional integrity even when exposed to environments with high humidity or extreme temperatures. The clarinet is also durably built and offers a good projection.
As it so happens I live in a remote town with very few musicians, and the only shop where I bought music instruments that I don’t really use to ensure that they don’t go out of business recently closed down. The problem, therefore, is that I need a new clarinet that is budget-friendly and holds its value nicely. I have been eyeing the Jean-Paul USA CL-300, but before making the final decision I had to research to establish if it’s worth the effort, and also because I was going to order it online. Check below as I share the findings of my research.
Jean-Paul USA CL-300 Review and Breakdown
Three things that the Jean-Paul clarinet is going to offer novice players, is elegance, functionality, and an unbeatable price point. It is a perfect choice for individuals who are still learning how to play the clarinet or individuals who play in bands.
The incorporated cylindrical bore has been established to produce a strong projection and a variety of tones. The Jean-Paul clarinet is also known to offer smooth playability and an excellent response thanks to the incorporation of the 17 key system.
Also upon purchase, you will discover that you can play your Jean-Pau USA CL-300 right out of the box without having to adjust the key or pad. You might, however, not like how the mouthpiece functions but you can be sure that with proper care and maintenance it will give you a longer service.
Another not very impressive feature of the Jean-Paul USA CL-300 is that it is made of plastic, most new and intermediate players prefer wooden clarinets but what they fail to realize is that the plastic clarinets are equally functional and does not need special care. What’s more, is that they last longer when compared to the wooden clarinets.
What we liked
- Can be played right out of the box
- Retails at a fair price
- It is made of plastic thus highly durable
- Can last a long time with proper maintenance
- Produces good sounds even when used by novice players
What we didn’t like
- Can only be used by students
- The response in the middle register is slow
- The volume is weak
Jean-Paul USA CL-300 Specifications
Model | Jean-Paul USA CL-300 |
Keys | Nickel-plated |
Level | Intermediate/ Beginner |
Material | Ebonite Body Material |
Product dimensions | 6 x 15 x 9.5 inches |
Instrument Key | B-flat |
Item weight | 3.95 pounds |
Availability | Check Price Here |
Jean-Paul USA CL Features
Mouth Piece- the Jean-Paul USA CL has incorporated a standard mouthpiece that fits well in the mouth of the user and is also pretty easy to blow into. Players/students can upgrade the mouthpiece given that it plays a bigger role in sound production.
Nickel-Plated Keys– The keys of the Jean-Paul USA CL feature a nickel plating and which enables it to produce clear and focused tones, while also minimizing tear and wear. Notable is that the plated keys enhance the overall aesthetics of the clarinet.
Adjustable Thumb rest– the thumb rest incorporated in the Jean-Paul USA CL, is adjustable enabling for a comfortable orientation during use. And apart from the convenience of the thumb, adjustable thumb rests also enable the precise positioning of the clarinet.
Case– the case that comes containing the clarinet is characteristic soft shell perfectly protecting the clarinet against external impact among other external environmental conditions.
Are there accessories that come with the Jean-Paul USA CL?
The Jean-Paul USA CL comes with a few accessories including One Rico Reed 2.5, it does come with a cork grease, a cleaning cloth that students can use to clean the clarinet after every playing session, and a carrying case built to protect the clarinet from external environmental conditions. It also protects it from external impact that might lead to the plastic clarinet breaking.
Are there alternatives to the Jean-Paul USA CL?
Yes, there are alternatives to the Jean-Paul USA CL, some that are more advanced and can be used by both students and professionals, and others that come with more accessories when compared to the Jean-Paul USA CL. If you, therefore, wish to invest in a clarinet with more accessories the B Flat Clarinet Student BB Clarinet will suffice. Another alternative is the Apollo clarinet which doesn’t have much in terms of accessories but it is the ideal clarinet for beginner players. Important to note is that the alternative clarinets are from different brands, so there will be variations in price, accessories, and make.
Specifications for the Alternative Clarinets
Model | B Flat Clarinet Student Bb Clarinet | Apollo Clarinet |
Style | French | Tenor |
Finish | Matte | Matte |
Mouth Piece | 4c | High-quality plastic |
Finish type | Nickel-plated | Nickel-plated |
Body Material | Quality ABS | Scratch-Brushed ABS body |
Item Weight | 3.69 pounds | 5.26 pounds |
Availability | Check Price Here | Check Price Here |
Verdict: So should you buy the Jean-Paul USA CL-300?
Yes, you should buy the Jean-Paul USA CL-300 first because it retails at rather fair pricing falling in the low midrange of the various student model clarinets. The clarinet has been configured to offer the best performance right out of the box thus the player will not need either the pad or key adjustment. It is highly likely that you might not like the incorporated mouthpiece and for this reason, you could settle with the alternative B Flat Clarinet Student Bb Clarinet that comes equipped with a 4C mouthpiece.
FAQ’s
How much is the Jean-Paul USA CL?
The Jean-Paul USA CL retails between $200 and $260.
Is the Jean Paul USA CL a good brand?
Yes, Jean-Paul USA CL is a good brand of clarinets, they are durably built, and designed to retain their structural integrity even when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Does the Jean-Paul USA CL have a warranty?
Yes, the Jean-Paul USA CL does come with a 1-year warranty and which only covers the quality and manufacturing defects.