What is the best bass clarinet to buy?

Question

I play bass clarinet and at the moment use the schools instrument as at my school they provide the really expensive instruments like bass clarinets and tubas. But I want my own. I love my school instrument and it feels like mine but in the end it's kind of old, although regularly serviced and when I leave school I'll have to leave it there :( Anyway, my grandparents have offered to buy me a bass clarinet, because I want to study music in uni and will need one then. So I was wondering, what is the best kind to buy and around how much would it cost? Experienced individuals only, thank you.

Answer 1

ask ur music teacher, they buy the instruments for the school supply, they should know some reliable brands (ie. nice sound but not too expensive)

schools often have an account with the local music store and can help you buy one at a good price

if other students or the school are also buying, they get a discount for spending more)

good luck and happy playing :)

Answer 2

Hello Lady B.

Well, you did ask for the best,  right?  The best bass clarinet which is also considered the professional level is the Selmer Paris bass clarinet to low C, Model 67.  It is priced competitive to the Buffet Prestige bass at around $9000.00 new retail.   The price of these instruments have gone through the roof, as about 10 years ago they were selling for $5300.00.

These would be the models you would use in college and beyond but if your grandparents are not prepared for that shock, you might look around for a used one in excellent condition.   I might expect the used price could be found for around $5000.00. (just about what they were selling for a decade ago).   Look around on the internet and in clarinet boards to see if you can save a little money.

Thanks for reading.  :))