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My son has decided to switch from the flute to the Clarinet but I am unsure of a good brand for beginners. I have seen some really great deals on the buffet b12 and the leblanc vito but am not sure what to even look for. Although I like the instructor he is taking lessons with I know from experience that what is recommended is always the most expensive product they sell (not always the best). Hoping another mom on the site would know from experience what brands to look for and which to stay away from. Thanks in advance

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My Dad was a Clarinet major (he teaches homeschool bands in Oklahoma).

I played the Clarinet through college.

My middle dd plays Clarinet in her highschool band and jazz band.

 

I really really like the B12. It has the same 'feel' as the R13 but is made of resin (plastic). It is light weight and it has a rich sound. I think it makes an excellent beginner's clarinet--and if the student will ever play in a marching band it makes a great 'outside' clarinet (how my dd uses hers).

 

I LOVE the R13--but it is around $1000 (used) as opposed to around $200 for the B12. It is also hard for me to justify a PROFESSIONAL clarinet for beginner use--it will NOT make a difference in their sound!

 

The B12 has an excellent 'feel'--again it is modeled after the R13...so it is comfortable and smooth to play...many other cheap clarinets are rather stiff feeling.

 

For a beginner I would go for the B12 and then try to get an HS* mouthpiece--the quality of the mouthpiece makes a HUGE difference even with beginners. If you look around (ebay and such) you should be able to find the HS* for under $100.

 

My dd's first clarinet was a wooden Signet 100. It was a good instrument--but no comparison to the R13 and she says even the B12.

 

I would NOT suggest purchasing from a music store as their markup is way too much... Purchase a used clarinet that has been recently overhauled (new pads & corks and keys adjusted) and it will HOLD its value. E-bay has been my friend! Look for dealers who overhaul clarinets professionally and who have high ratings. A good B12 should be around $200 and sometimes less!

 

HTH

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My first message mysteriously disappeared but I wanted to make sure I said "Thanks." I knew someone on the board would have some sound advice for me. I am right now looking at a few potential buys on ebay so lets keep our fingures crossed. The music store my son takes his lessons at charges around 700-800 for a USED clarinet so they were out of the question but I think we should find something elsewhere. Thanks again. :D

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