I am playing an instrument that has been in my grandparent`s attic for most of the last thirty-five years. Its plastic and by a company called Bourdain. The case is literally deteriorating, the pads need replacement, and there is a small crack on the clarinet. I have discovered that after repair work and a new case, I might as well buy a new instrument. I can`t afford something fancy, and as I`m looking at going back to college, a step-up instrument will be several years down the road. Possibly longer. What makes and models could serve me both now as I am still working on the basics and when I become more proficient? I`m looking for something that will last for several years.

I`ve heard the Buffet B12 and the Yamaha 250 are good choices, but am unsure which would be better for me. I have seen both locally in music stores used for decent prices. Does anyone have long-term experience with either instrument?

I played at a yamaha clarinet when I started playing the clarinet, and I kind of liked it. Off course it`s nothing like a Buffet RC clarinet but it`s got some good things about it as well. But you should always try some clarinets before you decide which one you prefer. And not just one of each kind. Try at least 3-5 and then decide. I had a really great yamaha clarinet and some of them can be quite bad. I hope you`ll find what you`re looking for.