Hi,
I've been playing the clarinet for 4 years now, and I've been using the same horrible plastic Bb clarinet. It's pretty much gotten to the point where it's so broken that it can't be fixed anymore, so I need a new one.

Are these clarinets good?
http://www.amazon.com/LJ-Hutchen-Bb-Clarinet-Case/dp/B000FOMKM2/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=musical-instruments&qid=1205788844&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Suzuki-Musical-Instrument-Corporation-CL-SC/dp/B000FIK21O/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1205790866&sr=8-2

And for those who know what it is, I'm trying out for NYSSMA level 4 this year, so I need something that has a good sound to it
(It's my first time trying out for NYSSMA, too.)

Can someone help recommend me some good Bb clarinets under $500?
Thanks in advance :D

Buffet (Paris) are raved about by many.

Even the Buffet B12 Student Clarinet. Amazon Marke:@ $608 new!
The first notes and the feel of an instrument are very important for a beginner. They help to develop acoustic capabilities as well as enhancing future artistic development.
5/5 stars (2 user ratings)

Here is another option.

clarinetproducts.com/" rel="nofollow" target=_blank>http://www.ridenourclarinet products.com/

I have a friend with a pair of clarinet s from this guy. A set of 2 (Bb/A) for less than the price of one buffett. The tone is consistent, the scale is excellent. He is using them professionally.

I do not think you can get the same luscious sound as on the top Buffetts. However, they seem to be a top notch clarinet and for the price an excellent option for High School or College students. If you do choose to go Pro while you are in college you can get the Buffetts then (although probably all your m oney is invested in school - but get a student laoon to buy a clarinet ).

I would say that $500 is low for what you are looking for. Seeing as I am from New York, and know NYSSMA well, (This will be my fifth year at level 6) I would say that if you are good enough for a 4, then you may want to look to a step up wood clarinet. E11's are very nice wood Buffets that would work well all through high school.
http://wwbw.com/Buffet-BC2501-2-0--E11-Bb-Intermediate-Clarinet-i25318.music

Also, check out your local woodwind shops and play any old used instruments. Often times you can find nice old Buffet's or Selmer's for pretty good deals. Just be sure to playtest everything until you find something that suits you. If you are dead set on a $500 price cap, some other options could be...
Well, I really don't think that you will find anything solid for that much...I would say to check out the E11 and look for some old used instruments.

As to the two that you posted links to, they are both little know (more than likely) chinese made brands...I would stay away from them...


Wow that was a long post!
_Hope this helps!

=Joe=

I agree, go for a better instrument if you can afford it. My teacher plays a LeBlank (approx €2000 worth) but says she would prefer a Buffet if she could afford to change it. Many rave about the Buffet at any price. I'm looking forward to getting one myself when I have improved a little more and saved some pennies!

Hi Johnilove music, I tried the web site you suggested but came up blank ?

sorry, something wrong with the way I posted it no doubt.

This should work better.

http://www.ridenourclarinetproducts.com/

These clarinets are not made from grenalda wood. Tom is the designer of the Leblanc OPus and Sonata clarinets. Which are used by Larry Combs and Eddie Daniels. HE then went into his own business in Texas.
John

The Ridenours are nice. I have had a chance to play on them.