Whats a good clarinet to buy?

Question:

Whats a good clarinet to buy?

I need a good clarinet that works and sounds good in the lowest notes and in the highest notes and every where in between.It cant be more than 300 dollars though.Any suggestions?(Please only suggest the ones you KNOW work well,either youve tried or a friend has!)(Websites would be appreciated!)

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: You can find good deals in used instruments, but make sure you have a chance to try each one.

Try to stick with "the big 4" manufacturers:

Buffet
Leblanc
Selmer
Yamaha

They each make a wide range of clarinets for all ability levels.

Buffet R13 is the professional horn for most orchestral uses. The Buffet E11 is a good step-up horn for intermediate students.

The other three manufacturers also have similar models available, but I'm a Buffet gal myself, so I tend to recommend those. Several of my students have a new Leblanc model called the "Soloist," but that does not fall within your budget.

You could probably find a used Selmer Signet for under $300. Maybe a Normandy or a Noblet (both made by Leblanc) also, but I tend to find those a little stuffy in feel.

Also check the classifieds at the invaluable website:

http://www.woodwind.org