Thomann CL-17C C-Clarinet Boehm

Like many people I bought this C clarinet so I could play folk music without having to transpose. I had heard that the tuning on a C clarinet is not great and that has certainly proved to be true with this instrument. Having neither played or heard another C clarinet I can't compare this instrument with other makes. For example the A below the middle break plays sharp and the Bb plays flat so you have to do a lot of embouchure work to keep it in tune. It also changes pitch rapidly as it warms up.

Having said all that, I am starting to really enjoy the instrument. It is very responsive - it speaks more easily than my Bb clarinet with the same mouthpiece and reed. The sound is pleasing albeit a little variable over the range - less bright and harsh than I expected.

For the price, the build quality and finish seem very good. The mouthpiece supplied with it is cheap and nasty and should be avoided. I have been using a Vandoren B45. I suspect most people will use their Bb clarinet mouthpiece, so the one supplied is a token.

I have been playing the instrument for about 3 weeks now and on the whole, would recommend it - based on a sample of one!