I know this subject has come up before but it's a slightly different situation.

My school (well old one!) is looking to buy a bass clarinet next year. They have about £1500 ish to spend.

Could anyone tell me a good one for around that price and some good makes to research.

Ta.

The Selmer Bundy is a good allr ound student model. I played that when I played the bass clarinet at Wind Band. And it has a low Eb key which makes a gorgeous sound, which you feel more than you hear.

I used my band's bass clarinet which was very basic but sounded OK with a good mouthpiece and strongish reed, though not as good as the other one who had a professional model, about 6 grand! Can't remember the make though.

Tell them if they want something cheap and cheerful buy a jupiter but don't expect it to sound v good in the upper register unless you have a fantastic embouchure!!! A Selmer is much nicer to play!!!

I agree that the Jupiter is a good budget, student model - only about £800. It won't have the best tone obviously, but would be fine for your school.

Just had a look at the new instrument prices on the Howarths website. There are Buffet and Yamaha instruments available brand new for under £1500. On top of that, your school probably won't have to pay the VAT, and may be eligible for educational discounts as well, and may get a brand new instrument for less still by shopping around, or by buying second-hand - is your music teacher an e-bay addict?

My bass is a Selmer, and I love it loads

if you get a second hand one FOR GOODNESS SAKE CHECK THE CONCERT A AND ABOVE!!! i used my school bass clarinet and wouldnt play anything above a concert A (middle line B in clarinet music)

Selmer Vito Leblanc and Yamaha are your best bets