Yamaha YCL-650II Bb Clarinet Clarinet Barrels & Bells

Yamaha YCL-650II Bb Clarinet Clarinet Barrels & BellsYamaha has quite the hold on the student market, and though that's evolving with some of the newer manufacturers in the school band scene, Yamaha still reigns supreme. So, most people who select the YCL 650II are coming from the YCL 255 likely the clarinet they were handed when they first started playing in school. The YCL 650II is a step up instrument; though Yamaha calls it "professional," its features and accessories, quality and price all point to

A: I've found the Vandoren V12 reeds work best with these

more covered

you can replace parts individually)

Their idea was to make a ligature into a "resonator ring" (like the ones CARBEC uses on their barrels) that was also stable enough that it didn't slip off when removing the mouthpiece—like in an orchestra setting where there are quick changes

inexpensive reed plaque is hard to find

Full transparency: I had not planned to carry the Présence

the stand can't store inside a Bb clarinet bell (like most of the pack-away stands on the market)

Playing the Alpha has a terrific feel for a resin clarinet

Not on this mouthpiece — same policy as the Vandorens

but the TL

What it isn't: a professional mouthpiece

yet affordable