Prelude by Conn-Selmer CL711
A student clarinet from Prelude, Conn-Selmer's dedicated entry-level line, with a hard-rubber body the manufacturer describes as mimicking the warm tone of a wood clarinet, and a wider-than-typical bore for a fuller sound.
A student clarinet from Prelude, Conn-Selmer's dedicated entry-level line, with a hard-rubber body the manufacturer describes as mimicking the warm tone of a wood clarinet, and a wider-than-typical bore for a fuller sound. Suited to beginner clarinetists whose families want the backing of a large, established manufacturer's dedicated beginner line.
Key specifications
| Manufacturer | Prelude by Conn-Selmer |
|---|---|
| Product status | Current |
| Body | Hard rubber, described by the manufacturer as mimicking a wood clarinet's tone |
| Bore | 0.583", for a fuller sound |
| Keys | Nickel-plated |
| Included | Mouthpiece, cap, ligature, and care products |
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Backed by Conn-Selmer, one of the largest US band-instrument manufacturers; documented wide 0.583" bore aimed at a fuller sound.
Weaknesses
- Prices seen across retailers in this research pass varied widely (roughly $199-$479) — confirm current price before buying; no hands-on or independent third-party expert assessment was located for this specific model in this research pass.
Playability and construction
Not assessed hands-on — this review is based on specification and market analysis (see the badge above), so no subjective playing-feel claim (response, intonation tendencies, resistance) is made here. See the Verdict below for what this assessment is and isn't.
Construction
Hard rubber body with nickel-plated keys.
Competing models
Verdict
A student clarinet from Prelude, Conn-Selmer's dedicated entry-level line, with a hard-rubber body the manufacturer describes as mimicking the warm tone of a wood clarinet, and a wider-than-typical bore for a fuller sound. Suited to beginner clarinetists whose families want the backing of a large, established manufacturer's dedicated beginner line. See our full The Best Beginner Clarinets guide for how it compares to alternatives.
Where to buy
Prices and availability are checked periodically, not a real-time feed.
All links above are affiliate links — see full disclosure below.