Yamaha YCL-450IINM Duet Intermediate Wooden Clarinet - YCL450IINM

Yamaha YCL-450IINM Duet Intermediate Wooden Clarinet - YCL450IINM

The Yamaha YCL-450IINM intermediate clarinet is the second generation of the popular YCL450NM. The YCL-450II incorporates several important improvements, focusing on the overall playing experience:

• Durable leather pads provide a more consistent seal of the tone holes, resulting in better sound and response across all dynamic levels.
• Optimized bell and bore taper ensure a more even sound across all registers, delivering a richer tonal quality.
• Updated logo engraving on the upper joint and bell adds a touch of elegance and style.

The YCL450IINM boasts a unique manufacturing process that delivers the added benefit of durability to this Yamaha clarinet. Using proprietary technology, the injection-molded inner bore is designed to resist cracking while also stabilizing the bore, adding consistency and durability.

The bell shape and barrel design are similar to Yamaha V Series clarinets.  The new bell design provides improved intonation and projection, especially in the lower register, while the new barrel enhances the 450II's response, flexibility, and tonal focus.

The upper joint body is drilled slightly larger around the bore and tone holes. Thermoplastic ABS resin is injected into the cavity, instantly forming the inner shape of a clarinet. It is designed to preserve as much as 90% of the wooden portion, while its natural appearance is hardly distinguishable from conventional all-wooden models.

New 65mm barrel
The YCL-450IINM intermediate clarinet incorporates some of the distinct qualities of Yamaha's professional and custom clarinets. One of these features is a 65mm barrel design that produces a focused tone and quick response. Players looking to "step up" their performance will do just that with this instrument.

New bell design
Nothing can be more frustrating than an unfocused, out-of-tune tone. A new resonance chamber in the bell of the YCL-450IINM aids in projection and improves intonation in lower notes, allowing for consistency and confidence.

Blue steel springs
Intermediate instruments need to feel different than student model instruments. Part of making the YCL450IINM feel better is the upgrade in spring material. Blue steel springs give the keys a lighter touch and feel while producing smooth, quick action.

Sculptured, nickel-plated keys
The nickel-plated keys provide a more clear and focused tone. Also, the nickel-plated keys of the YCL-450II provide a good alternative for people who have an allergic reaction to silver-plating. To make the keys to the appropriate strength level, a technique called power forging is used. The results of this hi-tech process are keys that are exceptionally durable and contoured to the best possible ergonomic shape. 

Straight tone holes with tapered undercut
Yamaha intermediate model clarinets set themselves aside using professional materials and features. Straight tone holes with tapered undercuts provide outstanding intonation and response making the YCL-450IINM respond like a professional-model clarinet.

Yamaha YCL-450IINM Clarinet Specs

• Key: B-flat (Bb)
• Fingering: Boehm, 17 keys, 6 rings
• Barrel Length: 65 mm
• Durable leather pads
• Straight tone holes with tapered undercut
• Body, Bell, and Barrel Material: Grenadilla
• Grenadilla Insert injected ABS resin (upper joint)
• Keys: Nickel-plated nickel silver
• Optimized bell and bore taper ensure even sound and rich tonal quality
• Thumb Rest: Adjusted with strap ring
• Spring Type: Blue steel needle
• Posts: Threaded
• Mouthpiece: Yamaha 4C with ligature, and cap
• Case included

What Our Experts Think

• Rich, Warm Tone: The Yamaha YCL-450IINM produces a full, warm sound, making it a top choice for intermediate players seeking depth and clarity in their performance.
• Durable Wooden Construction: Crafted from high-quality grenadilla wood, it provides a richer tone than plastic models while ensuring longevity and resilience.
• Smooth Key Action: The precision keywork offers a smooth, responsive feel, allowing for easy articulation and control over your playing.
• Comfortable Playability: Designed for intermediate players, it strikes the perfect balance between ease of use and advanced performance features.
• Professional Quality: The YCL-450IINM combines superior craftsmanship and tone quality, making it ideal for serious musicians looking to elevate their sound.

Q&A

Q: What is the Yamaha YCL-450IINM Duet Intermediate Wooden Clarinet?
A: The Yamaha YCL-450IINM is an intermediate wooden clarinet designed for advancing students. It features a high-quality grenadilla wood body, offering a warm and rich tone, along with precise keywork for improved playability and control.

Q: What are the key features of the Yamaha YCL-450IINM Clarinet?
A: The YCL-450IINM features a grenadilla wood body for a superior tone, silver-plated keys for smooth action, and a comfortable design that enhances playability. It also includes a modified bell design to improve sound projection and stability.

Q: Is the Yamaha YCL-450IINM suitable for beginners?
A: While designed for intermediate players, the YCL-450IINM can be an excellent choice for committed beginners who are looking for a long-lasting, professional-quality clarinet to support their growth.

Q: How does the Yamaha YCL-450IINM compare to other clarinets?
A: The YCL-450IINM stands out for its wooden construction, providing a richer, more resonant sound compared to plastic beginner models. Its precision keywork and refined tone make it an ideal option for advancing musicians seeking an upgrade from student clarinets.

Q: What kind of music is the Yamaha YCL-450IINM best suited for?
A: The YCL-450IINM is perfect for concert bands, orchestras, and solo performances, offering a warm, full tone suitable for classical and contemporary music.

Q: Does the Yamaha YCL-450IINM come with accessories?
A: The YCL-450IINM comes with a mouthpiece, ligature, and cap. Additional accessories such as a case and cleaning supplies are typically included, though some may be sold separately.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean After Each Use: After playing, remove moisture from the clarinet by swabbing the inside of the bore with a soft cloth or clarinet swab. This helps prevent damage and bacteria buildup inside the instrument.
• Disassemble Carefully: Always gently disassemble the clarinet after playing. Remove the mouthpiece, barrel, and bell, but avoid excessive twisting, which can damage the joints.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store the clarinet in its case to protect it from dust, dirt, moisture, and physical damage. Make sure the case is kept in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight or humidity.
• Check the Pads Regularly: Inspect the pads under the keys for wear or damage. If they show signs of deterioration, get them replaced to ensure the clarinet functions properly and doesn’t leak air.
• Lubricate the Cork: Apply cork grease to the cork joints (mouthpiece and barrel) to ensure easy assembly and to prevent cracking. A small amount is all that’s needed, and it should be reapplied periodically.
• Maintain the Mouthpiece: Clean the mouthpiece regularly with a mouthpiece brush and warm water (no soap) to avoid buildup of bacteria and debris. Dry thoroughly before storing it.
• Protect the Wooden Body: As the YCL-450IINM is a wooden clarinet, it’s essential to keep it away from extreme temperature or humidity changes, as wood can warp or crack. Maintain a consistent, moderate climate for storage.
• Use a Reed Case: Always store your reeds in a reed case to keep them from warping or becoming damaged. Replace reeds regularly to ensure optimal sound quality.
• Avoid Excessive Force: Be mindful when assembling and disassembling your clarinet. Excessive force can damage the joints, pads, or keywork. Handle it gently.
• Get Regular Professional Checkups: Have your clarinet professionally serviced once a year to maintain optimal playability and address any issues like key alignment or pad replacement.