Suggestions re: Bass Clarinet?

[honkytone]

Am beginning to help a fellow sax and clarinet playing friend shop for a bass clarinet. Actually, helping his wife look for him for his birthday. He plays a Selmer SBA alto and a nice older Noblet wooden Bb clarinet, so knows the difference between a pro horn and the rest. I don't think they care to spend a whole lot for a first bass clarinet, however. Any good bang-for-the-buck suggestions? Thanks.

[David Spiegelthal]

Yamaha YCL-221, used Noblet (if in good condition!), and my personal favorites (but when available usually need a lot of work) -- older Kohlerts (especially those marked "Winnenden", these came in both wood and hard-rubber versions which play identically).

[honkytone]

Thanks for the tip. Will pass along.