[tictactux]

Concur with everyone who says that mindset, embouchure, mouthpiece is more important than the actual instrument.
When playing Jazz I use a different "phrasing vocabulary" than in classic or folk music - I believe that's part of the art of playing an instrument, adapting one's style. A specialised instrument can only bring you so close, but the final gap is closed by the player.

 

[tictactux]

The best jazz clarinet is a saxophone.

Just like the favourite means of transportation is the donkey cart.
Yes, you eventually arrive.