 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: rwmiller56
Date: 2006-12-06 16:03
I have a Vandoren V13 mouthpiece that I bought a few years ago. I also have a M13 Lyre and a Gigliotti 4. But, I prefer the V13 and it is my primary mouthpiece. Compared to the others, it has a much faster response and a much more rounded tone.
At the Vandoren website, I noticed that the V13 seems to be discontinued, or is no longer available. Does anyone know why this is? Also, does anyone else play a V13? I would like to hear your comments.
Vandoren had billed the V13 as being similar to the B45, but with a slightly smaller tip opening, allowing for a harder reed.
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Author: Tony Beck
Date: 2006-12-06 19:34
My two main mouthpieces are a V-13 and a Grabner K13. The V-13 has a brighter tone than the Grabner, but they play very similarly. Both have easy articulation and almost identical intonation. For most instruments, the Grabner is a bit more even across the full range (at least across my full range) and has the sound I’m looking for. The V-13 works better on my 1920s Kohlert. (Don't laugh too much, this is a really good playing clarinet with excellent intonation, unlike most survivors from this vintage.) I suspect has a German inspired bore, even though it is a Boehm 17/7. The Grabner is very dark on this instrument, verging on stuffy below throat G.
My main issue with the V-13 is its long facing. Going up through altissimo you have to be careful to take enough mouthpiece!
Both mouthpieces are unusually reed friendly. I have two Gonzales reeds that have been in regular use since August. They still sound good, even though the backs are starting to discolor. (I play about an hour a day.)
The V-13 would make an excellent alternative to Walter’s K-13 for players on a budget. I like it better than the M-15, which has become my daughter’s main mouthpiece. Too bad V-13s are discontinued. The B-40 Lyre Series 13 has very similar specifications, but I haven't played one.
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Author: rwmiller56
Date: 2006-12-12 03:19
Tony, thanks for the info. I'm going to check out the Grabner K13 and also the K14. There are quite a few good reviews here on these MP's. My V13 has a nice round tone, but I wish it was a little darker.
Roger
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