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 Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: loverofclarinets 
Date:   2009-12-27 22:01

I was told once that the reed thickness needed correlates to the mouthpiece used... currently using Vandoren #3s, but I was told I could move down to a 2 1/2 and it would improve the sound quality?



Anyway, looking around for a new mouthpiece, as I know that the B-45 will hold me back eventually, and I've had it for about a year or so. Just wondering this for the time being... Thanks!

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: JJAlbrecht 
Date:   2009-12-27 22:21

Vandoren suggests a 2.5 to 3 blue box, or if you use the V12 or 56 Rue Lepic, you should use a 3 or 3.5. Start from there and see what works best ffor you. See about buying just a couple of each type, and see which suits your playing style best. Without hearing you play, it's impossible to determine if you are using too hard a reed. That would be something for your teacher to help you with.

As to size, I would suggest a standard Bb reed. Eefer reeds are way too small, and alto or larger are way too large.

Jeff

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: Hank Lehrer 
Date:   2009-12-28 00:49

Hi,

Why will a B-45 hold you back eventually? I've been playing one for years and it is the best MP I have ever had (chip in the tip and all).

I play concert, chamber, shows, jazz gigs, and all sorts of jobs using my B-45 and a LeBlanc L200 clarinet.

HRL

PS I regularly use VD 3 1/2 Blue Box and Rico Grand Concert 3 1/2 with a plastic Gigliotti ligature.



Post Edited (2009-12-28 00:51)

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: OmarHo 
Date:   2009-12-28 01:17

Depending on your embouchure/mouthpiece, I found the 3 1/2 Blue box to work best as well.

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: clarnibass 
Date:   2009-12-28 04:13

I've heard excellent players using the B45 mouthpiece with reeds from Vandoren 2 to Vandoren 4.

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: Lam 
Date:   2009-12-28 14:52

Sorry everyone,
I have to say that the best strength for B45 is Vandoren Traditional 1 to 1.5.

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: Ed Palanker 
Date:   2009-12-28 15:54

I'm sorry too Lam, I can't imagine using a 1-1.5 on anything and still getting a good rich sound. I've had some students use the B45 in the past and they played 3.5 or 4s. It is so individual that no one can say what's best for you or anyone else. I suggest you try a few different strengths with a few different brands and cuts. One #2 could be just right for you but in another brand or cut a # 4 might be perfect. I have a B45 in my stock of MP for students to try and although I don't play one as my regular mouthpiece I could use my Rico Thick Blanks and Reserves #4 just fine, but that's just me. It's a decent mouthpiece but it's true, it may not be the right one for you. ESP http://eddiesclarinet.com

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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: LarryBocaner 2017
Date:   2009-12-28 16:07

Back in the day when I played a B45(dot) I used Vandoren blue box 3's in summer and 3-1/2's in winter. I tried V12's but found them a little stuffy on the B45.



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 Re: Best reed/reed size for a B-45 mouthpiece
Author: Johnny Galaga 
Date:   2009-12-30 01:38

There's not an exact right or wrong answer to this question. It's whatever's right for YOU. You are correct in that the strength of reed must be matched to the mouthpiece, because different mouthpieces will have different amounts of resistance when you play them. You just have to experiment and find out what works best for YOU.



Post Edited (2009-12-30 03:37)

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