 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: tveymusic
Date: 2026-01-26 08:36
I've had the Richard Hawkins B mouthpiece for about 20 years, and it was definitely the best one I've ever tried when I bought it, and none of the mouthpieces I've tried over the years compare to it IMO. I think it's time for a new one though (mainly because tuning has become more and more of an issue... I'm guessing it's gotten a bit worn out over the years... I'll be buying a new clarinet first -- I posted about it here: http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/read.html?f=1&i=519913&t=519913 -- but I think it might be a good time to buy a new mouthpiece as well).
I don't think the B model is being sold anymore -- does anyone know if there's something similar? Perhaps the Backun one? (I'm very skeptical about their stuff TBH, the marketing is just a bit over the top, and so are the prices). Is there something even better? I use 4.25 Legere European Signature reeds. I currently have an R13, and would like to get a Yamaha CSVR (I played a couple of them when I was in Tokyo and thought they felt and sounded amazing!).
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Author: kdk
Date: 2026-01-26 10:20
Isn't Richard Hawkins still in business? Ask him about an equivalent replacement.
Karl
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Author: Dora Nevels
Date: 2026-03-12 10:14
Since the Richard Hawkins "B" model is no longer in production, the Backun Hawkins Vocalise series is the most direct successor, as it was designed by Hawkins to replicate his refined facing curves using modern synthetic materials for better consistency. Given your preference for the Yamaha CSVR and heavy Legere 4.25 reeds, you might also consider the Vandoren BD5 or the Bradford Behn EPIC series; both offer the stable intonation and "centered" resistance required for a high-strength European voya financial careers Signature setup. While Backun’s marketing can be polarizing, their mouthpieces are engineered for the precise tuning stability you are currently lacking, making them a logical starting point alongside a Vandoren M30 if you prefer a more traditional, reliable alternative.
Post Edited (2026-03-13 09:07)
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Author: vrufino
Date: 2026-03-13 01:30
I emailed Hawkins recently and asked a similar question (I play on a Hawkins R). His suggestion was the Backun Signature H.
I have not purchased it yet because my present mpc. Is working to my satisfaction. Hope this is a help.
I also asked if he was refacing his older mpcs, and he replied that he is not.
Dr. Vincent J. Rufino
Professor of clarinet and saxophone
St. Elizabeth University
Morristown, NJ
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Author: vrufino
Date: 2026-03-13 01:30
I emailed Hawkins recently and asked a similar question (I play on a Hawkins R). His suggestion was the Backun Signature H.
I have not purchased it yet because my present mpc. Is working to my satisfaction. Hope this is a help.
I also asked if he was refacing his older mpcs, and he replied that he is not.
Dr. Vincent J. Rufino
Professor of clarinet and saxophone
St. Elizabeth University
Morristown, NJ
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