The Vandoren B45 mouthpiece is one of the best entry-level bass clarinet mouthpieces on the market. It is a terrific mouthpiece for all, but I highly recommend it to beginner/intermediate players because it has a slightly smaller tip-opening (1.93mm vs 2.05mm) than its big brother, the B50 (and its fraternal twin sister, the B40). It has a medium-long facing, which provides a nice balance of control-to-volume ratio. (In other words, you will sacrifice a bit of maximum volume, in exchange for an instrument that is easier to control). The tone is focused and will provide a great ensemble playing experience.
If you're looking for the same mouthpiece, but with thicker tip rails, check out the B40. What does a thicker tip rail do? Your sound will be a bit more compact and centered and possibly darker. You can see a side-by-side comparison of the two mouthpieces below.
Now, many folks allow for trials of mouthpieces. I don't. Why? (Is it because I'm a jerk? No.) Vandoren's manufacturing and hand-finishing process is so well-oiled, so consistent, that every B45 is essentially the same.
That said, if you'd like to return it, I can accept it and sell it as used, however there is a $50 restocking fee to cover the reduction in value of the mouthpiece.
You simply cannot go wrong with Vandoren, and it's a great value.
Just the box alone, is gorgeous. The manufacturing looks very precise. Played very smoothly right away Using on a Yamaha 221 student level bass (can't afford anything else!) with Michael's recommendation of a Vandoren V12 2.5 reed, with a Vandoren Optimum ligature. Excellent order fulfillment from earspasm.
A
Ahmad Bahadori
Good mouthpiece
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