Vandoren A5 V16 M - SM811M

Vandoren V16: The Jazz DNA of an Essential French Brand

Historically based at 56 rue Lepic, Vandoren has established itself as a reference brand both for reed manufacturing and mouthpiece crafting. The V16 series embodies this expertise with a clear philosophy: to offer an alto mouthpiece with a strong jazz character, capable of combining power, stability, and freedom of phrasing. Within the range, the V16 stands out through its variations in tip openings and chambers, which allow tailoring the response and tonal color without losing the "V16" identity.

Who Is This Mouthpiece For and In Which Styles Does It Excel?

This mouthpiece is primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced saxophonists and jazz musicians seeking a present sound, good volume reserve, and clear articulation. It is particularly suitable for contexts where the alto needs to "cut through the mix" (combo, big band, lead), while remaining effective in section playing thanks to chamber variants that favor a more centered and warm sound. Depending on the reed and approach, it can also work well in funk, soul, and contemporary music, as long as a clear projection and wide dynamics are desired.

Sound and Design

Made of ebonite, the Vandoren V16 alto offers a sought-after balance in jazz: easy response, good consistency across registers, and projection capable of remaining clear within an ensemble. The V16 series plays on key mouthpiece parameters (tip opening, chamber, internal bore, baffle shape) to influence response and tonal color. The "Small" chamber variants generally favor precision (intonation, attack, articulation) and a dense brightness, while the "Medium" chamber emphasizes a warmer, richer, and more centered sound, appreciated for section playing. The result: a mouthpiece designed as a true "pillar" of your sound, finely customizable with your choice of reed.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

To fully exploit this alto saxophone mouthpiece, plan for alto saxophone reeds (strength depending on your embouchure and tip opening), as well as a stick-on mouthpiece patch to improve comfort and protect the table. A mouthpiece swab (or cleaning cloth) is also recommended to preserve response and hygiene daily.

Technical specifications

Category	alto saxophone	Style	jazz
Material	Hard rubber	Color	Black
Opening	1,88 mm	Finishing	Glossy

Tip opening	1.88 mm	Mouthpiece cap	No
Available chamber types in the V16 alto range	Small or Medium (depending on version)	Tip openings offered in the V16 alto range	A5, A6, A7, A8, A9
Orientation	Small for precision and articulation, Medium for warmth and centered sound	Mouthpiece guaranteed nickel-free	No
Ligature	No	Specific right of withdrawal	for hygiene reasons, if the product has been opened, it must be free of any signs of use to be eligible for refund or exchange