Vandoren MOUTHPIECE - B45 PROFILE88 - CM3088

An Iconic Mouthpiece in the Vandoren Range

Vandoren is one of the most renowned French houses in the clarinet world, notably thanks to the consistent manufacturing of its reeds and constant research on mouthpieces. The B45 has established itself as a benchmark in the range: a very versatile model, often chosen as a "safe bet" for its ability to adapt to many musicians. The Profile 88 version maintains the same acoustic parameters while offering a different ergonomics through the beak angle.

For Which Use and Which Clarinetist?

The Vandoren B45 Profile 88 is suitable for both intermediate clarinetists and advanced musicians seeking a reliable, balanced, and comfortable mouthpiece for daily use. Its classical orientation makes it an excellent choice for orchestra, chamber music, and conservatory work, yet it remains flexible enough to approach other contexts as long as the reed choice is adjusted. The Profile 88 version is particularly appreciated by musicians looking for a more natural embouchure and a more "direct" playing sensation.

Sound and Design

Thanks to its 1.195 mm tip opening and medium-long facing, the B45 offers a balanced response: the sound production remains accessible while providing a wide dynamic range and good air column support. The tone is rather centered and homogeneous across registers, with good projection and precise attack control, useful for articulation and clarity of tonguing. The carefully finished ebonite (widely polished outer surface, raw facing preserved) contributes to stability and consistent contact with the reed, helping to maintain constant sensations throughout playing sessions.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

This mouthpiece is sold without ligature or mouthpiece cap : therefore, a ligature and a Bb clarinet-compatible mouthpiece cap will be needed to play and safely transport the setup.

Technical specifications

Category	Bb clarinet	Style	classic
Material	Hard rubber	Color	Black
Opening	1,195 mm	Finishing	Glossy

Nickel	no	Recommended V12 reed strengths	3 to 3.5+
Facing length	medium-long	Recommended 56 RUE LEPIC reed strengths	3 to 3.5
Sold	without ligature or mouthpiece cap	Recommended V21 reed strengths	3 to 3.5+
Recommended Traditional reed strengths	2.5 to 3.5	Manufacturer's note	the B40 has the same facing as the B45 with a wider tip opening, producing a compact and centered sound. The B45 is a universal mouthpiece, with a medium tip opening and medium-long facing.