Gear article
Chedeville SAV Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece
The Chedeville SAV Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece is a high-performance woodwind component designed to bridge the gap between student-level gear and professional-tier equipment. It incorporates design elements from the premium Umbra and Elite series, utilising CNC milling for high precision and consistent performance across individual units.

Overview and Design Philosophy
The Chedeville SAV represents a strategic expansion of the manufacturer's catalogue, aiming to offer professional-grade acoustics at a more accessible price point. By combining the signature characteristics of their flagship models, Chedeville has created a hybrid design that serves as an all-rounder for classical and symphonic playing. The mouthpiece is constructed from industry-standard German hard rubber, a material preferred by traditionalists for its tonal density and vibration characteristics.
Technical Specification
A hallmark of the SAV series is the use of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling. This automated process ensures that each mouthpiece meets exact geometric specifications, reducing the variance often found in hand-finished or moulded mouthpieces. Following the milling process, every SAV unit is play-tested individually to ensure it meets the brand's quality control standards before reaching the consumer.

Tonal Profile and Playability
The SAV is engineered to provide a balanced sonic profile. It adopts the warm, dark tonal qualities associated with the Chedeville Umbra model, which is noted for its depth and resonance. Simultaneously, it integrates the internal geometry of the Elite model, which is designed for seamless articulation and ease of response. This combination results in a mouthpiece that is free-blowing but maintains a sophisticated, classical timbre.
Comparison and Suitability
Positioned between standard student mouthpieces, such as the Yamaha 6C, and boutique professional options, the SAV is primarily aimed at 'serious students' and 'discerning musicians'. While it offers higher precision than entry-level plastic alternatives, it remains more affordable than many specialist handmade models. It is typically paired with high-quality reeds, such as Mitchell Lurie Organic or D'Addario Royal series, to maximise its resonant potential.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the Chedeville SAV Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece?
- It is a clarinet mouthpiece designed for the Bb clarinet that combines features from Chedeville's Umbra and Elite models. It is built to offer professional-level performance at a more accessible price point for students and musicians.
- What material is used in the construction of the SAV mouthpiece?
- The SAV mouthpiece is crafted using industry-standard German Hard Rubber. This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to produce a warm, traditional clarinet tone.
- How is the SAV mouthpiece manufactured?
- Each mouthpiece is produced using CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machines. This process ensures high levels of accuracy and consistency between every unit produced.
- What kind of sound profile does the SAV offer?
- The SAV is designed to provide warm and dark tones. It specifically attempts to replicate the tonal depth of the Chedeville Umbra model while maintaining clarity.
- How does the SAV handle articulation?
- The mouthpiece incorporates design elements from the Chedeville Elite series. These features are intended to provide seamless articulation and effortless playability for the performer.
- Is the SAV mouthpiece tested before sale?
- Yes, every individual SAV mouthpiece undergoes a meticulous play-testing process. This step is designed to ensure that the sound and response meet the manufacturer's standards.
- Who is the target audience for this mouthpiece?
- Chedeville describes the SAV as ideal for both serious students and discerning musicians. It serves as an upgrade for those looking for professional features without the highest-tier price tag.
- What is the typical price for the Chedeville SAV?
- The mouthpiece is typically priced at approximately £181. This places it in the mid-range to high-end segment of the market compared to entry-level alternatives.
- How does the SAV compare to the Chedeville Umbra?
- The SAV inherits the warm, dark tonal characteristics of the Umbra. However, it is designed to be more affordable and incorporates playability features from the Elite model.
- Can the SAV be used with different brands of ligatures?
- Yes, it can be used with various ligatures, including high-quality options like the Vandoren M/O gold-plated ligature or the BG Revelation series. Users should ensure the ligature size is compatible with a standard Bb clarinet mouthpiece.
- What reeds are recommended for use with the SAV?
- While it can be used with various brands, it is often paired with professional-grade options such as D'Addario Mitchell Lurie Organic or Royal reeds to achieve the best response.
- What makes the SAV different from a standard student mouthpiece like the Yamaha 6C?
- The SAV uses higher-quality German hard rubber and precision CNC milling. Unlike many student mouthpieces, it is designed to provide a darker, more complex tonal character and better articulation control.
