What is the primary difference between a 5RV and a 5RV Lyre?

The 5RV Lyre has a longer facing and a slightly more open tip opening compared to the standard 5RV. These changes result in a freer blowing experience for the clarinetist.

What material is the Vandoren 5RV Lyre made from?

The mouthpiece is manufactured from ebonite, which is a high-quality hard rubber. Ebonite is preferred by professional clarinetists for its warm, traditional tonal qualities.

Is this mouthpiece suitable for beginners?

While beginners can use it, the 5RV Lyre is generally considered an 'industry standard' for advanced students and professionals. Its specific facing requires a certain level of embouchure development to control effectively.

Which ligature is recommended for the 5RV Lyre?

The Vandoren M/O Clarinet Bb Ligature in Gold Plate is a highly recommended pairing. It is designed to allow the reed to vibrate freely while maintaining a secure fit on the 5RV Lyre's profile.

What does 'freer blowing' mean in the context of this mouthpiece?

Freer blowing refers to a reduction in air resistance. Because the 5RV Lyre is more open, the player can move air through the instrument with less effort compared to more closed mouthpieces.

What kind of tone can I expect from the 5RV Lyre?

It produces a wonderful, traditional clarinet tone that is focused and clear. It is designed to meet the aesthetic standards of top clarinet artists across the globe.

What is the typical price for a new 5RV Lyre?

The typical price range for this mouthpiece is approximately GBP 104. This reflects its status as a professional-grade woodwind accessory.

Does the 5RV Lyre work well with Mitchell Lurie reeds?

Yes, Mitchell Lurie Organic Bb Clarinet reeds, such as the 1.5 strength, are often used in conjunction with this mouthpiece. The combination is popular for achieving a balanced, responsive sound.

How does the 5RV Lyre compare to the Yamaha 6C?

The Yamaha 6C is often used for Eb clarinets or student setups, whereas the 5RV Lyre is a professional Bb clarinet standard. The Vandoren offers a more refined, traditional tone and a specific 'Lyre' facing curve.

Can I use this mouthpiece for orchestral playing?

Absolutely; the 5RV Lyre is specifically designed for discerning clarinetists in professional settings. Its tonal qualities and projection make it a staple in orchestral music.

What is 'facing length' and why does it matter?

Facing length is the distance from the tip of the mouthpiece to the point where the reed makes contact. The 5RV Lyre's longer facing allows for a different reed response and greater flexibility.

Are there organic reed options compatible with this mouthpiece?

Yes, many modern players pair the 5RV Lyre with organic reed lines. Examples include D'Addario Royal or Mitchell Lurie Organic Bb Clarinet reeds.

Gear article

Vandoren Traditional Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece 5RV Lyre

The Vandoren 5RV Lyre is an industry-standard Bb clarinet mouthpiece designed for professional and advanced student use. Featuring a longer facing and a more open tip than the original 5RV design, it is engineered to provide a free-blowing experience and a refined, traditional tone.

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Overview

The Vandoren 5RV Lyre serves as a cornerstone of the Vandoren Traditional mouthpiece line. It is crafted from high-quality ebonite (hard rubber), which is the standard material for professional clarinet mouthpieces due to its acoustic properties and durability. This specific model is frequently cited as a benchmark for discerning clarinetists seeking a balance between resistance and ease of play.

Design and Mechanics

The 'Lyre' designation in the 5RV model indicates a modification of the original 5RV geometry. The primary differences lie in the facing length and the tip opening:

Facing Length: The 5RV Lyre features a longer facing compared to the standard model. This affects how the reed vibrates against the table, generally allowing for more flexibility.
Tip Opening: It is designed with a slightly more open tip. This combination results in a 'freer blowing' sensation, reducing the amount of back-pressure felt by the player while maintaining control over the pitch and tone.

Sound Character

The 5RV Lyre is noted for its traditional qualities, producing a clear, focused, and wonderful tone that is suitable for orchestral, chamber, and solo settings. Because it is more open than its predecessor, it allows for a broader dynamic range and a slightly more expansive sound without sacrificing the core dark timber associated with Vandoren ebonite mouthpieces.

Target User

This mouthpiece is widely regarded as a top choice for top clarinet artists and serious students. It is particularly well-suited for players who find the standard 5RV too restrictive or 'stuffy.' The freer blowing nature makes it an excellent transition mouthpiece for those moving into professional-grade equipment, as well as a reliable workhorse for seasoned performers.

Compatibility and Accessories

To achieve optimal performance, the 5RV Lyre should be paired with high-quality ligatures and reeds. Recommended accessories include the Vandoren M/O Clarinet Bb Ligature (Gold Plated), which provides even pressure on the reed. In terms of reeds, many players find success with Mitchell Lurie Organic Bb Clarinet Reeds (1.5 strength) or similar high-grade options like D'Addario Royal series products to complement the mouthpiece's long facing.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other options like the Yamaha 6C, the Vandoren 5RV Lyre is positioned as a more professional-tier tool with a more complex tonal profile. While the Yamaha 6C is often favoured for beginners or doubling on instruments like the Eb clarinet, the 5RV Lyre offers the refinement required for professional symphonic work. Compared to the standard 5RV, the Lyre version is distinct for its increased openness and longer facing curve.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference between a 5RV and a 5RV Lyre?: The 5RV Lyre has a longer facing and a slightly more open tip opening compared to the standard 5RV. These changes result in a freer blowing experience for the clarinetist.
What material is the Vandoren 5RV Lyre made from?: The mouthpiece is manufactured from ebonite, which is a high-quality hard rubber. Ebonite is preferred by professional clarinetists for its warm, traditional tonal qualities.
Is this mouthpiece suitable for beginners?: While beginners can use it, the 5RV Lyre is generally considered an 'industry standard' for advanced students and professionals. Its specific facing requires a certain level of embouchure development to control effectively.
Which ligature is recommended for the 5RV Lyre?: The Vandoren M/O Clarinet Bb Ligature in Gold Plate is a highly recommended pairing. It is designed to allow the reed to vibrate freely while maintaining a secure fit on the 5RV Lyre's profile.
What does 'freer blowing' mean in the context of this mouthpiece?: Freer blowing refers to a reduction in air resistance. Because the 5RV Lyre is more open, the player can move air through the instrument with less effort compared to more closed mouthpieces.
What kind of tone can I expect from the 5RV Lyre?: It produces a wonderful, traditional clarinet tone that is focused and clear. It is designed to meet the aesthetic standards of top clarinet artists across the globe.
What is the typical price for a new 5RV Lyre?: The typical price range for this mouthpiece is approximately GBP 104. This reflects its status as a professional-grade woodwind accessory.
Does the 5RV Lyre work well with Mitchell Lurie reeds?: Yes, Mitchell Lurie Organic Bb Clarinet reeds, such as the 1.5 strength, are often used in conjunction with this mouthpiece. The combination is popular for achieving a balanced, responsive sound.
How does the 5RV Lyre compare to the Yamaha 6C?: The Yamaha 6C is often used for Eb clarinets or student setups, whereas the 5RV Lyre is a professional Bb clarinet standard. The Vandoren offers a more refined, traditional tone and a specific 'Lyre' facing curve.
Can I use this mouthpiece for orchestral playing?: Absolutely; the 5RV Lyre is specifically designed for discerning clarinetists in professional settings. Its tonal qualities and projection make it a staple in orchestral music.
What is 'facing length' and why does it matter?: Facing length is the distance from the tip of the mouthpiece to the point where the reed makes contact. The 5RV Lyre's longer facing allows for a different reed response and greater flexibility.
Are there organic reed options compatible with this mouthpiece?: Yes, many modern players pair the 5RV Lyre with organic reed lines. Examples include D'Addario Royal or Mitchell Lurie Organic Bb Clarinet reeds.