What is the difference between V12 and Traditional Vandoren reeds?

V12 reeds have a thicker heel and a longer palette than Traditional reeds. This design results in a deeper, richer sound and allows more of the reed to vibrate.

How does the thicker tip affect performance?

The thicker tip adds body to the attack of the note. It also helps the reed last longer before becoming soft or unusable.

What does a 'longer palette' mean in reed construction?

The palette is the vibrating part of the reed. A longer palette means a larger surface area is in motion, which contributes to a deeper tonal quality.

How many reeds are included in a standard V12 pack?

The Vandoren V12 Bass Clarinet reeds are typically sold in a pack of 5. Each reed is usually individually sealed to maintain humidity levels.

What strength is the 3.5 V12 reed suitable for?

The 3.5 strength is considered a medium-hard to hard reed. It is generally suitable for advanced players with a developed embouchure who use mouthpieces with moderate tip openings.

Are V12 reeds compatible with all bass clarinet mouthpieces?

Yes, they are designed for standard bass clarinet mouthpieces. However, players using mouthpieces like the Yamaha 6C may find the V12 3.5 provides significant resistance compared to lower strengths.

How much do these reeds typically cost?

The typical price range for a 5-pack of Vandoren V12 Bass Clarinet reeds is approximately £26.00. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer.

How does the V12 compare to Selmer Paris reeds?

Vandoren V12 reeds use traditional sizing like 3.5, whereas Selmer Paris reeds offer quarter-strengths like 3.25. Both are professional-grade, but the V12 is noted for its specific long-palette vibration.

Is the V12 recommended for beginners?

The V12 3.5 is generally not recommended for beginners due to its thickness and resistance. Beginners usually start with a thinner reed, such as a 1.5 or 2.0 strength.

Do these reeds require a specific ligature?

While they work with any bass clarinet ligature, they are often paired with high-quality options like the Vandoren M/O or BG Revelation ligatures to maximize vibration.

What is the benefit of the thicker heel?

The thicker heel provides more structural support to the reed. This contributes to the overall stability of the pitch and the longevity of the cane.

Can these reeds be used for jazz?

While the V12 is designed for a rich, classical sound, some jazz players use them for the body they provide. However, others may prefer more flexible reeds like D'Addario La Voz for jazz applications.

Gear article

Vandoren V12 Bass Clarinet Reeds

The Vandoren V12 is a professional-grade reed for the bass clarinet, designed with a thicker heel and a longer palette than standard models. These reeds are engineered to produce a deeper, richer sound with enhanced longevity and attack body for advanced players.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Vandoren V12 series represents a specialized cut within the manufacturer's reed catalogue. Specifically designed for the bass clarinet, these reeds differ from the 'Traditional' (Blue Box) series by utilizing a thicker heel and a longer palette. The longer palette ensures that a larger portion of the reed vibrates during play, which is intended to facilitate a broader frequency response and a more complex tonal profile.

Technical Features

The V12 cut is defined by its specific geometry:

Thicker Tip: The tip of the reed is slightly thicker than traditional cuts, providing more resistance and body to the initial attack.
Longer Palette: The increased vibrating area allows for greater depth in the lower register and stability in the upper register.
Increased Longevity: Due to the thicker tip and heel construction, the V12 often exhibits a longer playing life compared to thinner-cut reeds.

Sound and Character

The primary sonic characteristic of the V12 Bass Clarinet reed is its 'deep and rich' quality. By allowing more of the cane to vibrate, the reed produces a warm, dark sound that is highly sought after in orchestral and chamber music settings. The added thickness at the tip ensures that the sound does not become thin or brittle during staccato passages or high-register leaps.

Suitability and Comparisons

The V12 is generally suited for intermediate to professional players who require a reed capable of handling higher air pressures and offering more tonal substance. In the market, it competes with alternatives such as the Selmer Paris Bass Clarinet Reeds (available in unique increments like 3.25) and D'Addario's La Voz or Royal series. While Royal reeds often provide a more immediate, brighter response, the V12 is preferred by those seeking a more classical, robust tone.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between V12 and Traditional Vandoren reeds?: V12 reeds have a thicker heel and a longer palette than Traditional reeds. This design results in a deeper, richer sound and allows more of the reed to vibrate.
How does the thicker tip affect performance?: The thicker tip adds body to the attack of the note. It also helps the reed last longer before becoming soft or unusable.
What does a 'longer palette' mean in reed construction?: The palette is the vibrating part of the reed. A longer palette means a larger surface area is in motion, which contributes to a deeper tonal quality.
How many reeds are included in a standard V12 pack?: The Vandoren V12 Bass Clarinet reeds are typically sold in a pack of 5. Each reed is usually individually sealed to maintain humidity levels.
What strength is the 3.5 V12 reed suitable for?: The 3.5 strength is considered a medium-hard to hard reed. It is generally suitable for advanced players with a developed embouchure who use mouthpieces with moderate tip openings.
Are V12 reeds compatible with all bass clarinet mouthpieces?: Yes, they are designed for standard bass clarinet mouthpieces. However, players using mouthpieces like the Yamaha 6C may find the V12 3.5 provides significant resistance compared to lower strengths.
How much do these reeds typically cost?: The typical price range for a 5-pack of Vandoren V12 Bass Clarinet reeds is approximately £26.00. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer.
How does the V12 compare to Selmer Paris reeds?: Vandoren V12 reeds use traditional sizing like 3.5, whereas Selmer Paris reeds offer quarter-strengths like 3.25. Both are professional-grade, but the V12 is noted for its specific long-palette vibration.
Is the V12 recommended for beginners?: The V12 3.5 is generally not recommended for beginners due to its thickness and resistance. Beginners usually start with a thinner reed, such as a 1.5 or 2.0 strength.
Do these reeds require a specific ligature?: While they work with any bass clarinet ligature, they are often paired with high-quality options like the Vandoren M/O or BG Revelation ligatures to maximize vibration.
What is the benefit of the thicker heel?: The thicker heel provides more structural support to the reed. This contributes to the overall stability of the pitch and the longevity of the cane.
Can these reeds be used for jazz?: While the V12 is designed for a rich, classical sound, some jazz players use them for the body they provide. However, others may prefer more flexible reeds like D'Addario La Voz for jazz applications.