[2025] 5 Recommended Clarinet Mouthpieces

A mouthpiece is essential for playing the clarinet. Various manufacturers offer a wide range of mouthpieces, but many people may wonder, "How can I find the right mouthpiece for me?" This time,I would like to introduce some recommended mouthpieces that were specially chosen by the wind instrument specialist!

About Mouthpices

Materials

Currently, ebonite is the most common material. There are also mouthpieces which are made from acrylic and phenolic resin. The material can affect the weight, the playing feel, and tone quality.

Tip Opening and Facing

The image is of a saxophone mouthpiece.

・"Tip opening" refers to the distance (or opening) from the reed to the tip of the mouthpiece. A wider opening generally results in a louder sound, but it also requires more air.
Conversely, a narrower opening produces a relatively softer sound, but it requires less air, which makes playing easier.

・"Facing" refers to the length from the tip of the mouthpiece to the point where the reed makes contact. There are generally three types: short, medium, and long. Short facings tend to produce a bright, clear sound, while longer facings typically result in a darker, softer tone.

Five Recommended Mouthpieces

Vandoren / 5RV Lyre Traditional Bb Clarinet

Vandoren is the classic choice for clarinet mouthpieces. It is popular worldwide and is a staple among musicians. It features a bright sound and, with a wider tip opening than the 5RV, allowing for easier airflow and a rounder tone.

Tip Opening: 1.09 mm
Facing: Medium

Vandoren / B40 Traditional Bb Clarinet

Once again from Vandoren, I would recommend the B40 from the Traditional series. It features the same facing as the B45, but with a wider tip rail. This mouthpiece is characterized by its compact and focused sound.

Tip Opening: 1.195mm
Facing: Midium-Long

D'Addario Woodwinds / EV10E Bb Clarinet Reserve Evolution

The D'Addario Woodwinds Reserve Evolution series is known for its quick response and cohesive tone. Made entirely through machine production from solid hard rubber, it ensures uniformity and high quality. This model is tuned to 442 Hz.

Tip Opening: 1.08 mm
Facing: Medium-Long

Yamaha / Standard Mouthpiece 4C for Bb/A Clarinet

The Yamaha Standard Model 4C is known for its smooth airflow and quick response. With Yamaha's consistent quality, it is very easy to play and is highly recommended for beginners and students.

Tip Opening: 1.05 mm
Facing: 19 mm

Bari Woodwinds / ESMCLP Bb Clarinet Esprit

Bari Woodwindswell-known for its durable and convenient resin reeds and are popular worldwide and in high demand, are now available at Sound House! The Esprit series, in particular, stands out for its affordability, durability, vibrant sound, and quick response. The Esprit is highly recommended for beginners.

Tip Opening: 1.16 mm
Facing: 17 mm

（2023-09-05 release 2024-03-08 update）