Vandoren 5RV/5RV-Lyre family of Bb Clarinet Mouthpieces

The 5RV is a great choice for an all-around mouthpiece. I've personally found that it is forgiving with "meh" reeds. (In my experience, I would estimate about a 75-80% success rate, which is pretty darn good). But did you ever wonder what RV stands for? Well, it's Robert Van Doren, who put his initials on the mouthpiece in the 1930s.

Now, the 5RV-Lyre is a 5RV with a slightly longer facing and larger tip opening. This is probably the mouthpiece that more clarinetists bought than any other mouthpiece when it came time to replace their stock mouthpiece. One of the easier mouthpieces to control, the 5RV-Lyre is a favorite of teachers...and professionals (I have one in rotation myself.)

The 5RV-Lyre was also developed by Robert Van Doren, this time for clarinetist Jacques Lancelot, who wanted a mouthpiece that was a bit more open at the end and a facing that was slightly longer. A longer facing makes it possible to play stronger reeds, provides more volume and, above all, greater ease and comfort.

Trials?

Now, many folks allow for trials of mouthpieces. With Vandoren mouthpieces, I don't. Why? (Is it because I'm a jerk? No.) Vandoren's manufacturing and hand-finishing process is so well-oiled, so consistent, that every B40 is essentially the same.

That said, if you'd like to return it, I can accept it and sell it as used, however there is a $30 restocking fee to cover the reduction in value of the mouthpiece.

You simply cannot go wrong with Vandoren, and it's a great value.