Vandoren M|O Bb Clarinet Ligature (multiple plating versions)

Note: These are Bb clarinet ligatures.

This ligature is in my regular rotation (I have several mouthpieces and several ligatures, because why not?) and I love how simple and un-fussy the thing is. Sound-wise it produces a somewhat lighter sound with crisper attacks than the Optimum—it’s a less substantial piece of metal, which is part of the reason.

This comes in several plating versions. If you’re into the aesthetic of a particular plating, go for it and justify the reason later. (Here are some to choose from: “The black plating makes my sound…darker.” “The pewter matches my platinum wedding ring.” “Gold makes my attacks more regal.”