Vandoren B45 Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece with CR103 Strength 3 Reeds

In this review the combined Vandoren B45 mouthpiece and a box of Vandoren CR103 strength 3 reeds are evaluated for working clarinetists seeking a reliable, flexible setup. The bottom line: this pairing is aimed at players who want a warm, centered tone and predictable response across registers. The mouthpiece's medium-long facing and 119.5 tip opening balance control and projection, while the CR103 reeds deliver consistent flexibility and the ability to play delicate pianissimo up to strong high notes. For many students and professionals this combination is a practical, all-round choice.

Key Features

• Tip opening and facing: The B45 mouthpiece has a 119.5 tip opening and a medium-long facing, which gives a comfortable blend of resistance and flexibility for varied articulation.
• Reed response: The CR103 reeds respond reliably in all registers, allowing clear attack even on the highest notes for secure upper-register playing.
• Tonal flexibility: The traditional CR103 cut is extremely flexible, making legato and staccato passages easy while keeping a rich, full-bodied tone.
• Reed packaging: Reeds come boxed as 10 and individually sealed in Flow Packs, protecting each reed and improving shelf life and consistency.
• Compatibility: The medium-long facing of the B45 works particularly well with Vandoren reeds in the 2.5 to 3.5+ range, offering a predictable match for players who prefer those strengths.
• Universality: The B45 is widely appreciated as a versatile mouthpiece that suits a broad range of musical styles from classical to ensemble and solo work.

Who It's For

The Vandoren B45 and CR103 strength 3 combo is best for intermediate to advanced clarinetists who want a dependable, warm tone and consistent reed behavior across registers. Students who have progressed beyond entry-level mouthpieces and reeds will find the balance of resistance and projection helpful for developing tone and control.

Players seeking an extremely free-blowing or very bright, highly projecting setup should audition alternatives, and those who have experienced reed cracking with thin cuts may want to monitor reed care closely or choose a different cane cut. Teachers and ensemble players who prize consistent, repeatable results will appreciate the sealed Flow Pack reeds and the familiar B45 response.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong, even response across registers that supports pianissimo to high-note attacks.
• Flexible reeds that enable both legato and clear staccato while keeping a rich tone.
• Flow Pack sealed reeds in a box of 10 for protection and consistency.
• Versatile mouthpiece facing that suits many playing styles and reed strengths.

Cons

• Some customers report a cracking rate with reeds within weeks, so careful inspection and rotation are recommended.
• The medium-long facing may not suit those who prefer an extremely open or extremely closed mouthpiece feel.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Vandoren B45 paired with CR103 strength 3 reeds is a smart, versatile choice for players wanting a warm, centered tone and dependable response across all registers. It represents good value for those who need a consistent daily setup, though reed care is important because a minority report cracking issues; overall it is recommended for advancing students and many professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the CR103 reeds work well with the B45 mouthpiece?
Yes, the B45's medium-long facing is a good match for CR103 reeds in the 2.5 to 3.5+ range and provides predictable playability.

How many reeds are included and how are they packed?
The CR103 package contains 10 reeds, each sealed individually in a Flow Pack to protect moisture and consistency.

Are there durability concerns with these reeds?
Most users report consistent quality and tone, but some have experienced reeds cracking within weeks, so inspect new reeds and rotate them to extend usable life.