Vandoren Bb Clarinet CR5035 and CR8035 Reeds Strength 3.5 Bundle

In this review of the Vandoren Bb Clarinet CR5035 and CR8035 Reeds Strength 3.5 Bundle, the bottom line is simple: it is a versatile, durable choice for clarinetists seeking a rich, centered tone and reliable response. The bundle pairs 56 Rue Lepic CR5035 reeds with V21 CR8035 reeds, giving players two complementary timbral options in one purchase. For students advancing to mid-level repertoire and for gigging amateurs who need consistent reeds that handle register shifts well, this bundle offers practical value and sonic variety in studio and performance settings.

Key Features

• Dual-reed bundle: Includes one box of 10 CR5035 reeds and one box of 10 CR8035 V21 reeds, so players can compare and alternate between two trusted Vandoren profiles.
• Strength 3.5 consistency: Both boxes are strength 3.5, giving predictable resistance and making it easier to maintain a steady embouchure across different pieces.
• CR5035 tone and stability: The 56 Rue Lepic CR5035 reeds produce a rich, centered and pure sound with maximum stability and quick response, useful for long phrases and controlled dynamics.
• CR8035 warmth and range: The V21 CR8035 reeds combine a conical shape with a V.12 profile for added warmth and depth and for handling large interval leaps with greater ease.
• Individual flow pack freshness: Each reed in both boxes is sealed in a Flow Pack to preserve cane condition and extend playable life out of the box.
• Scale-up option: Additional CR5035 reeds are available in a 50-pack for players who prefer to standardize on the 56 Rue Lepic profile.

Who It's For

This bundle fits aspiring mid-level and upper-level clarinetists who want to experiment with two complementary Vandoren shapes without committing to a single profile. It is well suited to students progressing through conservatory repertoire, community orchestra players, and semi-professional performers who value tonal consistency and durability.

Players who require a very bright or extremely flexible reed for solo modern techniques might look elsewhere, and absolute beginners who are still learning basic embouchure control may prefer lower strengths or single-profile starter packs before moving to a 3.5 strength bundle.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality cane gives a consistently rich and dark tone across playing registers.
• Durable construction and Flow Pack sealing preserve reed life and reliability.
• Two profiles in one purchase let players compare the centered stability of CR5035 with the warmth and interval control of V21 CR8035.
• Good value for mid-level players who use reeds regularly and need dependable performance.

Cons

• Strength 3.5 may be too firm for beginners or those who prefer a very free-blowing reed.
• Players seeking a single specialized timbre may prefer to buy only one profile rather than a mixed bundle.

Specifications

Product	Bundle of two boxes of Vandoren Bb clarinet reeds
Includes	10 CR5035 (56 Rue Lepic) reeds + 10 CR8035 (V21) reeds
Strength	3.5 (both boxes)
Packaging	Individual Flow Pack for each reed
Profile	CR5035 thicker cane and heel taper; CR8035 conical with V.12 profile
Extra option	CR5035 available in 50-pack (CR5035/50)

Our Verdict

The Vandoren CR5035 and CR8035 Strength 3.5 bundle is a sensible buy for advancing students and performing amateurs who want dependable reeds with two distinct tonal characters. The pairing offers both centered stability and warm depth, sealed for freshness, and represents good value for players who rotate reeds or want to trial V21 against the Rue Lepic shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these reeds sealed for freshness?
Yes, every reed in both boxes is individually sealed in a Flow Pack to preserve cane condition out of the box.

What level of player are these reeds best for?
They are best suited to mid-level to upper-level players and advancing students; strength 3.5 may feel firm for beginners.

Can I buy more CR5035 reeds in larger quantities?
Yes, additional CR5035 reeds are offered in a 50-pack option (CR5035/50).