Vandoren Bb Clarinet Reeds CR1935 & CR103 - Rich Tone Pair

Our review of the Vandoren Bb Clarinet Reeds pair (CR1935 strength 3.5 and CR103 strength 3) finds these packs aimed at clarinetists who want reliable, professional sound and versatility. The biggest reason to consider them is the clear tonal distinction between the two designs: the V.12 CR1935 produces a deeper, more resonant voice thanks to a thicker heel and longer palette, while the traditional CR103 offers flexible, easy articulation across styles. Together they cover advanced tonal density and everyday playability, sealed in Flow Packs to keep each reed fresh.

Key Features

• V.12 thicker profile: The CR1935 has a thicker heel and longer palette for increased vibration and a deep, rich sound useful in orchestral and solo contexts.
• Traditional flexibility: The CR103 reed is extremely flexible, which helps execute large intervals while retaining clear tone during fast passages.
• Pack size and freshness: Both models are supplied in boxes of 10 and sealed in Flow Packs to protect cane and extend usable life.
• Specific dimensions: The CR1935 V.12 profile lists a tip thickness of 0.10mm and a heel thickness of 3.15mm, giving a more substantial feel at the ends of the reed.
• Wide musical suitability: The CR103 traditional reeds are described as suiting all musical styles and are available across clarinet and saxophone families, making them a versatile choice.

Who It's For

The combined offering of a V.12 CR1935 and a traditional CR103 is best for advanced students and working clarinetists who want options for tonal color and response: choose the CR1935 when a darker, more resonant sound and greater projection are needed, and use the CR103 for flexible, evenly responsive playing in chamber, jazz, or varied repertoire. The Flow Pack boxes make them practical for gigging musicians who need consistent freshness.

Beginners or players seeking extremely soft, very easy-blowing introductory reeds might look elsewhere, as the CR1935 in particular is made from thicker cane and is better suited to musicians comfortable with a firmer reed. Players who require unusual tip or cut variations not described here should test samples before committing to larger quantities.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Produces a resonant, mellow tone with good projection thanks to the V.12 thicker profile.
• CR103 offers flexible playability and clear tone across large intervals and styles.
• Sealed Flow Packs preserve freshness, and the 10-reed boxes are convenient for regular use.
• Durable cane that many customers report lasts longer than alternatives, offering good value.

Cons

• Some customers disagree on consistency between individual reeds, so players may need to try several before finding ideal ones.
• The CR1935 V.12 feel is firmer and may be demanding for absolute beginners or those who prefer very soft reeds.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Vandoren CR1935 and CR103 pair is a smart choice for players who want both a deeper, more resonant option and a flexible traditional reed in one purchase. They offer strong tone, durable cane, and practical Flow Pack protection, making them good value for advancing students and professional players who need consistent sound options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these reeds suitable for beginners?
The CR103 is broadly suitable across levels, but the CR1935 V.12 has a firmer profile that is better suited to advanced players rather than absolute beginners.

How are the reeds packaged to stay fresh?
Each reed is sealed in a Flow Pack and the reeds are supplied in boxes of 10 to maintain freshness until use.

Do the V.12 dimensions make a big difference?
Yes; the V.12 CR1935 has a thicker heel and tip dimensions (0.10mm tip, 3.15mm heel) that increase vibration and produce a deeper, richer sound compared with traditional cuts.