Vandoren CM309 B45 Dot Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece - Easier Blowing

In this review the Vandoren CM309 B45 Dot Bb clarinet mouthpiece is evaluated for students and intermediate players seeking a warm, full clarinet tone with easier blowing than the classic B45. The bottom line: it keeps the same technical design as the B45 but opens up breath control, making phrasing and long tones less tiring. Reviewers and players who prioritize a round chamber sound and consistent response will find this mouthpiece a dependable step up from entry-level pieces while still pairing well with medium-strength reeds.

Key Features

• Greater blowing ease: The CM309 delivers noticeably easier airflow than the standard B45, which helps sustain long phrases with less effort.
• Tip opening 119.5: The 119.5 (1/100mm) tip opening balances responsiveness and control for common reed strengths.
• Medium long facing: The facing length gives a comfortable bite and flexible articulation for a variety of repertoire.
• Large chamber: The internal chamber is designed to produce a full, rounded tone that projects well in ensemble settings.
• Reed compatibility: It works best with Vandoren #2.5 to #3.5 reeds, offering a reliable pairing for many players.
• Traditional beak: The traditional beak shape supports conventional embouchure and classical tonal goals.

Who It's For

The CM309 B45 Dot is aimed at students moving into intermediate repertoire and intermediate players who want the classic B45 profile with less resistance and a warmer sound. Teachers recommending a stable, well-behaved mouthpiece that combines playability with a rounded chamber will find it appropriate for ensemble and solo study.

Players seeking very bright, edgy modern jazz tones or who require an extremely large tip opening for an aggressive sound should look elsewhere; this mouthpiece favors a balanced, centered timbre rather than extreme projection or a highly brassy tone.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent sound quality from the large chamber, producing a full, round tone.
• Noticeable ease of blowing compared with the standard B45, improving endurance.
• Good value for money for students and intermediates who need a reliable mouthpiece.
• Pairs well with Vandoren #2.5-#3.5 reeds for consistent playability.

Cons

• Some players report fit variability, so it may require slight adjustment or testing with your particular barrel and ligature.
• Not aimed at players who want an extremely bright or edgy modern sound.

Specifications

Model	CM309 B45 Dot
Instrument	Bb Clarinet
Tip opening	119.5 (1/100 mm)
Facing	Medium Long
Recommended reeds	Vandoren #2.5 - #3.5+
Chamber	Large, for a full round sound
Beak style	Traditional

Our Verdict

The Vandoren CM309 B45 Dot is a smart choice for students and intermediate clarinetists who want the tonal character of a B45 with easier blowing and dependable playability. Its large chamber and balanced tip opening deliver a warm, centered sound that pairs well with medium reeds, making it good value for those focused on classical and ensemble work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this mouthpiece suitable for beginners?
Yes, it suits advancing beginners and students, though absolute beginners may prefer a simpler, more resistant mouthpiece while they develop breath support.

What reeds should I use with it?
It performs best with Vandoren reeds in the #2.5 to #3.5 range for a comfortable balance of response and tone.

How does it differ from the B45?
The CM309 shares the B45's technical characteristics and large chamber but offers greater ease of blowing for less player fatigue.