Vandoren CR1935 Bb Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 3.5 - Rich, Lasting

In this review of the Vandoren CR1935 Bb Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 3.5, the bottom line is clear: these reeds suit advanced clarinetists who need a deep, resonant sound and increased longevity. Made from thicker cane with a thicker tip and heel, the V.12 design produces a fuller core to the attack and longer vibration, which translates to a richer tone and reeds that hold their response over longer rehearsal or performance sessions. The sealed Flow Pack for each reed also ensures freshness straight from the box of 10.

Key Features

• Thicker heel with longer palette: boosts vibration across the reed for a more resonant, consistent tone.
• Thicker tip and heel: creates a deeper, richer sound with more body on the attack compared with standard reeds.
• Made from larger diameter cane: the V.12 process selects rarer, larger tubes to achieve the specific thickness profile players expect.
• Individually sealed Flow Pack: keeps each reed fresh and stable until first use, reducing variability between reeds.
• Available in other strengths and pack sizes: offers options for different players and can be purchased in larger 50 packs for heavy users.

Who It's For

The V.12 Strength 3.5 is aimed at advanced and professional Bb clarinet players who prefer a denser core and a fuller sound, especially when using long facing mouthpieces. Players seeking reeds that respond well under dynamic playing and project with more body will find these Reed strengths well suited to orchestral, chamber, and solo work.

Those who are new to clarinet or who prefer a lighter, brighter response might want to try a traditional reed cut or a lower strength first, since the V.12 series is noticeably thicker at the tip and heel and performs differently than standard cane. Budget-conscious beginners might also prefer standard packs before moving to the V.12's higher-cost cane.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Produces a deep, rich tone with strong core and sustained vibration.
• Thicker tip and heel contribute to lasting reeds across longer sessions.
• Individually sealed Flow Packs ensure freshness and consistency out of the box.

Cons

• The thicker profile demands more air support and may feel heavy for players used to traditional cuts.
• Higher manufacturing cost due to rarer large-diameter cane makes V.12 reeds pricier than some standard reeds.

Specifications

Product Name	Vandoren CR1935 Bb Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 3.5
Strength	3.5
Pack Size	Box of 10 (also available in 50 pack)
Tip Thickness	0.10mm (0.004 in)
Heel Thickness	3.15mm (0.124 in)
Designed For	Advanced players; long facing mouthpieces
Packing	Each reed sealed in a Flow Pack

Our Verdict

For advanced clarinetists who want a fuller, longer-lasting reed, the Vandoren V.12 Strength 3.5 offers excellent value because it delivers a noticeably deeper tone and reliable stability from reed to reed. Players who need a lighter, more immediate response should test an alternative cut first, but for projection and tonal depth this reed is a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these reeds suitable for orchestral playing?
Yes. The deeper sound and sustained vibration of the V.12 make them well suited to orchestral and solo repertoire where projection and body are important.

Can I buy the same reed in larger quantities?
Yes. The CR1935 is available as a box of 10 and can also be purchased in a 50 pack (CR1935/50) for frequent users.

Do the V.12 reeds require a different mouthpiece?
They perform best on long facing mouthpieces and with players prepared to use slightly more air support because of the thicker tip and heel.