Vandoren CR1945 Bb Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 4.5 - Rich, Durable

In this review of the Vandoren CR1945 V.12 Bb clarinet reeds (strength 4.5), the bottom line is simple: these reeds suit players who want a deep, resonant sound and longer-lasting performance without heavy setup. The V.12 design uses cane with an alto saxophone diameter, creating a thicker heel, longer palette and a slightly thicker tip that together produce a warmer core and more vibration across the blade. For clarinetists who prize tone depth, reliability and reeds that need minimal tweaking, these reeds deliver clear benefits.

Key Features

• Thicker heel and longer palette: More of the reed vibrates, producing a deeper, richer sound with greater body in the mid and low registers.
• Thicker tip: Gives a fuller attack and helps the reed hold its tonal character for a longer lifespan compared with thinner-tipped designs.
• Flow Pack sealed individually: Each reed stays fresher until opened, reducing variability from storage and transport.
• Box of 10: Convenient ten-reed packaging makes it simpler to stock a consistent supply for rehearsals and gigs.
• Available in multiple strengths: Players can choose other strengths to match embouchure and repertoire needs without changing reed family.

Who It's For

The V.12 strength 4.5 is best for intermediate to advanced Bb clarinetists who want a warmer, more focused tone with improved longevity over many traditional reeds. It suits orchestral and chamber players who need a reed that supports a full-bodied core and reliable articulation across dynamics.

Less experienced players who require very light resistance or those who prefer a very bright, edge-focused sound may want to try a different strength or reed cut. Also, players who prioritize absolute consistency note some disagreement among users, so professionals seeking identical performance from every reed may wish to test several boxes first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Rich, resonant tone with increased body thanks to the longer palette and thicker tip.
• Improved longevity compared with many traditional reeds, reducing how often replacements are needed.
• Individually sealed in Flow Pack for freshness, helping reduce variability from storage.

Cons

• Some players report occasional inconsistency between reeds, so selecting and testing a few is recommended.

Specifications

Product	V.12 Bb Clarinet Reed
Model	CR1945 (strength 4.5)
Count	Box of 10 reeds
Cut	Longer palette with thicker heel and slightly thicker tip
Material	Cane manufactured from tubes with alto saxophone diameter
Packaging	Each reed sealed in Flow Pack

Our Verdict

The Vandoren V.12 CR1945 strength 4.5 is a strong choice for players seeking a deep, warm clarinet sound and a reed that lasts longer with minimal adjustment. Its thicker heel and tip give a fuller attack and sustained tonal core, making it good value for performing students and working musicians who prioritize tone and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these reeds individually sealed?
Yes, each reed is sealed in a Flow Pack to preserve freshness until use.

What does the V.12 cut change in tone?
The longer palette and thicker tip increase the vibrating area and body of the sound, producing a deeper, richer tone compared with traditional cuts.

Is strength 4.5 suitable for orchestral players?
Yes, many intermediate and advanced orchestral players prefer this strength for its warmth and stability, though players should test strengths to match embouchure and repertoire.