Vandoren V16 A5 Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece - Medium Chamber (VASM811M)

The Vandoren V16 A5 M is the heart of the V16 line, specifically designed to capture the legendary jazz sounds of the 1950s and 60s. Inspired by the most famous alto mouthpieces in history, the A5 features a 188 (1/100mm) tip opening—a specification famously preferred by many of the greatest jazz soloists of all time. This "Medium Chamber" version provides the perfect balance between power and warmth, making it the definitive choice for the modern jazz musician.

Angkor Music Jazz Performance Note

If you are looking for that classic NY jazz vibe, the A5 is where it starts. At Angkor Music, we recommend the Medium Chamber (M) for players who need their sound to cut through a big band section while maintaining a rich, woody core for solo work. It is exceptionally free-blowing compared to classical mouthpieces, offering a "buzz" and projection that is essential for bebop and contemporary jazz styles. It is arguably the most versatile tip opening in the V16 alto range.

The Choice of Soloists

The V16 A5 M is engineered for expression, allowing the player to shape their tone with maximum flexibility.

  • Iconic Tip Opening: The 188 opening offers enough resistance to control your altissimo while remaining open enough for effortless sub-toning in the lower register.
  • Medium Chamber (M): Provides a focused yet warm sound with incredible projection. The internal geometry is designed to facilitate a "ring" in the tone that is characteristic of vintage ebonite mouthpieces.
  • Medium Long Facing: This facing length provides the ideal vibrating surface for the reed, allowing for expressive vibrato and nuanced articulation.

Legendary Feel, Modern Consistency

While the V16 series is inspired by history, Vandoren’s modern manufacturing ensures every VASM811M is finished to perfection.

  • High-Grade Ebonite: Crafted from Vandoren's legendary vulcanized rubber, ensuring a warm, resonant sound that improves as the mouthpiece is "played in."
  • Optimized Reed Pairing: This mouthpiece is specifically balanced to work best with Vandoren #2.5 to #4 reeds, allowing for a wide variety of setups depending on your personal resistance preference.
  • Hand-Finished Precision: Each mouthpiece is meticulously checked to ensure the rails and tip are perfectly symmetrical for an even response across the entire horn.

Specifications

Model Code VASM811M (A5 M)
Tip Opening 188 (1/100mm)
Facing Length Medium Long
Chamber Medium (M)
Series V16 Ebonite
Instrument Alto Saxophone

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Small (S+) and Medium (M) chamber?
The Medium chamber (M) provides a more traditional, round, and warm jazz sound with a rich core. The Small (S+) chamber is more focused and brighter, designed for even more projection and "edge."

What reeds do you recommend for the A5?
For a classic jazz sound, we recommend Vandoren Java (Green or Red) or ZZ reeds in strengths 2.5 to 3. If you prefer a more resistant, darker jazz tone, try the Vandoren V16 reeds in strength 3 or 3.5.

Is the A5 suitable for a student moving into jazz?
Yes, the A5 is the most common "first professional jazz mouthpiece." It is open enough to produce a real jazz tone but not so large that it becomes difficult for an advancing student to control intonation.

SKU VASM811M
Barcode # 008576231118
Brand Vandoren

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