Vandoren B40 Lyre 13 Series Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece - Profile 88

The Vandoren B40 Lyre 13 Series represents the perfect intersection of a full, round sound and a rich, complex tonal palette. Engineered specifically for the 13 Series, this mouthpiece is pitched at A440, catering to the intonation needs of clarinetists in Australia and the US. With its 117.5 tip opening and long facing, the B40 Lyre is particularly celebrated for its easy-blowing characteristics, especially when navigating the challenges of the upper register.

Angkor Music Performance Insight

The B40 Lyre is a "player's mouthpiece." At Angkor Music, we recommend this model for clarinetists who want the depth of a traditional B40 but with a more responsive, effortless feel in the high altissimo. The Profile 88 beak provides a shallower angle for the teeth, which many professionals find essential for maintaining a relaxed embouchure during demanding solos. If you are looking for a mouthpiece that "sings" in the upper register while maintaining a chocolatey, dark core in the lower chalumeau, this is an outstanding choice.

Tonal Depth & Upper Register Brilliance

The B40 Lyre provides a unique internal geometry that balances resistance with free-blowing ease.

  • Rich Tone Color: Designed to offer a spectrum of sound that remains colorful and vibrant across all dynamic levels, from a whisper to a fortissimo.
  • Effortless Highs: The long facing length is specifically calibrated to facilitate the upper register, making high notes speak with clarity and minimal back-pressure.
  • Round Sound: Unlike sharper, more "edgy" mouthpieces, the B40 Lyre maintains a velvety, round characteristic that blends beautifully in orchestral and chamber settings.

The 13 Series Profile 88 Standard

Vandoren combines historical ebonite expertise with modern ergonomic refinements in the CM4198 model.

  • 13 Series Tuning (A440): Optimized for the international tuning standard, providing superior intonation stability compared to standard European A442 models.
  • Profile 88 Beak: The exterior taper is designed for maximum comfort, allowing for a more natural airflow and reduced jaw strain during long rehearsals.
  • Vandoren Precision: Every mouthpiece is crafted from high-quality vulcanized rubber, ensuring a durable, non-warping surface that delivers consistent performance year after year.

Specifications

Tip Opening 117.5 (1/100mm)
Facing Length Long
Series 13 Series (A440)
Beak Design Profile 88
Instrument Bb Clarinet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the B40 Lyre differ from the standard B40?
The B40 Lyre offers a slightly different internal design that makes it more "free-blowing" than the traditional B40, particularly improving the ease of response in the upper register while maintaining a similar tonal thickness.

What reed strength is ideal for a 117.5 tip opening?
Because of the slightly more open tip and long facing, we generally recommend starting with Vandoren Traditional (Blue Box) 2.5 to 3, or V12 and 56 Rue Lepic strengths 3 to 3.5+.

Is this mouthpiece suitable for students?
The B40 Lyre is an excellent upgrade for advancing intermediate students looking for a more professional, colorful sound. However, it does require a developed embouchure to manage the 117.5 opening effectively.

SKU VACM4198
Brand Vandoren

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