Detail 01
1.09+ mm tip opening
Close side of medium. Less air needed to start the reed, so response is easy and control comes quickly.
Product detailSKU #1274228081289
Vandoren5RV Lyre Series Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece 5RV Lyre - Traditional
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Vandoren 5RV Lyre, ebonite Bb clarinet mouthpiece with a medium facing. A standard step-up from a stock student piece for intermediate and advancing players.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Students moving off a factory mouthpiece
- Concert band and classical clarinet playing
- Players wanting easier response without a harder reed
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Players needing a bright, loud jazz or klezmer edge
- Anyone without a ligature and cap on hand
- Bass or A clarinet — this is Bb
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Medium facing
The reed leaves the rail at a moderate distance, balancing flexibility and stability. Forgiving across a wide reed strength range.
Detail 03
Ebonite body
Hard rubber. Warmer, rounder sound than plastic and less prone to chipping, but it dulls in sunlight and needs gentle cleaning.
Detail 04
Ligature not included
You must supply a ligature and cap. Your current one likely fits, since this uses a standard Bb clarinet blank.
Detail 05
5RV Lyre vs plain 5RV
The Lyre runs a slightly longer facing with a more open feel, so the upper register responds more freely.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Ligature and cap are not included — reuse yours or buy separately.
- 02Reeds are not included; a medium facing pairs well with mid-strength reeds.
- 03Keep ebonite out of direct sun and hot cars; heat and UV discolor it.
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Will my old ligature fit the 5RV Lyre?
Most standard Bb clarinet ligatures fit. Vandoren does not include one, so plan to use your existing ligature or buy one alongside.
02What reed strength should I use with a 5RV Lyre?
The medium facing and 1.09+ mm tip work across a broad range. Many players land on mid-strength reeds; go softer if the response feels stiff, harder if the tone spreads.
03Is the 5RV Lyre good for beginners?
It works best once basic embouchure is set. As a first upgrade off a stock mouthpiece it's a common choice, since the close tip makes response easy.
04How do I clean an ebonite mouthpiece?
Swab it after playing and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, alcohol, and harsh cleaners — they dull and discolor hard rubber over time.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
2 detailsBody & build
- Material
- Ebonite
- Color
- Traditional
3 detailsOther
- Tip Opening
- 1.09+ mm
- Ligature
- Not Included
- Facing
- Medium
