Detail 01
Strength 2
On the soft end. Vibrates with less air pressure, which helps low notes speak but gives up some upper-register stability.
Product detailSKU #1274228081163
VandorenContra-Alto/Contrabass Clarinet Reeds Strength 2 Box of 5
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Box of five strength 2 reeds sized for contra-alto and contrabass clarinet. Soft-end strength, aimed at easier response on a large mouthpiece.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Contrabass or contra-alto players who want low-effort response
- Doublers picking up a contra part for one concert cycle
- Students on school-owned contras building air support
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Bass or soprano clarinet — these reeds are too large
- Players wanting more resistance and control in loud passages
- Anyone needing a big stock; five reeds go fast
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
Box of 5
Fewer per box than smaller clarinet reeds. Contra reeds are large, so the count is lower for the money.
Detail 03
Contra-alto and contrabass fit
One cut covers both horns. It will not fit bass, alto, or Bb soprano clarinet mouthpieces.
Detail 04
Cane single reed
A consumable. Each reed lasts weeks of regular playing, and individual reeds vary within the same box.
Detail 05
Large reed size
Needs a wide reed guard and case slot. Standard soprano clarinet reed holders won't take these.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Reeds only — no ligature, cap, or reed guard in the box
- 02Expect variation between reeds; not all five will play equally
- 03Break new reeds in gradually and rotate rather than playing one out
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Will these fit my bass clarinet?
No. These are cut for contra-alto and contrabass clarinet, which take a noticeably larger reed than bass clarinet. A bass clarinet mouthpiece won't hold them correctly.
02Is strength 2 too soft for me?
It's toward the soft end. Response is easy and low notes speak readily, but if you push hard volume you may find the reed closes off.
03How many reeds are in the box?
Five. Contra reeds are large, so boxes come in smaller counts than soprano clarinet reeds, which are typically sold ten to a box.
04How long does a reed last?
It varies with playing time and hygiene. Rotating between several reeds instead of using one every day meaningfully extends how long each one stays playable.
