Detail 01
Profile 88
The beak sits at 88 degrees instead of the traditional 85. Flatter under the top teeth, so the embouchure angle shifts.
Product detailSKU #1274228081297
VandorenM15 Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece Profile 88 - M15 (A442)
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A Vandoren Bb clarinet mouthpiece with the 88-degree beak and A442 pitch center, for players replacing a stock student mouthpiece.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Students moving off the mouthpiece that came with the horn
- Players in ensembles that tune to A=442
- Anyone who finds a steep beak angle uncomfortable under the top teeth
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- A, Eb, or bass clarinet players — this is Bb only
- Players settled on a traditional-profile beak and reluctant to relearn the angle
- Anyone wanting a complete setup out of one purchase
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
A442
Pitch center is built around A=442. Playing with an A=440 group means pulling out at the barrel to compensate.
Detail 03
M15 designation
Vandoren's model name fixes the facing and tip pairing. Order a replacement by name and it plays the same.
Detail 04
Bb clarinet
Bore and shank are cut for Bb. It will not seat correctly on A, Eb, or bass clarinet barrels.
Detail 05
$131.50
Professional-tier mouthpiece money. It is the largest change in sound and response available without buying a different clarinet.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Budget for a ligature and cap alongside this if you don't have spares
- 02Check whether your group tunes to 440 or 442 before committing
- 03Reed strength that worked on your old mouthpiece may need adjusting
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What does Profile 88 actually mean?
The angle of the beak — the sloped top surface your teeth rest on. 88 degrees is flatter than Vandoren's traditional profile, which changes how the mouthpiece sits in your embouchure.
02Can I use this if my band tunes to 440?
Yes. It is built to center at 442, so you'll sit slightly sharp at 440 and pull out at the barrel to bring it down. Most players manage this without trouble.
03Will my current ligature fit?
Ligatures are sized to the mouthpiece body, and the 88 profile differs from traditional Vandoren blanks. Check fit before assuming your existing one clamps evenly.
04Does this fit an Eb clarinet?
No. This is a Bb clarinet mouthpiece. Eb clarinet takes a smaller mouthpiece and smaller reeds.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
1 detailsBody & build
- Color
- M15 (A442)
