Best Clarinet Mouthpieces of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Clarinet mouthpieces are an essential part of any clarinet player's toolkit. They determine the tone, projection, and overall sound of the instrument. There are many different types of mouthpieces available on the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Some mouthpieces are designed for classical music, while others are better suited for jazz or other genres. They come in a range of materials, including plastic, hard rubber, and metal, and each material can affect the sound produced. Ultimately, choosing the right mouthpiece is a personal preference that depends on the player's style, skill level, and the type of music they want to play.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover #TOP 1
Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Yamaha Clarinet Mouthpiece YAC1266 Cover #TOP 2
Yamaha Clarinet Mouthpiece YAC1266
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Vandoren B45 Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover #TOP 3
Vandoren B45 Clarinet Mouthpiece
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Clarinet Mouthpieces

#TOP 1

Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece

YAC CL4C
black,brown
Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece, Standard Series

The Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece is an official original-equipment mouthpiece made of safe and durable phenol resin plastic. It was designed with the beginner in mind, making it easy to produce a terrific sound. The state of the art manufacturing produces a high-quality and consistent mouthpiece that fits any brand of standard clarinet.

What We Like
Designed for beginners to produce a terrific sound.
Made of safe and durable phenol resin plastic.
High-quality and consistent mouthpiece.
#TOP 2

Yamaha Clarinet Mouthpiece YAC1266

YAC1266
#N/A
Yamaha Clarinet Mouthpiece YAC1266 Cover
Yamaha Clarinet Mouthpiece 4C

The Yamaha 4C Clarinet Mouthpiece is crafted from high-quality phenol resin, ensuring durability and a reliable performance. Its design draws inspiration from Yamaha's top-grade Custom series, making it a great choice for players looking to enhance their sound. This mouthpiece offers a highly consistent playing experience, which is essential for developing musicians. As an intermediate player, you will appreciate the ease of use and the improved tone quality it provides, helping you to express your musicality with confidence.

What We Like
Durable phenol resin construction
Custom series design
Consistent performance
Ideal for intermediate players
#TOP 3

Vandoren B45 Clarinet Mouthpiece

CM308
Traditional
B flat
Vandoren B45 Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
Vandoren CM308 B45 Traditional Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

The Vandoren CM308 B45 Traditional Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece, designed by Bernard Van Doren, is a universal mouthpiece with a medium long facing and traditional beak that is appreciated by many musicians and band directors. It works best with Vandoren #2.5-#3.5+ reeds and has a tip opening of 119.5 (1/100mm).

What We Like
Universal mouthpiece design appreciated by many musicians and band directors
Medium long facing and traditional beak
Works best with Vandoren #2.5-#3.5+ reeds
#TOP 4

D'Addario Rico Graftonite B5 Clarinet Mouthpiece

RRGMPCBCLB5
Clear
D'Addario Rico Graftonite B5 Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
D’Addario Woodwinds D'Addario Rico Graftonite Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece, B5

The D'Addario Rico Graftonite B5 Clarinet Mouthpiece is a durable mouthpiece for Bb Clarinet. It has a tip opening of .050" and a facing length of 19mm. The mouthpiece is available in three tip openings and three chambers. It is made of high-quality material that will not chip or crack.

What We Like
Durable material
Available in three tip openings and three chambers
High-quality performance
#TOP 5

J&D Hite H111 Premiere Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

J&D Hite
H111
black,brown
J&D Hite H111 Premiere Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
J&D Hite H111 Premiere Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

The J&D Hite H111 Premiere Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece is a high-quality mouthpiece designed specifically for Bb clarinets. It offers the superior performance of hard rubber at an affordable student price. Made in the United States, this mouthpiece is perfect for students and beginners who want to enhance their playing experience. With its durable construction and precise design, the J&D Hite Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece ensures excellent sound projection and response. Its comfortable fit and easy-to-use design make it a convenient choice for clarinet players of all levels. Whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage, this mouthpiece will provide you with the quality and performance you need to excel.

What We Like
High-quality performance
Affordable for students
Durable construction
#TOP 6

Vandoren CM318 M30 Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

CM318
Black
Vandoren CM318 M30 Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
Vandoren CM318 M30 Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

The Vandoren Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece is a versatile mouthpiece that offers great flexibility and a well-balanced timbre. With a tip opening of 115 (1/100mm) and a long facing, this mouthpiece allows for easy playing and produces a round and resonant sound. It is designed to work best with Vandoren #3-#4 reeds, providing optimal performance and responsiveness. The traditional beak design ensures comfort and ease of use. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this mouthpiece offers convenience and a high-quality sound for all your clarinet playing needs.

What We Like
Flexible and well-balanced timbre
Easy playing and round sound
Optimal performance with Vandoren reeds
#TOP 7

Vandoren Clarinet Mouthpiece (CM1405)

CM1405
MultiColored
13 Series
Vandoren Clarinet Mouthpiece (CM1405) Cover
Vandoren Clarinet Mouthpiece (CM1405)

The Vandoren Clarinet Mouthpiece (CM1405) offers amazing clarity, depth, and presence with its unique chamber design. It delivers flawless intonation, sound, and performance, making it unmistakably Vandoren. This mouthpiece is part of the Series 13 A=440 and falls under the category of clarinet mouthpieces.

What We Like
Offers amazing clarity, depth, and presence
Delivers flawless intonation, sound, and performance
Unique chamber design
#TOP 8

Vandoren 5RV Lyre Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

CM302
Vandoren 5RV Lyre Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
Vandoren CM302 5RV Lyre Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece

The Vandoren CM302 5RV Lyre Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece is designed with a longer facing and is more open than the 5RV. It is part of the Vandoren 5RV Lyre Series, and is compatible with Bb Clarinets.

What We Like
Longer facing and more open design than the 5RV
Part of the Vandoren 5RV Lyre Series
Compatible with Bb Clarinets
#TOP 9

D’Addario Reserve MCR-X5 Mouthpiece

MCR-X5
D’Addario Reserve MCR-X5 Mouthpiece Cover
D’Addario Woodwinds Reserve Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece, X5, (Model: MCR-X5)

The D’Addario Reserve Mouthpiece is a groundbreaking tool for clarinet players. It is the first mouthpiece made entirely through precision milling, offering a vintage-inspired design with a medium facing. This unique manufacturing process uses proprietary rubber, ensuring a quality that is both durable and responsive. You will appreciate the accuracy provided by precision machining, eliminating the need for hand finishing. Designed by a skilled team of musicians and engineers, this mouthpiece meets the demands of serious players, helping you achieve a richer sound and better performance.

What We Like
Precision-milled design
Unique proprietary rubber
No hand finishing needed
Developed by experts
#TOP 10

Clark W Fobes Debut Student Clarinet Mouthpiece

Clark W Fobes
DEB CL
blue,brown
Clark W Fobes Debut Student Clarinet Mouthpiece Cover
Clark W Fobes Debut Student Clarinet Mouthpiece

The Clark W Fobes Debut Mouthpiece is a high-quality clarinet mouthpiece designed specifically for students. Hand finished and play tested, this mouthpiece ensures optimal performance and ease of use. The carefully crafted design allows for a smooth and consistent airflow, resulting in improved sound quality and projection. The Debut Mouthpiece is the best overall deal for student clarinet players, providing excellent value for money. With its reliable performance and affordable price, this mouthpiece is perfect for beginners and intermediate players alike. Upgrade your clarinet playing experience with the Clark W Fobes Debut Mouthpiece.

What We Like
High-quality
Smooth airflow
Excellent value for money
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I choose a mouthpiece for my clarinet?

When choosing a clarinet mouthpiece, consider the tip-opening. A closed tip has less resistance and produces a darker tone, while open tips have more resistance and a brighter tone. Beginners should opt for a medium-sized tip-opening, which pairs well with a medium-hard reed.

2. How often do you change the mouthpiece on a clarinet?

It is recommended to change the mouthpiece on a clarinet every 2-3 years. Over time, the reed vibration and regular use can physically alter the mouthpiece, affecting its performance. Some players may choose to keep using it, while others prefer to replace it.

3. What is the difference between the French and German clarinet mouthpiece?

The German clarinet mouthpiece is slightly longer and has a larger exterior circumference at the bottom compared to the French mouthpiece. The German mouthpiece also typically has a more concave baffle and a longer table. Additionally, French players often use a metal ligature to attach the reed to the mouthpiece.

4. What is the difference between 4C and 5C mouthpieces?

The 5C mouthpiece from the Standard Series has a slightly more open tip compared to the 4C mouthpiece. This means it may require more endurance and control with the muscles around the mouth, but in return, it can produce a bigger and fuller sound.

5. Should your teeth touch the clarinet?

When playing the clarinet, your bottom teeth should be covered by your bottom lip, and the reed should rest on your bottom lip. Your top teeth should firmly touch the mouthpiece, with your mouth closed in a smiling position.

6. Do clarinet mouthpieces make a difference?

Yes, clarinet mouthpieces can make a significant difference in the tone and response of the instrument. The internal design of the mouthpiece plays a crucial role in shaping the sound. If you have a specific sound in mind, choosing a mouthpiece with the right design can help you achieve your desired tone.

Editor's Notes

During our clarinet mouthpiece research, we found 24 clarinet mouthpiece products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,228 customer reviews through our big data system to write the clarinet mouthpieces list. We found that most customers choose clarinet mouthpieces with an average price of $75.42.

The clarinet mouthpieces are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of clarinet mouthpieces, including YAMAHA, Vandoren, D'Addario, J&D Hite, Clark W Fobes. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 456 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.