A warm and percussive reed, with a great depth of sound

Launched in 1993 to answer the demand of some American jazz musicians (a JAVA with even more wood). V16 reeds have a medium-thick heart (more than JAVAs but less than Traditionals). They also have a thicker tip, designed for producing a strong attack. V16 reeds are the darkest jazz reeds that Vandoren have to offer, and are great for a smokey subtone sound. Although they can still deliver a bright cutting sound when pushed with the right mouthpiece. 

Despite being on the darker end of the spectrum, we've found these reeds to be particularly suited to being played loudly! So if you're the kind of player who likes to put a lot of air through the instrument, and you need a reed that can take the punishment. This could be the one for you!

Staff Review

To all intents and purposes, the same as Javas but with one important difference- they are thicker. These reeds are designed to respond well when played hard and loud. Whereas most reeds will become uncooperative if pushed too much, these are specifically cut to avoid these issues. An ideal choice for anyone playing over a heavily amplified backing, or someone who just likes to put a lot of air through their horn without it ‘stalling’ - Jim Cheek (j[email protected])