The synthetic reed by Vandoren

VK is a synthetic reed made of a composite material specially developed by Vandoren. It is the result of 7 years of research.

This composite material does not imitate the structure of the reed. It reproduces the essential physical characteristics of the reed to obtain the same acoustic behavior.

VK reeds are made in France in Bormes les Mimosas

Vandoren VK reeds are fully recyclable

Same acoustic behavior as natural reeds

Totally new

The VK reed is completely new, both in terms of the material of which it is made and the method of obtaining the material, and is covered by an international patent.

The VK reed, and the material of which it is made, are produced in France in Bormes-Les-Mimosas. These reeds are 100% recyclable.

Due to limited availability VK products are currently available only in the USA

VK Strength Traditional reed strength
35
n°2½
Medium
40
n°2½
Hard
45
n°3
Soft
50
n°3
Medium
55
n°3
Hard
60
n°3½
Soft
VK Strength Traditional reed strength
(broken-in reed)
60
medium
55
soft
50
3
Hard
45
medium
40
soft
35
hard

6 strengths available

There are six Vandoren VK strengths available. All strengths fall between 2.5-3.5 traditional reed strength.

The VK strengths correspond to subdivisions by thirds of the usual half strengths

The VK reeds strengths corresponds to sixths of cane reed strength

The VK reed is currently only available for Clarinet.

The performance of the VK reed

4 advantages of the Vandoren VK reed to know

en savoir plus

Stability

The material is moisture resistant, rot-proof, does not warp when dried and is saliva resistant.

en savoir plus

Durability

The VK performs considerably longer than cane reeds with a high level of consistency.

the VK reed should be stored on a flat surface.

We recommend the use of a flat surfaced reed holder (not a standard reed holder).
en savoir plus

Ease of use

The reeds can be used directly out of the packaging, without any preparation.
The material is washable and can be disinfected with alcohol or with any food compliant disinfectant.

en savoir plus

Consistency

Unparalleled consistency resulting in reliable strength, sound, articulation, projection and high note stability

Perfectly safe

The VK reeds comply with the toy standard, chemical part, EU Directive 2009/48/EC, Annex II – Part III.
The material is also hypoallergenic.

Anti-counterfeiting
identification

Vandoren VK reeds are a quality product with a worldwide reputation.

Each of our VK reeds is identified using a unique code such as xxx – xxx

Check it online on our dedicated website

Reeds comparison chart

Our reeds comparison chart is built according to theoretical values. It allows you, for a given reed strength, to compare all the cuts.