Vandoren V12 Bb Clarinet reeds are made from cane tube with the same diameter as those used for alto saxophone reeds. The design of the V12 has a thicker heel and tip and longer palette than those of the Traditional. This combination of design features results in more of the reed vibrating, aiding players to produce warm, rich and powerful tones together with more articulation. The thicker tip increases the life span of the reed as well as giving the sound more attack. The addition of the 3.5 strength gives a smaller and more specific grading meaning reeds tend to be more consistent in the same strength level.