Reed guards make a difference?

[Alto Saxy]

Anyone know if reed cases in which the reed sits on glass (such as the selmer reed cases) actually prevent a reed from warping and make them last longer vs the cheap la voz reed guards? I was never a person for spending money on things like this, but if it actually helps make reeds last longer, it may save money in the long run.

[Timmy_G]

I believe my music teacher uses a square piece of glass and a rubber band.

[Dave Dolson]

I admit to not trying every product on the market, but I use reed-guards and the Pro-Tek reed case. I always experience some warping when a reed dries - I've found nothing to prevent it.

But, warping hasn't seemed to ruin a reed . . . I merely wet them properly and then press them on a flat surface by rubbing the vamps. The tip straightens out and the reeds play fine. DAVE

[Rex]

I use the old-style aluminum Reedguard for clarinet, and the black (blue? yellow?) "ventilated" plastic for sax reeds. I have also used plexiglass and rubber bands. Just don't crush the heart by pushing them into the Reedguard too hard.

[Alto Saxy]

But has anyone noticed any difference between keeping reeds on a flat surface such as glass vs the regular lavoz reed guards?

[Vortex]

Plain plastic lavoz reedgard - no hassle, no warping, dirt cheap. Make sure to push the reeds in firm, but not too firm. I don't see why people have to spring for more expensive reedcare systems, I live in one of the most variably humid places around and never have any trouble. The other day our humidity dropped to 14%, didn't notice a difference in my reeds.

BTW I have tried the reedvitalizer with good results except for when a wave of mold completely wiped out a set of my best DC's. Hate the things now, and they cost like $9 extra every 6 weeks. Don't need 'em.