want opinions on larger tip openings/reed combinations

[spiderjames]

when you move to a larger tip opening do you generally go to a softer or firmer reed or the same? I moved from a ottolink 5* HR to a metal brilhart levelair #7. I kept the reed the same. vandoren #3 that I balance and shave a little to get the low end responding better. Would like to hear other players experiences.

[knighttrain]

I'd definitely go softer if I was losing bottom end responsiveness. If not, I'd keep it constant

[Bootman]

You could also try drilling your reed, this normally frees up the bottom end response of your horn.

[HonkBopSax]

After using a Florida 9 with Rico Royal 5's for a year, I just had my horn overhauled and wasn't playing much tenor. Just got it back, put on a 3 and am much more comfortable. I'll worry about 'overdrive' later, but for now, it's got a huge sound, very comfortable...I think it just takes some getting used to...

[MojoBari]

If the larger tip also has a longer facing, you can get away with the same reed strength.

[Frank D]

Also, adding more baffle lets you tolerate a harder reed while going to a larger tip opening (did I say that right?) For example, I play a 2.5 or medium soft on just about everything, including:

Link Super Tone Master (.110 and no baffle)
Guardala Studio (.120 and high baffle)
Berg 130/0 (.130 and high baffle)

So in general, as you move to a more open facing, you can use a softer reed, but increasing the baffle slows down that progression. Of course, that does leave out the facing lenght factor, but I'll leave that to the experts in that area.

[Andrea]

i AM CURRENTLY PLAYING ON A VINTAGE SOLOIST C* OPENED BY JVW TOA .085, SO I THINK LIKE AN E OR A BIT MORE. I NEED SOME ADVICES ABOUT A GOOD REED, BRAND AND STRENGHT!