Reed Value

[Othello3]

I am truly sick of blowing money on reeds that I only practice on. I don't really mind having to modify/sand/adjust the odd reed but I would like to find a relatively consistent and relatively inexpensive reed brand. Thanks in advance.

[bluesaxgirl]

What do you use now?

[Othello3]

I use and have used a variety of reeds from Rico and Vandoren, brown box ricos, rico royals, Vandoren blue box, Java and ZZ. The regular brown Ricos are real junk. I can maybe make one in five work. Rico Royal and any of the Vandy reeds are great but too expensive.

[bluesaxgirl]

Sometimes I buy a synthetic reed to practice on (they last a long time), and for solo performances, and other performances, and I find a good Vandoren Blue Box.

They have a good sound, are usually always flawless, and last a very long time.

I use Legere.

Edit: You have to sacrifice one for the other, price vs. quality...it never works out in your favor. :D

[cjmdsax]

I would like to find a relatively consistent and relatively inexpensive reed brand.


Wouldn't we all :) I'd add Plasticovers to your list of reeds that are pretty consistent, at least for me. Don't know if they fit your style or preferred price range.

[estagro]

I use Fibracells sometimes, but mainly Vandoren Blue Box. Fibracells are good and last long. You could look into those.

[AmazingPhrasing]

I would try out LaVoz. Cheaper than most, and IMHO, better than most. What type of Music do you play?

[tenor and soprano]

agreed. lavoz are about $20/10reeds while other brands are more expensive. LaVoz also is pretty consistent.

[BYOB]

Try Hemkes too, they're relatively consistent players for me if you're looking at keeping the cost down.

And yea, I agree with bluesaxgirl - it's one or the other. If you pay a higher price, I do believe it'll pay off though, just because of how much longer you'll be able to play them for as well as the enjoyment you'll get out of playing them, rather than the frustration of playing a box of duds.

For Vandorens, I think the Javas and V16 reeds are the most consistent out of the bunch, and for the Rico family, I'd go for RJS, Hemke, or La Voz. The Reserve is good, if you're willing to dish out a decent sum for consistency and quality.