Vandoren ZZ great altissimo

[limpan2]

A couple of days ago I tried a Vandoren ZZ on my tenor metal V16 and my altissimo became great. Altissimo isn´t my strong side but every altissimonote became pretty nice and easy to play especially the hi G that I´ve never succeed with earlier. I´ve never liked the ZZ before but it made my tone very nice in every register and it responds very good.

[Spongebob Saxpants]

This may not be the only reason for you hitting altissimo (though I do like the ZZ's myself). Vandoren is known for having stronger reeds than other brands. If you were using a Rico 3 and then switched to a Vandoren 3 it would be equivalent to moving up a half strength or so (though you might already know that).

[Jeff C]

Thats cool that you found the right reed for you. You may find that "that" reed on another mouthpiece or with a different ligature , may not work. In my opinion, from what I have experienced, good altissimo comes from a combination of the right mouthpiece, reed and ligature. Then of course, technique.

[Pharmasax]

I essentially do agree with Jeff C. To find the "correct" reed (cut) for your mpc is the way to go to get good performances from your horn.