Question bout reeds.

[Dvdl]

I have been playing sax for about 3 years now, in a mostly classical school band. I currently use a selmer s80 with vandoren size 3, but the director of my other band is really, really picky about getting harder reeds. 6 months ago, it was size 2.5 , about 3 months ago,size 3, and how he wants size 3.5. Unfortunately, I only just bought a box of vandoren 3(blue box) and I don't really think its good to keep buying more reeds all the time since I dont break them(i have a low budget too :D). Should I just get a harder reed or should I stick to the size 3, which I've heard goes well with the s80?

[cleger]

Has a reason been given for suggesting the increased stiffness? I have recently gone up in stiffness because I was finding that my high notes were getting really thin and shrill and going up in reeds seemed to be the only thing that made my sound better. If he is suggesting a change for a reason like that, you might consider giving it a try. If it is a general "the stiffer, the better" attitude, and you are happy with your sound I wouldn't change.

I'm a relative beginner so take this advice for what it is, the best efforts of a newbie.