Tenor Reeds

[SaxMBB]

I classify myself as a fairly good amateur saxophonist. However, I am constantly fighting reeds on my tenor. IF I get a good one, I get a really nice sound. But, it seems the next time I play, the reed doesn't work. I'm currently playing an RIA 6* (.105") with RR Jazz Select 2H reeds. I have no problems at all on alto (Meyer 7 w/ LaVoz medium)

I started using Fibracell reeds based on a recommendation from a past teacher. I have a problem in that I play in church services where the horn sits for 20 minutes then I need to pick it up and play something inspirational. I use them on soprano and tenor and am satisfied with the results.

Is there any magic to getting tenor reeds to work consistently? Or is it just working through a large quantity to find one that works?

[Josh]

Three things:
1) Don't be so picky about reeds, you have better things to spend money on.
2) You may want to buy a half size up because reeds tend to get softer after the first few days.
3) Try a more consistent brand of reed.

[Subtone Sam]

SaxMBB,try drilling your reeds,it does make a huge difference.Also,soak them new for 10-15 minutes.

[Andrew]

Cane reeds are very picky, and really, I don't think there will ever be a brand that will come out with a line of having all 10 reeds being perfect. I suggest that you just stick to the synthetic reeds, as those will be consistant 99.9% of the time.

[Ritchie]

You may want to try to break in the reeds. A good break in procedure is described here: http://www.superial.com/notes.html. Keep in mind that reeds as a natural products have greater tolerances in strength than synthetics. Most often reeds rated as "unplayable" are just a bit too hard or too soft. Too hard reeds feel stuffy.

Andrew, I had a lot of boxes where 10 of 10 reeds or 5 of 5 reeds were good players (Rico Select Jazz, Alexander Superials, Vandoren V16, etc.) and - with very few exceptions - I play all the reeds of a box. I play several reeds in rotation, so maybe I simply got used to some tolerances in reed hardness. I still have to find the synthetic reed that gives me the same sound and feel like natural cane. Or it still has to be invented...

[Ritchie]

... but I do prefer synthetic reeds on bass clarinet and clarinet.

[StevoJazz]

I prefer Vandoren Java or Vandoren. They work very well and consistent. V16 by vandoren is also very good. Try them.

[Anonymous]

The quest for the "Perfect Reed" is a personal one.

My preference is for Bari and Bari *, and, frankly I can't see what the others may offer that could possibly offset the uniformity and durability of them. As far as sound is concerned, you will, most likely, get the same sound out of any good reed after you get accustomed to it!

But advice isn't what you need! Personal experience is the key!