[zxcvbnm]

My vandoren al3 has a very (~1 millimeter)tiny nick on the tip (it came this way), and I was wondering if this affects the sound. I've been playing on it for a long time, and I've never noticed any problems. But then again, I've never played another al3 with my sax and reeds, so I really don't know. There is a slight buzzing sound in the tone, but this is probably due to the fact that my reeds are too soft for this piece. Thanks in advance for your answers.

 

[MojoBari]

If it is on the very tip and does not cross the tip rail, it is not a big deal. It would squeak if it was a problem.

Buzzing could be from a soft reed, but going to a harder reed is not a good idea if it tires your chops after 30 minutes of playing.