[lydian]

A #2 on a 4 tip on your alto is like a #1.5 or #1 on your 5* tip on tenor. If you're used to playing reeds that soft, I disagree with the advice to use much harder reeds. I personally don't see how you could do anything except subtone on an alto/tenor on reeds that soft unless you're 95 years old and have only one lung. You really need to work on your embouchure and breath support.

 

[lydian]

Thanks for the reply, I can subtone a 3.0 reed fine... Also on my 7* link. It is just that I'm wondering if a softer reed would make playing soft with a controlled sound easier?

Softer is always easier, especially on the low end. But the higher register and max volume suffers. You have to find a good compromise so you can play the entire range, not just the low end.

On a 7*, I would personally find a 3.0 to be just about right for both the high and low end. So I would encourage you to keep what you've got and practice.

 

[lydian]

Neither of your links work for me. User not found. Maybe it's not available in the US?

 

[lydian]

I was finally able to listen to your recording. In addition to what others have said, I'm not hearing any subtone at all, just straight tone. Are you trying to subtone? Do you know what subtone sounds like?