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What reeds to use with a 0.077 opening? Tenor mpc

2270 Views 4 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  dstack79
I use a Rovner light ligature, but I'm considering getting a Rovner Mark III.

I bought a Brilhart Ebolin 4* to use in addition to my Hite Premiere mouthpiece, and I'm having trouble finding a good strength of reed and a brand of reed. For the Hite, I typically get by with Rico 2 1/2 - 3s or Vandoren 2 1/2s. But the Hite's facing is 0.095...

So, I tried reeds of the same strength and brand on the Ebolin, but I just don't feel the same control and fullness of sound. For example, when I jump from a mid-E to a low-E it squawks as the note comes out. My low notes sound harsh and forced, but my upper range sounds pretty sweet.

If this is the case, should I use harder reeds or softer reeds?

Also, I'm looking for insight on reed recommendations. A lot of people I know rave about Vandoren Javas (green), but my experience with Vandoren Traditionals is that they are very inconsistent. After doing online research, I learned that Rico Reserve is rated to be very consistent.
I'm aware that Reserves lean toward a more concert and classical sound and Javas are more jazzy. Though, I saw a Youtube video of a guy playing jazz with a Reserve (but a jazz mouthpiece).

Oh, and Brilhart Ebolin 4* considered to be jazzy?

So, what are your personal experience with Javas or Reserves? How do their reed strengths vary (are they harder than Vandorens or softer, etc)? How is the control?

I guess reed strength preference varies with player too, but I'm looking for control.

Thanks.
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Keep going stiffer with your reed until the resistance in the Brilhart feels comfortable. You should be able to play low notes softly and high notes loudly without closing off the reed. The charts say a Brilhart 4* is a .077. But they are inconsistent so you need to have the tip measured to know what you actually have there.
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