Klarinet Archive - Posting 000780.txt from 1995/05

From: SCOTT MCCHESNEY <scmcchesney@-----.NET>
Subj: Re: RE>Vandorens vs. Mitchell L
Date: Sat, 27 May 1995 15:50:17 -0400

>stiffer than the regulars. In actuality, the V12's are consistently a full
>half-strength *softer* than a same-numbered box of standard Vandoren reeds.

I worked in a music store for a while, and I must say that
your experience is very unusual. I don't doubt it, but almost to a man (or
woman) that tried the V12 reeds said they were harder than regular Vandorens.
Like I said, I feel they are harder, as did most everybody else in the store
who tried them - and most of the salespeople that I was around were, oddly
enough, Clarinet players. What an environment...
As for the V12 reeds being SOFTER than the regular Vandorens, I can
agree with that; I have always felt since I switched that the regular Vandorens
lasted longer. They did require quite a break-in period, and I usually rotate
between four reeds when I play. Those first weeks (actually it takes me about
a week to really break in a regular Vandoren reed) are hell on my embouchere,
too. But once they're broken in, Vandorens go on for a long time.
Chuck: since you are the one who originally asked this question, and I
really never said anything about this in my first post, I'll give my opinion on
what to play: use the REGULAR VANDORENS. They last longer, and are not as
expensive as the V12's. Don't get me wrong: the V12 reeds are good reeds, but
the regular ones last longer for you, and are cheaper - good cost-conscious
tips. :)

-- Scott