Klarinet Archive - Posting 000994.txt from 1998/08

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] Plastic Reeds??
Date: Mon, 31 Aug 1998 22:06:19 -0400

Hey....it was still on my hard drive!
Here is the info.

On Fri, 24 Jul 1998, Roger Garrett wrote:

> Legere
> 29 Weatherup Cres.
> Barrie, Ont., Canada
> L4N 7J6
>
> Dr. Guy Legere
>
> Email: legere@-----.net
>
> These are dscribed as Custom Design, Synitheic, Cane
>
> Exerpt from the literature:
>
> "At the heart of the Legere story is a unique synthetic plymer which is
> being used for reed making for the first time. This material is quite
> different than previously used synthetics, and has mechanical properties
> very close to those of the finest cane in its playing state. We control
> the material itself, making it harder or softer to achieve the desired
> response and tonal quality. The Legere reed is durable and maintenance
> free; and, best of all, its ready to go when you are - consistent high
> quality sound, every time."
>
> NOTE - we didn't have to wet these things....they played dry - and they
> never changed quality within the 15 minute time span we tested
> them......unusual even for a cane reed.
>
> The reeds are based on commercial reed measurements.....if I understood
> Dr. Legere correctly, the vamp and all other measurements are reflected in
> 5000 points of measure that are analyzed by computer which then controls
> the highly developed milling equipment. They are hand finished after the
> cut. It is described as "the latest in computer controlled
> machinery......a process which is both infintely controllable and highly
> reproducible."
>
> "In addition to offering standard profiles, Legere is willing to work with
> individuals on custom reeds. We have the ability to micro step the
> strength of the reed without modifying the profile as well the ability to
> generate a profile specifc to your needs. Old reeds that once played well
> can be quickly digitized to make Legere reeds, or we can work from a set
> of measurements that you provide."
>
> I ordered three of the Bb's - two for which were at my "comfortable"
> playing strengths on each side (hard and soft) and one centered between.
> The two that I tried I could have played a recital on that night....they
> were that good. I play on a size 4 V12 Bb reed - the corresponding number
> for that particular reed is:
>
> 073
>
> 079 was between a 4 and a 4.5
>
> The Bass Clarinet reed was slightly soft, but they will make two that are
> slighly harder for me - and they really played brilliantly - in all
> registers.
>
> My experiences with plastic reeds has always been strident tones with poor
> pitch at either end of the registers - but these played well top to
> bottom....with the right amount of resistance and a beautiful sound.
> Pretty impressive for a couple of chemists!
>
> Roger Garrett
> IWU
>
> On Fri, 24 Jul 1998, Barbara Guyll wrote:
>
> > Hi Roger,
> >
> > I would love that extra info on the plastic reeds!
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Ray Guyll
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > -------------------------------------------------------------------------
> >
> >
>
>

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