The Fingering Forum  
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Author: Jennifer  
Date:   2004-09-24 03:34 
 hi I play two instruments and i am on a size three reed for the clarinet and a 2 1/2 for the alto sax. But both of these reeds seem to soft. Should i swich reed brands or 
 bump them up a step like a 3 1/2 for clarinet and a 3 for alto can anybody help me? 
  
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Author: Jon  
Date:   2004-09-24 06:51 
 first of all what brand are u using? 
2nd of all u should know that the first time u ply a reed it loses .5 of its hardness. so therefore always go atleast.5 higher than u think 
most people play with a 3 reed it puts out the best sound and is an all around good reed 
 
hope this helps 
 
Musically yours, 
Jon K
  
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Author: Casalen  
Date:   2004-10-07 04:41 
 You should always soak reeds for a long time and never judge them until you've tried a few times. Most people use a 3 for alto sax in my expierience. Vandoran is the usual brand, I find that a Java allows a lot of versatility and playability, V16's are pretty good if you don't want a bright sound. Have you tried sanding down reeds? This will help if you think the larger ones aren't quite right for you.
  
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