 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2025-11-18 02:45
So I've decided to just comment as I evaluate this reed.
This is the French Cut Soprano Saxophone reed. The main feature is the vamp configuration which features two offset spines rather than one central one (same configuration of the French cut clarinet reeds). The length is new to the Legere soprano saxophone reeds which is now approx. 6.2 cm long, opposed to the approx 5.85cm. This is a welcome feature for clarinet players since the shorter reeds of the past where sometimes a challenge to adjust up and down around one's ligature.
These saxophone reeds are also thicker up and down (like the clarinet counterpart), so probably more friendly to more ligatures.
So far I agree with the relative strength assessment given by Legere itself comparing the Signature Soprano Sax reeds to the French cut. The French cut is a little weaker. As a result, I initially ordered the strength just under what I use in the Signature Soprano because the other Legere ratings state that the French cut is "darker" and more "resistant." I take issue with those claims. For me, on Bb clarinet, the sound projects and responds much as I have come to expect from the Signature version.
Right now I'd say there may be some really nice qualities here. I ultimately was less enthusiastic about the French cut Bb clarinet reeds because they just did not offer enough of a robustness to the sound. The additional material left and right (the width of this reed is identical to the other Legere Soprano Saxophone reeds) seems to add what was lacking from the Bb French cut reeds.........so far.
So I will add more once the quarter strength stronger reed arrives. Right now the delivery time was stupid fast. I ordered my initial reed late Saturday night and I got it today (MONDAY) !!!!
...............Paul Aviles
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Author: Ed
Date: 2025-11-18 16:14
Interesting to read your thoughts on the French Cut clarinet reed. I have found it to have a rich, full and projecting tone. I'll be interested in hearing more about these new soprano reeds.
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Author: SecondTry
Date: 2025-11-18 22:18
I always enjoy hearing what you have to say about new products Paul, particularly in the synthetic reed space, and thank you for you input.
If I may read between the lines--maybe incorrectly--this Soprano Sax French Cut Legere reed has its attributes but I am not sensing any wow factor from you upon initial trials.
Do correct that if wrong. Thanks.
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Author: lydian
Date: 2025-11-19 23:54
How do you like it on soprano sax? I haven't found any Legere I like on soprano sax (or alto or tenor) yet. I do like the French cut clarinet reed on clarinet.
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2025-11-20 02:32
I don't have sax in my wheelhouse.......never gained an appreciation for that particular aesthetic.
Currently I am using the Vandoren BD2 (smaller tip opening for the Black Diamond line).
I am only a day away from receiving the next strength up but, I can say that the current reed is a mixed bag. I assumed my issue with the French Cut Bb clarinet reed was related to the amount of material wagging about the very tip of the reed. I now have an ideal example of what I thought the solution would be. The reed is weaker than I would like in every playing condition I've subjected it too so far so a more definitive result is not yet possible. So far though there are some better properties than the Signature Soprano Saxophone reeds of the same strength, and also some that are less satisfying.
.................Paul Aviles
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