Author: William
Date: 2009-09-18 16:03
As for reeds, I have always used shortened V12 Bb reeds on my Eb mouthpieces--usually either a Charles Bay custom or vintage Selmer HS*. As many others have discovered, the extra width of the Bb tip lends more focus to the effer sound--often described as "darker" or more "Bb-like".
As I have now switched to Forestone reeds for my soprano clarinets, I recently decided to try a shortened F 3.5 Bb reed on my effer and was "blown away" at how much better it played. Big sound from bottom to top with all the power anyone would ever need. Plus, the reed will not dry out sitting on the stand nor will it change during the performance. Also, with the Forestone, it seems much easier for me to play those altissimo problem notes in tune. But even if you are "dedicated" to using cane reeds, I would suggest that you try a cut down Bb reed on your Eb mouthpiece and make your own judgements regarding sound, articulation, tuning, etc. To cut the reed base, I simple use a big electrical wire crimper (wide head type). Snips it quickly and cleanly--just watch out for those fingers lol.
My specific set up is: vintage Selmer HS* mpc, Winslow sop sax ligature, Forestone 3.5 Bb reed (cut short) Yamaha 681 effer with a Fobes extension and stock barrel.
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The Clarinet BBoard
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