Hi there

I use a size 3 reed, but although I have been playing almost 7 years I have not settled to use one particular make. Now that my playing is getting more serious I wondered if there is any particular type that is better. I have used Vandoren, GC select and Rico Royal. Which of these is the best, or can you suggest any other make?

Thank you

the best reed will be whichever one will work best with your mouthpiece... that is the one that matches it and produces the best responce and tonal quality for YOU. for example, if you have a more open mouthpiece like a B45 or a premire, you will stick to med hard, of around number 3. however if you use mitchell lurie with an open mouthpiece, you can probably comfortably go all the way to a 4 1/2. it all depends

How funy you mention the B45 and Mitchell Lurie! I use both...but I only use a 3 1/2 ML reed, and I have been playing for 17 years! Just use what gives you the better sound.

-Dennis

I use a Vandoren B45, so does that mean I should use a vandoren reed?

Not in the least. I hate Vandoren Reeds period. They just don`t work for me. But I love their mouthpieces.

-Dennis

Not in the least. I hate Vandoren Reeds period. They just don`t work for me. But I love their mouthpieces.

-Dennis

So really it`s all about personal preference, and there`s not a particuar make that`s superior?

Absolutely, go with the flow. Yamaha mouthpiece, Rico 3.5 reed does the job perfectly. Vandoren give too airy a timbre and are not hard enough to produce good tonguing.