Okay...so I`m playing on a Vandoren 3 reed. That worked ok, until I tried to tune my clarinet. I had to pull the body apart almost all the way to get it in tune. I`ve never had a problem with this before. My band director suggested a thicker reed. So I go to Brook-Mays and get the Vandoren 3 1/2. I can`t play on them. It sonds too spitty and airy. So I`m all "okay, I`ll go back to my size 3 reeds." Now, I sound like a beginner. My tone is horrible. So now the main problem is that 3 is too thin and 3 1/2 is too thick.
HELP!

Hey,
Ya I hate reed problems too!!! Maybe try a different brand of reed or a not so thick reed. It worked for me!!

I use Vandoren 3 reeds and I have not had a problem with them. Maybe it was just that particular reed. Try having your band director or your teacher shave down a 3 1/2 so you can find a medium b/t a 3 and a 3 1/2.

I use a 3 vandoren too but I never have that problem, maybe your lip is not tight enough.

hmmm... I always have probs. with my reed makin my sound not so clear.. I use La Voz though.. I guess you could just try that or some other brand. Vandoreans are more expensive arent they? I think we`re all just so good.. that these reeds are plotting against us hahaha *I know i wierd* lol

Well- you should try to stick with the 3 1/2 for a while and get used to it properly. That could help. You could also try some different 3 1/2s because not all reeds are the same, and this one could be a dud- plus- Vandoren traditionals are not known for consistency.

If he says a thicker reed, you can also try Vandoren V12s, maybe a 3 in those because they are thicker reeds to begin with ( just look at the bottom of them and compare how thick they are to a regular Vandoren). They are thicker, and it probably would not be like moving up a half a size. This should improve your sound if you stick with it and just keep practicing!

Bradley

Perfect practice makes nearly perfect!