Hi

I know this is a very basic question but can somebody please tell me exactly what the advantages are to having a harder (or higher number) reed? I`ve only been playing a few weeks after several years of not playing, previously i`ve always used 2 1/2 reeds but from what ive been reed-ing on here (sorry!) most people seem to use 3-4 reeds. I know these are more difficult to use, is it just simply a better sound the harder the reed?

Well it doesnt matter what strength a reed is as because u slowerly go to the next strength up but im only going to be using 3`s and 3 1/2`s because it can damamge your lip and teeth if you go to hard... and just because you have a harder reed doesnt mean u can play better or sound better (but i find i sound better with a harder reed in the higher attissimo range!)

if youve only been playing for a few weeks.. by all measn stick to the softer strength. until you have the embouchure and control to support your self on a harder reed, it might be discouraging to try and move up, for it will sound airy and it may make your head hurt. dont be ashamed, we all started using 2-2.5.