i played on 3s for 2 weeks then switch to 3 1/2. you shouldnt go over 3 1/2 EVER. theres some that goes to four but they need a harder reed to play but 3 1/2 is what most people play on

don't try to switch to 3.5s right away practice with a 3.5 for 5 minutes of your practice time and add more time on the harder reed everyday if you try to do your whole practice session on the new reed too soon you might get a really sore mouth

well 4s are ok but most people still play on 3 1/2s. someone that plays for my state symphony says that 3 1/2s are the perfect size and thats what i play on. someone that was playing on 4s in her class she gave them a v12 3 1/2s and it was perfect. so thats all im saying. but i dont have a problem and its a good thing that you play clarinet but everyone is different

There is no correct strength reed that everyone should use at any stage of development. Use the one that works for you. This all depends on the clarinet you play; the type of mouthpiece you use (Small or wide tip opening, long or short lay; shape of the chamber); the type of sound you want; & most importantly you.

..& one thing I forgot - the numbering of different brands of reed varies so one makers 3 might be another's 4

well i just switched from a 2.5 to a 3.5 right away but i practice with a 3.5 and preform with 2.5 i will eventually switch to 3.5 alll the time but i not that good yet d:

i think you should switch when you feel completley comfortable with a 3 and ur mouth doesnt kill after an hour of practice (; so yes that is all .