CHOOSING A PICK
Choosing a saxophone reed.
When browsing the web searching for a new saxophone or mouthpiece, we will probably see a lot of reed content, the importance of finding the right reed, and why the reed is one of the most important parts of the saxophone.
When it comes to guitar picks, we can experiment with different makes, models and numbers and quickly see how they can drastically change the sound of the instrument. Therefore, it is evident the importance of dealing with this subject on our site.
Okay, I understand that the reeds are super important. What should I note when buying a pick?
What is the best reed brand?
Just like the choice of other consumers, the brand you choose is subjective and generally based on preference. All major brands, including Vandoren and D'Addario Woodwinds, have their loyal fans, and it's a good idea to try a few different brands before choosing just one.
Although some reeds are classified as jazz or classical reeds, in most cases any reed can be used regardless of the musical genre, remembering that the used mouthpiece will also impact the sound produced.
With that in mind, the classical saxophone tone requires a combination of mouthpieces and reeds that produce a lower frequency sound, while the jazz saxophone tone requires a combination that produces a higher pitched sound.
What is the best reed measure?
The measure of the reed, or the hardness / softness of the cane, usually correlates with the density of the cane. Most saxophone reeds are labeled with numbers 1 through 5. As the number increases, the hardness of the reed also increases.
Many people mistakenly believe that professional saxophonists increase the strength of the reeds as they become more familiar with the instrument, but in reality the preferred strength of the reeds varies from musician to musician and depends largely on the mouthpiece they are wearing. p>
Are synthetic reeds better than natural?
Although most saxophonists use natural reeds, synthetic reeds are also used from time to time. Synthetic reeds are unaffected by temperature or changes in humidity and also last much longer than their cane counterparts.
Although synthetic reeds are much more expensive than traditional reeds, their durability is longer, they do not need to be wet to touch and need not be trimmed. Because they are more durable than conventional reeds, synthetic reeds are best chosen by marching bands or for use in other outdoor events.
When should I change the reed?
No reed is immortal. Some can last for a day, while others can last a month or two, depending on your habits, the quality of the cane and how the straw is stored and cared for.
To extend the life of the reed, many saxophonists rotate. The reed rotation requires the saxophonist to pick two or more reeds and play one for a while, then switch to the others that have not been played while the previous ones "rest". The best things about this method are:
The musician will extend the life of each reed in proportion to the amount of reeds on the caster.
The musician will always have a good pick at hand if any of the others break.
What is the difference between filed and unfiled reeds?
Another aspect to consider when buying a reed is its cut, ie filed or unfiled. A filed reed, sometimes referred to as a “double cut,” has a thin layer of bark removed just below the vamp area, allowing the bark to form a straight line. This extra cut allows the cane to vibrate more freely, producing a brighter sound with a better response.
Unfiled reeds, or single cut reeds, do not have the additional cut. They form a "U" shape in the area below the vamp. This cut produces a darker, more resilient tone as the cane is not so free to vibrate.
Ultimately, we recommend that the musician play both types until he finds the cut that suits him best.
How to buy a pick that I can't try before?
Note the symmetry of the pick, ie see if the left side should be equal to the right side. The reed may have no apparent abnormalities or scrape peel remains. Look at the pick against a bright light. The heart (thicker part of the center) should be very symmetrical. The fibers (lighter, thinner lines running along the underside of the reed) should be evenly spaced and uninterrupted. The underside should be flat and the easiest way to check this is to place it on a flat surface (table). or glass) and see if any side gets raised.
Final Considerations:
When it comes to buying picks, it is always better to buy a box, so you won't have to make emergency trips to the local music store whenever you need a new pick. A complete box with ten reeds should last a few weeks, or even months depending on how often you play.
When opening the case, inspect each vane individually and discard any that have visible cracks or damage. In most cases, 3-4 picks from a 10-unit box will be discarded.
In addition to visible cracks or cracks, watch for grains, lumps or uneven discoloration.