14 Reed Tricks You Need to Know

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 24 ส.ค. 2023
  • #bettersax #saxophone #reeds
    Jay Metcalf shares tricks about reeds that every saxophone player needs to know, and introduces the new BetterSax Jazz Cut Reeds.
    The Geeklet Reed Adjustment Tool - bettersax.com/product/reedgee...
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ความคิดเห็น • 287

  • @akitikallc6161
    @akitikallc6161 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +133

    Here's one more hack, and an interesting note. The hack: If you have a great reed that is fading, drop it into a glass with Hydrogen Peroxide. You'll typically see it bubble and fizz. Rinse the reed in plain water, then its ready to play again. The interesting note: if you just can't seem to find a good reed, maybe it isn't the reed! If it's been a long time since your repair person has done maintenance on your sax, it might be leaking in funny places and ways. The leaks sneak up on you over time, and when they get bad enough, everything is a struggle that feels a lot like a bad reed, but is actually your horn telling you that it needs some TLC.

    • @Royb77
      @Royb77 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I also use 3% hydrogen peroxide. Instead of water, I just presoak in the it as you would water. The reed is rejuvenated and don’t have a mould problem.

    • @nickgallegos414
      @nickgallegos414 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Isopropyl alcohol works better in my experience, the hydrogen typically destroys more of the cane matter and decreases the overall lifespan while the alcohol gets rid of the same gunk with minimal changes to the cane

    • @mr88cet
      @mr88cet 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Both are excellent tips, yes. Actually, I heard about the hydrogen-peroxide tip in regard to bassoon reeds (as feisty as sax reeds can be, bassoon reeds are even more temperamental!). However, make sure that you use hydrogen-peroxide for wound care, and _not_ that for bleaching hair!

    • @nickgallegos414
      @nickgallegos414 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@mr88cet I’m primarily a bassoon player lol! Still enjoy saxophone though 😎😎😎

    • @patriciadrank6543
      @patriciadrank6543 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hydrogen peroxide will bring reeds back to life!! I have done this for years!

  • @vespass225
    @vespass225 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

    Have kept 6 -7 new reeds in a watertight jar, half filled with Barbados Rum, for over 3 years. Just take one out of the jar, and it is immediately in perfect condition to play , and both tastes and smells lovely as a bonus. Works like a charm actually.

    • @jamie9455
      @jamie9455 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I just started doing this. Works amazingly well! I use 40% alcohol/vodka. It also sanitizes the reed and destroys the saliva enzymes that eventually kills a reed.

    • @vespass225
      @vespass225 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@jamie9455 Exactly, so alcohol content should be higher if possible, preferrably single cask rum 60vol % or higher.... ! I used standard Plantation Barbados Rum at 40 vol % though, and it seemed to work just fine over 3 years at least!

    • @jamie9455
      @jamie9455 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@vespass225 i could bump it up to 60, 70+ with a bit of 100% ethanol

  • @MarkPeotter
    @MarkPeotter 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +23

    @BetterSax Great lesson, Jay! Using warm water makes the reed saturate faster than cool water. Instead of a glass of water, I use an empty prescription container. I screw on the top and tip the bottle on its side, so the entire reed is soaking at once.

  • @garyhonor4220
    @garyhonor4220 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Couple more tips:
    Use a prescription jar or tube to store your reeds. I place a little original formula listerine in there to kill mould and stop your saliva bacteria from deteriorating your reeds, but don’t over do it. just a splash. You could use a tiny piece of sponge to hold the listerine in the tube, but change it every other week.
    For warped reeds, just place it on the mouthpiece (if it isn’t already there) and hold the reed closed against the mouthpiece with your regular embrouchure.
    With a little saliva you can blow as hard as possible (without letting the reed vibrate to make a sound), this will force the saliva back into the pores of the reed tip area and allow the reed to go back into shape against the mouthpiece.
    Works a treat on those doubling gigs when a reed dries out due to the room humidity etc.

  • @thewarhenk
    @thewarhenk 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Marca makes very nice reeds. Totally agree with you about single-use plastic madness! Love ya’ Jay.

  • @XB29SP
    @XB29SP 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I was fortunate enough to study with Joe Allard and he was never one to soak reeds when new. He would moisten the tip at first. His reason was " they are going to get wet enough when you play them" He was big on working with them as you break them in, flattening the table as needed, sealing them with just white paper rubbing the open tubes of the reed to close the vamp and table. Put the ligature on first then put the reed on butt end first to avoid hitting the tip with the ligature. I like to cut a little rut into the bark from vamp to butt down the center to let the bark flex better as the body of the reed soaks up moisture. All this and a lot of chanting to the reed gods for their blessings on the new reed. 🎷

  • @ThomasHaehnlein
    @ThomasHaehnlein 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +32

    Thanks a lot Jay for mentioning Tip #1 🙏 Playing reeds that are too hard is definitely still a big issue and should be addressed as much as possible.

    • @cdstoc
      @cdstoc 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes, I got over the idea of "harder is better" many years ago when I tried softer reeds and found I like the playability and extra brightness much better.

    • @MarkPeotter
      @MarkPeotter 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I heard that Pete Christlieb (Deacon Blues) played #1.5 reeds with an 8 or 9 tip opening mouthpiece. Huge sound!

    • @oldunclemick
      @oldunclemick 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      My pet theory is tutors (including mine) were actually just trying to caution us to stick with softs until we knew what we were doing, but that came across as "advanced players use harder reeds" rather than "some advanced players use hard reeds when suitable".

    • @mikeciul8599
      @mikeciul8599 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I've heard that high notes are easier with harder reeds. Is that true? I can't really tell myself, I'm just bad at high notes in general.

    • @ThomasHaehnlein
      @ThomasHaehnlein 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yeah that's true.With harder reeds you have more stability in the higher register. But low notes become more difficult to play at the same time@@mikeciul8599

  • @angelskyd
    @angelskyd 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Yes! I’m definitely gonna get my hands on some of these reeds! Thanks Jay!

  • @joedakroub
    @joedakroub 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Love that these new BetterSax reeds ditched the plastic. I have no idea why other manufacturers do this and add foil wrapping on top of it. So wasteful and irresponsible in this time period. Bravo to you, Jay, for being a voice of reason on this matter. Looking forward to trying them soon. 👏❤️🎷

    • @JorisPosthumus
      @JorisPosthumus 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      there are more reeds doing this, Marca for example

  • @user-nx6ej2hn9j
    @user-nx6ej2hn9j 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    I’m new (8 months) to the sax at 66 years old and haven’t even begun any improv research, this was great and it will launch me into looking at those areas. After watching your video, i will now beging looking at the cords for the songs i am playing. I haven’t done any blue yet, although perhaps I should start. Thanks.

    • @craboo8668
      @craboo8668 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Here’s a tip for doing solo’s: Jump around the notes of the scale that corresponds to your current key signature in the song. It makes all the difference and don’t be afraid to use the full range of your sax while you’re at it!

  • @miketorredeoro1383
    @miketorredeoro1383 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks Jay. Love the tips. The soft reed tip was a surprise.

  • @ScottCampbellSaxophone
    @ScottCampbellSaxophone 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Awesome ideas! I’ve sealed the vamp of the reed in different ways over the years. Using the handle of the Geeklet is super practical. Burnishing it is so practical.

  • @MrGreenotwo
    @MrGreenotwo 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Thanks for the tips. Just getting back into playing from 25 years on break. Will be watching more of your videos since I just found your channel which is a treasure trove of information.

  • @pavelpatsenkov
    @pavelpatsenkov 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks for that information, Mr Metcalf. It is very useful.

  • @joekappes8648
    @joekappes8648 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Interesting discussion about reed strength. When I was a senior in high school in 1981, I bought Vic Olivieri (a Spanish brand -don’t think they’re around anymore) in #5 and used a reed knife to tailor them. Can’t wait to try yours Jay!

  • @saxworldwide
    @saxworldwide 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Excellent video, Jay! We're eagerly anticipating adding your reeds to our inventory. We wholeheartedly agree with your stance on the necessity for reed manufacturers to reduce their use of plastic! - jamie

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks Jamie! Will get reeds to you guys as soon as we can!

  • @HonestSaxSound-unEdited-
    @HonestSaxSound-unEdited- 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video!! Thanks for all this important tips.
    Congrats for avoid plastic😊

  • @sonholee5769
    @sonholee5769 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Yes!
    Great packaging!

  • @Wormier
    @Wormier 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I definitely plan on getting some of your reeds!

  • @davidolahmusic
    @davidolahmusic 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great video. Thanks!

  • @MichaIsraelKovler
    @MichaIsraelKovler 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Bravo! No more plastic! What a relief! Excellent move man! A good enough reason to order and try out your reeds.
    A simple trick to use a reed that is too hard: Wet it real good and then gently fold the tip towards the mouthpiece direction, making the distance between the reed and the mouthpiece smaller.... Gently so it doesn't brake....

  • @arthurogradycabral3322
    @arthurogradycabral3322 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very good tips, thank you Jay

  • @williesordillo8621
    @williesordillo8621 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Appreciate all the tips, and am especially grateful for the plea to ditch the plastic! If, as musicians, we're about bringing beauty and joy into the world, we need to do what we can to preserve that world. I would order a box of Better Sax reeds for that reason alone, and the hope of a better reed to play on makes it a double win.

  • @elflaco5052
    @elflaco5052 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Respect for ditching plastic and using organic cane! Two major reasons to try your reeds Jay.

  • @francistaylor5097
    @francistaylor5097 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Thank you, Jay. I've had a problem with my soprano for months and was too lazy to get my reed geek out and file the table. Today, all my problems vanished! Also, I spent more time aligning the reed properly, which probably helped. It seems sopranos are much more sensitive to poor reed seals than other saxes.

  • @WyattEarly
    @WyattEarly หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the tips they helped a lot

  • @Mike_Cant_Golf
    @Mike_Cant_Golf 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I just got my first saxophone last week and thought the plastic case for the reed was just for the reed that came with the sax. Wow, didn't know they all come in single plastic containers. I like your approach if delivery and cutting down on plastic.
    And I've been watching your videos all weekend. Love the content and love the sound of the saxophone.

  • @glennfranksax
    @glennfranksax 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    These are by far my favorite reeds ever.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great to hear!

  • @rd40082
    @rd40082 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great that you are offering reeds enviromental friendly

  • @DiegoFernandez-gt2nx
    @DiegoFernandez-gt2nx 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Another great vid

  • @Iminmyoffice
    @Iminmyoffice 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    Probably the most useful saxophone video on the face of the planet. And trust me. That's with me seeing a ton of your videos (And you have so many amazing vids. I've been playing for more that 2 years and knew only about half of the tips. I definitely want to check out your reeds soon and I just cant thank you enough. I've probably learned about 95% of all my saxophone information from you. You inspire me and have taught me about everything I know. Thank you so much Mr. Metcaf!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Great to hear this from you!

  • @bassofone1
    @bassofone1 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you, Jay! I will spread the word with my students and fellow sax players. I just bought a box! Great reeds and no plastic waste! Thank you!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you!

  • @EliahHoliday
    @EliahHoliday 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great video, I'll add that some reeds can benefit for a longer soak, Rico Orange Box reeds I find this so. I also use a reed geek to prep my reeds and advocate that for everyone. Buy some Listerine plain mouthwash and dip your reed in after each use, it'll reduce potential mold issues.

  • @peterwrede
    @peterwrede 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I've been soaking my reeds in hydrogen peroxide after every playing for many years, squeeze them on a glass surface and put them right back into my reed case. Never had any mold, and they last for ages.
    And frankly, even the cheap no name reeds work pretty well for me, with a bit of sanding perhaps

  • @teretere9038
    @teretere9038 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    will order them this week

  • @garyhonor4220
    @garyhonor4220 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Another tip:
    If you’re having trouble stabilising your altissimo for some reason, it could be because there is a slight build up of crud on the bottom the reed in the window. Simply wipe it off, swab the mouthpiece and boom watch it open up again.

  • @Monke-tw4sq
    @Monke-tw4sq 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Quick tip for bari on synthetic reeds, if the reed is getting to the ends of it's life and isn't sealing properly, but you don't quite have another/or emergency cases, just put a rubber band or hair tie around it and tighten it on the bridge of the reed, it will help it seal properly.

  • @thecosmictatertot7149
    @thecosmictatertot7149 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Just came back to playing the sax in 8th grade bc I stopped in 7th, feeling great and I can enjoy learning from your content again!

  • @robstevens9590
    @robstevens9590 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Sometimes, after flattening the table with my "reed-geek-like" tool, I rub the table of the reed on a piece of paper (on a very flat surface, like glass) to smooth and seal it. Also the heel of the reed. I use a reed case that has a small sponge that I soak in 90% grain alcohol to keep the reeds (more or less) sterile; at least they don't get moldy.

  • @Kelekona_808
    @Kelekona_808 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love the eco friendly packaging.

  • @bashelbash4697
    @bashelbash4697 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I've been using a piece of brown bag on the table and vamp. Works pretty well for me.

  • @williamgregory1848
    @williamgregory1848 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Reeds that not only sound great but are also environmentally friendly and good for the planet?
    SIGN ME UP!

  • @mr88cet
    @mr88cet 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great stuff!
    I personally am more of a Lawrence-Gwozdz-style classical player, so I’m more into the sound of a rock-hard reed, narrow tip-opening, and cavernous chamber-size mouthpiece. Everybody’s different of course, but that’s just where my personal tastes lie.
    In terms of aligning the reed on the mouthpiece, I find that it’s often easier to _feel_ than to _see_ , especially side-to-side alignment.

  • @larry4589
    @larry4589 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great tips....but I put the ligature on first and then slide the reed on...also soaking the reed in a weak Hydrogen peroxide solution then rinsing can help clean reed and prevent mould alternativiey you could try a weak vinegar solution or maybe vodka.... marca reeds are great...I'm looking forward to try these

  • @stuartp8658
    @stuartp8658 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Thanks for eliminating the single use plastics. If we can all play you piece in small ways it will have a large collective effect. Hopefully other manufacturers will follow your lead.
    I went to purchase some, but living on the other side of the world means that the shipping is an additional 2/3 of the price! Nothing to do with you or the product I know, just a consequence of living in a great part of the world :) Hopefully there will be a local distributer in Australia.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      We will try to get them in Australia soon for you!

  • @sarahlove5124
    @sarahlove5124 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Ooo good to know

  • @uriahcaraalvillar6445
    @uriahcaraalvillar6445 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Gotta get the bari reeds soon 🎷

  • @peterknudson9106
    @peterknudson9106 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Amen! on the single use plastic!

  • @garrylarrygaming
    @garrylarrygaming 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video man and I’d love to buy your stuff but it’s extremely expensive, I get that these things can get expensive but I really want that reed case just don’t have enough money for it. I will definitely get the geeklet though. Wonderful video + awesome tips!

  • @Debukochi
    @Debukochi 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Need water and a cup to soak your reed in at a gig? 35mm film cups work great for reeds up to tenor size. Put fresh water in it before the gig. Snap on the cap (which is waterproof), toss it in your case and you've got clean water to soak your reeds wherever you go. It takes up virtually no space. (Just remember to empty it when you get home.)

  • @gadymarcus2362
    @gadymarcus2362 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Magnifico.👑👑👑👑👑👑

  • @mawa1969
    @mawa1969 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I'm looking forward getting your reeds in Germany . Thank you for the tipps. A big help for me is using the Vandooren hygro reedcase and adjust them with the BG ligature. (LD series) I don't have any problems with my reeds since then.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Soon available at Thomann

    • @mawa1969
      @mawa1969 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@bettersax perfect.Thats my dealer anyway.Thank you.....

  • @Lukeplys
    @Lukeplys 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    On the topic of the plastic sleeving on reeds which they come in, recently when I bought the better sax alto I wanted to get a case of reeds to last me a while but I wanted to also experiment on some new reeds that I've never heard of. So I went on the thomann reeds section and basically bought the first packet I saw which I had never heard of. So I bought a packet of Gonzalez Local 627. Never heard of em and just wanted to try something new. When they arrived they came in a pretty much the same overall carboard packet that a set of 10 reeds comes in but the actual reed sleeve/holder was literally a paper/cardboard sleeve, something I've never seen. Also the reeds play great, was really surprised of the quality.

  • @solitudebychoice
    @solitudebychoice 22 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Important point about plastic!

  • @williesordillo8621
    @williesordillo8621 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    While it feels a little foolish to make a public, un-soliticited testimony, I just opened a box of Better Sax reeds, selected one at random, and was shocked at how much I enjoyed this reed! I usually spend a lot of time breaking in, massaging, sanding and Reed-Geeking to get reeds to the point where they feel and sound good to me- if they ever get there, and this one, right out of the box, was perfect! The tone was great throughout the range, from subtone to altissimo- nice and clear with good projection, but still fat. After playing it for an hour, I went back and play-tested the few broken in reeds I had been alternating between, and there was no comparison. I don't know if every reed in the box is as good as this one, but if so, you're definitely on to something!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      So glad to hear this! Thanks for trying the reeds.

  • @arthurogradycabral3322
    @arthurogradycabral3322 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Excelent. About not using the plástic boxes. I relembrar the firsts reeds I bout With no plastic boxes but With no thick pieces of paper to dry them after use

  • @thenewsanzplayz4738
    @thenewsanzplayz4738 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I would love if you could release a bari one, i play bari and jazz and would love to use these reeds in my jazz.

  • @jambajoby32
    @jambajoby32 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I live in a suuuuuuuper dry region and largely use synthetic. When I use cane, I use chapstick to “seal” it.
    It’s only beeswax and I only use a touch on the vamp to slow down drying time

  • @bensalvatore6888
    @bensalvatore6888 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I have been using Legere reeds for years now and personally would never go back to the
    aggrevation of dealing with cane reeds, and I have always like the quality of sound.

  • @peteboynton4536
    @peteboynton4536 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hey Jay! Congratulation's on producing your own reeds. That is so cool. Also, I am totally with you on the plastic message you want to send out! Enough plastic! Where can I get my hands on these in Spain?

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks! They will be available on Thomann in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know.

  • @arthurman7503
    @arthurman7503 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey! i just got a new sax and i want to learn the main lick from death by glamour. its an amazing song and i would like you to make a video on how to play it!

  • @theglauber
    @theglauber 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I will buy these! I'd buy them even just for the plastic-less packaging (thank you!). But I'm also genuinely curious about them.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Awesome!

  • @stephenross9892
    @stephenross9892 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    One more tip for the OCs among us. I will set my dry reeds outside on my balcony on a flat surface ( I use stone coasters) and let the sun bake them for a bit - natural UV light helps decrease unwanted organisms. Need a protected area so they don't wind up in a bird's nest, or missiles in the wind.

  • @ramasawmysokanaden4298
    @ramasawmysokanaden4298 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Jay many thanks for your info could u show closely how to place and respect the distancebetwen the Reed and the tip of the mouthpiece please

  • @hansmathiasthjomoe4817
    @hansmathiasthjomoe4817 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Interesting video, as usual. I’m so happy that I found the Legere Signature for my tenor. My guess is that Vandoren is the leading reed producer. What do you do to a cane reed to make it better than Vandoren?

  • @WayneKeenan-dj2tg
    @WayneKeenan-dj2tg 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Here's a tip but it might hurt your sales...living in Cancun ,Mexico ,the humidity rots your reed fast, so I thought about ways to fix that.Guess what?... Don't throw away your plastic cover, instead put the reed back immediately and then into a zip lock bag and into the freezer..The next day it is where you left off..I now play reeds for up to 2 years..In the last 18 years I ve used maybe 1 or two boxes per horn...Also have one for rainy humid days and one for dry days.

  • @marcusdickerson3016
    @marcusdickerson3016 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Jay, you should review the new Dickerson Resonator Ligature - it is a ligature and resonator combined - everyone is asking about it

  • @martinlindqvist1436
    @martinlindqvist1436 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the good tips! Interesting video! 👍 But when I move the reed closer to the tip of the mouthpiece the reed feels a little bit softer!

  • @Way2Swxvy
    @Way2Swxvy 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey Jay im just curious about the plans for the future because i play the bari and i was wondering about reeds and stuff.

  • @oldunclemick
    @oldunclemick 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I just acquired a second sax that's more delicate sounding than my Yamaha so I'll give your reeds a try! The Yamaha hates to be subtle so I go for orange box Ricos because I like to pick the most reedy sounding ones and have some fun tweaking them.
    Edit: Sorry but $18 postage to Ontario is too much (especially as I'm guessing that's Greenbacks not Loonies) 😢. I'd pay less for slower delivery.

    • @studunk
      @studunk 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Tried to buy a box of altos and a box of tenors but bailed out after seeing the $18 postage. Sorry, but disappointed.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      They will soon be available in Canada as well.

    • @oldunclemick
      @oldunclemick 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@bettersax excellent 👍

  • @SavvySaxy
    @SavvySaxy 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I love the combo of a really hard reed with a small tip opening. Is anyone else like this? I’ve seen most people like softer reeds with big tip openings but I prefer the opposite. People generally tell me that the combo of big tip opening/soft reed is like the best for jazz. I feel like harder reeds last longer (they don’t but reeds get softer as you play them more and I don’t like that)

  • @bobpremecz5429
    @bobpremecz5429 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Tip #15 - avoid all these issues and use synthetics. I recommend: D'Addario Venn; Harry Hartmann Fiberreed (Carbon Onyx, Copper Carbon Classic or Hemp); Legere Signature to name a few of my favorites. You can then concentrate on you instead of your equipment. Just a thought from someone who's been playing since the 1960's.

    • @MarkPeotter
      @MarkPeotter 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @bobpremecz5429 I recommend using synthetic reeds for Marching Band and any other situation where you have a long time in between songs where you play the sax. Otherwise, I prefer the sound and the feel of cane reeds. I've been playing since 1978.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      If you like synthetic reeds use those. All of these tips apply to those with the exception of soaking in water. I have tried every synthetic reed out there and find them all to be quite uncomfortable to play. Many others feel the same way and that is why most people will always play cane reeds (at least until they improve the synthetics a bit more)

  • @Swamie55
    @Swamie55 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I used to dunk my reeds in vodka or gin and then let them dry out. The result was that they would be really crisp and great for rock n roll but because they got brittle they would shred after about an hour. Good times!

  • @joelimarzi4360
    @joelimarzi4360 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Regarding the plastic cases, it’s funny how things go around. When I started playing the saxophone, in 1961, reeds came in a paper sleeve, like those you are now using in your product.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes good point!

  • @goomgoom5504
    @goomgoom5504 6 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Sounds like Brancher reeds. French cane, cardboard packaging. I used to get these from Sax Forte

  • @leesanderson485
    @leesanderson485 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Jay I like that reeds are not in plastic and not sealed in foil. Since this began the reeds I use always look green and not aged as they were back in the day. So , I currently use Java Reds #3 on tenor. what Better Sax reeds would best for me? Thanks for your great posts!

  • @coin777
    @coin777 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Can you tell us how they compare to other popular brands? Are They brighter/darker than rigotti gold boston sax reeds?

    • @ScottCampbellSaxophone
      @ScottCampbellSaxophone 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      On the BetterSax reed webpage there is a helpful reed comparison chart.

    • @coin777
      @coin777 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Chart is only about hardness not what I was asking ​@@ScottCampbellSaxophone

  • @bobjacobson858
    @bobjacobson858 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I play a clarinet and a 'contra -alto' clarinet. I remember when Rico reeds for the clarinet came in a small box, with 25 of them loose in the box. Now they come in those little plastic containers. In addition to creating waste, I suspect it also pushes up the price of the reeds due to the extra material and handling.

  • @ronrobbins2737
    @ronrobbins2737 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Jay you are awesome, thanks for all you do sir! I have been a Plasticover user for decades, being a doubler with reed-drying and warping issures before. They used to work great for me and lasted well. Lately I notice that some of these might play perfectly right out of the box, but literally ONLY that first time. Sound and feel completely different at the next try. I have been using 2 strength with tip opening 7. What do you recommend for the drying/doubling issue and what are your thoughts on Plasticover pray tell?

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I had the same experience with plastic cover reeds.

    • @ronrobbins2737
      @ronrobbins2737 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good to know Jay, I was doubting my sanity and spending a fortune on those reeds every month. But I will bet 10 gigs’ salary (wow only $600 these days) you’d play great using a shaved-down Popsicle stick!

  • @danallen266
    @danallen266 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Where the heck were you in 1977 when I was in HS band???? LOL. Great vid...thanks!

  • @JosephLunaMusic
    @JosephLunaMusic 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Sampler packs? I have switched reeds just a few times. Each time I was able to buy a sampler pack to try out the different strengths (and any different cuts). Thanks.

  • @cameltanker1286
    @cameltanker1286 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I remember back in the day; I'd buy a box of Rico Reeds and out of the 25 there were maybe 3 or 4 good reeds. Then take the razor blade and emery paper to smooth them out only to screw up and chip the tip when installing the ligature.

  • @jeffarcher400
    @jeffarcher400 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I like soft reeds because I can play longer before I get jello lips.
    One of my first thoughts on synthetic reeds was there's another thing that used to be organic and is now going to be plastic trash.

    • @phooesnax
      @phooesnax 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Although the clear Bari brand plastic last indefinitely if you get one that matches and they stay flat and need zero warm up

  • @Adamswelltroddenpathways
    @Adamswelltroddenpathways 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do you have a blog up with all your product recommendations? Reed clipper, swabs, etc. thanks for your great videos

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yea, follow the link in the description to find the reeds and other accessories.

  • @RichardWong
    @RichardWong 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If 2 is good enough for Michael Brecker then it’s good enough for me. I’ve been on 2 or 2.5 since high school since it’s easier to play. I read somewhere that Gato Barbieri played a 1.5?

  • @Franciscosax2024
    @Franciscosax2024 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Aqui no Brasil vi um vídeo dum luthier que guarda suas palhetas em um frasco fechado com whisky. Tenho algumas palhetas guardadas assim também.

  • @marcobadilla8773
    @marcobadilla8773 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    No sé si es correcta la forma, pero me ha dado unos resultados maravillosos el remojar la D'addario Select Jazz filed 4s tenor varias horas. Con ello mejoro su flexibilidad sin perder las características que me gustan de ella.
    El problema si, es que su durabilidad es menor.
    Gracias por todos los concejos. Ojalá D'addario te escuche sobre el plástico y retome la escencia que tenía como Rico

    • @MarkPeotter
      @MarkPeotter 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @macrobadilla8773 I have the same experience with D'addario Select Jazz reeds. They work well, but only a few hours. I extend their lives by using a 50/50 blend of Hydrogen Peroxide and Water, rather than plain water, to soak them.

    • @marcobadilla8773
      @marcobadilla8773 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkPeotter Acá se conoce como agua oxigenada.
      Muchas gracias por el consejo Mark

  • @vannigio6234
    @vannigio6234 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    b t w! nice video very usefull as always! 🐻👍👍👍

  • @precisionhoops3652
    @precisionhoops3652 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Kool

  • @brianp.998
    @brianp.998 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Congrats and kudos on the eco-friendly packaging. How do your reeds compare to other reeds in strength? Is your 2 closer to a Vandoren traditional 2 or a Rico Royale 2?

    • @ScottCampbellSaxophone
      @ScottCampbellSaxophone 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      On the BetterSax reed webpage there is a helpful reed comparison chart. Super helpful!

  • @entysax
    @entysax 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Will certainly try some of these Jay. Also, is that a Wood Stone ligature you are using on the Burnin' mouthpiece (trick no. 6 in the video)?

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great! Yes it is.

    • @entysax
      @entysax 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks Jay - good luck with the reed launch@@bettersax

  • @mk59apr
    @mk59apr 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    gonna give the reeds and reedcase a try! I've tried a lot of things to keep mold away without having the reeds dry out too much. not an easy fix!

    • @davetea1
      @davetea1 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Try a 50-50 mix of vodka and water. The reeds get a bit of a high, but the mold goes bye-bye!~

    • @mk59apr
      @mk59apr 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      yes, good suggestion!, and tasty too! i've used alcohol before, but somehow i don't like the effect on the reeds, i have hydrogen peroxide that i use to treat them occaisionally. seems best in my enviornment to let them dry out between sessions...@@davetea1

  • @pierrottanguay2841
    @pierrottanguay2841 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Awesome the non plastic package 👌🏻
    Did your tips are good for clarinet too? Thanks

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes they are!

  • @ShadowUnanimous
    @ShadowUnanimous 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I like my reeds smelling good and free from previous mouth substances so after each session I hand wash them carefully with liquid hand soap or Dr. Squach soaps, place them back in the plastic cover (I know, sorry) and let them dry out overnight. I did have the same mold issue before but now that I’ve done this change I never had it again.

    • @patriciadrank6543
      @patriciadrank6543 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I wash my reeds either with just water, soap and water or hydrogen peroxide. My reeds last forever. How do I know when they are ready to die? The reed will no longer hold pitches as it did. In other words you will be out of tune !!

    • @ShadowUnanimous
      @ShadowUnanimous 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@patriciadrank6543 As soon as I see the tip of the reed break, I discard it. Storing reeds while still soaked in water prevents them from tearing, but it’s a Russian roulette taking them out of a plastic case when their dried up.

  • @astroMAn360
    @astroMAn360 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Wait the plastic reed holders are single use?

  • @chrismills5110
    @chrismills5110 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Jay: Are your reeds same as other reeds? With one flat cut across face down to tip?

  • @babiesmakinbabies
    @babiesmakinbabies 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    yes! no more single use plastic!

  • @seandennis3148
    @seandennis3148 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Tip #16, clean your reeds after playing them and they won't get mouldy. I'll be keen once you're selling baritone reeds. I understand that this things take time.
    Alexander Superial reeds have never used plastic, they do come in a tin. D'Addario have released their Organic Reserve and Organic Select Jazz out, that come wrapped in recycled paper with the goal of switching all their cane reeds over by 2025. So one of the bigger names has made progress at least and plans to make more progress.

  • @florianschmitt483
    @florianschmitt483 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey jay! Will there also be bettersax bariton sax reeds someday?:)

  • @abdielvargas4752
    @abdielvargas4752 หลายเดือนก่อน

    heey Jay, have you considered mixed reed boxes? A 10 pack 5 (2.5) 5 (3) for example. Saludos desde PR! :)