Best Clarinet Reeds in 2022

Last update: December 9, 2022

Are harder reeds better?

No, harder reeds are not better. Harder reeds can be more difficult to control and may produce a harsher sound.

Are plastic reeds better?

There is a lot of debate over whether plastic reeds are better than traditional reeds made from cane. Some say that plastic reeds are more durable and consistent, while others find them to be less responsive and produce a harsher sound. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Try out different types of reeds and see what works best for you.

Do clarinet reeds expire?

Clarinet reeds generally last between 2-6 weeks depending on how often they are used. However, they can start to sound dull or even expire after a few months. If you notice your reed sounding dull, it is probably time to replace it.

How can you tell if a clarinet reed is good?

When you hold a clarinet reed up to the light, you should be able to see right through it. If you can't, it's probably too thick and won't vibrate properly. The tip of the reed should be rounded, not flat. If the tip is flat, it won't vibrate as well. Finally, the reed should be flexible, but not too soft. If it's too soft, it won't vibrate properly.


Vandoren CR103 Bb Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 3; Box of 10 Review:


I don't understand why other reviewers claimed that these reeds were best suited for intermediate musicians rather than beginners. I'm so pleased I disregarded that advise. When I first started playing the clarinet, I thought that the reed that came with the instrument might be the cause of my inability to produce a pleasant sound (it might have been old or dried out, and it was definitely too hard for me). I thus purchased the Van Doren classic in 1.5, and I was able to create lovely tones right away. I suddenly had no trouble playing in the lower and clarion registers. I had only been playing for a few days, mind you. I'm not sure how refined my definition of "beautiful" is. This reed, though, was a revelation. The instrument can also generate a really pleasant tone when played by my nine-year-old son, who picked it up at the same time as me.After a few weeks, I believe I should shortly switch to a harsher reed. But this box of reeds will likely be in use by my son for some time. It is ideal for a novice who doesn't want to endure pain. Why add to the difficulties of the learning curve with subpar tools? Grab a sturdy reed. The price difference is minimal at best, and if the durability claims are accurate, it's also a cost-effective option.



Vandoren CR1025 Bb Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 2.5; Box of 10 Review:


I don't understand why other reviewers claimed that these reeds were best suited for intermediate musicians rather than beginners. I'm so pleased I disregarded that advise. When I first started playing the clarinet, I thought that the reed that came with the instrument might be the cause of my inability to produce a pleasant sound (it might have been old or dried out, and it was definitely too hard for me). I thus purchased the Van Doren classic in 1.5, and I was able to create lovely tones right away. I suddenly had no trouble playing in the lower and clarion registers. I had only been playing for a few days, mind you. I'm not sure how refined my definition of "beautiful" is. This reed, though, was a revelation. The instrument can also generate a really pleasant tone when played by my nine-year-old son, who picked it up at the same time as me.After a few weeks, I believe I should shortly switch to a harsher reed. But this box of reeds will likely be in use by my son for some time. It is ideal for a novice who doesn't want to endure pain. Why add to the difficulties of the learning curve with subpar tools? Grab a sturdy reed. The price difference is minimal at best, and if the durability claims are accurate, it's also a cost-effective option.



Vandoren CR1035 Bb Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 3.5; Box of 10 Review:


I don't understand why other reviewers claimed that these reeds were best suited for intermediate musicians rather than beginners. I'm so pleased I disregarded that advise. When I first started playing the clarinet, I thought that the reed that came with the instrument might be the cause of my inability to produce a pleasant sound (it might have been old or dried out, and it was definitely too hard for me). I thus purchased the Van Doren classic in 1.5, and I was able to create lovely tones right away. I suddenly had no trouble playing in the lower and clarion registers. I had only been playing for a few days, mind you. I'm not sure how refined my definition of "beautiful" is. This reed, though, was a revelation. The instrument can also generate a really pleasant tone when played by my nine-year-old son, who picked it up at the same time as me.After a few weeks, I believe I should shortly switch to a harsher reed. But this box of reeds will likely be in use by my son for some time. It is ideal for a novice who doesn't want to endure pain. Why add to the difficulties of the learning curve with subpar tools? Grab a sturdy reed. The price difference is minimal at best, and if the durability claims are accurate, it's also a cost-effective option.



Vandoren CR123 Bass Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 Review:


My son loves these particular reeds! since he began performing with musical instruments. These reeds hold up well over time whereas other ones break down and perish. My son is rough on them, so they will last for the majority of the school year. They are also quite inexpensive; in a nearby music supply shop, I can get five of these reeds for the price of one. When it comes to bands for my son, I try to obtain the best, and these are his favorite and longest-lasting ones, even though I adore supporting local businesses. Let's face it, teen guys aren't always careful with their belongings. My son occasionally didn't take the best care of these reeds, but they still held up nicely. The fact that they were rated a 3 was also a bonus since they are incredibly hard to buy in local shops.These reeds are highly recommended if you have a child that plays in band at school because they hold up to abuse and use from kids and teenagers and are worth every penny. They also sound fantastic. These are a favorite of my son's band teacher, who recommends them to all of his pupils. This product is a great use of your money.



Vandoren CR102 Bb Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 2; Box of 10 Review:


I don't understand why other reviewers claimed that these reeds were best suited for intermediate musicians rather than beginners. I'm so pleased I disregarded that advise. When I first started playing the clarinet, I thought that the reed that came with the instrument might be the cause of my inability to produce a pleasant sound (it might have been old or dried out, and it was definitely too hard for me). I thus purchased the Van Doren classic in 1.5, and I was able to create lovely tones right away. I suddenly had no trouble playing in the lower and clarion registers. I had only been playing for a few days, mind you. I'm not sure how refined my definition of "beautiful" is. This reed, though, was a revelation. The instrument can also generate a really pleasant tone when played by my nine-year-old son, who picked it up at the same time as me.After a few weeks, I believe I should shortly switch to a harsher reed. But this box of reeds will likely be in use by my son for some time. It is ideal for a novice who doesn't want to endure pain. Why add to the difficulties of the learning curve with subpar tools? Grab a sturdy reed. The price difference is minimal at best, and if the durability claims are accurate, it's also a cost-effective option.



Rico Bb Clarinet Reeds, Strength 2.5, 10-pack Review:


Ever wondered what a duck in trouble may sound like? I did up until I got my fourth-grader the other sort of reeds to use. To be completely honest with you, I strive to spend as little money as possible on items that I will later pick up off the floor and discard. The "pleasure" of listening to your child learn how to play the clarinet is made possible by these reeds, I've learned through trial and error largely. I can now get through practice time with just a pair of discrete earplugs and don't need my sound-canceling headset.



Rico Bb Clarinet Reeds, Strength 2.0, 10-pack Review:


Ever wondered what a duck in trouble may sound like? I did up until I got my fourth-grader the other sort of reeds to use. To be completely honest with you, I strive to spend as little money as possible on items that I will later pick up off the floor and discard. The "pleasure" of listening to your child learn how to play the clarinet is made possible by these reeds, I've learned through trial and error largely. I can now get through practise time with just a pair of discrete earplugs and don't need my sound-canceling headset.



Rico Bb Clarinet Reeds, Strength 3.0, 10-pack Review:


Ever wondered what a duck in trouble may sound like? I did up until I got my fourth-grader the other sort of reeds to use. To be completely honest with you, I strive to spend as little money as possible on items that I will later pick up off the floor and discard. The "pleasure" of listening to your child learn how to play the clarinet is made possible by these reeds, I've learned through trial and error largely. I can now get through practise time with just a pair of discrete earplugs and don't need my sound-canceling headset.



ACCOCO Clarinet Reeds, Strength 2.5, 10-pack with Plastic Case Review:


I frequently purchase items from Amazon but rarely leave reviews, especially given the inexpensive cost. Everyone is aware of the reasons, but this purchase has helped me to realize that good, inexpensive things do in fact exist.I've purchased clarinet reeds from a variety of sources, and they're either pricey or of subpar quality (cut crooked, too thin, with green spots or splits etc.),I had low expectations for these inexpensive 10 pieces of reeds, which were packaged in a plastic box with the reeds connected to the box.I was surprised to see that these 10 pieces of reeds had nearly no issues and can be played. Then I began experimenting with these reeds to produce sounds that were richer and more resonant. And I adore it. I think I've finally discovered the ideal reed for my clarinet.



Vandoren CR1935 Bb Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 3.5; Box of 10 Review:


I currently use a variety of brands, but what I like most about the V12 reeds is that even though it might be a little more difficult to find one or two "good" reeds per box than it is with other brands, which typically have 2-4 good reeds per box, the longer reed lifespan more than makes up for the difference. Because of how strong these reeds are, you may break them in more forcefully without having to worry as much about them dying. In my vandoren case, I have several of these that are actually three years old. As long as you keep cycling your reeds properly, they will last. I play about three times each week (2 hours on average).Are they too expensive? They are still a fantastic deal in my opinion because of the really great Amazon price. In band music, where a bit extra brightness is tolerated and delightful, I've tried several newer reeds that perform better than these, but I still believe the V12 is an excellent cut for an all-around reed that can handle a variety of musical genres at once.The fact that they don't available in quarter sizes like most more recent reeds is my sole complaint. The Vandoren glass resurfacing kit's bottom can be easily rectified by sanding it down.


How can you tell if a reed is bad?

If a reed is bad, it will usually produce a sour, flat, or unresponsive sound. Sometimes a reed will make a cracking sound when you first start to play it. If you notice any of these problems, it's time to replace the reed.

How do I know if my clarinet reed is too soft?

If you can push the reed down with your thumb and it stays down, the reed is too soft.

How do I know my reed size?

The reed is one of the most important parts of the saxophone, and the size of the reed can have a big impact on your sound. So how do you know what size reed to use? The first thing to consider is the tip opening of your saxophone mouthpiece. The tip opening is the width of the gap between the tip of the mouthpiece and the tip of the reed. A wider tip opening will require a larger reed, while a narrower tip opening will require a smaller reed. You also need to consider your own playing

How do you break in a reed fast?

If you are having trouble breaking in a reed, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that the reed is the correct size for your instrument. If the reed is too small or too large, it will be difficult to break in. Second, soak the reed in water for at least 30 minutes before you start playing. This will help to soften the reed and make it easier to break in. Finally, start by playing long, slow notes. Once the reed is broken in, you can start to play faster and more aggressively.

How do you tell if you need a new reed?

If you are a clarinetist, saxophonist, or oboist, you know that reeds are a necessary part of playing your instrument. Without a good reed, your instrument will not sound its best. But how do you know when you need a new reed? Here are some signs that it might be time for a change: 1. Your reed isn't vibrating properly. 2. The tip of the reed is chipped or split. 3. The reed is too hard or too soft. 4

How long do plastic clarinet reeds last?

Plastic clarinet reeds will last anywhere from one month to six months. The average is probably somewhere around three months. It really depends on how often you play, how well you take care of your reeds, and what kind of climate you live in. If you live in a dry climate, your reeds will last longer.