I have been using the Legere tenor sax reeds for a few years in a community band. None of the other sax players could tell it was a synth reed. For the parts we’re playing in the band the reed works very well.
Thanks for a great new video! I've been playing the SAME Legere AC reed on gigs and for practice for over a year now, with no noticeable wear or change in sound or playability. I have a spare but haven't had to break it out. The reliability and lack of warm up needed are a real game changer for me after struggling with cane reeds for over 30 years.
I tried to switch to synthetic reeds while on tour with a group with whom we toured many places in different climates almost always playing outdoors and the reeds were driving me crazy. I specify that I only made these experiments with the alto, so I can't say if the same things apply to tenor / soprano / baritone. In my experience the Legère reeds seem to me the most "balanced" in general. I tried 5 of them among signature and american cut and they are in general the ones with which, for my needs, I found myself better. I wouldn't say they have the best sound among the brands I've tried but they are very reliable and maintain their qualities and stability over time, which makes them the best compromise in my opinion (so far). I also tried the Silversteins and of all they gave me the feeling closest to a cane reed, producing a beautiful sound, as well as significantly increasing the volume and projection of the instrument, especially in the low and high register. Only problem: they lost resistance very quickly. I don't know if anyone else has had a similar experience but in my case in less than a month a 3+ Alta sounded softer than a LaVoz M. I bought 6 in 2 months to test and ended up throwing money away (these are not even cheap). Too bad, if they were more consistent I would happily use them. Not great experience with new Venn either: they give me the feeling of a stiffy cane reed. Nice sound, very dark, but it is a feeling that I don't like, both in terms of vibrations and in terms of feeling with the mouth. Also one of the 3 I had split in half at the tip while I was playing after 2 weeks of having it. In any case this is just my opinion based on my personal experience, everyone is different and will surely have had different experiences from mine. I still can't give up cane reeds, and god knows how much I would like to find a good synthetic reed that won't make me regret them 😂
I agree with Jamie's comments about the convenience of synthetic reeds. I am using Legere Signature on tenor and alto. (I have not had success in finding a Legere for bari.) Really, it's so nice to get to the gig and not worry about the reed! It plays the same as last time. It's ready in all temperatures and humidities. It doesn't dry out while you are playing a different horn. No warping in the middle of the gig. Maybe the synthetics are not quite the same as cane, but audience members and even other musicians cannot tell I am using synthetic. I'll be trying a Venn after this video...Thank you Jamie!
I used the Legere 2.5 on my Meyer 7 in rehearsal without telling my band I was using a synthetic reed. I was blown away by the fact that the response of the Legere was so excellent as opposed to many years ago having tried synthetic and not liking it then. My altissimo was bright and easy to attain. Thank you for the comparison. I really enjoyed the video! I may try the Venn.
I was very surprised about the Venn reed but at the end i still try different cane reeds to find the most beautiful sound i want to get......🤷♂️🍃🔥💸😃 Thank you Jamie for your adorable work!! 🙏 Great.
Great video. I also have tried them all and I always come back to the same conclusion as you. Cane still wins, but they are getting closer. I have played synthetic reeds on alto and baritone for years, but I never could get a synthetic to work well enough on my tenor. Last week I happened to take my baritone Fibracell Premier reed and put it on my tenor and I was pleasantly surprised. It sounded about 95% good as a great cane reed and way better (and consistent) than an average cane reed. I played a whole gig on it, which was a first on tenor for me. Having synthetic reeds on all my horns is a game changer as I play in an R&B soul band and I am constantly switching between horns. Bravo for a great video, Jamie.
I have played Fibracell 3's for 16 years on tenor, switching from Vandoren JaZZ 3's. I love them. I have not found anything better for me. I am too lazy to pamper, adjust, modify, and frequently replace cane reeds. Being Chuck Surack, you certainly have an experienced and respected opinion about anything gear related! haha
When I used Legere reeds I applied red electrical tape to the back end. Firstly because the translucency makes them difficult to see if you put one down. Secondly Legere reeds are thinner than cane reeds and sometimes don't sit tughtly in the ligature.
@@GetYourSaxTogether When you get to my age it all gets a bit blurred, though I know other players who have commented on their near invisibility. I'm waiting for your critique of Greg Wier's custom mouthpieces.
Venn sounds very good ! I did not play synth reeds since 90s as they were crappy but recently I bought a légère signature and… I enjoy now. I think I have to try this venn. I also tried a fiberreed… not for me at all. Thanks for reviewing all that stuff, it is really interesting to see what pros think about it ! You are probably the most friendly sax channel, keep going on !!!
The combination of reeds that I use is venn and vandoren which equals venndoren and I also use legere reeds on my alto sax. Also, when I saw your video of Earl bostic’s solo, I have been using a Tenor reed on my alto for marching band
Great video, thank you! Biggest contribution of a synthetic reed is it removes the time to soak the Reed. I can leave a reed on and pick up the horn and play 15 minutes, set it down and come back an hour later. I've used the Forestone Black Bamboo on multiple instruments. I like the combo of bamboo and synthetic. Excited by the Venn offering. Still not in love with the mouth feel. Not as bad on saxophone as clarinet due to embouchure differences/requirements but the slippery feel takes some time to get used to. I've had to spend $$$ to find the right strength ☹. Wish Hartman had contributed to the comparison.
A bit of superfine wet&ddry might get the slippery feel out the way, just be careful, good reed always worth a tinker. Played plasticoat but nearly always rubbed most of the black off before I was happy but then they don’t last. Played fibrecell for nearly twenty years, only just thrown some out that I got twenty yrs ago. Had some Bari but they were physically sharp, cut mouth kinda sharp. Got some legere signature about two years ago love them very consistent sop alt tenor even bass clarinet
Excellent review and beauty rifts. Your experience and knowledge is great. I'll be getting you some coffees one of these days. Today is one of these days. Thank you.
Cheers Jamie, I've used Alto synth for a few years now, tried a few and settled on a bari star s/m. Works for me as legere didn't as had a weird texture. Happy honking!! 🎼🎷
What horn are you playing? Looks new. The Red Box was you. I used Legere Signature when I was on tour and really busy. But now i´m not touring any more and I have fun adjusting cane reeds and winning the battle LOL!
Thank you for making this video and giving I think a very fair and as unbiased test as you can (we all have unique sound preferences and tastes so that will guide our judgement of any kind of gear). I’ve been using Legere AC on my tenor and do think they need to be broken in. I think they will also of course get softer and softer as they wear out.
Let's be honest Jamie, they all sound great when you play them. Iv'e been playing the Legere Signature for about 2 years now and I find them to be pretty good, but a pain in the but aligning them on metal mouthpieces. I also find the tenor to be slightly wider than my mouthpiece which digs into the corners of my mouth. Given I am a stay at home musician, I just stop playing when I get sore. Think I'm going try something with some colour for ol' bugger eyes. Venn maybe. Cane is slightly better, but nothing I do is worth the inconvenience of maintaining a cane reed. I've heard Fibracel is a good synth option. Thanks for your expert review Jamie! Cheers.
I have played Legere reeds on SATB for 20 years or so. Currently, I play the American Cuts on all my horns. I was quite surprised by your statement that you find that they develop cracks. I have never had a single Legere reed develop a crack through normal play. I have split them from time to time if I unintentionally catch their tip on something or bang them around. To be honest you are not the only person who I have heard say that they develop cracks. I wonder what is different in my setup or the way we play that lead to cracking?
Mine also crack quivkkly I am scribing that to different chemistry/ ph of your saliva. ( in fact I am known to have a stamp tongue- so there ) (just kidding- I think pb is the reason )
Plastic polymers are subject to stress cracks as they're quite rigid and they're degraded by greases and oils. So, I reckon it's Jamie's lipstick. 🤣 I had Bari synthetic reeds crack with real hard volume playing.
@@ronhowe5933 ALL of my Bari synthetic reeds from 1990 cracked, it was just a matter of time. (I play loud with large tip opening mouthpieces) Maybe more recent brands of reeds last longer.
@@ronhowe5933 As I said, I have never had one crack. Not a single one. I have been playing American Cuts exclusively since they were introduced. I don’t play super wide tip openings and on tenor and bari pretty narrow tip openings (5*), and a 6/7 on alto and soprano. Playing loud isn’t required all the time for the types of music I play (small, intimate quartets or symphonic wind orchestra). That’s why I highly suspect it’s how they are being used and not something all players should expect.
I actually liked all of these. Was happy that the American Cut sort of fits the tone I am going for the most since it's what I use. Venn and the Forestone were my other favorite.
@@GetYourSaxTogether Grabbed a Venn for alto yesterday after watching this. Might try to work it some bc it's a little hard for my tastes, but it sounds great, and still responds like I would want.
It's interesting hearing these responses..I'm a year in beginner playing an alto and tenor..and what's comforting and helpful is that others also find themselves in reed hell depending on weather, embouchere,etc.. Synthetic reeds have helped me immensely on days when I can't find a functional mouthpiece reed combo..But I like the fibracell premium 3 for both the tenor and alto..though lately Im finding a Henke 3 works beautifully with a Jody jazz 5M on my bettersax alto.
Thank you for that great review! I play a mix keyboards (mostly) and some tenor sax in my band. I thought the synthetics might be better in that I'm not always playing the sax and the reed dries out. Would appreciate your thoughts!
Thank you for this comparison. I did some Test last year for myself and I did not feel good with most sythetic reeds. For me only the Forestone Hinoki felt and sounded good. But they get softer too fast for the price almost like real cane. So i am back to cane reeds. The ones that sounded best in your test, the Venn and the silverstein where not available back then , so i will give the Venn a try.
Great to hear the reeds tested. It does cost alot for us to test them. I want you to know that I play the rico plastic coat reeds. I wanted to get the feeling of real Cain so I sand off the plastic coating on the bottom of the reed that vibrates on the mouthpiece leaving the rest all plastic coated. The result is the best of both worlds plastic and Cain. I been gigging for a long time and range and tone are the best I've ever had. The reed plays completely different with this adjustment. I really enjoy your videos so please keep up the great work. Patrick
I used to play Rico plastic coat until my teacher mentioned that the coating can wear off over time and you will be eating plastic. So far, Legere is the most consistent.
I really like the sound and response I get w Fibracell. The Venn seems like a similar technology but is roughly twice the price. Any insight if they are worth it?
Thanks for the review. I am new to Sax just learning 3rd week now, but play Clarinet. I have used Legere European Cup Signature for Clarinet and is great. Just deciding which for Sax, so great info here. PS Ven began to delaminated after 5 days playing put me off. 😊
I have played the Venn, Legere American cut and Alta Ambipoly reeds on alto sax for about 2 years on and off. Unfortunately the Venn I bought was an early one and was stiff, unresponsive and basically unplayable. Perhaps a new one would be better but I don't know how to avoid getting old stock at my local music store where the turnover of Venn reeds may be quite low. I have had 4 or 5 Legere AC reeds. They seem to be consistently responsive but don't last very long. One developed ripples at the tip after a couple of weeks and others hairline cracks. The tone seems fair in the low and middle register but thin at the top. The Alta Ambipoly was an expensive mistake (nearly twice the cost of Legere here in Canada). At first I was impressed with the tone in low and middle registers but could not play softly and it was very tiring to play high up. Your summary was spot on! If you can get a good cane reed broken in it will always sound better!
The Venn sounded smooth . Maybe you should of started with the Cane reed Vandoren Java Red 3.5 , so we can understand your tonal concept . It seems that the Venn 3 reed is the most natural sounding and the most comfortable synthetic reed out of the four synthetic reeds . Thanks ,for sharing
Great review, Jamie, thanks. My favourites in practice on Tenor are: 1. Silverstein 2+ (Classic) 2. Venn 2.0 3. Legere Signature 2.5. [I've played the Legere for a couple of years, but now that I've switched to the Silverstein, they feel a bit mushy.] You make them all sound good!
I bought a couple Legare Signature reeds for bass clarinet a couple years ago because we were at the end of an hour long program and didn't want my reed to dry out before we played. For what we were playing it was fine, but the horn didn't have the booming low end I get with a cane reed. I have been meaning to try one on tenor.
Hi Jaime, Reeds ARE a hassle. I have a tenor and a bari and am always trying new reeds, synthetic and cane, to produce the best sound. The hassle is compounded by the fact I have two mouthpieces with different tip openings, so I don't find any reeds to be interchangeable. For the bari, I'm sticking with a Legere #2, but occasionally come across a cane that works well. It would be helpful in these reed comparison if you could talk about your mouthpiece and its tip opening and how you choose reeds to match. Thanks!
Hi Jamie, I've heard some good stuff about the Legere American Cut and how bright and edgy they are even though I've never played of tried a synthetic reed before. I plan on buying one just to experiment with them and my sound a bit, but in your opinion, which reed did you think was the brightest and edgiest?
Great comparison! Venn and Alta sound nice, I think I'll give 'em a try :) Too bad you didn't get Harry's Fiberreed ones as they're actually pretty awesome - especially the Copper Carbon Classic has an excellent response in the upper and altissimo range and a clean, direct tone that's not too harsh. Kinda like Légère's but with more "body" I would say. DEFINITELY worth a try! I've tested quite a few synthetic reeds actually (so far Fibracell, Fiberreed Onyx / Hemp / Copper Carbon / Natural, Légère American / Signature, Bari Clear / Black / Elite, Forestone White Bamboo/ Black Bamboo W Blast / Hinoki / Unfiled) and found that all of these have their own unique quirks and perks. Fibracell for example felt kinda cheap, was rather uncomfortable to play due to its rough texture and I struggled more and more on the higher notes, but the mid and low range actually had a nice earthy timbre to it. The black and clear Bari's had a strange disparity between how they sound and how they feel - I find them pretty uncomfortable to play tbh (unnaturally soft tip compared to the rest of the reed) and it always sounds too harsh when playing, but you can make some crazy scoops and the recorded takes actually did sound pretty authentic (although a bit harsh / piercing on my metal MPC). Sound-wise I really like the Hinoki but it doesn't take long until they're so soft that you can barely play them anymore (White + Black Bamboo suffer from this, too). I think these three might be better suited for bigger mouthpieces. Forestone's Unfiled is one of my favorites - it has a cool, very "saxy" timbre imo but has a higher squeak-affinity I'd say. Fiberreed's Onyx and Copper Carbon are - like Légère Signatures - extremely easy and comfortable to play and probably the best synth reeds for beginners if you ask me. Lég's Signature sounds a little thin/flimsy for me, though, and Onyx might be pretty loud & harsh depending on the MPC and how hard you drive it. Their Hemp reeds are more of a moody "diva" imo; they CAN sound very authentic and gritty with a very own timbre, but I (and the MPC I'm using) lack the control to keep the timbre balanced due to their rather high dynamic range. As for the Légère American Cut: I noticed that too and I wish they would make an American Cut variant that's actually appropriately sized as they're simply too wide for small MPCs...
I've played on alto with only Legere Signature and American Cut for over a year now, they're both good just for different scenarios I feel like, overall enjoying American Cut more. Ordered a Venn G2, hopefully it's just as good or better
At 3:31 The Venn reed seems to reach a stopping point at a double altissimo B flat. Cane reeds can play more than an octave higher, so I would call the Venn's altissimo "somewhat limited".
@@GetYourSaxTogether What kind of reed were you playing for that double altissimo F at the end of your "I Wish" solo? Vandoren cane? ua-cam.com/users/liveJHz8P9QOw7Q?si=YJEr4CGNSH_tJpCt&t=2490
When the Harry Hartmann Fiberreeds finally arrive, perhaps you could do a similar show with the Bari reeds? Financially I can't afford to try out different reeds and you know more about this stuff than me anyway.
To me, the American cut is the best of them by far, and it also comes in a quarter increments. Very disappointed with the Venn after waiting for it for quite a while, I found it very hard, maybe if I had tried a softer one... Legere's are the best by far but I have not tried the Silverstein's though. It also takes a while to adapt to those little nuances every reed has, but in short time your sound is pretty much the same as it used to be on normal canes. Brandford Marsalis says that he has tried dozens of setups just to end up sounding the same, the sound is in your head, the instrument is a means of reproducing it. I guess that is why some play with setups that others find impossible to play with. You got to find what works for you in order to play that sound you are thinking of.
Similar feedback from me. I played 3.0 cane on a narrow tip mouthpiece, 2.5 cane on wider (7) tip mouthpiece. I played a 2.25 Legere American Cut for 10 months before it became too soft. Loved it, esp zero warm up time. Based upon reed strength charts, I thought Venn 2.0 would work for me however it’s just too hard. Back to the Legere for me!
bought a 2.5 Venn - way too hard for me so I gave it to my Sax teacher who hates synthetics! A cut is probably my favourite - consistent sound top to bottom, very reliable too. I have found very very slight differences though from reed to reed (I have 3) Shame about the Fiberreed - my friend plays nothing else...
That is my only complaint about Legere American Cut. I ordered a replacement AC 2.25 for one I have been using for almost a year. Then I went back to my old reed. The new one wasn't the same. I've ordered and received a new one but haven't opened it yet. Don't know why the second AC 2.5 (Tenor) wasn't as good as the first.
I use the Legere American Cut on my tenor and really like it. But watching your video makes me want to try the Venn. BTW, on the Firestone, if that black stuff comes off on your hands wouldn't it come off in your mouth? Something to think about I think.
I color in the tip of my legere with a sharpie to help me with alignment to the mouthpiece. It doesn’t seem to affect the playing of the reed and the marking will need to be touched up once in a while.
After watching your video and some others I have decided to try the Venn 2 for my tenor. Right now I use Legere American Cut 2.75. I think I should go for a Venn 2 strength reed. What would be your advice?
I'm a fan of the Légère reeds, although haven't tried any others, I must admit. They are made in Canada, aren't they? I'll be trying out some others after watching your video, though. 🙂 Thanks so much - it's a great vid!
@@ijec1 I mean they ‘play in’. Somewhat like a cane reed though not as pronounced. Then there is a sweet period before the cracks that people report appear and it’s time for a new one. I wouldn’t go back to cane
On the altissimo with the Venn both my dogs reacted to it, but didn't on the other reeds, perhaps that says something about the clarity of the sound of the Venn over the others?
Prices? How they complare to a box of 10 Rigottii (which are without doubt the best) Interesting that the Venn you showed in close up had what looked like uneven fibres, theres a dark strip to the left. Is that colouring or something to do with the fibers?
Not sure about that region on the Venn. Maybe I could dig into it with a reed geek if I had the nerve. Of course a few seconds on Google will give you the prices.
I use Legere on soprano, alto, and tenor - love them! I make them softer when needed with boiling water (which works well!). For any of you familiar with this method, does it work on these other brands to soften them too? Thnx!
Thanks for the review Jamie! My favorite synthetic reeds so far have been the “Signature” Legere instead of the “American” cut while using a half size down from a natural cane. I really thought that the American cut was going to be just that much better but wasn’t for me. It could be the mouthpiece that I use and not reed. Ones mouthpiece could be a major part of what works and what doesn’t in my opinion when trying and testing synthetic reeds. After all said and done the “Signature” Legere is still the best synthetic Legere that I’ve tried. They are the best so far of the few synthetic reeds I’ve tried to date for Tenor, Alto and Soprano! I find that they last the longest and play the best if you put them away in a vintage metal reed case to prevent from forming a bend or curve from center to tip after using. I find the longer I play them in one day (not five minutes) the more I like them and I believe the reason is is that my air stream speed adjusts which is in my opinion different the a natural cane reed. Other synthetic reeds I’ve tried were the black Forestone reeds a few year’s ago that I found wimpy/dull and the Fibercell reeds that I found a bit to bright in sound. Sounds like I might have to try the D’addario synthetic reeds since you enjoy them so much! Currently I’m using all Drake hard rubber mouthpiece’s on Tenor, Alto and Soprano and will say that many different real cane reeds work and sound the best for me on a consistent basis. Legere makes a great back up for me when the going gets tough or when practicing. Thanks again for you synthetic reed testing Jamie…….because we always need to be vigilant! :)
been playing legere euro cuts for a year and i have had 2 warp and stop playing. the black bamboo are WAY too hard for what they are marked but made good sound. i like the hinoki better. going to try the new venn 2 reeds soon.
I found it’s very difficult to get the legere signature reeds out without cracking them. I highly recommend using some other storing method. After using another storing method, I have NOT had ANY cracks.
Hey Philippe, ca va buddy? Good question that. I can’t even remember, but the strength seemed about right, if a little soft. I think that’s just what they sent me. As usual, reed strengths vary from brand to brand which is super annoying.
And what about modifying the reeds? Here in Argentina we have our synthetic "G-Reeds", they are good and VERY durable.. but for me they only works after a two step process: A- buy half a number of your regular cane (2.5 » 2.0). B- thinner end is too flexible, so u need to cut about 3/4 to 1 millimeter. After these two steps you're done: reed got just PERFECT. I assume that those brands u testing can use a similar process if needed, without a doubt. Never tested em' btw, too expensive here for our devaluated money income. Wtv i'm good with my G-Reeds here, which manufacturer sells at rational price.
I've said before in a number of places, great players of the past didn't use synthetic reeds did they ? I know I'm being a Luddite but do plastic reeds biodegrade ?
The softest Venn strength available is a 2, way too hard if like me you need 1,75 - 2.0 in other reeds. So I wasted my money. Don’t even think of buying this reed if you’re a beginner. Also it’s weirdly slippery in the mouth and my lips/ teeth couldn’t get a proper grip.
Thanks for commenting John. You shouldn’t actually be trying to grip the reed with your lip so I’m just concerned that you’re biting too hard? That’s said, I hear you, they have a very smooth finish.
I’m an embarrassingly intermediate alto player and normally play 3 soft D’addario select jazz on a 6 Meyer style mouthpiece. The 2.5 Venn sounded great but was way too hard to play softly on and just too much work. I may try the 2.0, but it’s a shame they have been so off on recommending reed strength.
I have been using Legere for a while because I can't find anyone else who makes one for bass sax. I would try others if they did. Too bad for them. But I really like Legere.
I use a legere classic, 2.25, on my yamaha 4c, lol. Not switching any time soon. Why? Cuz I barely owned my sax for three months, with one and a half months being too sick to play, lol. I'll consider going into the weeds when I consistently impress with what I have. Otherwise I fear I could develop a bad case of GAS, gear aquisition syndrome. Something that keeps me from buying standalone hardware synths, but for different reasons. On the sax, I'm a hypernoob, but with synths, ...there's so many good ones out there, lol. Anyway, I live in the boonies, the sticks, fumbuck nowhere. Every purchase I make is tactical, the less I gotta go to "the big city" the better, lol.
(And synth reeds just last longer, don't they? Less need to repurchase stuff, and the GAS For Sax, well. I don't wanna blame poor playing on gear. I simply assume it's good enough to be decent with. Once that has happened, then I can perhaps think about considering the possiblity that the gear is holding me back, but not right now.)
So far I haven't found a synthetic reed that I like (other than the D'Addario plasticover). I heard some good reviews about the Venn, so I got one, but wasn't thrilled with it. I later discovered it was the "first generation" type. For now I am sticking to cane. I'll just wait until they come up with the "perfect" synthetic reed. Ha
@@loismaximillion9442 I'm curious, but it has been disappointing for me to spend money on synthetic reeds to find out that aren't suitable. Can you suggest a synthetic reed that would be comparable to a D'Addario Select Jazz 2H or Vandoren Red box 2.5?
I usually play on Vandoren 2.0. I bought a Venn 2.0, although it costs as much as a Package of 10 Vandoren Reeds. I was positively surprised about the warm sound and range of the venn. But after 15 mins playing there starts a growling sound from drops of spit on the surface of the venn.- I have to underrupt my playing to clean the venn
I always feel like the sound is stuck inside synthetic reeds. I thought the Java was the best, but the Alta was good and Venn quite respectable if a bit bright.
So far I have only played BARI synthetic reeds from about 1990. I can only get about 4 octaves total range on my tenor vs. the 5 1/2 octaves I can get on cane or Plasticover reeds. 😒 Also, the insides of my lower lip get caught between the reed and the mouthpiece. 😖 until it bleeds. I do play loud and use an open facing mouthpiece (.130) Are more recent brands of synthetic reeds any better? 🤔
@@GetYourSaxTogether I noticed the struggle to get to 4 octaves at 11:40 and I would blame the synthetic reed. I'm a long time follower of Lenny Pickett, so just 4 octaves would be kind of limiting. ua-cam.com/video/dykV5ss14Gg/v-deo.html (my video using harmonics)
Nah I got a month max out of any synthetic reed, I just drop my cane reeds in WARM water for 10 mins then play altissimo aggressively until every note sticks. Red Java Vandoren just plays best for me on tenor, bari and alto green Java on soprano, gonna try the Boston sax reeds I hear about. D Addario the altissimo just is tougher to hit if not possible on some of their reeds and I wear them out fast. I never have to shave a vandoren once soaked and I find people like the sound more than other reeds I played. The black stone reed when you played it had a nice modern rock it pop sound although it seemed like you didn’t like the altissimo and it was thin. Plasticover are pretty good for a coated natural reed but can be thin in the higher registers. You sounded best on a vandoren red.
Interesting. For me synthetics are far too expensive and just as prone to damage and limited life. However, the Venn sounded good; the Legere sounded fine but are too costly, the Yamaha was wooly sounding; the Alta had some weak sound in places; and the Forestone, although a bit edgy, sounded great in all registers!
It seems you only can play directly the D'Addario and the Legere without some struggling. I think this is a little odd. The Synthetic reeds should make the live easier not harder. These reeds should act consitant over time and work just when putting it on the mouthpiece. In my personal experience the Legere American Cut worked the best. Especially in a band in wich I have to switch between Alto and Tenor.
@@GetYourSaxTogether Thats too bad. Have you every tried them. For Bari they are the bees knees. Better than anything else. Once you get to Tenor and Alto however others have advantages and , as we all know , cane for the recording sessions is a must. I still have a Carbon Bari reed from 7 years ago. Plays as good as a brand new one.
I would try the Venn but I'm afraid they are too hard for me. I've been playing the Legere American 2 on my tenor and alto and from what I've read the Venn is quite a bit harder. Really love the convenience of the Legere's, ready to go all the time.
I absolutely disagree, that Légère Reeds do crack easily. I am playing an American Cut 2.25 now for almost 1and half Year without any damage and still playing very well by now. Your sample must have been damaged mechanical trough mishandling. Harry Hartmans Reeds, specially the Fiberreeds you may end up by getting a Carbon Fiber sticking in your Lips what may be very painful.
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I have been using the Legere tenor sax reeds for a few years in a community band. None of the other sax players could tell it was a synth reed. For the parts we’re playing in the band the reed works very well.
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Thanks for a great new video! I've been playing the SAME Legere AC reed on gigs and for practice for over a year now, with no noticeable wear or change in sound or playability. I have a spare but haven't had to break it out. The reliability and lack of warm up needed are a real game changer for me after struggling with cane reeds for over 30 years.
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I tried to switch to synthetic reeds while on tour with a group with whom we toured many places in different climates almost always playing outdoors and the reeds were driving me crazy. I specify that I only made these experiments with the alto, so I can't say if the same things apply to tenor / soprano / baritone.
In my experience the Legère reeds seem to me the most "balanced" in general. I tried 5 of them among signature and american cut and they are in general the ones with which, for my needs, I found myself better. I wouldn't say they have the best sound among the brands I've tried but they are very reliable and maintain their qualities and stability over time, which makes them the best compromise in my opinion (so far).
I also tried the Silversteins and of all they gave me the feeling closest to a cane reed, producing a beautiful sound, as well as significantly increasing the volume and projection of the instrument, especially in the low and high register. Only problem: they lost resistance very quickly. I don't know if anyone else has had a similar experience but in my case in less than a month a 3+ Alta sounded softer than a LaVoz M. I bought 6 in 2 months to test and ended up throwing money away (these are not even cheap). Too bad, if they were more consistent I would happily use them.
Not great experience with new Venn either: they give me the feeling of a stiffy cane reed. Nice sound, very dark, but it is a feeling that I don't like, both in terms of vibrations and in terms of feeling with the mouth.
Also one of the 3 I had split in half at the tip while I was playing after 2 weeks of having it.
In any case this is just my opinion based on my personal experience, everyone is different and will surely have had different experiences from mine. I still can't give up cane reeds, and god knows how much I would like to find a good synthetic reed that won't make me regret them 😂
Fantastic comment, thanks so much for sharing. 👍🏻
@@GetYourSaxTogether thank you so much for your work!
Hi have you tried Daddario Plasticover yet? I found them excellent
@@couchphotography8861 haven’t tried I’m afraid.
I very much appreciate this review. Both the Venn and Black bambo sound best to my ears.
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I agree with Jamie's comments about the convenience of synthetic reeds. I am using Legere Signature on tenor and alto. (I have not had success in finding a Legere for bari.)
Really, it's so nice to get to the gig and not worry about the reed! It plays the same as last time. It's ready in all temperatures and humidities. It doesn't dry out while you are playing a different horn. No warping in the middle of the gig. Maybe the synthetics are not quite the same as cane, but audience members and even other musicians cannot tell I am using synthetic. I'll be trying a Venn after this video...Thank you Jamie!
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I used the Legere 2.5 on my Meyer 7 in rehearsal without telling my band I was using a synthetic reed.
I was blown away by the fact that the response of the Legere was so excellent as opposed to many years ago having tried synthetic and not liking it then.
My altissimo was bright and easy to attain.
Thank you for the comparison. I really enjoyed the video!
I may try the Venn.
They’ve come a long way!
I was very surprised about the Venn reed but at the end i still try different cane reeds to find the most beautiful sound i want to get......🤷♂️🍃🔥💸😃
Thank you Jamie for your adorable work!! 🙏 Great.
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Thanks for demonstrating such a good range of play for each reed. Many demos fail to do this (subtoning, altissimo, full range etc.)
Glad it was helpful!
Great, interesting show, as always, Mr Anderson. Thanks.
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Great video. I also have tried them all and I always come back to the same conclusion as you. Cane still wins, but they are getting closer. I have played synthetic reeds on alto and baritone for years, but I never could get a synthetic to work well enough on my tenor. Last week I happened to take my baritone Fibracell Premier reed and put it on my tenor and I was pleasantly surprised. It sounded about 95% good as a great cane reed and way better (and consistent) than an average cane reed. I played a whole gig on it, which was a first on tenor for me. Having synthetic reeds on all my horns is a game changer as I play in an R&B soul band and I am constantly switching between horns. Bravo for a great video, Jamie.
Thanks! 🙏
Fibracell Premier reeds seemed easier to play on my tenor sax. The film on the flat side seems to get unstuck after a while
I have played Fibracell 3's for 16 years on tenor, switching from Vandoren JaZZ 3's. I love them. I have not found anything better for me. I am too lazy to pamper, adjust, modify, and frequently replace cane reeds. Being Chuck Surack, you certainly have an experienced and respected opinion about anything gear related! haha
When I used Legere reeds I applied red electrical tape to the back end. Firstly because the translucency makes them difficult to see if you put one down. Secondly Legere reeds are thinner than cane reeds and sometimes don't sit tughtly in the ligature.
Wow. That’s a new one!
@@GetYourSaxTogether When you get to my age it all gets a bit blurred, though I know other players who have commented on their near invisibility.
I'm waiting for your critique of Greg Wier's custom mouthpieces.
Venn sounds very good ! I did not play synth reeds since 90s as they were crappy but recently I bought a légère signature and… I enjoy now. I think I have to try this venn. I also tried a fiberreed… not for me at all. Thanks for reviewing all that stuff, it is really interesting to see what pros think about it ! You are probably the most friendly sax channel, keep going on !!!
Thanks Jeff! 🙏
The combination of reeds that I use is venn and vandoren which equals venndoren and I also use legere reeds on my alto sax. Also, when I saw your video of Earl bostic’s solo, I have been using a Tenor reed on my alto for marching band
Cool!
Great video, thank you! Biggest contribution of a synthetic reed is it removes the time to soak the Reed. I can leave a reed on and pick up the horn and play 15 minutes, set it down and come back an hour later. I've used the Forestone Black Bamboo on multiple instruments. I like the combo of bamboo and synthetic. Excited by the Venn offering. Still not in love with the mouth feel. Not as bad on saxophone as clarinet due to embouchure differences/requirements but the slippery feel takes some time to get used to. I've had to spend $$$ to find the right strength ☹. Wish Hartman had contributed to the comparison.
A bit of superfine wet&ddry might get the slippery feel out the way, just be careful, good reed always worth a tinker. Played plasticoat but nearly always rubbed most of the black off before I was happy but then they don’t last. Played fibrecell for nearly twenty years, only just thrown some out that I got twenty yrs ago. Had some Bari but they were physically sharp, cut mouth kinda sharp. Got some legere signature about two years ago love them very consistent sop alt tenor even bass clarinet
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Excellent review and beauty rifts. Your experience and knowledge is great. I'll be getting you some coffees one of these days. Today is one of these days. Thank you.
Thanks so much! 🙏
Cheers Jamie, I've used Alto synth for a few years now, tried a few and settled on a bari star s/m. Works for me as legere didn't as had a weird texture. Happy honking!! 🎼🎷
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What horn are you playing? Looks new. The Red Box was you. I used Legere Signature when I was on tour and really busy. But now i´m not touring any more and I have fun adjusting cane reeds and winning the battle LOL!
Yamaha YTS-23 while my mk VI was in for repair.
Thank you for making this video and giving I think a very fair and as unbiased test as you can (we all have unique sound preferences and tastes so that will guide our judgement of any kind of gear).
I’ve been using Legere AC on my tenor and do think they need to be broken in. I think they will also of course get softer and softer as they wear out.
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One brand you didn't review was Bari. I've used these since 1980 while on tour with The Police and I LOVE them! Haven't played on a wood reed since!😎
There are so many out there ...
Let's be honest Jamie, they all sound great when you play them. Iv'e been playing the Legere Signature for about 2 years now and I find them to be pretty good, but a pain in the but aligning them on metal mouthpieces. I also find the tenor to be slightly wider than my mouthpiece which digs into the corners of my mouth. Given I am a stay at home musician, I just stop playing when I get sore. Think I'm going try something with some colour for ol' bugger eyes. Venn maybe. Cane is slightly better, but nothing I do is worth the inconvenience of maintaining a cane reed. I've heard Fibracel is a good synth option. Thanks for your expert review Jamie! Cheers.
Loads of people have the same complaints, including me!
I have played Legere reeds on SATB for 20 years or so. Currently, I play the American Cuts on all my horns. I was quite surprised by your statement that you find that they develop cracks. I have never had a single Legere reed develop a crack through normal play. I have split them from time to time if I unintentionally catch their tip on something or bang them around. To be honest you are not the only person who I have heard say that they develop cracks. I wonder what is different in my setup or the way we play that lead to cracking?
I really make my reeds vibrate A LOT, and I blow very hard so maybe it’s that?
Mine also crack quivkkly I am scribing that to different chemistry/ ph of your saliva. ( in fact I am known to have a stamp tongue- so there ) (just kidding- I think pb is the reason )
Plastic polymers are subject to stress cracks as they're quite rigid and they're degraded by greases and oils. So, I reckon it's Jamie's lipstick. 🤣 I had Bari synthetic reeds crack with real hard volume playing.
@@ronhowe5933 ALL of my Bari synthetic reeds from 1990 cracked, it was just a matter of time. (I play loud with large tip opening mouthpieces) Maybe more recent brands of reeds last longer.
@@ronhowe5933 As I said, I have never had one crack. Not a single one. I have been playing American Cuts exclusively since they were introduced. I don’t play super wide tip openings and on tenor and bari pretty narrow tip openings (5*), and a 6/7 on alto and soprano. Playing loud isn’t required all the time for the types of music I play (small, intimate quartets or symphonic wind orchestra). That’s why I highly suspect it’s how they are being used and not something all players should expect.
I actually liked all of these. Was happy that the American Cut sort of fits the tone I am going for the most since it's what I use. Venn and the Forestone were my other favorite.
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@@GetYourSaxTogether Grabbed a Venn for alto yesterday after watching this. Might try to work it some bc it's a little hard for my tastes, but it sounds great, and still responds like I would want.
@@gangofgreenhorns2672 great!
It's interesting hearing these responses..I'm a year in beginner playing an alto and tenor..and what's comforting and helpful is that others also find themselves in reed hell depending on weather, embouchere,etc.. Synthetic reeds have helped me immensely on days when I can't find a functional mouthpiece reed combo..But I like the fibracell premium 3 for both the tenor and alto..though lately Im finding a Henke 3 works beautifully with a Jody jazz 5M on my bettersax alto.
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Thank you for that great review! I play a mix keyboards (mostly) and some tenor sax in my band. I thought the synthetics might be better in that I'm not always playing the sax and the reed dries out. Would appreciate your thoughts!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for this comparison. I did some Test last year for myself and I did not feel good with most sythetic reeds. For me only the Forestone Hinoki felt and sounded good. But they get softer too fast for the price almost like real cane. So i am back to cane reeds.
The ones that sounded best in your test, the Venn and the silverstein where not available back then , so i will give the Venn a try.
Cool. Good luck!
Great to hear the reeds tested. It does cost alot for us to test them. I want you to know that I play the rico plastic coat reeds. I wanted to get the feeling of real Cain so I sand off the plastic coating on the bottom of the reed that vibrates on the mouthpiece leaving the rest all plastic coated. The result is the best of both worlds plastic and Cain. I been gigging for a long time and range and tone are the best I've ever had. The reed plays completely different with this adjustment. I really enjoy your videos so please keep up the great work. Patrick
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Interesting tip, thanks!
I used to play Rico plastic coat until my teacher mentioned that the coating can wear off over time and you will be eating plastic. So far, Legere is the most consistent.
I really like the sound and response I get w Fibracell. The Venn seems like a similar technology but is roughly twice the price. Any insight if they are worth it?
I’ve never tried fibracell I’m afraid.
Thanks for the review. I am new to Sax just learning 3rd week now, but play Clarinet. I have used Legere European Cup Signature for Clarinet and is great. Just deciding which for Sax, so great info here. PS Ven began to delaminated after 5 days playing put me off. 😊
Good luck with your sax journey!
I have played the Venn, Legere American cut and Alta Ambipoly reeds on alto sax for about 2 years on and off. Unfortunately the Venn I bought was an early one and was stiff, unresponsive and basically unplayable. Perhaps a new one would be better but I don't know how to avoid getting old stock at my local music store where the turnover of Venn reeds may be quite low. I have had 4 or 5 Legere AC reeds. They seem to be consistently responsive but don't last very long. One developed ripples at the tip after a couple of weeks and others hairline cracks. The tone seems fair in the low and middle register but thin at the top. The Alta Ambipoly was an expensive mistake (nearly twice the cost of Legere here in Canada). At first I was impressed with the tone in low and middle registers but could not play softly and it was very tiring to play high up.
Your summary was spot on! If you can get a good cane reed broken in it will always sound better!
Thanks Paul. If you order online maybe you’ll be get new Venn stock.
The Venn sounded smooth . Maybe you should of started with the Cane reed Vandoren Java Red 3.5 , so we can understand your tonal concept . It seems that the Venn 3 reed is the most natural sounding and the most comfortable synthetic reed out of the four synthetic reeds . Thanks ,for sharing
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Great review, Jamie, thanks.
My favourites in practice on Tenor are:
1. Silverstein 2+ (Classic)
2. Venn 2.0
3. Legere Signature 2.5.
[I've played the Legere for a couple of years, but now that I've switched to the Silverstein, they feel a bit mushy.]
You make them all sound good!
Thanks Thom!
I bought a couple Legare Signature reeds for bass clarinet a couple years ago because we were at the end of an hour long program and didn't want my reed to dry out before we played. For what we were playing it was fine, but the horn didn't have the booming low end I get with a cane reed. I have been meaning to try one on tenor.
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Another awesome video like always thx for making awesome videos
Thanks 🙏
Hi Jaime, Reeds ARE a hassle. I have a tenor and a bari and am always trying new reeds, synthetic and cane, to produce the best sound. The hassle is compounded by the fact I have two mouthpieces with different tip openings, so I don't find any reeds to be interchangeable. For the bari, I'm sticking with a Legere #2, but occasionally come across a cane that works well. It would be helpful in these reed comparison if you could talk about your mouthpiece and its tip opening and how you choose reeds to match. Thanks!
I only really use an 8 MP so don’t have any variation in tip?!
Nice video, I play on a synthetic Legere signature 2.75 baritone saxophone reed.
Thanks 🙏
Hi Jamie, I've heard some good stuff about the Legere American Cut and how bright and edgy they are even though I've never played of tried a synthetic reed before. I plan on buying one just to experiment with them and my sound a bit, but in your opinion, which reed did you think was the brightest and edgiest?
I think it’s all quite personal.
Great comparison! Venn and Alta sound nice, I think I'll give 'em a try :)
Too bad you didn't get Harry's Fiberreed ones as they're actually pretty awesome - especially the Copper Carbon Classic has an excellent response in the upper and altissimo range and a clean, direct tone that's not too harsh. Kinda like Légère's but with more "body" I would say. DEFINITELY worth a try!
I've tested quite a few synthetic reeds actually (so far Fibracell, Fiberreed Onyx / Hemp / Copper Carbon / Natural, Légère American / Signature, Bari Clear / Black / Elite, Forestone White Bamboo/ Black Bamboo W Blast / Hinoki / Unfiled) and found that all of these have their own unique quirks and perks.
Fibracell for example felt kinda cheap, was rather uncomfortable to play due to its rough texture and I struggled more and more on the higher notes, but the mid and low range actually had a nice earthy timbre to it.
The black and clear Bari's had a strange disparity between how they sound and how they feel - I find them pretty uncomfortable to play tbh (unnaturally soft tip compared to the rest of the reed) and it always sounds too harsh when playing, but you can make some crazy scoops and the recorded takes actually did sound pretty authentic (although a bit harsh / piercing on my metal MPC).
Sound-wise I really like the Hinoki but it doesn't take long until they're so soft that you can barely play them anymore (White + Black Bamboo suffer from this, too). I think these three might be better suited for bigger mouthpieces.
Forestone's Unfiled is one of my favorites - it has a cool, very "saxy" timbre imo but has a higher squeak-affinity I'd say.
Fiberreed's Onyx and Copper Carbon are - like Légère Signatures - extremely easy and comfortable to play and probably the best synth reeds for beginners if you ask me. Lég's Signature sounds a little thin/flimsy for me, though, and Onyx might be pretty loud & harsh depending on the MPC and how hard you drive it.
Their Hemp reeds are more of a moody "diva" imo; they CAN sound very authentic and gritty with a very own timbre, but I (and the MPC I'm using) lack the control to keep the timbre balanced due to their rather high dynamic range.
As for the Légère American Cut: I noticed that too and I wish they would make an American Cut variant that's actually appropriately sized as they're simply too wide for small MPCs...
Thanks for your comments on all theses reeds 🎷
I've played on alto with only Legere Signature and American Cut for over a year now, they're both good just for different scenarios I feel like, overall enjoying American Cut more. Ordered a Venn G2, hopefully it's just as good or better
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hey, reetsa please let me know your thoughts of the Venn, i am doing research to buy haha thanks!
Hi Jaime! Is the Venn reed you're using in the video the first one or the generation 2?
Gen 2
At 3:31 The Venn reed seems to reach a stopping point at a double altissimo B flat. Cane reeds can play more than an octave higher, so I would call the Venn's altissimo "somewhat limited".
Hmmm. Maybe. 🤔
@@GetYourSaxTogether What kind of reed were you playing for that double altissimo F at the end of your "I Wish" solo? Vandoren cane? ua-cam.com/users/liveJHz8P9QOw7Q?si=YJEr4CGNSH_tJpCt&t=2490
@@enoffz8021 Nexus 3.5 I think.
When the Harry Hartmann Fiberreeds finally arrive, perhaps you could do a similar show with the Bari reeds? Financially I can't afford to try out different reeds and you know more about this stuff than me anyway.
I’ll consider it! Not that I’m a particularly specialist bari player tbh!
@@GetYourSaxTogether Sorry Jamie, I meant the Bari brand, not the baritone saxophone.😂
@@DolphScreamingSax right. Got it, sorry.
To me, the American cut is the best of them by far, and it also comes in a quarter increments. Very disappointed with the Venn after waiting for it for quite a while, I found it very hard, maybe if I had tried a softer one... Legere's are the best by far but I have not tried the Silverstein's though.
It also takes a while to adapt to those little nuances every reed has, but in short time your sound is pretty much the same as it used to be on normal canes. Brandford Marsalis says that he has tried dozens of setups just to end up sounding the same, the sound is in your head, the instrument is a means of reproducing it. I guess that is why some play with setups that others find impossible to play with. You got to find what works for you in order to play that sound you are thinking of.
Sure thing. Great comment.
Similar feedback from me. I played 3.0 cane on a narrow tip mouthpiece, 2.5 cane on wider (7) tip mouthpiece. I played a 2.25 Legere American Cut for 10 months before it became too soft. Loved it, esp zero warm up time. Based upon reed strength charts, I thought Venn 2.0 would work for me however it’s just too hard. Back to the Legere for me!
Same, Amerian Cut is it for me
Hi Jaime,
The black fiber sounds good to me.
Love your energy!
Richard
Wait, they all sound good?
Go figure?
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bought a 2.5 Venn - way too hard for me so I gave it to my Sax teacher who hates synthetics! A cut is probably my favourite - consistent sound top to bottom, very reliable too. I have found very very slight differences though from reed to reed (I have 3)
Shame about the Fiberreed - my friend plays nothing else...
If they send me samples I’ll slip it into another video.
That is my only complaint about Legere American Cut. I ordered a replacement AC 2.25 for one I have been using for almost a year. Then I went back to my old reed. The new one wasn't the same. I've ordered and received a new one but haven't opened it yet. Don't know why the second AC 2.5 (Tenor) wasn't as good as the first.
I use the Legere American Cut on my tenor and really like it. But watching your video makes me want to try the Venn. BTW, on the Firestone, if that black stuff comes off on your hands wouldn't it come off in your mouth? Something to think about I think.
Yeh you might look like Mortisha!
Lol! Yeah, I was more worried about health concerns. @@GetYourSaxTogether
I color in the tip of my legere with a sharpie to help me with alignment to the mouthpiece. It doesn’t seem to affect the playing of the reed and the marking will need to be touched up once in a while.
That’s a good idea!
After watching your video and some others I have decided to try the Venn 2 for my tenor. Right now I use Legere American Cut 2.75. I think I should go for a Venn 2 strength reed. What would be your advice?
Great. Too many factors to be able to answer sorry
I'm a fan of the Légère reeds, although haven't tried any others, I must admit. They are made in Canada, aren't they? I'll be trying out some others after watching your video, though. 🙂 Thanks so much - it's a great vid!
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@@ellwoodblooz ?? What's that mean?
@@ijec1 I mean they ‘play in’. Somewhat like a cane reed though not as pronounced. Then there is a sweet period before the cracks that people report appear and it’s time for a new one. I wouldn’t go back to cane
On the altissimo with the Venn both my dogs reacted to it, but didn't on the other reeds, perhaps that says something about the clarity of the sound of the Venn over the others?
Who knows?! Funny though. 🐶 🎷
Well dogs can hear much more frequencies than us!!
Prices? How they complare to a box of 10 Rigottii (which are without doubt the best)
Interesting that the Venn you showed in close up had what looked like uneven fibres, theres a dark strip to the left. Is that colouring or something to do with the fibers?
Not sure about that region on the Venn. Maybe I could dig into it with a reed geek if I had the nerve. Of course a few seconds on Google will give you the prices.
Thank you. I should like to know if your ideas about those reeds also go for the alltoreeds ?
Yeh, I reckon alto is pretty similar.
you really need to try the hartman copper classic. its the bomb
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I use Legere on soprano, alto, and tenor - love them! I make them softer when needed with boiling water (which works well!). For any of you familiar with this method, does it work on these other brands to soften them too? Thnx!
Can't say I've tried. Haven't got the nerve!
Hi, can you please explain more detailed the boiling technic that you mentioned?
Thanks!
Thanks for the review Jamie! My favorite synthetic reeds so far have been the “Signature” Legere instead of the “American” cut while using a half size down from a natural cane. I really thought that the American cut was going to be just that much better but wasn’t for me. It could be the mouthpiece that I use and not reed. Ones mouthpiece could be a major part of what works and what doesn’t in my opinion when trying and testing synthetic reeds. After all said and done the “Signature” Legere is still the best synthetic Legere that I’ve tried. They are the best so far of the few synthetic reeds I’ve tried to date for Tenor, Alto and Soprano! I find that they last the longest and play the best if you put them away in a vintage metal reed case to prevent from forming a bend or curve from center to tip after using. I find the longer I play them in one day (not five minutes) the more I like them and I believe the reason is is that my air stream speed adjusts which is in my opinion different the a natural cane reed. Other synthetic reeds I’ve tried were the black Forestone reeds a few year’s ago that I found wimpy/dull and the Fibercell reeds that I found a bit to bright in sound. Sounds like I might have to try the D’addario synthetic reeds since you enjoy them so much! Currently I’m using all Drake hard rubber mouthpiece’s on Tenor, Alto and Soprano and will say that many different real cane reeds work and sound the best for me on a consistent basis. Legere makes a great back up for me when the going gets tough or when practicing. Thanks again for you synthetic reed testing Jamie…….because we always need to be vigilant! :)
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been playing legere euro cuts for a year and i have had 2 warp and stop playing. the black bamboo are WAY too hard for what they are marked but made good sound. i like the hinoki better. going to try the new venn 2 reeds soon.
Cool!
I found it’s very difficult to get the legere signature reeds out without cracking them. I highly recommend using some other storing method. After using another storing method, I have NOT had ANY cracks.
Thanks for the info!
@@GetYourSaxTogether of course! Thank you for responding 😊
Why dii où d you try the Alta in 2. 5 vs 3 for the others ? Are they that much harder ? And how did it feel compared to the others ?
Hey Philippe, ca va buddy? Good question that. I can’t even remember, but the strength seemed about right, if a little soft. I think that’s just what they sent me. As usual, reed strengths vary from brand to brand which is super annoying.
I'm gonna need an entire video on what you mean when you call a reed "juicy".
And more playing, please!
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Is there any chance you could repeat this for alto sax reeds, Jamie ?
Hmmm - honestly, I doubt it, but I think you’d get similar results tbh. I used tenor because in my experience tenor is the most fussy horn for reeds.
I got VENN 2.5 and it’s way too much hard for beginner. I keep my hope for Legere 2!
Venn come up very hard.
And what about modifying the reeds? Here in Argentina we have our synthetic "G-Reeds", they are good and VERY durable.. but for me they only works after a two step process: A- buy half a number of your regular cane (2.5 » 2.0). B- thinner end is too flexible, so u need to cut about 3/4 to 1 millimeter. After these two steps you're done: reed got just PERFECT. I assume that those brands u testing can use a similar process if needed, without a doubt. Never tested em' btw, too expensive here for our devaluated money income. Wtv i'm good with my G-Reeds here, which manufacturer sells at rational price.
G Reeds eh? Nice one! Don’t change a winning formula I guess. 👍🏻
I've said before in a number of places, great players of the past didn't use synthetic reeds did they ? I know I'm being a Luddite but do plastic reeds biodegrade ?
Yeah I think they degrade or you can recycle.
The softest Venn strength available is a 2, way too hard if like me you need 1,75 - 2.0 in other reeds. So I wasted my money. Don’t even think of buying this reed if you’re a beginner. Also it’s weirdly slippery in the mouth and my lips/ teeth couldn’t get a proper grip.
I also quite disliked the feeling of the Venn (2 alto) and came back to American cuts (2.5 alto)
Thanks for commenting John. You shouldn’t actually be trying to grip the reed with your lip so I’m just concerned that you’re biting too hard? That’s said, I hear you, they have a very smooth finish.
I’m an embarrassingly intermediate alto player and normally play 3 soft D’addario select jazz on a 6 Meyer style mouthpiece. The 2.5 Venn sounded great but was way too hard to play softly on and just too much work. I may try the 2.0, but it’s a shame they have been so off on recommending reed strength.
Sadly enough it happen to me too
Only a beginner but find synthetic reeds so much easier to use... I guess for the longevity more than anything .
Yeh, great for beginners for sure.
I have been using Legere for a while because I can't find anyone else who makes one for bass sax. I would try others if they did. Too bad for them. But I really like Legere.
Bass sax ... awesome!
I'm' going to soak half a dozen reeds in epoxy. I'll let you know how it goes.
🤣
I've tried urethane varnish on 1 side only and on both sides of Vandoren reds and greens but it makes very little difference.
I use a legere classic, 2.25, on my yamaha 4c, lol.
Not switching any time soon.
Why? Cuz I barely owned my sax for three months, with one and a half months being too sick to play, lol.
I'll consider going into the weeds when I consistently impress with what I have. Otherwise I fear I could develop a bad case of GAS, gear aquisition syndrome.
Something that keeps me from buying standalone hardware synths, but for different reasons. On the sax, I'm a hypernoob, but with synths, ...there's so many good ones out there, lol.
Anyway, I live in the boonies, the sticks, fumbuck nowhere. Every purchase I make is tactical, the less I gotta go to "the big city" the better, lol.
(And synth reeds just last longer, don't they? Less need to repurchase stuff, and the GAS For Sax, well. I don't wanna blame poor playing on gear. I simply assume it's good enough to be decent with. Once that has happened, then I can perhaps think about considering the possiblity that the gear is holding me back, but not right now.)
Solid tactic!
I was doing something else when my ears pricked up and I checked the screen - Vandoren Red Box!
Interesting!
So far I haven't found a synthetic reed that I like (other than the D'Addario plasticover). I heard some good reviews about the Venn, so I got one, but wasn't thrilled with it. I later discovered it was the "first generation" type. For now I am sticking to cane. I'll just wait until they come up with the "perfect" synthetic reed. Ha
I would try the American cut, seriously...
@@jazzman_10 I tried the Signature, but it was too resistant. I heard some good things about the American cut, but haven't tried it yet.
Thanks for commenting Rob.
@@loismaximillion9442 I'm curious, but it has been disappointing for me to spend money on synthetic reeds to find out that aren't suitable. Can you suggest a synthetic reed that would be comparable to a D'Addario Select Jazz 2H or Vandoren Red box 2.5?
@@GetYourSaxTogether thanks for all the cool stuff you post!
I usually play on Vandoren 2.0. I bought a Venn 2.0, although it costs as much as a Package of 10 Vandoren Reeds. I was positively surprised about the warm sound and range of the venn. But after 15 mins playing there starts a growling sound from drops of spit on the surface of the venn.- I have to underrupt my playing to clean the venn
The synthetics won't absorb any moisture.
@@GetYourSaxTogether that's it unfortunately...
I always feel like the sound is stuck inside synthetic reeds. I thought the Java was the best, but the Alta was good and Venn quite respectable if a bit bright.
Thanks Geoff. 🙏🏻
So far I have only played BARI synthetic reeds from about 1990. I can only get about 4 octaves total range on my tenor vs. the 5 1/2 octaves I can get on cane or Plasticover reeds. 😒 Also, the insides of my lower lip get caught between the reed and the mouthpiece. 😖 until it bleeds. I do play loud and use an open facing mouthpiece (.130) Are more recent brands of synthetic reeds any better? 🤔
Recent brands are much better in my opinion. Also - ONLY 4 octaves?? 🤣
@@GetYourSaxTogether I noticed the struggle to get to 4 octaves at 11:40 and I would blame the synthetic reed. I'm a long time follower of Lenny Pickett, so just 4 octaves would be kind of limiting. ua-cam.com/video/dykV5ss14Gg/v-deo.html (my video using harmonics)
Pity you didn't try Fiberreed? In my humble opinion, they are THE best synth reeds on the market. ( I use them, I am not connected to the company).
I did ask them but they didn't send me anything.
Nah I got a month max out of any synthetic reed, I just drop my cane reeds in WARM water for 10 mins then play altissimo aggressively until every note sticks. Red Java Vandoren just plays best for me on tenor, bari and alto green Java on soprano, gonna try the Boston sax reeds I hear about. D Addario the altissimo just is tougher to hit if not possible on some of their reeds and I wear them out fast. I never have to shave a vandoren once soaked and I find people like the sound more than other reeds I played. The black stone reed when you played it had a nice modern rock it pop sound although it seemed like you didn’t like the altissimo and it was thin. Plasticover are pretty good for a coated natural reed but can be thin in the higher registers. You sounded best on a vandoren red.
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Interesting. For me synthetics are far too expensive and just as prone to damage and limited life. However, the Venn sounded good; the Legere sounded fine but are too costly, the Yamaha was wooly sounding; the Alta had some weak sound in places; and the Forestone, although a bit edgy, sounded great in all registers!
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To bad that you didn't test the Fiberreed which I use (Copper carbon)!
There are many out there now.
Would have been good to compare prices as well.
Prices change all the time so you're better of checking google for current prices.
It seems you only can play directly the D'Addario and the Legere without some struggling. I think this is a little odd. The Synthetic reeds should make the live easier not harder. These reeds should act consitant over time and work just when putting it on the mouthpiece.
In my personal experience the Legere American Cut worked the best. Especially in a band in wich I have to switch between Alto and Tenor.
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Why dont I ever see Harry Hartman reeds being reviewed. Genuine item thats worth a look ?
They said they were were gonna send me some for the test but didn’t I’m afraid.
@@GetYourSaxTogether Thats too bad. Have you every tried them. For Bari they are the bees knees. Better than anything else. Once you get to Tenor and Alto however others have advantages and , as we all know , cane for the recording sessions is a must. I still have a Carbon Bari reed from 7 years ago. Plays as good as a brand new one.
@@rogerneilhogg haven’t tried them yet.
I play Fibracell 3, tried a Venn 2.5 much to stiff couldn't get it yo open up. Now in my draw and unless I been naughty thatscwhere it will stay.
Thanks!
what kind of plastic shedding might occur over the course of hundreds of hours? these things do go in your mouth
Yeh, that is a concern of course. They’re all supposed to safe food grade etc.
I would try the Venn but I'm afraid they are too hard for me. I've been playing the Legere American 2 on my tenor and alto and from what I've read the Venn is quite a bit harder. Really love the convenience of the Legere's, ready to go all the time.
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Is that a new tenor?
No - Yamaha YTS-23 while my mk VI was being overhauled.
Silverstein sounded kinda nice
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It looked like you were struggling with the Venn! and it also sounded stuffy.. to me anyway.
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I played the legere on tenor and soprano and noticed after some while they all got wobly at the tip
Ok, thanks.
18:45 "...half PP" :D
Polypropylene! 😎
Hello sir did you vibrato polycarbonate sexophone information in detail and video please I'm in India
Sorry my friend - I can’t understand what you’re asking.
I absolutely disagree, that Légère Reeds do crack easily. I am playing an American Cut 2.25 now for almost 1and half Year without any damage and still playing very well by now. Your sample must have been damaged mechanical trough mishandling. Harry Hartmans Reeds, specially the Fiberreeds you may end up by getting a Carbon Fiber sticking in your Lips what may be very painful.
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Legere do soften with use.
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Are these synthetic reeds bio-degradable? Otherwise, it's a perfect way to ingest micro-plastics!
Not sure about that. Fair point though.
I will stick with cane reeds.
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Hit like button in advance 😊
Ta 🙏🏻
La segunda es más menos
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La primera es muí nasal
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Plastic reeds are too bright for me. yucky...
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All the jazz greats, until the invention of plastic reeds, played on cane reeds I'm sure. They coped.
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Buen dia yo soy principiante que num de caña debo usar gracias 🎷
Demasiado difícil responder aquí. Depende de muchas cosas
Mira esto en 2.51 ua-cam.com/video/eGEaBkvnGZs/v-deo.html