Fibracell Premier Synthetic Alto Saxophone Reed Strength 3

It is a good product, feels more like a natural reed than a totally synthetic/composite Reed like "Bari" brand. But be aware that these reeds get softer as you use it at least 1/2 step (.5) so order a harder one than you usually use. I would've given higher rating if I had known they get softer before I ordered.

Since I normally use a 2.5 reed I first bought a 2 and 2.5 not knowing the stiffness of the reads. When I received them they were actually too light so I ordered a 3 and 3.5. These are doing the job. I have settled on the 3 because I do not need a lot of volume. In my first review I stated I preferred the natural cane reeds but since I got onto the number 3 reed I use it exclusively and have the cane for backups. I sometimes sit for long periods before playing and do not have time to moisten my reed and replace it. These reeds do not need moistening and I don't worry about my first notes. I would suggest that since new students do not usually moisten their cane reeds enough, trying a no. 2 of this reed would tend to cut out a lot of squeeks and give them more confidence.

I have been playing saxophone for 75 years. After seeing synthetic reeds reviewed on Youtube I decided to try them. While reading reviews of different brands some said the synthetic reeds were stiffer than cane, so I decided to try the Fibracell reed in a #2 and #2.5. They were both a little softer than I expected and I had to hold back so I would not over blow and become too loud. I am a soloist and play softer mellower music so I use a #2.5 cane reed. I am not a jazz saxophone player and don't need excess volume. I took these to rehearsal and had my pianist and another musician listen to compare the synthetics to a natural cane. They agreed with me that the cane had a better tone. In order to give the synthetic a fair trial I ordered a #3 and it turned out closer to the #2.5 cane that I normally use. There is basically nothing wrong with the synthetic reeds and I will probably use them for practice and maybe occasionally in performance, but I still prefer the cane reed. These may be better for players in larger groups that need more volume to cut through. It is actually a matter of preference.

First time using a synthetic reed and boy was I surprised. Great sound and they feel and look real. I love the fact that they do not need soaking and are ready to play right away. As mentioned in forums, they run soft so order one number higher than what you normally play. I normally pay a 2.75 and ordered a 3.5 and it felt great.

Good

Great reeds. They are exactly what I have been using and wanted. Thank you for stocking them.