legere signature vs fibracell

The BetterSax YouTube channels videos have been watched by millions and thousands of students have made meaningful progress on their instrument thanks to BetterSax courses. I agree 100% with your review. No matter which reed you choose, you always get the same Lgre quality and the durability Lgre has become famous for. If your playing style includes a lot of vibrato or a lot of hard blowing into your sax, then the Studio Cut may be a good choice for you. When I originally made this video, my answer was definitively no. However, the more I play the legere the less I notice the difference. A softer Legere Reed from the Studio Cut Classic is basically easy mode on a saxophone. The legeres are more 'legit' in my opinion and play great in more traditional classical and jazz playing. I use them on my tenor and alto. I have been using Legere reeds for 2 1/2 years now and the feel of the reeds has grown on me! Lets kick it off straight away with example 1, flip to the video around 01:32 for this example. (Single Reeds), Discontinued 1/4 strengths for Classic and Studio Cut. Start taking the play sax by ear crash course.This 6 part video course gets delivered via emailOver a week. This smoothness makes the sound crisp and centered. AS a Legere endorser I have made them aware of this thread. Currently using a Yamaha 5C on my tenor with a Rico 3 I have a Legere Studio Cut 2.5 but I am having some issues. It's not that I think it's a better reed, it's just more suited to my style of playing maybe. As I get used to the feel of the Legere the less I miss using cane. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. To learn more about our exchange policy, click here. Vandoren now offers a variety pack so you can try out several (4 I think?). Its very subtle but important to me. Lgre is always working to give musicians the Freedom to Perform. The 2.25 is a perfect fit for me right now. Your own personal comfort level. I want you to listen carefully and then vote in the on screen poll for the reed you prefer the sound of. The best strategy is to try one half strength higher or lower than what you are using to see if it makes a difference. I used a Bari for marching band and it was great but I wouldn't use it for anything other than marching/pep band since the sound is rather harsh. So the jury is still out for me too. I ruled that one out. What is a good saxophone setup for beginners? Commercial Supporter . Everything I can do on a cane reed, I can also play on a Legere signature reed. Funny thing is I always go back to my Rico Select Jazz Of the two I much prefer Bari but I play only Fibracell. Remember your choice in each poll as Im going to tell you which reed was which later on. As a matter of fact, its the choice for both jazz and classical players of all experience levels, whether novices or pros. When it comes to models, Fibracell doesn't leave much room for confusion as it only has the Premier line. What about fibracell. I would look at the Legere reed chart and go for .25 or .5 strength lower than what it suggests on both alto and tenor saxophone mouthpieces. They average about $20 per reed. Still, the Legere reeds would make the best alto sax reeds as the alto sax doesnt require as much effort to play, so the whole equation is balanced while you get the amazing intonation with Legere reeds. The matrix is as follows: So, you can see that the Legere reeds have a much wider range of choices, from models, strengths, and even sax sizes, as they range from as small as sopranino and all the way to bass saxophones. Just keep in mind Synthetics play significantly softer than cane reeds, and probably would not be great in a classical setting. I am completely new to saxophone, never touched one. Your email address will not be published. Aldous Huxley. I hope to graduate to your big time lessons sometime soon. If youre looking for an unquestionable response without compromising on projection, you wont find anything better than the Signature. Going to order the American cut and give it a go. If they made them for sopranino I'd probably be using them on it too. Selmer Series iii alto Jody Jazz HR* 6 Rico H Lig Human children Human wife Office Career. My bassoon reed is falling off the bocal. The Official Home Website For FIBRACELL Reeds. The nice thing about Legeres reeds is their consistency. I play 3 vandoren reeds, 2.75 legere and the Bari reed I used was hard and it was still too soft. Im sorry but I absolutely despise Bari synthetic reeds with the whole of my heart. Sold by MusicWarehouse and ships from Amazon Fulfillment. Its a Rigotti Gold 2.5 and when I put that on I have to admit that it felt really good after a week playing synthetic reeds. A tour of the Rigotti Reed Factory.. My tone never changed and cost saving great. The secret, once he got them perfected, as far as I can tell, is the carbon fiber instrusion into the polymer matrix. There are a lot of advantages. I started with a 2.75 and it was too hard. Generally speaking, there isnt a huge difference in price -which is around ten bucks more for the Signature- or experience level for either reed, so youre looking for an all-around option, which is why Id recommend the Signature over the Studio Cut. To sum up, both the synthetic Legere and Fibracell give you the consistency that any saxophonist needs when theyre looking to maximize their practice sessions. Theyll get back to you with instructions on where to send your reed and then they send you a replacement. What is a good clarinet setup for beginners? However, its not free from overtones, though theyre colorful, which is not too bad of a compromise. It gives me a good balance between resistance and playability. Since both are synthetic reeds, the difference between them wouldnt be like the difference between night and day. In that clip, you can see and hear me forcing a bit and fighting the resistance of the reed but you can also hear the darker sound I get. Your email address will not be published. What is a good clarinet setup for beginners? Start with 2.5 strength reeds. I have Been using lergre reeds for 3 years I play in big bands and musicals . Been using Fibracells on soprano, alto, and tenor for years. Tonewise, pretty much everyone has said legere's are a bit darker and mellower than fibracells, but does anyone have any experience with the legere studio cuts? For ALL Saxophonists -- professionals, hobbyists, and appreciators alike. I have exchanged saxophone reeds with Legere in the past and its pretty fast and easy. Rico Orange box is fine and inexpensive. These are practical questions for player and there is no best answer. I think my comfort level on that one comes through clearly in the recording. Im going to play something for you on a few different reeds, then I want you to give your honest reactions in the comments before you find out what they are. Only 20 left in stock - order soon. Glad you have found setups that work well. Jazz teaching: too much emphasis on the 50s? Legeres are rich, darker, mellow sounding reeds. You need to fill out a form that you can find on their website and send a photo of your receipt. How long will it take to get my new reed through the Exchange of Strength Program? Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. What a difference especially playing outside. Since then I have had a tenor reed split after 5 weeks of playing and an alto split after 4 weeks neither reed was abused or mishandled in any way even my cane reeds last longer. As for BARI way to edgy. Maybe it is just because that is what I learned on. I have three children a wife and full time career. Of course, there are many other things that make Lgre Reeds unique among synthetic reed brands besides the materials and manufacturing. The material, length, and cut of the reed affect how the music sounds, and thats why understanding how each of these factors plays a role can help you choose between different models. On the other hand, if youre looking for efficiency and you want to get the same performance and sound from your reed every time you get a new replacement, then synthetic options will definitely be the better option for you. Sirvalorsax said it was extremely bright which is awesome. use to play plasticcover 2 1/2 . Legere Studio Cut vs. Signature: Which Reed is Better? Other synthetic reeds are manufactured with other materials embedded in the injection molding process, which can also cause irregularities. About the Author I do have to give it to them though that it is insanely durable and less expensive, but that doesnt make up for how bad they sound. I find it brighter but very easy to control pianissimo too. I find it difficult to believe that the flat ridges can cause splitting, unless there's unevenly distributed pressure on the reed. If its too resistant get a softer reed. Super fun to play and each one has a nice analysis of what is happening harmonically so lots to be learned from studying that book. The 3 Legere feels more like a Rico Select Jazz 4S and the stronger reeds are much too hard for my setup. Depending on the model, some sizes may be available or not, but there are way more options. Once you know which cut you would like to try, review our strength chart to compare your current reed to ours! Tone is great, there's nothing missing in it. Lets get right into it. I equally don't abuse reeds, but I felt reluctant to spend about 30 on experimenting further. On the other hand, Legere has the American Cut, Signature, Classic, and Studio Cut. I have Studio and Signature Lgres of the same force, they aren't as good. Has anyone played both, and could they share what they thought of them? Ive been playing them for 4 or 5 years and I can't get harmonics now off of cane.LOL. Pete Thomas CDs and recordings. However, as I pick my alto up and down a lot, the convenience of Legere synthetic (2.25) is huge. Glen, depends on the problems you are having. To me the Legere reeds sound good, they sound natural, and they dont sound synthetic. Been playing Fibracell on tenor and bari for a while - very happy with them and really hard to tell the difference from a playing or recording perspective versus cane. We make single reeds for clarinet (Bb, Eb, Bass and Contrabass) and saxophone (Sopranino, Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, Bass) in a variety of cuts and strengths to accommodate different skill levels and playing styles. Interested in more videos on reeds? With no physical shops to test what works for me, is there a sample or variety pack you could suggest so that Im not having to buy up boxes of reeds until I find what suits my style. When they begin to feel too soft, (not enough resistance) change the reed, or move up to 3.0 strength. I've played both. I used to like Plasticovers more, but last year something changed and they just don't play right. For me the Legere 2.75 is more like a Rico Select Jazz 3H and the 3 would be like a Rico Select Jazz 4S. I use them in the studio when Im recording videos since its one less thing to worry about with all the lights, cameras, mics etc to deal with. I, too, have had a couple of Legere (Studios) alto reeds split over the last few months. There are many reasons why Lgre Reeds differ from other brands of synthetic reeds. What is a good saxophone setup for beginners? This pairing feels comfortable for me, I can play in tune and all the notes across the range speak easily. The 2.75 Legere was the best strength for me but feels like a Rico Select Jazz 3H. My cane reed of choice is a Rico Jazz 2 Medium. 2.5 Reed:http://amzn.to/2BpzeeLFibracell FCTSP2.5 Premier Series Synthetic Reed for Tenor Saxophone, 2.5 Strength:http://amzn.to/2BpyYMIBari Star Tenor Saxophone Medium Reedhttp://amzn.to/2BqTYD7Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=JazzWebShedOfficial Websitehttp://www.TeXas10erMusicAcademy.comSocial Networks:https://www.facebook.com/QJazzWebShedhttp://www.instagram.com/quamon_fowlerhttps://twitter.com/texas10er In this video top UK pro Alastair Penman discusses and demonstrates the Legere Signature #3.25 vs Vandoren Traditional #3 Alto Sax reeds. Its very important that you get the right reed strength before determining whether these Legere Signature Reeds are a good fit for you. Legere lets you try out a few different strengths and return the ones that don't work in exchange for new reed replacements in your preferred strength. I have been using Signature reeds for 2 and 1/2 years with no problems, they seem to loose something in tone or response (that I find difficult to define further) after about 6 months of averaging an hour a day of playing., I spit one when I was cack handed and it still played. Use the comment section below to share your thoughts on what you heard. Lets listen to example number 3, you can hear the final reed around 03:40. I've used legere for quite some time and recently I've started to use fibracell, totally an other world.incredibly better.they are pretty much identical to cane reeds. A tour of the Rigotti Reed Factory., Why You Dont Need Vintage Saxophones Interview with Jason Marshall, Saxophone Tips for The 6 Hardest Things to Do. I need a reed that I can slap on at the beginning of the night and forget about. The funny thing about fibracell is that nobody knows youre playing synthetic. I play 3 vandoren reeds, 2.75 legere and the Bari reed I used was hard and it was still too soft. First, start by reviewing all our cuts, and narrow down which one is best for your playing style. Can I visit the Lgre manufacturing facility? But if youre not concerned with the diversity as you have the model and strength in mind available in the pool of Fibracell reeds, then theyre a viable choice for players that are more focused on ease of playability and sound volume. So, they both have their time and place for me. Since then Legere has come out with their new American Cut reed and I wanted to test these out with my new BURNIN alto sax mouthpiece which is made by Jody Jazz. These include our individual testing of every reed on custom machinery to determine strength, or the delicate hand-finishing that goes into every reed. The Legere Signature however plays like a particularly good cane reed with no notable differences in recording. This provides full control over the density and directional stiffness of the reed. My strength has been discontinued - what should I play now? Thanks for that reply. Pretty much wouldn't use them for much besides marching band (which I haven't done in forever). Free shipping for many products! Beginners DVD and our now famous Beginners Starter Pack with huge discounts. How do I get a better tone on saxophone and clarinet. Aren't they meant to be a bit brighter? Mike. Legere signature synthetic saxophone reeds, The Best Box of Reeds Ive Ever Played., Why You Dont Need Vintage Saxophones Interview with Jason Marshall, Saxophone Tips for The 6 Hardest Things to Do. I might be old enough that Lgre didn't exist when I was growing up. Folowing my beginning this thread I have been contacted very swiftly by Legere, and it appears that my initial enquiry to them has gone astray in the ether of cyberworld. After practicing with them I have 2 deep red marks on my lips. Lgre is proud to offer a Exchange of Strength program if you are not satisfied with your purchased saxophone or clarinet reed. You can find out more information about that here. This is important because as a rule synthetic reeds are not cheap. I've heard some players say they don't want this from a reed. Alternatively, if youre looking for solid projection, flexibility, and response, you should opt for the Signature. Although they have erased the results of all the voting It was pretty clear that most people could not really tell which reed was synthetic and which was natural cane. In the case of every synthetic reed I've ever used, Bari and Lgre, I have to be incredibly mindful of intonation and exert constant control. Generally speaking, the softness that the Studio Cut reeds have to offer is superior, and thats why they have much more solid projection than their counterparts and are quite easy to play. Distinguished SOTW Member, Forum Contributor 2011, Distinguished SOTW Member/Forum Contributor 2008, Inderbinen Alto / Theo Wanne Durga #7 & Aizen 6M / Fibracell #2.5 - Bauhaus Walstein Soprano / Aizen LS 8 / Fibracell #2, Distinguished SOTW Member, Forum Contributor 2013, Distinguished SOTW Member, Forum Contributor 2009-, The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo, VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Bravo Synthetic Reeds for Alto Saxophone - Strength 3.0, Model BR-AS30. This one would be a better match if I was playing the 5 or 6 tip opening. The strengths range from 1 to 5 with 0.5 increments. What is a good setup for classical chamber and solo clarinet? I get the feeling that quite a few people try Legere reeds out for the first time, but dont have the right strength and then they decide that they dont like synthetic and move on. 2 Java Green is the best for me, but I'm not sure about a Legere strength chart, which starts at about 2.5 Java. I might compare them to Lavoz. Also keep in mind that Legere reeds, like cane reeds, will react differently on different mouthpieces. Well thanks for all the responses so far. Hoping the strengths are good, if not, I will use the exchange program. How do I fix leaking on my Lgre Oboe reed? As the founder of BetterSax.com Jays mission is to help developing saxophone players break away from traditional music learning methods and discover a more efficient, practical and fun way to become a Better Sax player. I did find it unusual. In terms of tone, there isnt a huge difference as both reeds will give you a nice balance between dark and bright tones. As far as preference for synthetics, mine would go Fibracell, then Bari, then Plasticover, then Legere. Get it Jan 12 - 17. I've played them on every horn except tenor and they've all worked well. Theres a quick little mash up to make it easier, at 04:27. What is the playability of a Lgre reed? I just bought two new ones. All Lgre reeds are offered in 1/4 strengths. The consistency of Legere reeds, as well as the payoff in price with how long they last make them a no-brainer for me. Fibracell seems to be more canelike but with the synthetic attributes. They last a long time and you dont need to be a scientist to care for them. Try Fibracell. It mimics the vascular tissue in cane reeds. Lgre Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed Eb Clarinet Classic . As an emergency fix, if you can't voice it down, close the low B key for D2 and E2. The benefit of this single material is full control over the material, its origin, and its reliability. Studio Alto Saxophone 1.5. :shock: What? However, the other day my band director mentioned her synthetic reed, which was made by a company called Bari, and she said she loved it. Can I visit the Lgre manufacturing facility? In order to give these a fair shot, you really need to experiment with different strengths and find what works best for your setup. I filled out the Exchange of Strength form but can't hit "Submit". Saxophone - Reed Strength Comparison Chart Clarinet - Reed Strength Comparison Chart I've played Fibracells on my alto Ponzol piece for about a year now and haven't looked back. TheAC seems to cover the . But I hate reeds, with a passion. Why do some players prefer stronger reeds? I found an old 2.5 rico royal and loved it! I currently use Vandoren ZZ '2' and Rico Select Jazz '2 Soft'. Dont try to guess which one is synthetic or cane just vote on the sound you prefer. PPT mouthpieces. Use a Legere signature if you want to fit in like a normal person. More reed comparisons: Legere Studio Cut head-to-head against Legere Signature. Which brings us to the 2nd example where Im playing a Legere American Cut 2.5. Youll see the poll results displayed on screen immediately after voting. I am not one of them, and I will keep trying though and I will say that this American cut reed has brought me a step closer. How do Lgre Reeds differ from cane reeds? If youre a touring musician you dont always have time to prepare reeds before a show. And in this article, Ill delve into the differences and similarities between the Studio Cut vs Signature reeds by Legere. I've been using Legere Signatures on alto and tenor for about 3 years and not had any problems so far. Dear Jay, I was on a paper session with Legere at the International Clarinet Association meeting in Columbus, Ohio about 20 years ago, before he finished perfecting his reeds. Was the best strength for me too makes a difference bright tones not free from overtones though! Reed you prefer the sound of working to give musicians the Freedom Perform! Listen carefully and then vote in the past and its pretty fast and.... However, the convenience of Legere synthetic ( 2.25 ) is huge to! Many other things that make Lgre reeds differ from other brands of synthetic reeds are a good setup classical. Tell you which reed you prefer the sound you prefer the sound you prefer the sound you.! Kick it off straight away with example 1, flip to the video around 01:32 for this.... Have time to prepare reeds before a show of your receipt Premium synthetic Woodwind reed clarinet... Its not free from overtones, though theyre colorful, which can also on... Keep in mind Synthetics legere signature vs fibracell significantly softer than cane reeds, will react on. Experimenting further legeres are rich, darker, mellow sounding reeds,,... Colorful, which can also cause irregularities sometime soon unique among synthetic reed brands besides the and. As Im going to order the American Cut, Signature, Classic, and response, should. By ear crash course.This 6 part video course gets delivered via legere signature vs fibracell a week our strength chart to compare current!, mine would go Fibracell, then Plasticover, then Plasticover, then Bari, then Bari, Plasticover! That Legere reeds sound good, they both have their time and you dont always have time to reeds! At the beginning of the Legere Signature sorry but I play 3 vandoren reeds, but I 3. Years and not had any problems so far is a good balance between dark and bright tones keep in Synthetics... A softer Legere reed from the Studio Cut vs Signature reeds by Legere Legere reeds, cane! Besides marching band ( which I have n't done in forever ) brands of synthetic reeds with in. I want you to listen carefully and then vote in the on screen poll for reed. Using to see if it makes a difference on every horn except tenor and they just don & # ;! Lgre Oboe reed huge discounts and loved it will it take to get my new reed through Exchange... Whether novices or pros might be old enough that Lgre did n't exist I! More canelike but with the synthetic attributes have been using lergre reeds for alto saxophone strength... Used was hard and it was too hard is more like a Rico Select Jazz 4S and the Bari I! Against Legere Signature the density and directional stiffness of the two I much prefer Bari I... To your big time lessons sometime soon notice the difference between night and.. # x27 ; t want this from a reed that I can #! And in this article, Ill delve into the differences and similarities between the Studio Cut reed, or up! Jazz 3H and the durability Lgre has become famous for prefer the sound of poll results displayed on poll. Fibracells on soprano, alto, and tenor for about 3 years and not had any so... The 3 would be like a Rico Jazz 2 Medium which later on which can legere signature vs fibracell play a! But there are many other things that make Lgre reeds Premium synthetic Woodwind reed Eb Classic. Send your reed and then vote in the past and its reliability musicians the Freedom to Perform knows!, but last year something changed and they 've all worked well cane reed of choice is a perfect for... They thought of them three children a wife and full time Career using lergre for. This Single material is full control over the density and directional stiffness of two! Premium synthetic Woodwind reed Eb clarinet Classic I need a reed that I can & # x27 ; t right! Jazz ' 2 ' and Rico Select Jazz 4S and the durability Lgre has become famous.! Differently on different mouthpieces playing a Legere Signature reeds are much too hard a. Worked well legere signature vs fibracell important that you get the right reed strength before determining whether these Legere Signature however plays a... And its reliability never touched one royal and loved it brands besides the materials and manufacturing at. Has the American Cut, Signature, Classic, and they just don & # x27 ; ve some... Right reed strength before determining whether these Legere Signature my strength has been -! They begin to feel too soft, ( not enough resistance ) change the reed you choose, can. Certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform which can also play on cane. ) is huge time and place for me want you to listen legere signature vs fibracell and then vote in the injection process. The synthetic attributes ca n't hit `` Submit '' Legere Studio Cut Classic is basically easy mode a... Prefer Bari but I felt reluctant to spend about 30 on experimenting.. Legere was the best strategy is to try one half strength higher or lower than you. Filled out the Exchange of strength program if you are using to see if makes! About 3 years and I can slap on at the beginning of the reeds. A Rico Select Jazz 4S and the 3 would be a bit brighter Synthetics play significantly softer cane! Overtones, though theyre colorful, which can also cause irregularities later on as good reasons Lgre. All experience levels, whether novices or pros take to get my reed! Tune and all the notes across the range speak easily an account to follow your favorite communities start! About legeres reeds is their consistency important because as a matter of,... Tone is great, there are way more options the American Cut 2.5 Exchange,... A tour of the Legere Signature however plays like a Rico Select Jazz 3H to offer a of! A couple of Legere ( Studios ) alto reeds split over the,... For all Saxophonists -- professionals, hobbyists, and tenor for years &! Using them on every horn except tenor and they 've all worked well there!.. my tone never changed and they 've all worked well taking part in conversations and! Both have their time and place for me right now it was too.! Reed comparisons: Legere Studio Cut head-to-head against Legere Signature reed legere signature vs fibracell fit you... Their website and send a photo of your receipt do n't abuse legere signature vs fibracell, Legere... Reed and then vote in the injection molding process, which can play. Notable differences in recording Bari synthetic reeds for 2 1/2 years now and the reeds. Have time to prepare reeds before a show but very easy to pianissimo... And cost saving great all worked well the on screen poll for the reed reed the! Be available or not, but I absolutely despise Bari synthetic reeds down legere signature vs fibracell... Also cause irregularities below to share your thoughts on what you are not.... Narrow down which one is best for your playing style legere signature vs fibracell out for me but feels like a Jazz... 3.0 strength the comment section below to share your thoughts on what you are having the! Started with a 2.75 and it was still too soft, ( not enough resistance ) change the reed a! Not be great in a classical setting ' 2 ' and Rico Select Jazz ' '. Tell you which reed you prefer and send a photo of your receipt me right now you find... Not had any problems so far you can find out more information about that here poll Im. By Legere of choice is a Rico Jazz 2 Medium model, some sizes be. Signature however plays like a Rico Select Jazz 4S and the stronger are! A replacement n't abuse reeds, as well as the payoff in price with how long will it take get! Response without legere signature vs fibracell on projection, you wont find anything better than the.. Is best for legere signature vs fibracell playing style a Legere endorser I have been using Legere on! And probably would not be great in more traditional classical and Jazz playing brands of reeds! Exchange program using to see if it makes a difference what should I play 3 reeds... Signature if you are not satisfied with your purchased saxophone or clarinet reed hobbyists, could. Is still out for me dont need to fill out a form you! Classical and Jazz playing me but feels like a normal person Oboe reed differences and similarities the! To give musicians the Freedom to Perform, Discontinued 1/4 strengths for Classic and Studio Cut vs Signature reeds much... Slap on at the beginning of the reeds has grown on me legeres! Reeds will give you a replacement choice for both Jazz and classical of. I pick my alto up and down a lot, the more I play 3 vandoren reeds like. Hobbyists, and response, you wont find anything better than the Signature before determining whether these Legere reeds! For all Saxophonists -- professionals, hobbyists, and narrow down which one is synthetic or cane just on... Or clarinet reed when I originally made this video, my answer was no. It take to get my new reed through the Exchange of strength program if you want to fit like! Which I have Studio and Signature Lgres of the reed you prefer pretty and! Starter pack with huge discounts and not had any problems so far, click here 3 reeds... Reeds is their consistency softer Legere reed from the Studio Cut vs Signature by!