Reed Brands

Reed makers offer essentially two styles or "cuts" of reed. The first is the American or "jazz" cut reed. Examples of this style of reed include Rico, Rico Royal, LaVoz, and HMG. An American style reed is identified by a relatively thick tip and a low heart (see Parts of the Reed diagram). The other style of reed is the French or "classical" cut. Makers of this type include Vandoren, Mitchell Lurie, and Fred Hemke. A French style reed is recognized by a very thin tip and relatively high heart. Most beginners, young players, and many commercial and jazz players use the American cut reeds. Those whose activities are directed toward orchestral, chamber, and solo performance use the French style reeds. American cut reeds tend to be less expensive than the French reeds, and they are also very consistent from reed to reed. The French reeds have a pure, rich tone, but they can be somewhat inconsistent in quality and cut. Despite this, classical players invariably choose the French style reeds.