Reed Strength

Reed strength is a measurement of the density and stiffness of the cane. Strength may be indicated by numbers, for example, 2½ or 3. The lower the number, the softer the reed. Reed strength may also be denoted by words, such as "medium soft" or "hard". Generally, younger or less experienced players use a softer reed than advanced players and professionals do. The following chart shows how reed strength works.

1½ .... 2 ... 2½ .... 3 ... 3½ .... 4 ... 4½ .... 5 ... 5½
Soft .... Medium Soft ... Medium .... Medium Hard .... Hard  

Please keep in mind that this is only a general guideline for reed strength. Strengths will vary from brand to brand -- for example, a Vandoren #3 clarinet reed plays harder than a Mitchell Lurie #3.