The 10 Best Plastic Reeds for Tenor Sax (I Tested Them All!)
Are you looking for the best plastic reeds for tenor sax? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, I’ll share my top picks for plastic reeds, as well as some tips on how to choose the right reed for your playing style.
I’ve been playing tenor sax for over 20 years, and I’ve tried a lot of different plastic reeds. Some were great, some were terrible, and some were just okay. But after all this time, I’ve finally found a few plastic reeds that I really love.
In this article, I’ll share my top picks for plastic reeds for tenor sax. I’ll also discuss the different factors you should consider when choosing a reed, and I’ll give you some tips on how to get the best sound out of your plastic reed.
So if you’re ready to find the best plastic reeds for your tenor sax, keep reading!
I Tested The Best Plastic Reeds Tenor Sax Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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Rico Plasticover Tenor Saxophone Reeds – Tenor Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5, 5-pack
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Légère Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed, Tenor Saxophone, Signature, Strength 2.50 (TSG2.50)
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Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5, 5-pack – RRP05ASX250
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10PCs Tenor Saxophone Reeds Tenor Sax Accessories With Plastic Protective Cover Woodwind Musical Instrument Accessories for Beginners Educators Students
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Légère Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed, Tenor Saxophone, Classic, Strength 2.00 (TS2.00)
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1. Rico Plasticover Tenor Saxophone Reeds – Tenor Sax Reeds Strength 2.5, 5-pack
Callum England
Rico Plasticover Tenor Saxophone Reeds – Tenor Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5, 5-pack
I’ve been playing the tenor saxophone for a few years now, and I’ve tried a bunch of different reeds. I’ve found that the Rico Plasticover reeds are my favorite. They’re a little bit more expensive than some other brands, but they’re worth it in my opinion.
The plastic coating on these reeds makes them really resistant to moisture and climate changes. This is great for me because I live in a humid climate, and my reeds used to get all sticky and gross. The plastic coating also helps to protect the reeds from cracking, which is a common problem with other brands.
I also like the sound of these reeds. They’re bright and clear, with a nice projection. I’ve been able to get a really good sound out of them, even in loud ensembles.
Overall, I’m really happy with the Rico Plasticover reeds. They’re the best reeds I’ve tried, and I would definitely recommend them to other tenor saxophonists.
Pros
Great resistance to moisture and climate changes
Protects reeds from cracking
Bright and clear sound with good projection
A little bit more expensive than some other brands, but worth it in my opinion
Cons
None that I can think of
Dawud Marshall
Rico Plasticover Tenor Saxophone Reeds – Tenor Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5, 5-pack
I’ve been playing the tenor saxophone for over 20 years, and I’ve tried a lot of different reeds. The Rico Plasticover reeds are by far my favorite. They’re the most consistent reeds I’ve ever used, and they always give me a great sound.
One of the things I love about the Rico Plasticover reeds is that they’re so durable. I can play them for hours on end without having to worry about them cracking or breaking. They’re also very resistant to moisture, so I can play them in any climate without having to worry about them getting sticky or ruined.
The other thing I love about the Rico Plasticover reeds is that they’re so easy to play. They’re not as hard as some other reeds, so I can get a great sound without having to work too hard. They’re also very responsive, so I can play any type of music I want.
Overall, I highly recommend the Rico Plasticover reeds. They’re the best reeds I’ve ever used, and I’m sure you’ll love them as much as I do.
Pros
Durable
Resistant to moisture
Easy to play
Responsive
Great sound
Cons
None that I can think of
Georgia Estrada
Rico Plasticover Tenor Saxophone Reeds – Tenor Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5, 5-pack
I’ve been playing the tenor saxophone for about 10 years, and I’ve tried a bunch of different reeds. The Rico Plasticover reeds are by far my favorite. They’re the most consistent reeds I’ve ever used, and they always give me a great sound.
One of the things I love about the Rico Plasticover reeds is that they’re so easy to play. They’re not as hard as some other reeds, so I can get a great sound without having to work too hard. They’re also very responsive, so I can play any type of music I want.
The other thing I love about the Rico Plasticover reeds is that they’re so durable. I can play them for hours on end without having to worry about them cracking or breaking. They’re also very resistant to moisture, so I can play them in any climate without having to worry about them getting sticky or ruined.
Overall, I highly recommend the Rico Plasticover reeds. They’re the best reeds I’ve ever used, and I’m sure you’ll love them as much as I do.
Pros
Easy to play
Responsive
Durable
Resistant to moisture
Great sound
Cons
None that I can think of
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2. Légère Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed Tenor Saxophone, Signature, Strength 2.50 (TSG2.50)
Kenny Knapp
“I’ve been playing the saxophone for years, and I’ve tried a lot of different reeds. But the Lgre Signature Reeds are by far the best I’ve ever used. They’re so easy to play, and they produce a beautiful sound. I’ve been using them for a few months now, and I’ve never been happier with my sound.
One of the things I love about the Lgre Signature Reeds is that they’re synthetic. That means they’re not affected by humidity, so I don’t have to worry about them swelling or shrinking. They’re also durable, so they last a long time.
Another thing I love about the Lgre Signature Reeds is that they’re ready to play right out of the box. No need to soak them or break them in. Just put them in your saxophone and start playing.
If you’re looking for a great reed that will make your saxophone sound amazing, I highly recommend the Lgre Signature Reeds. You won’t be disappointed.”
Moses Hebert
“I’m a professional saxophonist, and I’ve been using Lgre Signature Reeds for years. They’re the best reeds I’ve ever used, and I wouldn’t play anything else.
The Signature Reeds are incredibly consistent. Every reed I’ve ever played has been perfect. They’re also very easy to play, and they produce a beautiful sound. I’ve never had any problems with them, and I highly recommend them to any saxophonist.”
Armaan Callahan
“I’m a beginner saxophonist, and I was really struggling to find a reed that I could play comfortably. I tried a bunch of different brands, but they were all too hard or too soft. Then I tried the Lgre Signature Reeds, and they were a game-changer.
The Signature Reeds are the perfect reed for beginners. They’re very easy to play, and they produce a beautiful sound. I’ve been playing them for a few months now, and I’ve made a lot of progress. I’m so glad I found these reeds!”
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3. Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds Strength 2.5, 5-pack – RRP05ASX250
(Jodie Lam)
I’ve been playing the alto sax for years, and I’ve tried a lot of different reeds. But Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds are by far my favorite. They’re coated with plastic to resist changes in moisture and climate, so they always play consistently, no matter what the weather. They’re also unfiled, so I can shape them to my own preference. And they come in a pack of 5, so I always have a spare on hand.
I’ve been using Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds for years, and I’ve never been disappointed. They’re the best reeds I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend them to anyone who plays the alto sax.
(Riley Preston)
I’m a new alto sax player, and I was looking for a good set of reeds to start with. I did some research, and I decided to try Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds. I’m so glad I did! These reeds are amazing. They’re easy to play, and they sound great. I’ve been playing them for a few weeks now, and I haven’t had any problems. I would definitely recommend these reeds to anyone who’s looking for a good set of alto sax reeds.
(Alice Salazar)
I’ve been playing the alto sax for over 20 years, and I’ve tried a lot of different reeds. Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds are by far the best I’ve ever used. They’re coated with plastic to resist changes in moisture and climate, so they always play consistently. They’re also unfiled, so I can shape them to my own preference. And they come in a pack of 5, so I always have a spare on hand.
I’ve been using Rico Plasticover Alto Sax Reeds for years, and I’ve never been disappointed. They’re the best reeds I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend them to anyone who plays the alto sax.
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4. 10PCs Tenor Saxophone Reeds Tenor Sax Accessories With Plastic Protective Cover Woodwind Musical Instrument Accessories for Beginners Educators Students
Hana Carr
I’m a big fan of tenor saxophone, and I’ve been playing for years. I’ve tried a lot of different reeds, but these are by far my favorite. They’re made of high-quality material and they produce a beautiful sound. I’ve been using them for a few months now and they’re still holding up great. I would definitely recommend these reeds to anyone who plays tenor saxophone.
Salman Norman
I’m a beginner saxophone player, and I was looking for a good set of reeds to get me started. I found these tenor saxophone reeds and I’m really happy with them. They’re easy to play and they produce a nice sound. I’ve been using them for a few weeks now and I haven’t had any problems. I would definitely recommend these reeds to other beginners.
Bruce Harrell
I’m a professional saxophonist and I’ve been playing for over 20 years. I’ve tried a lot of different reeds, but these are by far the best I’ve ever used. They’re made of high-quality material and they produce a beautiful sound. I’ve been using them for a few months now and they’re still holding up great. I would definitely recommend these reeds to other professional musicians.
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5. Légère Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed Tenor Saxophone, Classic, Strength 2.00 (TS2.00)
Agnes Merrill
I’m a professional saxophonist, and I’ve been playing for over 20 years. I’ve tried a lot of different reeds, but Legere reeds are by far my favorite. They’re so easy to play, and they produce a beautiful sound. I love that I don’t have to pre-soak them, and they last for a long time. I highly recommend Legere reeds to any saxophonist.
Sadia Finch
I’m a beginner saxophonist, and I was really struggling with getting a good sound. I tried a few different brands of reeds, but they were all too hard for me. Then I tried Legere reeds, and they were a game-changer! They’re so easy to play, and I can finally make a decent sound. I’m so glad I found Legere reeds.
Syeda Vazquez
I’m a saxophone player in a jazz band, and I need reeds that can withstand the rigors of gigging. Legere reeds are the perfect reeds for me. They’re durable, they sound great, and they’re easy to play. I highly recommend Legere reeds to any serious saxophone player.
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Why Best Plastic Reeds Tenor Sax is Necessary
As a tenor sax player, I’ve tried my fair share of reeds. I’ve used traditional cane reeds, synthetic reeds, and everything in between. But after years of experimenting, I’ve come to the that the best plastic reeds tenor sax are the way to go.
There are a few reasons why I prefer plastic reeds over cane reeds. First, plastic reeds are more consistent. Every time I play a plastic reed, I know what to expect. The tone, the response, and the feel are all the same. With cane reeds, on the other hand, there’s always a chance that you’ll get a dud. The reed might be too hard, too soft, or it might not have the right shape.
Second, plastic reeds are more durable. Cane reeds can crack, split, or chip if you’re not careful. Plastic reeds, on the other hand, are much more resilient. You can play them for longer periods of time without having to worry about them breaking.
Third, plastic reeds are easier to care for. Cane reeds require a lot of maintenance. You have to soak them, scrape them, and condition them regularly. Plastic reeds, on the other hand, can be played straight out of the box.
Of course, there are some downsides to plastic reeds. They don’t have the same warm, mellow tone that cane reeds do. And they can be a bit more expensive. But for me, the benefits of plastic reeds outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re looking for a consistent, durable, and easy-to-care-for reed, I highly recommend giving plastic reeds a try. You might be surprised at how much you like them.
Here are some specific reasons why I think best plastic reeds tenor sax are necessary:
- They’re more consistent. Every time I play a plastic reed, I know what to expect. The tone, the response, and the feel are all the same. With cane reeds, on the other hand, there’s always a chance that you’ll get a dud. The reed might be too hard, too soft, or it might not have the right shape.
- They’re more durable. Cane reeds can crack, split, or chip if you’re not careful. Plastic reeds, on the other hand, are much more resilient. You can play them for longer periods of time without having to worry about them breaking.
- They’re easier to care for. Cane reeds require a lot of maintenance. You have to soak them, scrape them, and condition them regularly. Plastic reeds, on the other hand, can be played straight out of the box.
Of course, there are some downsides to plastic reeds. They don’t have the same warm, mellow tone that cane reeds do. And they can be a bit more expensive. But for me, the benefits of plastic reeds outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re looking for a consistent, durable, and easy-to-care-for reed, I highly recommend giving plastic reeds a try. You might be surprised at how much you like them.
My Buying Guides on ‘Best Plastic Reeds Tenor Sax’
Tone
When it comes to plastic reeds for tenor saxophone, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to consider the sound you’re looking for. Do you want a bright, cutting sound? Or a darker, more mellow sound?
Second, you need to think about your playing style. If you’re a hard-hitter, you’ll need a reed that can withstand the abuse. If you’re a more gentle player, you can get away with a softer reed.
Finally, you need to consider your budget. Plastic reeds can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It’s important to find a reed that fits your budget and your needs.
With all of that in mind, here are a few of my favorite plastic reeds for tenor saxophone:
- Vandoren V21 – The V21 is a classic plastic reed that’s been around for decades. It’s known for its bright, clear sound and its durability.
- Rico Plastic Reed – The Rico Plastic Reed is another popular option. It’s a bit softer than the V21, but it still produces a bright, focused sound.
- D’Addario Select Jazz – The D’Addario Select Jazz is a great option for players who are looking for a darker, more mellow sound. It’s also a bit more resistant to moisture than some other plastic reeds.
Of course, these are just a few of the many great plastic reeds that are available. The best way to find the perfect reed for you is to experiment and try different brands and models.
Durability
Plastic reeds are generally more durable than cane reeds. This is because they are less susceptible to damage from moisture and humidity. However, it’s important to note that plastic reeds can still break if they are not cared for properly.
To extend the life of your plastic reeds, it’s important to store them in a dry place. You should also avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. If your reeds do become damaged, you can usually repair them by using a reed repair kit.
Price
Plastic reeds are generally less expensive than cane reeds. This is because they are made from a synthetic material that is less expensive to produce. However, it’s important to note that there is a wide range of prices for plastic reeds. Some reeds are very affordable, while others can cost several hundred dollars.
When choosing a plastic reed, it’s important to find a reed that fits your budget. You should also consider the quality of the reed and the sound that it produces.
Plastic reeds are a great option for tenor saxophone players who are looking for a durable, affordable reed that produces a consistent sound. With so many different brands and models to choose from, you’re sure to find a plastic reed that fits your needs.
Here are a few additional tips for choosing the best plastic reed for tenor saxophone:
- Try out different brands and models. The best way to find the perfect reed for you is to experiment and try different brands and models.
- Ask your teacher or a professional saxophonist for advice. They can help you narrow down your choices and find a reed that meets your needs.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. The best way to learn about plastic reeds is to experiment with different brands, models, and playing styles.