12 best reed for bass clarinets

Bass clarinet reeds are a critical component of the bass clarinet, which is a member of the clarinet family and is known for its rich, deep, and resonant sound. Reed selection plays a significant role in shaping the tone and playability of the instrument. Here's what you need to know about reeds for bass clarinets:

  1. Material: Bass clarinet reeds are typically made from a type of cane called Arundo donax. This cane is known for its resonance and flexibility, making it ideal for producing the warm tones associated with the bass clarinet.

  2. Strengths: Bass clarinet reeds come in various strengths, usually rated on a scale from soft to hard. The choice of reed strength can greatly impact the player's ability to control the instrument's tone and play with ease. Beginner players may start with a softer reed and progress to harder ones as they gain experience and strength.

  3. Brands: Several reputable brands produce bass clarinet reeds, including Vandoren, Rico, D'Addario, and Legere. The choice of brand can be a matter of personal preference, as different brands may produce reeds with slightly different characteristics.

  4. Cut: Bass clarinet reeds come in different cuts, with the most common being the French cut and the German cut. The cut of the reed can affect the articulation and response of the instrument.Players often experiment to find the cut that suits their playing style best.

  5. Preparation: Before use, bass clarinet reeds need to be soaked in water for a few minutes to ensure proper moisture content. This helps the reed vibrate effectively and produce a good tone. Additionally, reeds may require some adjustment and fine-tuning by the player to achieve the desired sound and response.

  6. Lifespan: Bass clarinet reeds have a limited lifespan and can wear out or become less responsive over time. Players should rotate and replace reeds regularly to maintain consistent tone quality and playability.

  7. Storage: Proper storage of bass clarinet reeds is essential to prevent warping and maintain their quality. Reed cases or holders that provide good airflow and protection are recommended.

  8. Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the reed and the mouthpiece is crucial for optimal performance. Cleaning the mouthpiece and inspecting the reed for damage or wear is part of this maintenance routine.

In conclusion, bass clarinet reeds are essential accessories for bass clarinet players, and their choice can significantly impact the instrument's tone and playability. Players often experiment with different reed strengths, cuts, and brands to find the combination that best suits their musical preferences and playing style. Proper care and maintenance of reeds are essential for ensuring their longevity and consistent performance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best reed for bass clarinets on the market
  

Vandoren CR123 Bass Clarinet Traditional Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5

Vandoren

Based on 870 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The most widely played reeds in the world, with a superiority proven over the years, these reeds suit all styles of music.

  • Traditional reeds are known for their excellent response in all registers, allowing a pianissimo attack in even highest notes.
  • Extremely flexible, allowing the legato or staccato execution of large intervals while maintaining a richness of tone that gives body and clarity to the sound, which is a hallmark of Vandoren reeds.
  • Traditional reeds are available for all clarinets and saxophones in various strengths.
  • Every reed sealed in 'Flow Pack' to ensure freshness.

User questions & answers

Question: When is a good excuse to use a size 2.5 reed? I'm in my bands symphonic band, and I have trouble with squeaking, "crrrrrr" sounds, and reed longevity
Answer: Now if you are squeaking it means your reed is either broken or you need to move up one size. What size are you currently using?
Question: how many reeds come in this pack
Answer: Five?
Question: The picture shows a #3 reed. . . What strength are you selling
Answer: Amazon sells several strengths of reeds.
Question: Can you use these on a b flat bass clarinet
Answer: Yes it is made for a B flat bass clarinet

Rico Bass Clarinet Reeds, Strength 3.0, 10-pack

D’Addario Woodwinds

Based on 618 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for a wide variety of playing situations, Rico Reeds are cut of our most flexible grade of cane. The ease of play, affordable price and convenient packaging options are why more musicians worldwide find Rico the best value.



•Designed for ease of play

•Unfiled for powerful tone

•Priced affordably for educators

•Available for full range of clarinets and saxophones

•Offered in quantities of 3 and 10 reeds, and the 25 Novapak reed dispenser



At its San Fernando Valley facility, Rico has a state-of-the-art reed research center, and employs the collaboration of agronomists, scientists, and musicians to produce top-quality reeds that include Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone. Rico reeds are designed to benefit all levels of musicians from the beginner to the seasoned professional. Many of the world's finest clarinetists and saxophonists use Rico brand reeds, such as Anthony McGill, Mark Nuccio, Jessica Phillips, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Walter Boeykens, Seiji Yokokawa, Philippe Geiss, Diastema Saxophone Quartet, and many more. For more information, visit RicoReeds.com

From the Manufacturer

Designed for a wide variety of playing situations, Rico Reeds in strength 3.0 are designed to vibrate easily. Featuring an unfiled cut and thinner vamp, Rico offers an ease of play that, combined with its affordable price and convenient packaging options, explains why more musicians worldwide find Rico the best value.

Rico reeds have been the standard among reed players for generations. All Rico reeds are manufactured on state-of-the-art equipment that ensure an accurate cut and smooth finish. Every reed is precisely graded for its strength and quality, making Rico the best value for students and professionals alike.

Since the acquisition of Rico by D'Addario & Co., Rico has strengthened its position as the global leader in woodwind reeds and accessories. Rico's state-of-the-art reed research center in Southern California employs a collaboration of agronomists, scientists, and musicians to produce top-quality reeds, including Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone. Rico reeds are designed to benefit all levels of musicians, from the beginner to the seasoned professional. Many of the world's finest woodwind players perform with Rico reeds, such as Mark Nuccio, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Henri Bok, Richie Hawley, Eric Alexander, and many more.

  • Thinner vamp cut designed for ease of play
  • Strength 3.0, Unfiled cut, box of 10 reeds
  • Priced affordably for educators
  • Also Available for full range of clarinets and saxophones
  • Also offered in 3-reed packs and 25-reed Novapak reed dispensers

User questions & answers

Question: Just to be clear, are they selling a box of 25 reeds that are
Answer: This is an error from our amazon upload. This price is for a box of 25 regular Bb clarinet reeds, not bass clarinet. I will be removing this listing shortly because of your question so I appreciate the fact that you asked first before placing an order.

Royal Bass Clarinet Reeds, Strength 2.5, 10-pack

D’Addario Woodwinds

Based on 105 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rico Royal reeds have a more traditional French filed cut for increased response, especially in the low register, adding clarity to the tone and making soft attacks easier. Available for the full range of saxophone and clarinet voices and conveniently packaged in boxes of ten reeds.



•French filed for flexibility and fast response

•Available for clarinets and saxophones

•Works well for classical and jazz applications

•Premium cane for consistent response



At its San Fernando Valley facility, Rico has a state-of-the-art reed research center, and employs the collaboration of agronomists, scientists, and musicians to produce top-quality reeds that include Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone. Rico reeds are designed to benefit all levels of musicians from the beginner to the seasoned professional. Many of the world's finest clarinetists and saxophonists use Rico brand reeds, such as Anthony McGill, Mark Nuccio, Jessica Phillips, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Walter Boeykens, Seiji Yokokawa, Philippe Geiss, Diastema Saxophone Quartet, and many more. For more information, visit RicoReeds.com

From the Manufacturer

Rico Royal reeds in strength 2.5 combine the features of the traditional Rico cut with a stronger spine and a "French file," allowing for more resonance and harmonics in the sound.

Rico Royal reeds have a more traditional French filed cut for increased response, especially in the low register, adding clarity to the tone and making soft attacks easier. Available for the full range of saxophone and clarinet voices and conveniently packaged in boxes of ten reeds.

Since the acquisition of Rico by D'Addario & Co., Rico has strengthened its position as the global leader in woodwind reeds and accessories. Rico's state-of-the-art reed research center in Southern California employs a collaboration of agronomists, scientists, and musicians to produce top-quality reeds, including Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone. Rico reeds are designed to benefit all levels of musicians, from the beginner to the seasoned professional. Many of the world's finest woodwind players perform with Rico reeds, such as Mark Nuccio, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Henri Bok, Richie Hawley, Eric Alexander, and many more.

  • Traditional Rico cut with a stronger spine
  • Strength 2.5, Filed cut, box of 10 reeds
  • Works well for both classical and jazz applications
  • Also available for full range of clarinets and saxophones
  • Also offered in 3-reed packs

User questions & answers

Question: I need for begginer which one would you suggest
Answer: If you have never played clarinet at all, then I suggest you start with the regular Rico (orange) reeds in a 3-pack. Try the 1.5 for starters. If you are moving over from the soprano clarinet, then these are fine. I would start with a reed that is 1/2 step softer than your regular clarinet reed and go from there.

Product features

CLARITY, CONSISTENTLY.

A favorite among beginners and advancing players, Royal reeds are the next step in refining your sound. Filed and featuring a thinner profile, they’re revered by players and educators worldwide for their ease of response and clarity in sound.

Features:

  • Traditional blank and profile with a filed cut for added clarity
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Designed for ease of play
  • Priced affordably
  • All D’Addario reeds are designed and manufactured in the USA from naturally grown cane

Clarity and Ease

The filed-feature offers greater clarity of sound for those seeking the purest tone.

Unprecedented Consistency

D’Addario’s state-of-the-art machinery and reed-making process have resulted in unprecedented consistency in today’s Royal reed.

Refining Your Sound

Royal by D'Addario reeds are highly responsive for musicians seeking ease of sound execution.

D'Addario Woodwinds Reed Guard for Tenor/Baritone Saxophone and Bass Clarinet, Red

D’Addario Woodwinds

Based on 162 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The D'Addario Reed Guards are a stylish, effective way to keep your reeds safe and secure. Our reed guard products offer a convenient, affordable storage solution for students, educators, and artists. The soft elastomer cover is designed to securely but gently hold any assortment of clarinet and saxophone reeds.

  • Available in black, red, yellow, green, blue, and purple
  • Each reed guard holds four reeds
  • Available in two sizes: Small (Bb Clarinet, Soprano & Alto Saxophone), and Large (Bass Clarinet, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones)
  • Grooved surfaces prevent reed warping

User questions & answers

Question: Will this reed guard hold contrabass clarinet reeds? They are slightly larger than bass clarinet reeds
Answer: They hold my bass clarinet reeds very well if not much bigger I say they will but I don’t know how big contranbass reeds are ...I also use a fibracell reed and plastic reeds if that helps any
Question: Does this only hold two reeds
Answer: It holds 4 reeds- 2 on one side, 2 on the other. Conveniently, the little "chambers" are numbered 1234, so you can easily keep track of which Reed is the current favorite.

Vandoren CR623 Bass Clarinet V.12 Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5

Vandoren

Based on 168 reviews Check latest price

Product description

V.12 Clarinet reeds have a thicker heel and are cut on a longer palette with a slightly thicker tip than Traditional reeds.

  • Thicker heel with longer palette for more vibration
  • Deep, rich sound with body to the attack due to the thicker tip resulting in longer lasting reeds
  • Also available in other strengths
  • Every reed sealed in 'Flow Pack' to ensure freshness.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference between these and the traditional
Answer: this is a quality reed that is also correlated with endurance. as you move up with experience so does your reed strength and ability.

Vandoren Traditional Bass Clarinet Reeds Strength 2.5 Box of 5

Vandoren

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This pack of 5 replacement reeds are popular among professionals. Vandoren's Traditional bass clarinet reeds are the most widely played reeds in the world and with quality proven over the years, these reeds suit all styles of music. An excellent response in all registers allows a pianissimo attack in all registers including even the highest notes. They are also extremely flexible allowing the legato or stacatto execution of large intervals while maintaining a richness of tone that gives body and clarity to the sound.

  • This pack of 5 replacement reeds are popular among professionals
  • Vandoren's Traditional bass clarinet reeds are the most widely played reeds in the world and with quality proven over the years, these reeds suit all styles of music
  • An excellent response in all registers allows a pianissimo attack in all registers including even the highest notes
  • They are also extremely flexible allowing the legato or stacatto execution of large intervals while maintaining a richness of tone that gives body and clarity to the sound
  • Vandoren's Traditional bass clarinet reeds are the most widely played reeds in the world and with quality proven over the years, these reeds suit all styles of music

D'Addario Reserve Bass Clarinet Reeds, Strength 3.0, 5-pack

D’Addario Woodwinds

Based on 74 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A thick blank, filed reed that offers great projection, featuring a medium tip thickness for warmth and core of sound, a traditional tip radius for ease of response and articulation, and a longer vamp for increased tonal flexibility Reserve reeds are crafted using naturally-grown cane from D'Addario's own foreign fields. D'Addario has pioneered the first practical and precise system to digitally measure and cut the incredibly complex geometrical patterns necessary to re-invent single reeds. Reserve reeds are cut to the tightest tolerances, offering the most consistent performance.

  • Ideal for the advancing student and professional
  • Crafted using a groundbreaking new digital vamping process, for ultimate quality control, precision, and consistency
  • Expertly designed and made in the USA from naturally-grown cane from D'Addario's own foreign fields
  • Available in half strengths, from 2.0 to 4.5, with special 3.0+ and 3.5+ strengths
  • The Reserve line also includes two options for Bb clarinet as well as options for all saxophone voices

Product features

Reserve Reeds

The ultimate reed for the advancing concert student or professional. Offered in traditional and thick blank options for clarinet and a thick blank option for saxophone, and made using revolutionary digital technology for ultimate consistency.

Available for:

Other Legere Bb Bass Clarinet Reed, 3-1/2 (BC3.5)

Other

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Readily available and widely played This classic reed is played by even the most discriminating player. Producing a rich warm sound, this reed has outstanding playability for novice to Pro. Features: has the properties of moist cane. Does not have to be. Preconditioned before playing. Completely Non-Toxic. Available in 1/4 Strengths 2.0 & 5.0. No Risk, 30 day Exchange Policy.

  • Brand: legere
  • Manufacturer Part: BC3.5
  • Made from special polymer with a very fine microtexture
  • Lasts for months
  • Strength: 3.5

Legere BCS300 Signature Series Bb Bass Clarinet No. 3 Reed

Legere

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Signature Bb Bass Clarinet Reed Strength 3. Designed to exacting specifications, these reeds are characterized by a deep, rich tone, broad dynamic range and long life. The new Signature Series Reeds are the further refinement and evolution of the Legere sound. They are a fine solution for elite players seeking longevity, consistency and reliability. Months of testing with top professionals including Larry Combs and Barnaby Robson have demonstrated that these new reeds can add another dimension to the already rich Legere sound. Available in strengths 2 through 3, with quarter strength deliniations.

  • Strength: #3
  • Has the properties of moist cane
  • Does not have to be preconditioned before playing
  • Completely Non-Toxic
  • No Risk, 30 day Exchange Policy

User questions & answers

Question: How many come in one order
Answer: The Legeres are single reeds so only one per order. -Jesus The Music Store
Question: If using a size 3 reed should use 3 in this or step down
Answer: It depends entirely on the brand of reed that you are currently using. According to the chart on the Legere website, these compare to a Vandoren 3.0 but closer to a Vandoren V12 at a 3.5. Much closer to a 4.0 if you are using Rico. So, it depends on brand entirely.
Question: How long does this reed last
Answer: Synthetic reeds last much longer than cane reeds. How long will depend a lot on how they are cared for. Here is what Legere has on their website: "Caring For Your ReedLégère synthetic reeds are rugged and should last for many hours of playing, however, the tip is fragile and the reed can split or break if it is mishandled.One of the best features of a Légère reed is that it does not need to be moistened prior to playing. It will warm up over the first few minutes, and should then be stable for an extended period. Some players have reported that after an hour or more of intense playing, the reed softens a little. This behavior is normal, and the reeds will return to their original feel after they have been rested for a bit.The reeds will eventually fatigue and become permanently softer, losing their tone quality. We strongly recommend that you keep two or three reeds in rotation and retire reeds periodically as they wear out.The reeds should be cleaned periodically with water and a mild detergent. Germicides such as Sterisol can be used to clean the reeds, but you should not assume that such products will sterilize them. We advise against sharing reeds or using reeds that have been tested or played by others. We do not sanction or support in-store testing, and we discard all reeds that are returned to us for exchange.Légère saxophone and clarinet reeds should be stored on a flat surface, but not in a case which applies pressure to the reed tip. You should not keep your reed in the shipping package.Sanding, scraping and clipping of reeds is discouraged. Clipping the reed with a conventional reed clipper is likely to cause tip damage. If necessary, the reeds can be scraped with a sharp blade held perpendicular to the reed. They should be scraped from the top of the vamp towards the tip. Fine sandpaper may also be used in the same way. NEVER sand or scrape the reed in the other direction. Do not try to sand the base of the reed. Keep in mind that it is not possible to return a reed for exchange once it has been altered in any way.With proper care and maintenance, your Légère reed should provide you with many hours of playing pleasure. Many players report that our reeds can last for months."
Question: What strength would equate to a Mitchell Lurie 3.5 cane reed
Answer: Look on Legere.com. they have a lot of comparison charts for several different reeds. You ca

Vandoren CR8235 Bass Clarinet V21 Reeds Strength 3.5, Box of 5

Vandoren

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Building on the success of the V21 reed for Bb clarinet, Vandoren has extended the line, using the same sonic design for Bass Clarinet

  • Unique conical design
  • Built on success of V21 reeds for Bb Clarinet and Saxophone
  • Offers amazing presence and warmth
  • Immediate response
  • Available in strengths 2.5 to 4.5

User questions & answers

Question: Should I move up half a size than what I usually play
Answer: If you usually play a standard purple box 3s, get 3.5 V21s, they do tend to be a bit softer. If you play a V12 3 definitely move up a strength

Fibracell FCBCP2.5 Premier Series Synthetic Reed for Bass Clarinet, 2.5 Strength

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fibracell reeds have been available in retail outlets worldwide for over 14 years. Top players in the business depend on Fibracell reeds for the best sound and feel around. Fibracell material is a sophisticated composite of aerospace materials designed to precisely duplicate the way Nature constructs reed cane. Very stiff but sound absorbing Aramid fibers are suspended in a light weight resin formulation.

  • Brilliant overtones for a full, vibrant, resonant tone
  • Quick response for better articulation
  • Excellent pitch stability and intonation in all ranges, even for clarinet
  • The same "woody" tone as cane but with better sound projection

User questions & answers

Question: How long should we expect the reed to last
Answer: It will last a long time. I don't use it all the time so have had it for several years. It is harder to use then my other reeds so that may be why I don't use it so frequently.
Question: Reed Strength Question. Rule of thumb the same? Generally use #3 Vandoren/use #2.5 in synthetic? Love Legere but want to try the Fibracell. Thx Annie
Answer: Hi Annie. Just because I blow through bari sax cane reeds so quickly, I've been using Fibracell 2 1/2 strength reeds on my Bari for years. Yes, I would say try using a slightly lower strength in synthetic. Of course, it depends on the opening of your mouthpiece. For sax quartets, I use a Selmer C* mouthpiece and the 2 1/2 Fibracell works well for me. I use a 3 or 3 1/2 Vandoren V12 reeds on my B flat clarinet. Just like cane reeds, no two synthetics are alike. Fibracells can sound very tinny unless you get a good one. Good luck and have fun!
Question: How many in a box
Answer: One reed. It is synthetic so it should last longer then tradition reeds. My kids have had theirs since Christmas and they still play fine.

Lescana Paramount Series Bass Clarinet Reeds 2 PACK (Size 2.5) with Bonus Bass Clarinet Cleaning Cloth

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Package includes Lescana Paramount Series Bass Clarinet Reeds 2 PACK (Size 2.5) with Bonus Bass Clarinet Cleaning Cloth. Lescana Paramount Series Reeds are hand finished using only the finest quality materials. Lescana Reeds produce an exceptional sound. Cleaning cloth is great for day to day instrument cleanings. Ideal for a quick cleaning after each practice.

  • Package includes Lescana Paramount Series Bass Clarinet Reeds 2 PACK (Size 2.5) with Bonus Bass Clarinet Cleaning Cloth.
  • Lescana Paramount Series Reeds are hand finished using only the finest quality materials. Lescana Reeds produce an exceptional sound.
  • Cleaning cloth is great for day to day instrument cleanings. Ideal for a quick cleaning after each practice.

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