Unfortunately it’s complicated. Really complicated. We recommend sticking with the Charles brand reeds, which we make here by hand.
Basic rules of thumb:
- If your child has been playing 1 to 3 years (and they practice a basic amount)
We recommend: Charles Student – Medium strength
If the player wears braces choose: Charles Student – Medium Soft strength
If the player is sharp in pitch or bites their reed choose: Charles Student – Medium Hard strength
- Playing 2 to 4 years (and they practice)
We recommend: Charles Standard – Medium strength
If the player wears braces choose: Charles Standard- Medium Soft strength
If the player is sharp in pitch or bites their reed choose: Charles Standard – Medium Hard strength
- Playing 4 years Plus (and they’ve advanced considerably or started reed making)
We recommend: Charles Pro – Medium strength
Definition of strengths:
Medium Soft: easier to blow but a bit harder to control
Medium: easy to blow and easy to control – works for most players
Medium Hard: more material is left on, more effort to get a sound, very stable
Please let us know if you have questions or comments. We’re happy to hear from you.