What is the primary material of the D'Addario Plasticover reed?

The reed is constructed from a natural cane core that has been treated with a durable plastic coating.

How many reeds are included in a standard Alto Saxophone pack?

This specific product listing includes a pack of five reeds.

What strength is this specific Plasticover reed?

This model is rated at a strength of 2.5, which is generally considered a medium-soft to medium resistance.

What are the benefits of the plastic coating?

The coating prevents the reed from wearing down quickly and protects it from moisture, resulting in a longer-lasting product.

Is the sound of a Plasticover reed different from a regular cane reed?

Yes, it is tuned for extra brilliance and clarity, offering a brighter tone than many traditional uncoated reeds.

Are these reeds suitable for outdoor performances?

Yes, they are specifically designed for outdoor use because the coating resists weather changes and provides high projection.

Does the Plasticover reed still have a warm tone?

Yes, despite the bright exterior coating, the cane core ensures the reed maintains a warm, clear fundamental tone.

What instrument is this specific reed pack designed for?

This pack is designed exclusively for use with the alto saxophone.

How much does a 5-pack of these reeds typically cost?

The typical price range for this pack is approximately £23.

How does the Plasticover compare to D'Addario Organic Select Jazz reeds?

Plasticover reeds feature a plastic coating for durability and brilliance, whereas the Organic Select Jazz series focuses on unfiled or filed pure cane without a coating.

Can these reeds be used with high-baffle mouthpieces like the JodyJazz Super Jet?

While the Super Jet mentioned is for baritone, Plasticover reeds are generally compatible with various alto mouthpieces and are often used by players seeking high projection.

Why would a musician choose these over a fully synthetic reed?

Musicians often choose these because they provide the feel and organic vibration of cane but with improved durability and consistency compared to uncoated wood.

Gear article

D'Addario Plasticover Alto Saxophone Reeds

D'Addario Plasticover Alto Saxophone Reeds are a hybrid woodwind component featuring a traditional cane core coated with a durable plastic layer. Designed for longevity and environmental resistance, these reeds are particularly suited for live performers and outdoor musicians requiring a bright, clear tone.

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Overview and Design

The D'Addario Plasticover series represents a unique solution for woodwind players who require the response of natural cane with the durability of synthetic materials. The construction involves a standard cane core that is treated with a specialized plastic coating. This design prevents the reed from absorbing excessive moisture and protects it against wear, significantly extending the playing life of each individual reed compared to uncoated alternatives.

Performance and Sound Profile

These reeds are specifically tuned for 'extra brilliance,' a characteristic that distinguishes them from traditional organic reeds. While the cane core provides a warm, clear foundational tone, the plastic exterior enhances projection and clarity. This makes the Plasticover series particularly effective for outdoor performances, marching bands, and loud live venues where the saxophone needs to cut through a dense mix.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

The primary advantage of the Plasticover coating is its resistance to environmental changes. Unlike standard cane reeds, which can warp or lose their responsiveness in humid or dry conditions, the plastic-coated surface remains stable. This reliability is essential for musicians who perform in varying climates or need a reed that is ready to play immediately without extensive wetting.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the D'Addario catalogue, the Plasticover occupies a space between the Organic Select Jazz series—which focuses on pure cane response and specific filing—and fully synthetic reeds. Compared to the Vandoren Java series, the Plasticover offers a more robust protection against wearing, though it retains the internal vibration characteristics of cane that many players prefer over entirely plastic models.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material of the D'Addario Plasticover reed?: The reed is constructed from a natural cane core that has been treated with a durable plastic coating.
How many reeds are included in a standard Alto Saxophone pack?: This specific product listing includes a pack of five reeds.
What strength is this specific Plasticover reed?: This model is rated at a strength of 2.5, which is generally considered a medium-soft to medium resistance.
What are the benefits of the plastic coating?: The coating prevents the reed from wearing down quickly and protects it from moisture, resulting in a longer-lasting product.
Is the sound of a Plasticover reed different from a regular cane reed?: Yes, it is tuned for extra brilliance and clarity, offering a brighter tone than many traditional uncoated reeds.
Are these reeds suitable for outdoor performances?: Yes, they are specifically designed for outdoor use because the coating resists weather changes and provides high projection.
Does the Plasticover reed still have a warm tone?: Yes, despite the bright exterior coating, the cane core ensures the reed maintains a warm, clear fundamental tone.
What instrument is this specific reed pack designed for?: This pack is designed exclusively for use with the alto saxophone.
How much does a 5-pack of these reeds typically cost?: The typical price range for this pack is approximately £23.
How does the Plasticover compare to D'Addario Organic Select Jazz reeds?: Plasticover reeds feature a plastic coating for durability and brilliance, whereas the Organic Select Jazz series focuses on unfiled or filed pure cane without a coating.
Can these reeds be used with high-baffle mouthpieces like the JodyJazz Super Jet?: While the Super Jet mentioned is for baritone, Plasticover reeds are generally compatible with various alto mouthpieces and are often used by players seeking high projection.
Why would a musician choose these over a fully synthetic reed?: Musicians often choose these because they provide the feel and organic vibration of cane but with improved durability and consistency compared to uncoated wood.