What is the main benefit of the plastic coating?

The coating prevents moisture absorption and wear, which significantly extends the lifespan of the reed compared to standard cane. It also ensures the reed remains consistent in different humidity levels.

Do these reeds sound like plastic or wood?

They offer a hybrid sound. The cane core provides a warm, clear tone, while the coating adds brilliance and projection suited for modern styles.

Are D'Addario Plasticover reeds suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, they are ideal for outdoor performances. The moisture-resistant design ensures they do not warp or change response when exposed to the elements.

How many reeds are included in this specific pack?

This specific product listing includes a pack of five reeds.

What strength is this specific Baritone Saxophone pack?

This pack features reeds with a strength rating of 2.0.

Can I use these reeds with any baritone saxophone mouthpiece?

Yes, they are designed for standard baritone saxophone mouthpieces, such as those from Yamaha or JodyJazz.

Do Plasticover reeds require soaking before play?

While they contain cane, the coating makes them much faster to prepare than standard reeds. They generally require very little to no wetting to achieve full response.

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

Plasticover reeds are generally brighter and have more 'brilliance' than the Select Jazz series, which is designed for a more traditional jazz aesthetic.

Are these reeds entirely synthetic?

No, they are not fully synthetic. They use a natural cane core that is coated in a thin layer of plastic.

What type of musician best suits the Plasticover reed?

They are best suited for live musicians, marching band players, and those performing in pop or rock contexts where high volume and durability are required.

What is the typical price for a 5-pack of these reeds?

The typical price range for this 5-pack of baritone saxophone reeds is approximately GBP 43.

Is the Plasticover reed available for other instruments?

While this specific article covers the baritone saxophone version, D'Addario produces the Plasticover series for various members of the saxophone and clarinet families.

Gear article

D'Addario Plasticover Baritone Saxophone Reeds

D'Addario Plasticover Baritone Saxophone Reeds are hybrid woodwind reeds designed for high durability and projection. They feature a natural cane core treated with a unique plastic coating to resist moisture absorption and atmospheric changes.

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Overview

The D'Addario Plasticover series represents a specialised approach to reed manufacturing, aimed at musicians who require consistent performance in demanding environments. These reeds are built on a foundation of high-quality natural cane, which is then enveloped in a protective plastic coating. This design provides the traditional feel of a cane reed while significantly extending the lifecycle of the product.

Design and Functionality

The primary innovation of the Plasticover range is the moisture-resistant coating. In standard cane reeds, saliva and humidity fluctuations cause the wood fibres to warp or soften over time. The plastic layer on these baritone saxophone reeds prevents this wearing process. Because the core remains cane, the reed retains the organic response expected by woodwind players, but with a structural rigidity that allows for prolonged play sessions without the reed becoming 'waterlogged'.

Tonal Character

Plasticover reeds are specifically tuned for 'extra brilliance'. While the cane core ensures a warm and clear fundamental tone, the exterior coating adds a layer of brightness and projection. This makes them particularly effective for outdoor performances or ensemble settings where a baritone saxophone needs to cut through a dense mix. The clarity of the attack is a hallmark of this series, offering a sharp, defined sound compared to untreated reeds.

Comparative Context

Within the D'Addario catalogue, the Plasticover occupies a different niche than the Select Jazz series, which focuses on pure cane response for studio or indoor jazz settings. When compared to purely synthetic options, the Plasticover is often cited for maintaining a more traditional 'warm' woodwind timbre due to its cane interior. It is frequently paired with high-projection mouthpieces like the JodyJazz Super Jet or robust instruments like the Yamaha YBS480 to maximise its sonic potential.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main benefit of the plastic coating?: The coating prevents moisture absorption and wear, which significantly extends the lifespan of the reed compared to standard cane. It also ensures the reed remains consistent in different humidity levels.
Do these reeds sound like plastic or wood?: They offer a hybrid sound. The cane core provides a warm, clear tone, while the coating adds brilliance and projection suited for modern styles.
Are D'Addario Plasticover reeds suitable for outdoor use?: Yes, they are ideal for outdoor performances. The moisture-resistant design ensures they do not warp or change response when exposed to the elements.
How many reeds are included in this specific pack?: This specific product listing includes a pack of five reeds.
What strength is this specific Baritone Saxophone pack?: This pack features reeds with a strength rating of 2.0.
Can I use these reeds with any baritone saxophone mouthpiece?: Yes, they are designed for standard baritone saxophone mouthpieces, such as those from Yamaha or JodyJazz.
Do Plasticover reeds require soaking before play?: While they contain cane, the coating makes them much faster to prepare than standard reeds. They generally require very little to no wetting to achieve full response.
How does the tone compare to D'Addario Select Jazz reeds?: Plasticover reeds are generally brighter and have more 'brilliance' than the Select Jazz series, which is designed for a more traditional jazz aesthetic.
Are these reeds entirely synthetic?: No, they are not fully synthetic. They use a natural cane core that is coated in a thin layer of plastic.
What type of musician best suits the Plasticover reed?: They are best suited for live musicians, marching band players, and those performing in pop or rock contexts where high volume and durability are required.
What is the typical price for a 5-pack of these reeds?: The typical price range for this 5-pack of baritone saxophone reeds is approximately GBP 43.
Is the Plasticover reed available for other instruments?: While this specific article covers the baritone saxophone version, D'Addario produces the Plasticover series for various members of the saxophone and clarinet families.