8 Best Bari Saxophones

Looking for the perfect reed for your bari saxophone? Well, look no further! In this review, we’re going to compare and analyze several reeds available in the market, including Vandoren SR443 ZZ Reeds, Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card, Vandoren SR343R JAVA Red Reeds, Vandoren SR343 JAVA Reeds, Vandoren SR2425 Traditional Reeds, Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed, Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, and Roland Vandoren Juno. So, whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, a classical musician, or anywhere in between, we’ve got the scoop on these reeds to help you make an informed decision.

Reeds have a rich history in the world of woodwind instruments. They play a vital role in the production of sound and have evolved over time to meet the demands of diverse musical genres. Owning a good quality reed can significantly impact your playing experience by providing enhanced tonal capabilities and improved response. Each reed on our list offers unique features and strengths to cater to various playing styles and preferences.

In the following article, we will delve into the specifications and qualities of each reed. We will explore the Vandoren SR443 ZZ Reeds, known for their versatility and balanced tone. Then we will look at the Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card, a selection of different reeds suitable for jazz musicians. The Vandoren SR343R JAVA Red Reeds will also be reviewed, renowned for their increased power and projection. Additionally, we will examine the Vandoren SR343 JAVA Reeds, the Vandoren SR2425 Traditional Reeds, the Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed, the Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, and the Roland Vandoren Juno, uncovering their unique characteristics and benefits. So, let’s dive into this comprehensive review and find the perfect reed for your bari saxophone!

Vandoren Baritone Saxophone ZZ Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5, black

The Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3 is designed to be used with baritone saxophones.

This reed is a favorite among saxophonists due to its exceptional quality and performance. It delivers an immediate response, allowing musicians to produce their desired tone with ease. Additionally, it strikes the perfect balance between brightness and tone quality, making it ideal for various music styles.

The Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3 is specifically designed for baritone saxophones, catering to the needs of both professional musicians and students. It combines the medium-thick heart, spine, and rounded tip of the V16 reed with the flexible plate design of the JAVA reed to create a unique sound. Every reed is carefully sealed in a ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness upon delivery. Its extraordinary color and great response make it a reliable choice for saxophonists seeking a durable and versatile reed.

The Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3 stands out due to its exceptional quality. The meticulous construction and attention to detail result in a reed that is responsive and long-lasting. Musicians can rely on its consistent performance to enhance their playing experience.

Pros:

• Immediate response
• Balanced brightness and tone quality
• Suitable for various music styles
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Limited strength options available

The Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3 is a top choice for baritone saxophonists. Its immediate response, exceptional tone quality, and durable construction make it a reliable reed for both professional musicians and students. While it may have limited strength options available, its overall performance outweighs this minor limitation. With the Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3, saxophonists can confidently play their favorite music styles while achieving the desired tone and response.

Vandoren Jazz Mix Card for Bari Sax, Strength 3

The Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card; Bari Sax Strength 3 is primarily intended for jazz musicians who play the baritone saxophone. Its strength 3 rating makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced players.

We are particularly impressed with the Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card for several reasons. Firstly, it offers an economical way for jazz saxophonists to try out all four different jazz style reeds. This is beneficial as different reeds can produce varying tones and responses, allowing players to find the perfect match for their style and preferences.

Secondly, the reeds are individually sealed in a “Flow Pack” to ensure optimum freshness. This is crucial as reeds that are not properly stored can warp or become damaged, affecting their playability. By sealing each reed, Vandoren guarantees that players will always have a fresh and reliable reed at hand.

Another reason we appreciate this product is the inclusion of a reed comparison chart on the Mix Card. This chart provides information on the unique characteristics of each reed, making it easier for musicians to select the reed that suits their playing style and desired sound.

The Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card; Bari Sax Strength 3 is designed to offer a diverse range of reeds for jazz baritone saxophone players. The mix card includes four reeds of varying designs and strengths, allowing musicians to experiment and find their ideal reed.

Each reed is carefully manufactured to produce a warm, resonant, and vibrant sound. They are precision-cut to ensure consistent playability, responsiveness, and durability. Whether playing in big bands, small ensembles, or solo performances, the Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card provides a versatile selection of reeds suitable for various musical settings.

The Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card exhibits outstanding quality in both its design and construction. The reeds are crafted with expertise using high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

The mix card itself is well-designed and compact, making it easy to store and transport. Vandoren’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of this product, making it a reliable choice for jazz baritone saxophonists.

Pros:

• Economical way to try out different reeds
• Freshness ensured with individually sealed reeds
• Reed comparison chart for easy selection
• Diverse range of reeds for various jazz styles
• Precision-cut for consistent playability and durability

Cons:

• Limited to jazz genre saxophonists

Vandoren Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3 (Box of 5)

The Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is primarily designed for saxophonists, specifically those who play the baritone saxophone. Its main purpose is to provide professional saxophonists with a high-quality reed option that is ideal for playing jazz and popular music genres.

We highly recommend the Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 for several reasons. First and foremost, we appreciate its exceptional sound quality and versatility. The reeds from the Vandoren JAVA Red series have been trusted by saxophonists worldwide for their ability to produce a warm and vibrant tone that is perfect for both solo performances and ensemble playing.

Furthermore, the Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 offers great consistency, ensuring that each reed is of high quality and performs consistently across the entire range of the baritone saxophone. This makes it easier for saxophonists to achieve the desired sound and play with precision and control.

The Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is part of the renowned JAVA reed family, making it a trusted option among professional musicians. This reed is specifically designed for baritone saxophones, excelling in jazz and popular music genres.

One of the key features of these reeds is their first-file cut, which contributes to their superior sound and responsiveness. Additionally, they are available in various strengths to cater to different playing preferences and styles. Each reed is carefully sealed in a “Flow Pack” to guarantee freshness and optimal playability right out of the box.

The Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 offers exceptional quality. Vandoren has a longstanding reputation for producing high-quality reeds, and these JAVA Red reeds are no exception. The materials and craftsmanship ensure a longevity and durability that is essential for professional musicians.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality and versatility
• Consistent performance across the saxophone’s range
• Trusted and reputable brand in the music industry
• Available in various strengths to suit different playing styles

Cons:

• May require some adjustment to achieve the desired sound and response, depending on the player’s preference and saxophone setup

The Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is a fantastic choice for saxophonists, particularly those who are looking for a high-quality reed option for jazz and popular music performances. Its exceptional sound quality, consistency, and overall durability make it a reliable and top-notch product for professional musicians.

Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds – Strength 3 (Pack of 5)

The Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is primarily used by bari saxophone players who are looking for a versatile reed that offers a bright and immediate response. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians.

We like the Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 because it offers a more flexible option than traditional reeds. This flexibility allows for a longer palette and produces a bright sound with an immediate response. It is also available in other strengths to accommodate individual preferences.

The purpose of the Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is to provide saxophonists with a reed that offers a vibrant and bright sound. It is designed to vibrate over a longer palette, giving musicians optimum control over their tone and projection. The reeds come in a box of five, ensuring that players have enough to last them for an extended period of time.

Key features of the Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 include their flexibility, immediate response, and availability in different strengths. Each reed is sealed in a ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness and longevity, allowing musicians to enjoy consistent performance each time they play.

The Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5 is highly regarded for its exceptional quality. The reeds are meticulously crafted to deliver a bright and vibrant sound that is sought after by saxophone players. With their longer palette and immediate response, these reeds offer musicians the control and flexibility they need to fully express themselves through their instrument.

Pros:

• More flexible than traditional reeds
• Creates a bright sound with immediate response
• Available in other strengths
• Each reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ for freshness

Cons:

• Limited to players who prefer strength 3 reeds

Vandoren Traditional Bari Sax Reeds, Strength 2.5 – Box of 5

The Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds are designed to enhance the performance of bari saxophone players. These reeds are suitable for both professional musicians and beginners who want to achieve a high-quality sound with excellent response in all registers of the instrument.

We are impressed with the Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds’ ability to deliver a pianissimo attack even in the highest notes. This allows players to showcase their musicality and control with ease. Additionally, these reeds offer exceptional flexibility, enabling the execution of legato or staccato passages with large intervals while maintaining a rich and clear tone. The Vandoren brand is renowned for producing reeds that provide a full-bodied and vibrant sound, and the SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds do not disappoint.

The main purpose of the Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds is to enhance the playing experience of bari saxophonists by providing excellent response and a rich tone. These reeds are versatile and can be used by musicians of varying skill levels. The key features of the Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds include their flexibility, which allows for the execution of smooth legato and crisp staccato techniques. The reeds are available in various strengths and are individually sealed in a ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness.

The Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds exemplify the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality reeds. Their excellent response and ability to produce a rich tone make them a top choice among bari saxophone players. The reeds are both durable and flexible, providing musicians with a reliable and versatile option for their playing needs.

Pros:

• Excellent response in all registers
• Pianissimo attack in even the highest notes
• Flexibility allows for smooth execution of legato and staccato passages
• Provides a full-bodied and vibrant sound
• Available in various strengths
• Individually sealed for freshness

Cons:

• Some players may prefer reeds with different strength options
• Packaging may not be as visually appealing as other brands

The Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds offer a reliable and high-quality option for bari saxophone players. With their excellent response, flexibility, and ability to produce a rich tone, these reeds are a top choice for musicians aiming to enhance their playing experience.

Medium Bari Elite Synthetic Reed for Alto Saxophone

The Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium is a versatile reed specifically designed for alto saxophones. It is suitable for both professional musicians and beginners who want to achieve a rich and authentic saxophone sound.

We appreciate the Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed for its outstanding quality and durability. This reed produces a clear and warm sound that resonates exceptionally well, making it perfect for various music genres, including jazz, classical, and pop. It also offers a great balance between flexibility and stability, allowing the player to have excellent control over their sound.

The Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium is designed to provide saxophonists with a reliable and long-lasting reed option. This reed is made from high-quality synthetic materials, ensuring consistent performance and longevity. It features a medium strength rating of 2.5-3.0, which makes it suitable for players of different skill levels.

The key features of this reed include its excellent response, easy playability, and impressive projection. It offers a vibrant tone that enhances the saxophone’s overall sound quality, making it a popular choice among professionals. Additionally, the synthetic material eliminates the need for moisture and helps the reed last longer, even in humid conditions.

The Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium is known for its excellent overall quality. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this reed is highly reliable and delivers consistent performance. Its durability ensures that it will withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a cost-effective option for saxophonists in the long run.

Pros:

• Produces a clear and warm sound
• Offers a great balance between flexibility and stability
• Made from high-quality synthetic materials
• Excellent response and projection
• Long-lasting and durable

Cons:

• May take some time for players to adjust to the synthetic material

The Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium offers exceptional quality and performance for alto saxophonists. Its outstanding sound, durability, and playability make it a reliable choice for musicians of all skill levels. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, this reed will certainly enhance your saxophone playing experience.

Bari Tenor Sax Reed, Soft

The Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft is primarily designed to be used with Bari saxophones. It is a highly versatile reed that caters to both beginners and professionals, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres.

One of the reasons why we love the Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft is its ability to produce a brilliant and vibrant sound. The softness of the reed allows for effortless playability, making it perfect for beginners who are just starting out on their musical journey. Additionally, this reed is known for its consistent and reliable performance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable playing experience.

The Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft is designed to enhance the tonal quality of a bari saxophone. It is specifically crafted to produce a rich and warm sound that is characteristic of the instrument. This reed uses premium quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

Key features of the Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft include:

• Brilliant and Vibrant Sound: This reed is known for its ability to produce a bright and vibrant sound, adding depth to your saxophone performance.

• Softness for Ease of Playability: The softness of this reed allows for effortless playability, making it ideal for beginners and those with limited experience.

The Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft is a top-quality product that offers exceptional performance. Its carefully crafted design and premium materials contribute to its overall durability and reliability. The reed’s ability to produce a brilliant and vibrant sound, coupled with its ease of playability, make it a great choice for both beginners and professionals.

• Produces a brilliant and vibrant sound

• Easy to play, especially for beginners

• Consistent and reliable performance

• Durable and long-lasting

• May not suit those looking for a darker or more mellow tone

• Some players may prefer a different reed strength depending on their personal preferences.

Roland Vandoren Juno Baritone Saxophone Reeds, 3 Pack

The Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax is a versatile saxophone designed for beginning clarinetists and their teachers. It is ideal for educational settings, school bands, and private lessons. The saxophone offers a rich and vibrant sound, making it suitable for various music genres such as jazz, classical, and marching band performances.

We highly recommend the Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax for its exceptional sound quality and affordability. This instrument is particularly favored by band directors due to its excellent Vandoren sound and budget-friendly price. It provides beginners with an opportunity to explore their musical abilities without compromising on the musical experience.

The Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax is specifically designed to cater to the needs of beginner saxophonists. Its tailored structure allows students to effortlessly produce a full and vibrant sound, enabling them to progress quickly in their musical journey. Made from all-natural cane, the Juno reeds ensure consistent and high-quality performance.

The saxophone also boasts individual sealing for each reed, guaranteeing that it arrives in perfect condition. This attention to detail reflects Vandoren’s commitment to providing excellent products that meet the standards of professional musicians and educators. With over a century of experience in reed manufacturing, Vandoren has established itself as a leader in the industry.

The Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax showcases exceptional craftsmanship and durability. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the demands of daily practice and performance. The instrument’s sound projection is powerful, allowing the player to be heard in ensemble settings. The Juno reeds contribute to the saxophone’s overall quality by delivering a consistent and rich tone.

• Affordable price for beginner musicians

• Vandoren sound quality

• Easy to produce a vibrant sound

• All-natural cane reeds

• Individual sealing for freshness

• May require professional adjustments for optimal performance

• Limited customization options

The Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax is an excellent choice for beginner saxophonists. Its affordability, superior sound quality, and durable construction make it a standout option for students and educators alike. With Vandoren’s reputation for excellence and innovation, this saxophone guarantees a satisfying musical experience for aspiring musicians.

Comparison of Products

Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5

• Combines medium-thick heart, spine and rounded tip of V16 reed with the flexible platte design of the JAVA reed
• Immediately responsive without sacrificing brightness or tone quality
• Every reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness
• Available in other strengths
• Provides extraordinary color, great response, and durability

Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card; Bari Sax Strength 3

• Economical way to try out all four jazz style reeds
• Reed comparison chart included on all Mix Cards
• Every reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness
• Available in other strengths
• Each reed has its own unique characteristics worth sampling

Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5

• Relative of the JAVA reed family
• Ideal for jazz and popular music
• Every reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness
• Available in other strengths

Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3; Box of 5

• More flexible than Traditional and V16 reeds
• Vibrates over a longer palette producing a bright sound with immediate response
• Every reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness
• Available in other strengths

Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds Strength 2.5; Box of 5

• Excellent response in all registers
• Allows for pianissimo attack in even highest notes
• Extremely flexible, allowing for legato or staccato execution of large intervals
• Provides richness of tone and clarity
• Every reed sealed in ‘Flow Pack’ to ensure freshness
• Available in various strengths

Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium

• Synthetic reed for alto saxophone
• Strength: medium (2.5-3.0)
• Provides a brilliant and vibrant sound

Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft

• Soft tenor saxophone reed
• Provides a brilliant and vibrant sound

Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax, 3 Card, 2 Baritone Saxophone Reeds (JSR812/3)

• Band director favorite
• Tailored design allows beginners to produce a full and vibrant sound easily
• Made from all-natural cane for quality control
• Each reed individually sealed for freshness
• Vandoren has been a world leader in reed manufacturing since 1905

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review of the 8 products for bari sax and tenor sax reeds has provided valuable insights for potential buyers. It is important to note that each product has its own strengths and drawbacks, and the specific needs and preferences of individual musicians should be taken into consideration.

Drawbacks

1. Vandoren SR443 Bari Sax ZZ Reeds Strength 3 – Some users found these reeds to be too soft and had issues with consistency.
2. Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card; Bari Sax Strength 3 – While it provides a variety of reeds, some users felt that not all the options were suitable for their playing style.
3. Vandoren SR343R Bari Sax JAVA Red Reeds Strength 3 – Few users reported issues with durability and longevity of these reeds.
4. Vandoren SR343 Bari Sax JAVA Reeds Strength 3 – Some musicians found these reeds to be too rigid and had difficulty achieving the desired tone.
5. Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds Strength 2.5 – A few users experienced inconsistencies in quality and had difficulty finding the right strength for their playing style.
6. Bari Elite Alto Saxophone Synthetic Reed – Medium – Some players mentioned that this synthetic reed lacked the natural feel and sound of traditional cane reeds.
7. Bari BRTSS Tenor Sax Reed, Soft – Few users found these reeds to be too soft for their preference and had difficulties with projection.
8. Roland Vandoren Juno Bari Sax, 3 Card, 2 Baritone Saxophone Reeds – Limited reviews were available to provide comprehensive feedback on this product.

Recommendation

For jazz and contemporary saxophone players looking for a versatile option, the Vandoren SRMIXB3 Jazz Mix Card; Bari Sax Strength 3 could be a suitable choice as it provides a range of reeds to experiment with. However, it would be wise to try other options if the entire mix does not cater to one’s playing style.

For those seeking a traditional sound with durability, the Vandoren SR2425 Bari Sax Traditional Reeds Strength 2.5 might be a good option, despite some reported inconsistencies.

Ultimately, it is recommended that musicians try out different reeds and brands to find the one that suits their individual preferences and playing style the best.