reed sizes

[clare1970]

I am learning on a Bundy Alto sax which i have had several years, so I have got some basics. But i am never really sure what kind of reed I should use.
At the moment i use a Rico 2 1/2. should I change this and what difference do the sizes make?
I know as someone who has played on and off fora while i should know this, but i have never really bothered with the small details before!
thanks everyone

 

[Pete Thomas]

Probably no need to change it unless you are having problems with it, though whether the problems are that the reed strength is not right or that you have a problem with your embouchure is hard to tell without being there if you see what I mean.

2 1/2 is the strength I use and it's a fine strength medium soft. If you find the reed is closing up, then either you need a harder reed or ar mouthpiecec with a wider tip opening (the two measurements are related) OR there is a problem with maybe biting too hard.