Reeds Rico Royal vs Frederick Hemke

[Colin1]

I've just changed my reed
OUT came a Frederick L Hemke (3)

IN went a Rico Royal (1 1/2)

The Hemke came with the horn and although I can't know how old it is, it can't be old, recently it's been like trying to get a note out of a cheese sandwich.

The Royal feels alot sharper and crisper - this could be down to new-ness (it's brand new) but it's a softer reed than the Hemke - why would that make it feel sharper and crisper? Or have I got the wrong end of the stick with reed grades?

 

[Nick Wyver]

Sounds about right.

 

[Rob Pealing]

I've just changed my reed
OUT came a Frederick L Hemke (3)

IN went a Rico Royal (1 1/2)

The Hemke came with the horn and although I can't know how old it is, it can't be old, recently it's been like trying to get a note out of a cheese sandwich.

The Royal feels alot sharper and crisper - this could be down to new-ness (it's brand new) but it's a softer reed than the Hemke - why would that make it feel sharper and crisper? Or have I got the wrong end of the stick with reed grades?

I'm also a beginner, I have learnt a good bit from reading the posts in the forums. Have a cruise around them.
I suspect your old reed had softened with playing and the advertised stiffness of one brand does not always correspond to another brand.
The trick is to find what works for you with your present skills.
Have a look at this. http://www.eugene-rousseau.com/discussions.htm

 

[Colin the Bear]

A hemke 3 compares to A rico royale 3.5. If a rico royale 1.5 plays stay in that area.