Vandoren Alto Saxophone Jazz Reed Sample Pack

Vandoren Alto Saxophone Jazz Reed Sample Pack

The Vandoren Alto Saxophone Jazz Reed Sample Pack offers saxophonists the perfect opportunity to explore the distinctive tonal characteristics of Vandoren’s most acclaimed jazz reed cuts — without committing to a full box of any single type.

Each sealed flow pack contains one reed each of Vandoren’s venerable Java Green, Java Red, ZZ, and V16 reeds — renowned for enabling players to coax a broad range of vintage and modern jazz tones from their saxophones.

A helpful comparison chart is included, detailing reed cuts, strengths, tip openings, and tonal properties to guide players in selecting their ideal match.

The Refined V16: A Reed for All Seasons

Vandoren’s V16 reeds offer a sophisticated tone, marrying the warmth of vintage reeds with the clarity of modern designs. Medium strength provides a balanced feel and flexible, multi-dimensional voice, suited equally for traditional jazz and contemporary genres. For alto players seeking a high-performance reed capable of nuanced expression, V16 represents the pinnacle of Vandoren’s reed-making artistry.

The Iconic Java Green: A Perennial Favorite

The original Java Green reed boasts a rich tone with clear highs, ideally suited for mainstream and traditional jazz. Its medium-soft strength offers a balanced feel with vibrant yet controllable tone across the alto’s range. For over 50 years, Java reeds have been a staple of jazz players worldwide thanks to their versatility, quality, and affordability.

The Robust Java Red: Modern Jazz Incarnate

Java Red reeds produce a bold, powerful tone tailored for contemporary jazz and R&B. Their medium-hard strength generates quick response, gutsy lows, searing highs, and a touch of edge. For a modern alto sound brimming with harmonic richness and projection, Java Red reeds are a top choice.

The Nimble ZZ: Bright and Articulate

ZZ reeds are geared toward players seeking depth of tone with rapid response. Their medium-soft strength facilitates swift keywork and a brilliant, penetrating timbre. ZZ reeds excel in any musical context calling for an alto saxophone capable of clean, intricate melodic lines.

Try all four and discover your ideal jazz reed tone for alto saxophone!