D'Addario Venn Generation 2.0 Synthetic Saxophone Reed Review

D'Addario Woodwinds are back at at it again with the latest iteration of the Venn Generation 2.0 Advanced Synthetic Reed for alto saxophone! The latest version of the Venn has amazing improvements and offers the most cane-like experience of a synthetic reed I have experienced so far. Improvements are largely due to removing the 1st generation’s protective film on the table, selecting a new stronger fiber material, and refinements to the resin. I also noticed changes to the cut of the reeds themselves, although this was not noted in the official white paper that I received from D’Addario Woodwinds. Finally, the latest generation of Venn’s are designed to run more true to strength, as opposed to the 1st gen which tended to run very stuff.

The Venn Generation 2.0 to be the most cane-like synthetic reed that I have ever tried. Compared to Légère Signature reeds, I found the Venn had more projection, body, and ring to the sound. On the other hand, the Légère’s are capable of more quiet playing, particularly in the lower register. I also found Légères to be a little more consistent from one reed to the next, although I am sure Venn will continue to improve in this regard. Thankfully, unlike Légères, D’Addario says that the Venn reed can safely be worked on with sandpaper and other reed working methods.

Be sure to check out my video with playing samples, below, and tell me what you hear!

Selmer Paris S80 C* vs S90 190: What's the Difference?

I’ve had many students ask me about the differences between two similar mouthpieces: the classic Selmer Paris S80 C*, and the somewhat newer Selmer Paris S90 190. Both of these mouthpieces feature a similar square chamber, tip opening, facing curve, and in theory should play similarly. However, I feel there are some significant differences between them.

I generally find the S80 C* to be an easier blow, but it will accept lesser maximum air and becomes brighter as you push it. Meanwhile, the S90 190 requires a bit more air support, however, it offers more room to push and generally will not cap out when using lots of air. Both mouthpieces offer ease and clarity of articulation. In general, I find the S90 190 to sound and feel more homogenous across registers, especially when entering into the altissimo; the S80 C* has different response and player feedback across registers. Overall, I find both to be a great option but serve different purposes.

The S80 C* is the classic first step-up mouthpiece but also scales well into advanced playing for general use. It pairs especially well with horns featuring a bore more similar to that of the classic Selmer Paris Mark VI, such as the Selmer Paris SA80 Series II and Yamaha Custom Z. Meanwhile, the S90 190 requires a bit more mature air support but in exchange, offers more flexibility for advanced players and pairs especially well with modern-bored horns like the Selmer Paris SA80 Series III and Yamaha Custom EX.

Listen to difference for yourself, below: