I've been using the Harry Hartmann Fiberreeds for about 9 or 10 years now, have only bought 3 reeds during that time. I still had plenty of life in 2 of them I've been using, but decided to go ahead and order a spare. Having never tried the "carbon" Fiberreed, I bought this version and it came in yesterday's mail.

As usual, Harry Hartmann didn't disappoint. Although the reed was about $24 plus shipping, it was fabulous straight out of the box. I put it on my mouthpiece and was able to immediately go from the lowest to the highest notes on my sax without even a hiccup. Best thing about these reeds (which are seriously way above any synthetic or cane reeds I've ever tried) is that they are instantly ready and consistent use after use. They don't warp, dry out, and if they chip, I've found they're easily repairable by trimming with a good pair of scissors (only had to do that once, they're actually quite durable to be so flexible). Their response and tone are just unbelievable, you can bend a note on its ear and back with one of these reeds.

I can't say enough about them except that I will never, ever go back to cane reeds, plastic coated reeds and other synthetics. They're expensive but they pay for themselves in terms of longevity. I've only thrown away one Fiberreed ever...had it for over five years before reluctantly chucking it.

Just in case folks have seen them advertised and wondered if they're worth the cost...well, yeah, they really are!

Lisa

Terry H., Chikago

I am a professional musician in Chicago, Il., USA. I have tried several brands of synthetic reeds after being frustrated by the inconsistency of cane reeds. Your Fiberreed was the most comfortable, best sounding and longest lasting reed that I found. It's great to have that kind of consistentcy night after night.

Victor Trey, Texas

I have been playing for 25 years on a Selmer Mark VI saxophone. I have tried different types of reeds. However, a friend of mine from work recommended a Cordora Fiberreen, I never went back to a cane reed. Try a medium with almost any facing (mouth piece) and you will get hooked, in my opinion. Practice daily, Victor.

Patrick Herlehy, Boston

I play in horn sections playing festivals throughout Europe and the States. Many times I need to cut through poor mixes and over the top guitars. I sifted through untold boxes of cane reeds and shifted my focus to fiber reeds as they have the altissimo response needed in this setting. Harry Hartman reeds stand out as the hands down winner. It is now October and I'm still playing the same reed that I broke out in Paris in April. My bandmates all turned their heads at first sound and said" Whoa Daddy" "Your sound is rockin' homes" I'm now a devout Hartman fan and cannot return to any other. This player strongly recommends trying them.

Chen Yehezkely, Rosh Hanikra, Israel

You may quote me on the following (and even give my email to anyone who wishes to hear my testimony first hand: chenyehezkely_at_hotmail_com). I thank the Lord for fiberglass and for lazer and for computers and for Harry Hartmann. Playing your reeds was for me an experience of salvation. I am happy I insisted on sending them back and forth for additional temperring - for now they are perfect. I suggest you tell all your present and future clients that they may do the same, for then you will have more happy clients.

M. Bring, Stockholm, Sweden

I enjoy the sound of the reeds very much. Best regards

K. Dohrman, Middletown, Ohio, USA

Harry, I just wanted to let you know I have been using your carbon reed for a couple of years and it is awesome. I have tried just about every natural and synthetic reed available and yours are THE BEST. The firm tip allows for easy altissimo while the thin body lets the low end blow effortlessly. I use them on alto, soprano, and tenor and have the other guys in my group doing the same.

M. Whitford, Kansas, USA

"I bought a reed for my son - he loves it. He is able to produce the sound he was looking for and hopefully it will last a bit longer than the VanDorens. Thank you."

D. Dunn, Georgia, USA

"Thanks! These are the best synthetics I've ever tried (and I have tried them all!)...............daryl "

R. Trostis, Naumburg, Deutschland

"Von Carbon Toptone Fiberreed für mein Altsax bin ich absolut begeistert. Ich spiele es auf meinem Dukoff P7 im Jazz - Pop - Unterhaltungsbereich Die Tiefe geht wie Butter und das Flageolett ist leichter denn je............ Ich denke Du hast es geschafft das Holzblatt zu ersetzen."

D. Jorgensen, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA

"By the way, I also wanted to say that I am a complete "sound fanatic" and favor an extremely clear sax tone in normal playing - (softer tone is ok for very quiet playing) I absolutely love the clarity of tone that the fiberreed provides - this too is unmatched, basically making all other synthetic reeds out there fall short."

R. Ventrella, Bari, Italia

"Dear Mr. Hartmann, I'm a professional musician and I tried your Fiberreed for alto sax and I think is very good play, because I have problems with natural reeds. I will be very glad to meet you a day."