Detail 01
Plastic coating over cane
The coating slows moisture absorption, so response stays more consistent across a session and between humid and dry rooms.
Product detailSKU #1274034480408
RicoPlasticover Bb Clarinet Reeds Strength 3.5 Box of 5
1/2
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Bb clarinet reeds with a plastic coating, strength 3.5, five to a box. For players who want consistent response in humid rooms or outdoors where cane swells.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Marching band and outdoor playing where humidity swings
- Doublers who need a reed ready without a long soak
- Players wanting brighter, more cutting tone in loud settings
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Classical players after a warm, traditional cane sound
- Beginners — 3.5 is a firm strength for a new embouchure
- Anyone wanting the most reeds per dollar; five to a box
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Strength 3.5
Firm. Needs a developed embouchure and supports louder, more controlled playing without the reed closing up.
Detail 03
Box of 5
Fewer per box than uncoated reeds, but coated reeds typically hold their playing character longer before dying.
Detail 04
Brighter tonal character
The coating adds edge and projection. Useful in a marching line, less so in a chamber setting.
Detail 05
Bb clarinet cut
Fits Bb soprano clarinet mouthpieces only. Not for bass clarinet or saxophone.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Reeds only — no mouthpiece, ligature, or case included
- 02Coated reeds need far less soaking than cane; a quick wet is enough
- 033.5 is a step up in resistance; drop a half strength if you're unsure
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01How are these different from regular cane reeds?
They're cane with a plastic coating. The coating limits moisture absorption, so response stays steadier and the reed lasts longer, at the cost of a brighter tone.
02Is 3.5 too hard for me?
If you currently play 2.5 or 3 comfortably, 3.5 is a reasonable step up. If you tire quickly on 3, stay where you are.
03Can I use these indoors for concert band?
Yes, though the brighter edge stands out more in a blended concert setting than a traditional cane reed would.
04Do these need soaking?
Much less than cane. A brief wetting is enough since the coating keeps water from soaking into the reed body.
