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Reed for Tenor Saxophone RIGOTTI GOLD JAZZ №3.5 Strong (1pc)
The RIGOTTI GOLD JAZZ №3.5 reed for tenor saxophone is the soft step of the range from French maker Rigotti, whose cane from the Var region (Provence, southern France) is recognised worldwide as one of the finest materials for reed-making. Sold individually (1 piece) — ideal for players who want to try a specific sub-strength (Light, Medium, or Strong) before committing to a full box, or simply need to top up their supply with a single reed.
The Gold Jazz series delivers a brighter tone and greater punch than the Classic cut. Strength №3.5 is a balanced strength in the Rigotti range — a versatile choice for most styles and playing levels. L/M/S sub-strengths enable precise hardness selection to match your setup.
🎵 Sound Characteristics of the Gold Jazz Series
- ✔️ Bright, vibrant tone with clear attack — the defining character of the Gold Jazz series
- ✔️ Soft but perceptible resistance — the first level of real tonal control
- ✔️ Expanding dynamic range compared to №1.5 — allows for more expressive playing
- ✔️ Clear articulation — the reed responds well to staccato and lighter passages
- ✔️ Stable intonation in the lower and middle registers of the tenor saxophone
Rigotti Gold reeds typically play slightly softer than the equivalent Vandoren Traditional number — keep this in mind when switching from another brand.
🔧 Cane and Manufacturing
Rigotti cane is grown alongside rivers and streams in the Var and Cogolin regions of southern France. Harvesting takes place in winter (December–March) — only after two years of growth, when each plant reaches 7–8 metres in height. The production process is entirely hands-on; every reed is individually selected from the finest harvests by the Rigotti family. In 2015, the company received the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant distinction from the French Ministry of Economy.
📊 Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | RIGOTTI |
| Series | Gold Jazz |
| Instrument | Tenor Saxophone |
| Cut | Jazz (bright, punchy, open) |
| Strength | №3.5 |
| Sub-strengths | Strong |
| Quantity | 1 reed |
| Material | Natural cane (Arundo donax) |
| Cane origin | Var and Cogolin, Provence, France |
| Country of manufacture | France |
📊 Rigotti Gold Jazz Strength Chart
| Strength | Sub-strengths | Character | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| №1 | None | Softest | Beginners, young children |
| №1.5 | None | Very soft | Students, free-blowing response |
| №3.5 (this) | Strong | Soft | Advancing students |
| №2.5 | Strong | Medium-soft | Intermediate to semi-professional |
| №3 | Strong | Medium | Most adult players |
| №3.5 | Strong | Medium-hard | Experienced players |
| №4 | Strong | Hard | Professional level |
| №4.5 | Strong | Very hard | Professionals, large sound volume |
| №5 | None | Hardest | Specialist applications |
📊 Rigotti Gold Series Comparison
| Series | Cut | Tonal Character | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Jazz | Jazz | Bright, punchy, clear attack, projection | Jazz, pop, rock, contemporary music |
| Gold Classic | Classic (French) | Warm, round, balanced | Classical music, academic performance |
💡 Sub-Strength System and Reed Markings
For strength №3.5, three sub-strengths are available. You can identify the sub-strength of any individual reed from the marking printed directly on it:
- 🔵 Light (L) — slightly softer. Marking: the letter «O» is filled in black
- ⚪ Medium (M) — the middle value. Marking: no filled letters
- 🔴 Strong (S) — slightly harder. Marking: the letter «D» is filled in
When ordering individually — please specify your preferred sub-strength in the order notes.
🎯 Who Is This Reed For
- ✔️ Advancing students who want to try a specific №3.5 sub-strength before ordering a full box
- ✔️ Players discovering the L/M/S system for the first time — buying individually lets you compare sub-strengths one at a time
- ✔️ Players returning after a long break who are gradually rebuilding their embouchure
- ✔️ Teachers trialling a reed for a specific student before ordering a full box
- ✔️ Topping up supply without buying a full box
🏭 About RIGOTTI
Rigotti (Ets Rigotti) is a French family business from Cogolin (Provence, southern France) and one of the most respected reed manufacturers in the world. For over 30 years, the Rigotti family has supplied reeds to players ranging from first-year students to internationally renowned professionals. In 2015, the company received the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant distinction from the French Ministry of Economy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is it sold individually rather than only in boxes?
Selling individually lets players verify a specific sub-strength (Light, Medium, or Strong) before investing in a full box of 5, top up their supply without overspending, or compare several sub-strengths separately. Particularly useful for players discovering the Rigotti L/M/S system for the first time.
What is the difference between №3.5 Light, Medium, and Strong?
These are sub-strengths within strength №2. Light is slightly softer — closest in feel to №1.5. Strong is slightly harder — approaching №2.5 Light. Medium is the balanced option between the two. Reed markings: Light — «O» filled in black; Medium — no marking; Strong — «D» filled in.
What is the difference between №1.5 and №3.5?
№1.5 has no sub-strengths and offers a completely free blow — ideal for beginners. №3.5 introduces moderate resistance for better tonal control and is the first strength in the Rigotti range to offer L/M/S sub-strengths. Moving from №1.5 to №3.5 is the natural step after 6–18 months of regular practice.
What is the difference between Gold Jazz and Gold Classic?
Gold Jazz has a brighter, more open tone with greater attack and punch — for jazz, pop, and contemporary styles. Gold Classic produces a warmer, rounder, balanced tone suited to classical and academic performance. The choice is based on playing style, not skill level.
Is this reed compatible with any tenor saxophone mouthpiece?
Yes. Rigotti Gold Jazz conforms to the standard tenor saxophone size and is compatible with any mouthpiece — Vandoren, Yamaha, Selmer, Rico, Meyer, Otto Link, and others. Rigotti reeds play slightly softer than the equivalent Vandoren Traditional number — players switching brands may need to adjust strength up by half a number.
How do I break in a new reed?
For the first 2–3 days, play no more than 10–15 minutes per session, allowing the reed to dry completely between uses. Full stabilisation typically occurs after 4–7 days of regular use.
How should I store the reed after playing?
Store flat in a reed holder or original packaging in a dry place at room temperature. After playing, always remove the reed from the mouthpiece and allow it to dry completely — this prevents warping and mould growth.
What is the difference between buying 1 piece vs. a box of 5?
A single reed is ideal for trying a sub-strength, comparing L/M/S options, or topping up supply. A box of 5 is better value per reed and ensures a consistent, uniform supply. Once you know your preferred sub-strength, switching to a full box is the most practical next step.
🚚 Delivery and Payment
🏪 In-store pickup at SoundsGood Kyiv — free of charge.
🚚 Delivery across Ukraine — Nova Poshta, Ukrposhta, Meest. Free shipping on orders from 4,000 UAH.
💳 Installment plan — from 25 UAH/month (Privatbank, Monobank, OschadPay).
✅ Official RIGOTTI dealer in Ukraine.
📦 Ships in original manufacturer packaging.