D'addario - Rico RICO PLASTICOVER BB CLARINET REEDS 2

Plasticover: a reed designed for stability, in the spirit of Rico

Plasticover reeds are based on a standard Rico cut, a profile widely adopted by musicians seeking a balance between ease of play and sound output. Their uniqueness comes from the plastic coating : whereas a traditional reed can quickly change depending on humidity (reed swelling, different feel under the lip, variable response), the Plasticover aims for greater stability, especially when conditions change from one piece to another, from one venue to another, or during outdoor performances.

This approach has made Plasticover a "practical" reference for musicians who want to limit surprises while retaining the lively character of cane. The announced control processes (visual inspection and precision measurements) align with this goal: improving the consistency from one reed to another, to find a reed that "feels right" more quickly from the first play.

For which musician and styles?

With their direct response and brightness, Plasticover reeds are particularly suited for intermediate to advanced musicians looking for a responsive reed, easy to speak and capable of cutting through an ensemble. They are also an excellent choice for beginner musicians who want a more stable feel against humidity, provided they choose the strength appropriate to their embouchure.

Regarding styles, they are highly appreciated in jazz, pop, variety, brass bands, and amplified contexts, where projection and clear attack facilitate articulation. They are also suitable for outdoor performances (parades, open stages, events), when weather can disrupt the behavior of an uncoated reed.

Sound and design

The plastic coating provides a playing sensation often perceived as more stable and "ready to play." Sonically, one generally finds a bright timbre and pronounced projection, useful for dynamic phrasing and sharp attacks. The American cut promotes easy response (the note comes out quickly), with a reaction that aids articulation and register changes.

A brief glossary to help you choose: strength corresponds to stiffness (the higher the number, the more resistant the reed); the cut describes the thickness profile (impacting response and tone color); projection describes the sound's ability to "carry" and remain present in a mix or challenging acoustics. At strength 2.0, one often aims for a comfortable compromise between flexibility, control, and endurance.

Recommended compatible accessories

To preserve your reeds daily, a ventilated reed case (for transport and drying) and a hard protective case are simple and effective choices. They limit shocks, promote more even drying, and help maintain a consistent response for longer.

Technical specifications