10 Best Oboe Reeds 2025 in the United States

The Jones JR101MS Oboe Reed is a medium soft reed made entirely of cane from the reputable Jones Double Reed Products brand. It stands out because of its proper tip opening, which is achieved without the use of a wire, making it user-friendly for beginners and intermediate players. The cane used in this reed is processed by skilled craftsmen using advanced reed machinery, ensuring consistency and quality. Each reed is meticulously tested and hand-adjusted, which is a testament to its craftsmanship.

Players will find that it allows for ease in playing across the entire range of the oboe, which is beneficial for both practice and performance. Additionally, the reed boasts a long lifespan, meaning it won't need to be replaced frequently. Considering its strengths, the medium soft strength might not be suitable for all players, particularly those who prefer harder reeds. Some users might also find the price point a bit high given its handcrafted nature, but the quality justifies the cost for many.

The Jones JR101MS is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and well-crafted oboe reed.

The Marlin Lesher Oboe Reed-Soft is designed for those who seek a soft reed suitable for a range of playing styles, particularly beneficial for beginners or those with a lighter touch. One of its key strengths is its softness, which can help produce a warm, rich tone that many musicians appreciate, especially during practice sessions or softer passages in performances. The material, brass, adds durability, and the modern style is visually appealing with its multiple color options like brown, purple, pink, and cream.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the softness of the reed is advantageous for some, it may not provide the necessary resistance or projection needed for more advanced players or those playing in larger ensembles. Additionally, the tip opening and shape specifics are not detailed, which could be a concern for experienced players looking for precise specifications to match their preferred playing style. Furthermore, while the brand, Marlin Lesher, has a good reputation, individual preferences for reed brands can vary significantly, and some users may prefer other brands based on their unique playing needs.

The Marlin Lesher Oboe Reed-Soft represents a solid choice for beginner to intermediate oboe players seeking a reliable and comfortable reed, though advanced musicians might consider exploring other options that align more closely with their playing style and sound requirements.

The Bstinay 5PCS Oboe Reeds are designed in a German style and made from bamboo, metal, and plastic materials. They are medium strength reeds, which means they require a moderate amount of breath to play and suit musicians who have some experience rather than complete beginners. The medium hardness offers a balanced feel, but beginners may struggle to produce sound with these reeds because they require some control and breath support. The reeds measure about 82×11.5mm, a typical size for German oboes, and come in a pack of five, making them convenient for regular players who may need replacements.

These reeds may appeal more to intermediate or advancing players rather than those just starting out due to their medium hardness and the need for breath control. They are also lightweight and compact, which is handy for carrying around. One drawback is that beginners might find them difficult to use initially, and the quality and consistency might vary a bit given mixed experiences reported by users.

If you’re looking for affordable mid-level reeds and play a German-style oboe, these could be a reasonable choice. However, novices should probably look for softer reeds designed for ease of sound production.