My reed feels fine but the sound is dull or fuzzy – is it worn out?Updated 2 months ago

If a Légère reed that used to sing now sounds dull, it could be a sign the reed has been played for a very long time and might be gradually wearing. However, before retiring it, consider a thorough cleaning (sometimes a film can build up that dampens the vibration – a gentle clean can restore brightness). Also check your mouthpiece for any changes (clean the mouthpiece too). If the reed still lacks the color it once had, and especially if you’ve been playing it for many months, it may simply have reached the end of its life. Légère reeds don’t typically “die” abruptly; they taper off in performance. So, a duller sound, loss of edge or power, or needing more effort for the same result, are cues that you might switch to a fresh reed. When you replace it with a new Légère of the same cut/strength, you should instantly regain that former brilliance, since there’s no break-in difference. 

Some players rotate reeds not just to extend life, but to keep a fresher sound in rotation. For example, if Reed A starts to feel a bit weak, they’ll start using a newer Reed B more, but keep Reed A as a backup.