By storing reeds in a humidity controlled environment, without any portion of the reed resting on a flat surface, woodwind players can expect to notice a substantial improvement in the consistency and longevity of their reeds. Cane reeds stored at a stable temperature and humidity will be quicker to warm up, less likely to warp, and more stable in strength over the life of the reed. For players travelling between various climates with their reeds, or for players rotating a large number of reeds, these cases are a lifesaver!
Local Bassoon extraordinaire and skilled woodworker Matthew Holzinger builds these cases in conjunction with his father, an engineer, using a combination of state-of-the-art CNC manufacture and good old fashioned hand craftsmanship. They utilise beautiful Australian timbers, including Tasmanian Blackwood, Jarrah and Redgum, as well as premium cigar humidor parts, to create an exceptionally stable environment for storing all manner of reeds. These cases were developed in conjunction with Dean Newcombe, principal clarinet of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, who needed a top-quality solution for the storage of his many clarinet reeds.
Hygrometer Reed Case – How to use information
To better understand how to get the best out of this case you will need to understand Relative Humidity (RH) which is what is being measured by the Hygrometer on the centre of the case.
Relative humidity is the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity (which depends on the current air temperature). A reading of 100 percent relative humidity means that the air is totally saturated with water vapor and cannot hold any more water at that temperature.
What are we trying to achieve in the Hygrometer Reed Case?
Reeds are best kept at 21°C (70°F) @ 70 % ± 5% RH.
It is important to note that the amount of moisture (water vapour) in the air changes significantly as temperature varies from the 21C even if the RH remains at 70% (the air can hold twice the amount of water with an increase of 11°C).
So, to maintain the correct mini atmosphere in the case here are some of the things you need to be aware of.
• Every time you open the case you will disturb the environment in the case. Hence minimise the number of times and length of time the case remains open.
• Open in an area where air flow is at a minimum to avoid completely losing the case environment.
• Opening the case in an extremely dry day (say 20% RH) will cause a larger change in the case atmosphere than compared to a day where RH is closer to the case environment.
• If case is having trouble getting back to 70% RH remoistening of the sponge or humidors will be required (see pictures below). The humidors hold the RH @ 70% the sponge has ability to hold more water but has no control over the humidity. If you prefer higher RH then sponge may be your preference.
• Use demineralised water for the humidors – soak for 1 – 2 minutes.
• Holding the case at a high RH (say 85% + at higher temperatures) will encourage mould to grow.
Controlling the RH in the Hygrometer Reed Case will take some practice but the improvement in reed playability and longevity (especially with the thinner reeds) will be the reward.
Please Also Note: To Achieve a tight case seal you will need to squeeze the case when closing or opening the latch. This provides a small amount of compression to the EPDM seal.
If you need any further assistance contact us.
2 Humidors – will control humidity @ around 70% RH.
1 Sponge wet with clean water, should not be dripping.
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