Whats the difference between the Premiere and the J & D lines?
The reason the Premiere line of mouthpieces is less expensive than the J & D line is that the basic casting can be produced more cheaply and accurately by a process called injection moulding. (The plastic mouthpieces which have developed a bad reputation over the years have been finished poorly, generally with very open facings. Traditionally, softer reeds were always furnished with these mouthpieces to make them play easily enough for beginners. The combination of the open facing and the soft reed — plus the poor finish of the tip rail area — defies the possibility of ever achieving a nice resonant, round, solid sound. The soft reeds also contribute to a natural tendency to go very flat in the top of the upper (middle) register. Beginners generally are unable to deal with this problem effectively.) The closer facing on the Hite Premieres (which are finished with the same care as the professional J & D line) can be played easily with heavier reeds (Vandoren #3 or comparable) which wi
