Sax Accessories: Seiko, Protec, and Key Leaves

[@KeyLeaves]

Hah! Sorry/Not Sorry that a stuck G# pad reminded you to use your Key Leaves every day to prevent the sticky sax key pads. Thanks for your super detailed demo and review, Wally! BTW - Love Pro Tec reed case. I use that in both my alto and tenor cases.

[@drwallysax]

Homeschooling during the pandemic, Key Leaves weren't the only thing I forgot. Driving this week felt weeeeiiiirrd.

[@TheWFamilyMusic]

Dr (!) Wally is back :-)))

[@drwallysax]

Hey! I'll be posting weekly for the foreseeable future (barring another quarantine). Thanks for sticking around!

[@Swaggussnaregopingpinghaha]

You really deserve more credit for the knowledge you put forth for us all.

[@drwallysax]

That's very kind. I'm grateful for our lil' community. I'll keep sharing if you keep watching!

[@UrbanElectronicMusic]

I have always carried (ungummed) cigarette papers, specifically, "Club Modiano". They're cheap, take very little space and work great to wick off moisture on pads. Downside: you might have to do some explaining - especially if you're still living at home with your parents...

[@drwallysax]

Ha! Honestly mom, my pads get wicked sticky!

[@erikheadley2121]

can't live without my CORK GREASE

[@stefanzdraveski]

Man, i watched almost all your videos :D Very clear, elegant, musical, exquisite and SAXOPHONE content which is very good to see more and more. Cheers from Bulgaria

[@drwallysax]

That's very kind, Thanks Stefan! Hope you have a great week my friend!

[@georgeluna5845]

Thin high density foam cut in strips work just as well.

[@drwallysax]

I don't doubt that it works - but the wedge shape of the Key Leaves takes the guess work out of measuring the thickness. Also the band keeps them together and super easy to grab and go in my case. Given how many times I'm putting them in and out every week, I find it worth the price.

[@cheknfaks]

Glue a small magnet on the back of that Seiko metronome and it won't fall off the music stand anymore Wally. It should last at least another decade then.

[@drwallysax]

That.....that is genius. I'm doing this.

[@smrtn2441]

Excellent. And glad to see SA hasn't gone AWOL, 'cause like....it, and your good self Dr Wally, are my favourite saxophone related things.

[@drwallysax]

Awwww, that's very kind! I'm back and on the regular (quit my day job to focus on the Saxophone Academy). Thanks for sticking around!

[@macmcgrath3625]

Wally’s back!

[@drwallysax]

I'm back! Weekly nerdy goodness for the foreseeable future....barring another lockdown. Thanks for coming back!

[@macmcgrath3625]

Saxophone Academy I can’t wait! Is the podcast going to return in a lockdown-friendly way?

[@petegalindez9961]

Huge plus one on the key leaves and Pro tec case!

[@jtheriault16]

OMG! Rock Salt and Pantyhose..... I remember others sax players I knew when I was growing up doing that. Never got all the fuss, like you I let my reeds dry out. Key Leaves are a game changer... so simple but so effective!!!

[@drwallysax]

Rulon is a saxophone genius - Keyleaves changed everything!

[@DynamixWarePro]

Hey your back. I need a good reed case as I need a case to put my Legere alto and soprano reeds in and mostly only seen cases with humidity control which I don't need using synthetic reeds, but I do have Reedjuvinate case when I use cane reeds. In my alto case I always have: 1) BG Body, Neck and Pad Saver swabs. 2) Yamaha Powder Paper: I use these sometimes before I start playing as I was told by a repairer and player who also plays the flute and has had sticking pads issues, that using the powder paper on the pads before playing, lowers the chance of sticking pads while playing, a problem I have had. I don't do it that often to prevent the powder building up on the pads, but it has helped, along with key leaves and really lessened pad sticking issues I had. 3) TGI 98W Metronome & Tuner: While it works fine for tuning for instruments in the key of: C, Bb, Eb and F and the metronome is good and loud enough to use. My only issue is that even with good AAA batteries, the screen backlight tends to dim after a while and I can only see it at certain angles which isn't helpful when I am trying to tune my mouthpiece and play long tones, so eventually I want to replace it with something better like the KORG OT-120 Orchestral tuner which has a transposing mode. BTW, I am still waiting on that tone-matching video you mentioned you had upcoming on your reply to my comment on your "Sax Goals: What do you want in 2020" video.

[@drwallysax]

Hey Dave - tone matching, I'm on it. I'll have the video up next week!

[@drwallysax]

Dave, your wish was my command: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKqVkIKOrqmcd68

[@esalehtismaki]

Actually the Vandoren case has venting holes and the instructions tell that usually moisture from reeds is enough, and you should only add water to the pad if the moisture indicator turns blue, which means under 30% humidity. Where you live that never happens. In Finnish winter the indoor humidity can drop to 10% and that may really be too dry for reeds, if you don't play them daily. That is what the humidor is for.

[@drwallysax]

I lived in Arizona for many years, about the driest place on earth. Honestly, I like my reeds to dry out! I never found any negative impact on sound or longevity. Some of my pro friends agree, some disagree. That said: I want to visit Finland! Your country looks amazing!

[@JulianChanSax]

Welcome back, Dr.!!!

[@drwallysax]

Thanks my friend! Hope you're well!

[@GeorgeFloyd67]

I like sax,trombone,trumpet, and percussion.

[@javierm_uk1588]

+1 for key leaves. Great investment. I got a small zoom recorder (h1n, the smallest one) and it´s been a wonderful addition to my arsenal, plus it totally fits in my sax case My only regret with equipment so far has been the Vandoren Hygro reed case. For a humid weather such as the UK where I live, it simply doesn´t work. All of my reeds got mould since the small sponge keeps them wet (which is supposed to be good, but it isn´t in this case) and because of the design of the case it becomes very hard to clean every corner rendering it useless afterwards. Even using a tiny bit of hydrogen peroxide on the sponge made it no better if not worse. Might be useful for dry climates, but certainly not here. I went back to the plastic clipping bag while I reevaluate my options (no mould since I stopped using the Hygro reed junk).

[@drwallysax]

I'm with you Javier - I JUST made a video on the topic! Have a great weekend my friend!

[@achmadfauzi8528]

This was greattttt Iam saxophonist too from Indonesia, ASIAN !!, nice to watch you boy, it’s hard make cover I know that, btw thank you all for your feedback

[@jamieforjazz]

Totally agree on having a simple metronome. I’ve had a different Seiko since 1991. Phone apps are a disaster for my attention span!

[@drwallysax]

Absolutely! I had an Apple Watch for a day...was a disaster as well. Unfortunately, that got me into the expensive rabbit hole of mechanical watches. Happy weekend!

[@ChrisF_1982]

I was told the pad savers can actually be detrimental to you instrument, since that basically leave the moisture in there. I prefer the swabs myself. I even remember making one specifically for the neck.

[@keithcampbell6806]

Sir you are incorrect. The pad saver was never intended to replace swabbing .The saver is placed in the instrument after swabbing to absorb any residue . This is a function like a human appendix .

[@petegalindez9961]

The other thing I keep in the case is the Reed Geek! Invaluable if you need to work on a spare reed in a pinch…small, easy to stash, and works great.

[@ChrisF_1982]

I personally never caught on to that, but I always had tools to work on reeds that looked rather similar.

[@petegalindez9961]

@@ChrisF_1982 I used to carry a chain saw with a fine toothed chain, but the Reed Geek is a bit more portable! LOL

[@robertgreen3702]

Thanks Wally. I love your videos.

[@francistaylor5097]

Well, Dr Wally, thanks for your recommendation. My new Protec case for my tenor reeds is fantastic. Two problems; my V16 reeds are too thick and don't fit all that well; I now have to buy one for my for alto and clarinets!

[@abdulhakeemnaallah1779]

Dr wally I was Just about to send you an email I was so worried we haven’t heard from you in a while welcome back we really missed

[@drwallysax]

That's very kind, thanks! we were in quarantine in North Carolina, and I was homeschooling my two kids (no time for videos)! But, I'm back and excited to make some fun content! Thanks for checking in, hope you're well!

[@petegalindez9961]

Metronome: Thought maybe this KZbin was 20 years old at first!! LOL…just get the app on your smartphone…you can turn off all your notifications with one button…you can adjust tones, has tuner, just lights, etc…much more and you already have your phone with you…and don’t have to worry about batteries running out.

[@bobblues1158]

Reed Geek with me at all times.

[@drwallysax]

I bought a Reed Geek a few months back, I should probably learn to use it!

[@craigiefconcert6493]

I like “Craig leaves”: Hagen das popsicle sticks I’ve cut in half and smoothed out. If I had expensive horns and played in concert halls I’m sure I’d invest in key leaves. I miss my seiko metronome. 😭

[@Rabittsfoot1]

I like the fuzzy Muppet, but key leaves is a good investment for your horn.

[@drwallysax]

How many Grovers had to die for your Pad Saver?!

[@Rabittsfoot1]

@@drwallysaxhmmmmmm since you put it that way I kinda feel now 🤔

[@AaronTMartin]

Glad to see you back, Wally! Thank you for more great content! We all look forward to your upcoming videos. Side note: "Mangled Muppet"...hilarious! :) Yes, the "Repairman's Friend" is indeed a ridiculous saxophone product. Those are three fantastic accessories. With regards to a dedicated, stand-alone metronome vs. a metronome app on the phone, I totally hear what you're saying. For me, however, I put the iPad on airplane mode and use the TonalEnergy Tuner app for iOS, since its metronome has a nice, loud click, as well as a tuner. No distractions possible that way. Key Leaves rock! I picked up the entire bundle from their website (the Gap Cap end plug, the Vent Vine palm key props, the Spit Sponge tone hole pad, and Key Leaves key props) for a good price. Awesome products that will save me lots of money on repairs, not to mention frustration over sticky keys. My additions to your list? They're low-tech, inexpensive, durable, and have small form factors for tight cases: 1) a Dixon Ticonderoga no. 2 pencil; 2) a small pencil sharpener (I find graphite leaves an unpleasant aftertaste after gnawing on the pencil tip while attempting to sharpen it with my teeth:)); and 3) a Field Notes Original Kraft Memo Book to jot down practice goals or to record what I accomplished during a session. Thanks again, and all the best!

[@drwallysax]

Hey Aaron, good to see you here! Alright, I'm a pencil/pen nerd, I'll definitely be checking out the Dixon Ticonderoga. I also keep Field notes somewhere close at hand!

[@owenwalter451]

Its been a while, Dr. Wallace.

[@drwallysax]

Too long. With quarantine ending, I FINALLY have some help with the kiddos. So, I'm back at it. Hope you're well!

[@phillipdaigle4850]

About the Key Leaves, Do they weaken the Springs on the naturally closed Keys? as a Mechanic, who is now Blind. It seems to Me that leavingsomething Open that is supposed to be closed would weaken the Spring. Please Help me to understand this. I have thought of using these things But as of yet I have not for this reason. Thanks Phillip K. Daigle

[@krommer66]

You leave Grover alone!!!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@michaeldean9338]

Great channel, Doctor. Really enjoy your videos. Uncomplicated, but well explained. I appreciate the altissimo fingerings, as well. Best wishes, sir.

[@drwallysax]

Thanks Michael! Hit me up with questions. Happy practicing my friend!

[@michaeldean9338]

@@drwallysax We'll do. Yes, definitely have questions. However, I can't be as specific with those questions until I save the money I need to have these leaks fixed, (my low B and Bb are indistinguishable, so I don't practice any lower than C-1 -- tho I do use the actual Bb-1fingering for overtone studies.)as well as replacing the cork on my horn's neck. Until I have these two issues taken care of, I have no real idea exactly where I stand, that is, as far as my tone is concerned... but I do know that it (tone) is improving, and I have more endurance with the long-tones. Until then, Merry Christmas/ Happy Holidays :)

[@drwallysax]

@@michaeldean9338 Likewise, and keep me updated!

[@apistosig4173]

+1 for the Protec reed case +1 for the Key Leaves - plus cork grease, tiny pack of tissues.

[@drwallysax]

How often you adding cork grease, Apisotosig? I use it for a day or two with a fresh cork, then never again? Always good to have extra tissues!

[@apistosig4173]

@@drwallysax Not often but...I often mess with a lot of MPs and if one is feeling a tad too tight I like to apply a little to help ease it on. I have used it on (what I would consider) overly tight neck tenons.

[@kalebthompson857]

It sounds like you live in Mississippi lol. It is always humid here.

[@drwallysax]

North Carolina - hello my humid friend!!!!

[@kalebthompson857]

@@drwallysax North Carolina is also humid. When I went there I was in the mountains, but I bet it is a lot more humid near the water.

[@SkylersRants]

The seiko is durable even after it falls apart! LOL!

[@SkylersRants]

My super mini Taktell doesn't use batteries and still works fine after more than 30 years.

[@SkylersRants]

But you do have to wind it a lot, and if it's not level the beat is off. Oh well. Someday I'll update.

[@drwallysax]

I love old school metronomes!!!!

[@melron1000]

Hi, really love your videos! Sticky pads, I tend to have more problem with Lft and Rt hand palm keys. Do you do anything with them? Thank you! By the way, your sound on alto always reminds me of Paul Desmond. ;-)

[@drwallysax]

Reminds you of Paul Desmond? Well, you are now my new best friend! My palm keys do get a little bit sticky - but those are opened with direct levers, rather than spring tension. I've not had any big problems, but Key Leaves does make the "vent vine," that helps keep those dry! Great questions!

[@melron1000]

@@drwallysax Thanks for the reply, I will look into them! I would love to be playing right now but have some respiratory problems so I'm trying to learn some new things and saxophone academy is giving me a lot to think about. Keep those great videos coming and Happy new year!!!

[@slbeauty1473]

does it necessary to wet the reed with water for few minutes before playing every day ?

[@drwallysax]

I just stick it in my mouth for a few seconds. Water is good too!

[@slbeauty1473]

@@drwallysax thank you .. when i using tongue techniques, spit go through the reed and mouth piece and turn in to a bad sound .. how to avoid that ?

[@anthonymacias5334]

What do you think about the diadario reed case compared to your protect one

[@drwallysax]

I like them! I just generally prefer the pro-tec because it hods ten (I condition a box at a time). Both are great in my book. Happy practicing, Anthony!

[@georgeluna5845]

Now Doc, how many playing hour can you get out of 10 reeds? I find when I travel I take way too many reeds, or am I not playing enough?

[@drwallysax]

Box of 10 lasts me about a month (2-3 hours a day). I've been experimenting more with the reed geek, thinking maybe I can get more. When I was on tour with the Army Band, I'd pack my 10 reed case and an extra fresh box for security.

[@georgeluna5845]

@@drwallysax yes, you strike me as a man who wears a belt with suspenders. The muscle’s are getting stronger and I’d like to be playing a couple of hours a day.

[@johnnyloungejazz5477]

Be nice to find enough playing reed’s to change every hour.

[@stangetz534]

I got the metronome but it doesn’t go up by one click at a time. It goes up by 3 clicks.

[@drwallysax]

That's one of the reasons I love it. It's old school.

[@stangetz534]

@@drwallysax Oh ok. I like it because now I can always have the metronome going. -)

[@tomswift6198]

"And no matter how many times I've dropped it, it just keeps on working." It's a metronome. How did you resist to obvious urge to say "it just keeps on ticking"?

[@drwallysax]

Ha! and risk a lawsuit form Timex!!!! (can't believe I didn't think of that). Happy Monday, Tom!

[@bruhlmaoo]

you live in florida?

[@drwallysax]

Good lord no. They have bugs the size of houses.

[@bruhlmaoo]

@@drwallysax Yeah we do, sucks when you have to touch your alarm clock and touch a cockroach the size of a house cat 😭