Frequently Asked Questions
About the Company & Products
What’s the difference between GonzalezReedsUSA.com and GonzalezReeds.com — are you actually Gonzalez Reeds or is this a scam?
GonzalezReedsUSA.com is the official U.S. operations of Gonzalez Reeds, the global reed manufacturer based in Mendoza, Argentina. This website is based in the United States and operates through our U.S. warehouse, with all products shipping domestically and customer service provided locally. Our goal is to offer the best products, service, and support while being closer to our customers.
The global site, GonzalezReeds.com, is the institutional website for Gonzalez Reeds — it provides company information but does not include e-commerce. All U.S. sales (to end customers, retailers, and distributors) are managed directly through GonzalezReedsUSA.com.
We also ship worldwide, and for customers outside the U.S., we recommend checking our Retailers section to find local dealers or distributors that carry Gonzalez products in your country. If you don’t have a retailer or distributor in your country or territory, we’ll be happy to provide service directly and ship your order from our U.S. warehouse.
Where are Gonzalez reeds made?
Gonzalez reeds are made in Mendoza, Argentina, at the foot of the Andes Mountains—an ideal region for growing high-quality cane. The area's sun-drenched climate, mineral-rich soils, and natural irrigation from Andean snowmelt produce a uniquely dense, golden-hued cane with outstanding acoustic properties.
Every reed is crafted entirely in our Argentine facility, where we control every step of production—from planting and harvesting to drying, cutting, and final inspection. This fully integrated process guarantees exceptional consistency, quality, and traceability in every box.
What types of instruments do your reeds support?
We manufacture high-quality bamboo reeds for Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, English Horn, Bassoon, and Contra Bassoon.
Are your reeds handmade or machine-made?
Our reeds are the result of a carefully balanced process that combines precision machinery with skilled hand-finishing. While we use advanced technology to ensure accuracy and consistency, key steps—such as harvesting, selecting, and sun-drying the cane—are done by hand. Each reed is crafted from cane grown on our own plantations in Mendoza, Argentina, using our exclusive Single Caneyard approach for unmatched uniformity. This blend of technology, tradition, and craftsmanship ensures reeds with a rich, consistent sound and high performance straight out of the box.
What makes your reeds different from other brands?
At González Reeds, we do what most brands can’t: we control every step of the process—from growing our own Arundo Donax to crafting the final product—ensuring unmatched consistency, sustainability, and quality. Our cane is cultivated organically on 42 hectares in Mendoza, Argentina, without pesticides or chemicals, and is hand-harvested during winter, then sun-dried for 30 days to develop its signature golden color and acoustic richness.
Unlike manufacturers who mix cane from different regions, we use material from a single source: our 3 de Mayo plantation. This exclusive “Single Caneyard” approach means that every reed in a box comes from the same plantation and harvest, offering musicians reliable sound, feel, and performance—box after box. Backed by over 35 years of expertise and innovation, our reeds are trusted by players in over 30 countries worldwide.
Product Selection & Reed Cuts
What’s the difference between American, French, and German reed cuts?
American Cut:
- Features a longer vamp (the tapered section) and a pronounced "heart" in the center.
- Offers a darker, warmer tone.
- Typically more resistant — suitable for advanced players who prefer control and stability.
French Cut (a.k.a. Filed or Double Cut):
- Has a shorter vamp with a more flexible tip.
- Lighter and easier to play.
- Produces a brighter sound — favored in classical and solo playing.
- Often includes a horizontal line (the “file”) near the bark for quicker response.
German Cut:
- Has a thicker profile overall, especially at the spine and heart.
- Made for use with German-system clarinets or bassoons.
- Produces a focused, darker sound — preferred in German and Austrian orchestral traditions.
- Requires specific embouchure and setup.
How are Gonzalez clarinet and saxophone reeds different from others?
González Reeds are known for their exceptional consistency, tonal quality, and environmentally responsible production. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Single-Origin Cane: All our cane is grown on González’s own plantations in Mendoza, Argentina. This full control over the growing and harvesting process ensures unmatched consistency across every reed.
- Organic and Chemical-Free Farming: We never use pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers. Instead, our cane is cultivated using natural compost like worm humus and goat manure, preserving both the environment and the reed’s natural structure.
- Traditional Harvesting & Drying: Cane is hand-harvested during the winter frost, after a full two-year growth cycle. It’s then sun-dried for 30 days and rotated daily for an even finish that enhances tonal response and stability.
- Precision Manufacturing with Hand Inspection: Reeds are cut using high-precision equipment to exact dimensions, then individually inspected by skilled workers to ensure consistent quality and performance.
- Quarter Strength Options: Many of our most popular models (such as FOF and Classic) are offered in quarter strengths (e.g., 2.25, 2.5, 2.75), giving players a more exact match to their mouthpiece and playing style.
These elements combine to deliver reeds with clear tone, excellent response, long lifespan, and consistent quality—trusted by professionals, students, and educators alike.
How do I choose the right reed strength?
Reed strength refers to the thickness and resistance of the reed. Softer reeds (lower numbers, like 1.5–2) are easier to play and ideal for beginners. Harder reeds (higher numbers, like 3–4+) provide more resistance, offering greater control and projection for advanced players.
Usage, Care & Maintenance
Do reeds need to be broken in?
Yes! We recommend gradually playing a new reed for a few minutes at a time during the first few days. This helps the fibers stabilize and improves consistency and longevity.
How should I store my reeds?
Always store reeds in a ventilated reed case to keep them flat and dry. Avoid leaving them on the mouthpiece or in humid/damp places, as this can cause warping or mold.
Are bamboo reeds better than synthetic reeds?
Bamboo reeds deliver a warm, natural tone with rich resonance and expressive flexibility. They respond beautifully across all registers, making them the preferred choice for both classical and jazz musicians who value depth, warmth, and authenticity in their sound.
How do I know when it’s time to replace my reed?
If your reed feels harder to play, loses clarity, or shows visible chips or warping, it’s time for a new one. Many players rotate reeds to extend their lifespan and ensure consistency.
For Artists & Professionals
Are your reeds suitable for professionals as well as students?
Absolutely. Our reeds are crafted with the same premium cane across all models and are trusted by students, teachers, and professional performers worldwide.
Can I apply for a Gonzalez Reeds Artist Endorsement?
If you’d like to apply for an official Gonzalez Reeds Endorsement / Sponsorship Program, please check the Artist Endorsement Page and follow the instructions.
Orders and Shipping
How do I place an order?
You can place an order by browsing our products, adding items to your cart, and following the checkout process.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various payment methods including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Shopify Payments. All payment processing and vital customer information is quick, easy, and secure.
Learn more about our store's safe checkout experience (powered by Shopify) here.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Our products ship from our facility in Oregon. Domestic (USA) shipping times vary depending on your location. Typically, orders are processed within 1-2 business days and delivered within 2-7 business days. We offer different shipping services to accommodate our customers' needs, including USPS and UPS.
- During peak traffic seasons such as Memorial Day, Black Friday, and Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, some orders may take longer to be filled.
- USA Domestic shipping can take up to 7 business days.
- International shipping could take up to 21 business days.
Due to global supply chain challenges, shipping times could be longer than usual.
Who pays international Duties & Taxes?
All Gonzalez Reeds orders ship from the USA. For domestic (USA) orders, the price you see is the price you pay — no hidden fees, no added taxes. The only possible extra cost is shipping, if your order doesn’t qualify for free shipping. There are no surprise charges at checkout beyond that.
International Orders:
All duties, taxes, and brokerage fees for international shipments are the responsibility of the customer. Oruga does not cover import duties, taxes, or any additional fees related to shipping outside the USA. Any refused deliveries returned to Gonzalez Reeds due to unpaid import fees are subject to a 50% restocking fee.
Can I track my order?
Yes, once your order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number via email.
Returns and Exchanges
What is your return policy?
Unless explicitly stated in the product description, yes, we will accept full or partial order returns. All returns must be requested within 14 days of receiving your items. Returns requested after 14 days will be refused.
Items must be returned in like new condition with original packaging contents. If items are not in like-new condition with original packaging contents, a 25% restocking fee may be applied.
The return shipping cost must be paid by the customer.
Refunds will be issued against the original form of payment and may take 5-7 business days to be processed upon receiving the item(s).
Gonzalez Reeds does not control how quickly your financial institution posts refunds.
Does Gonzalez Reeds provides free return labels?
No, the customer will be responsible for return shipping and assumes all liability for lost or damaged shipments.
We suggest using an insured and traceable shipment method, with delivery confirmation and signature required.
How do I return or exchange an item?
To initiate a return or exchange, contact our customer service at hello@GonzalezReedsUSA.com with your order number and reason for the return/exchange.
When will I receive my refund?
Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days after we receive the returned item. The refund will be issued to the original payment method.
Payments & Safety
Is my payment data safe with you?
All direct payment gateways adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which is a joint effort of brands like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Do you accept online payments?
Yes, we accept online payments. All payment processing and vital customer information is quick, easy, and secure.
Learn more about our store's safe checkout experience (powered by Shopify) here.
What forms of payment do you accept?
At Gonzalez Reeds, we accept a variety of payment methods to ensure a smooth and convenient shopping experience for our customers. You can securely pay using:
- Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover
- Debit Cards: Major debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo
- PayPal: For a quick and secure checkout
- Apple Pay: Use your Apple devices for easy payment
- Google Pay: Convenient payment option for Android users
- Shop Pay: Faster checkout with saved payment details
If you have any questions about payment options, please feel free to contact us at hello@orugapercussion.com
Account and Support
Do I need an account to place an order?
No, you can place an order as a guest. However, creating an account allows you to track orders and save your information for future purchases.
How can I contact customer support?
You can contact us via email at hello@GonzalezReedsUSA.com or through our contact form on the website. Our customer service team is available Monday to Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM (PT).
Promotions and Discounts
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes, we offer digital gift cards in various denominations. They can be purchased directly from our website.
How can I find out about sales and promotions?
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on sales, promotions, and new product releases.