I use grand concert selects on Bb clarinet, Rico Orange box on tenor and bari, and have since switched from Rico Royals's to Reserves on alto. They seem pretty consistent, and the ones that aren't are easily fixed under the knife in a few minutes max. I have never been a fan of Vandorens because of the cost and inconsistency. I figure the good Vandorens can smoke most Rico's anyday, but if I'm paying less than half per reed, and more reeds are coming out playable, then I can get over the minimal tonal advantage. The Reserves are coming very close to the good Vandoren's sound wise IMHO, and I'm getting at least twice as many playable reeds per box. Worth it IMHO.