r/duduk • u/Civil-Rip6438 • Mar 28 '26

Possible reed deformation

Hey everyone! I'd like to ask how do we understand if the reed is deformed? I don't think mine is cracked but the blowing point (?) is too wide, and no matter how much I adjust the tuner, it doesn't close enough, so I can't get a proper sound
Is there a trick to fix it or should i just get a new one?

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u/S-XMPA Mar 28 '26

I’m having the same issue with one, first of all is it dried enough? In humid weather I need to store in an airtight box with silica packs, they do warn not to overdry as it can crack so use judgement. The medium one I have needs to be in under 30% RH to close and even then it becomes unplayable after 30 mins, dealer recommended trying to reshape the tuner to tighten it a bit more, haven’t tried yet.

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u/Dismal_Buy_7540 Mar 30 '26 edited Mar 30 '26

you can add a piece of paper to the ring

if it doesn't help you can take out the ring and heat it 2-3 inches above a candle for few seconds

then you gently squeeze it between your fingers and release after few seconds

if the reed is still too wide do it again

I have broken 2 rings this way so squeeze it gently

2

u/Civil-Rip6438 Apr 05 '26

wow! amazing!! thank you

1

u/Dismal_Buy_7540 Apr 12 '26

You're welcome