The secret to the success of Légère Reeds is a combination of a unique synthetic material, and meticulous computer controlled processing operations (say the manufacturer). Natural cane has a combination of high stiffness and low density that can be difficult to duplicate in a synthetic material. The manufacturers take advantage of the natural variation in cane to produce reeds of different strength. Cane reeds are graded according to strength: stiff cane is generally used to produce harder reeds. Légère have successfully duplicated this property variation in their materials, and via control of the material properties very precisely they are able to deliver reeds of consistent strength each and every time. Légère reeds are made from polypropylene, which is approved by the FDA for use in direct food contact applications, so the Légère reeds are completely safe to use. The polymer they use is processed in a special way: it lines up the molecules in order to precisely match the stiffness and density of moist cane. They do not add glass or any chemicals. The Légère reed doesn’t have to be preconditioned before playing; it does not absorb water; It is completely non-toxic; It is easily cleaned and sanitised; it is extremely tough and it will last a long, long, time. Of course, the best thing about the material is its sound. Even with all of the advantages of a synthetic, you wouldn't spot Légère reeds on the stage at the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra if the sound wasn't wonderful.