all about reeds: why you need to know something about reeds

Cracked reed— Defect
Reed leaks after soaking— Defect
Reed is very closed— defect/possible difference of opinion
The reed is tied over the top of the tube— Defect
Reed is extremely open— defect or difference of opinion
Reed plays too flat or sharp— defect or difference of opinion
The blades do not meet at the sides, even when fully soaked— Defect
You do not like the tone— difference of opinion
Upper notes sag— defect or difference of opinion
Low notes do not respond— defect or difference of opinion
Reed too stiff or too weak— defect or difference of opinion
Gouging flaws or inconsistencies— Defect— but more skill and measurements are required to verify
Shaping flaws— Defect— some skill and measurements are required to verify

There are two types of reed problems: defects and differences of opinion (preferences). Distinguishing between them will make you a better oboist and reedmaker. Here are a few examples from lesson 7.