Our Winfield Professional Oboe Reed with Gold Staple is a top-tier reed built around an all-metal, gold-plated staple. The gold plating warms the tone, the all-metal construction (no cork) lets the reed vibrate more freely, and the result is a richer, fuller, more vibrant sound than you get from a conventional staple.

The gold staple difference

Most oboe staples have a cork section that grips inside the oboe socket. Cork dampens vibration, the same way the felt on a piano hammer softens the strike. Our gold staple replaces the cork with two thin rubber rings, leaving the metal staple to do its job acoustically while the rings handle the seal. You hear it as more openness in the sound, especially in the mid and lower registers.

Why gold

Gold is a relatively soft metal compared to brass or silver. That softness translates into a warmer, rounder character in the reed's response. Combine that with the all-metal staple body, and you get a reed that's noticeably more present in larger ensemble work without having to push for it.

Important: oboe socket size

The hole at the top of your oboe needs to be at least 7mm in diameter to accept this reed. Most modern oboes are fine, but older instruments or some student models can have a smaller socket. If you're not sure, measure before ordering.

At a glance

• Instrument: Oboe
• Strength: Medium
• Best for: Advanced and professional players seeking a warmer, fuller sound with more projection
• Features: All-metal gold-plated staple, twin rubber rings (no cork), brown thread binding
• Compatibility: Requires oboe socket 7mm or larger
• Made: Hand-finished in the UK by a professional oboist with BBC orchestral experience

Where it sits in the range

One of two professional-tier Winfield reeds. Compare to the Winfield Professional Brass Staple for a brighter, more focused alternative, or to our Crook & Staple Professional Oboe Reed for a different house style. Step down to the Winfield Standard or Winfield Continental for a more affordable everyday reed. Or browse our full oboe reed range.