Hey, Patrick… welcome.
You did not tell us which sax are you beginning with, but if it’s that on your pic, seems to be an alto -best choice for a beginner-
You’ll be good with #2 … perhaps you’ll find you “sound better” with #1.5 . Really you’ll find you need little effort to play with a softer reed, especially on lower notes (D# and below, those in which you use your pinkies). The problem is that your embouchure muscles will be “comfortable” and will not have the chance to get stronger.
So if #2 demands a bit of extra effort, stick with it. Moreover, reeds tend to soften with prolonged use. So the effect is both ways: muscles strengthen and reeds soften, you’ll notice you feel ok in a matter of weeks.
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