I think Vandoren V16 are made for metals - not sure though. I use Java 3.5s on a Dave Guardala Crescent Mouthpiece. If you're happy with the ZZ's then you should stay with them. I'd highly recommend going up to 3.5s though. They take more power and you need to get used to them, but the results in your tone and volume control are worth the wait. You will get frustrated and want to go back down to 3's, but just be patient. The more you play 3.5s the sooner the break in period disappears. You should give the Javas a try if you're a jazz man, I love them, some people hate them, I hate the ZZ's but some people love them. Go figure, it must be a personal thing. Hope this helps. Sean