Difference Between Different Chanter Reeds

[Steve Ashton]

I'm going to second the recommendation that you also post your question over on Bob Dunsire's bagpipe forum.
Over there they are as dedicated to pipes as X Marks is to kilts.

[EagleJCS]

I applaud your enthusiasm. I was there once myself. Before making a decision to purchase anything more, I would strongly suggest a couple of things:

1) start working with an instructor who should be able to offer suggestions based on personal experience with environmental conditions in your area (seasonal temperatures, humidity, etc. that affect wood instruments, moisture control requirements and how often you have to fuss with resetting reeds. Some reeds are pretty much 'set-it-and-forget-it' and others require almost daily adjustments if not hourly.);
2) listen to several different setups (maybe from individuals in a band) and figure out which sounds best to your ears.

All of the components of a set of pipes can affect how easy they are to play and the sound quality, starting with the bag and moisture control system (if there is one) down to the material and size of the bushings at the top of the drones.