that reed 14 is subjected to varying dynamic forces along its vertical and horizontal aspects fig2 illustrates a reed 14 utilizing a spacer bar 56 at the ends 30 32 of top and bottom channel members 26 28 spacer bar 56 is generally held in the channels similar to dents 24 and provides a longitudinal extension to reed 14 in order to mount detectors or other devices the additional weight of such devices also adds to the varying dynamic forces on reed 14 reeds incorporating spacer bar 56 are particularly prone to failure generally at the location of the top channel member 26 and spacer bar 56 even though spacer bars 56 are typically made of metal the bars still prematurely fail which requires replacement of the entire reed 14 in order to support reeds 14 at the more critical location at the ends of top channels 26 a brace member 34 is incorporated into reed 14 one preferred embodiment of brace member 34 is illustrated in fig2 in this embodiment brace member 34 comprises a generally u shaped member having sides 38 40 and an end 42 the sides and end define a recess 36 corresponding essentially to the width and depth of top channel 26 so that brace member 34 slides tightly onto top channel member 26 brace 34 may include a top surface 54 as indicated in dashed lines in fig2 brace 34 is slid onto top channel member 26 and permanently adhered thereto by use of an epoxy or any other conventional adhering or attaching means sides 38 40 of brace member 34 have a longitudinal length so as to extend longitudinally beyond spacer bar 56 into the area of dents 24 end 42 is also adhered directly against end.