Yes, that's right the companies merged but the reeds they make make apparently do not sound like the original Salpas.

My C-accordion build by Junior Martin is equipped with Antonelli reeds.
It was a Bb (Binci) and the reeds were changed to C(Antonelli) by a friend. He said that the Antonelli reeds were stronger than Binci, so it would take a longer time to play them in pieces.
I thought that Nout did something with the old Bb reeds.
At link#2 you can hear us play a song with that accordion. Link#3 brings you to the website from the manufacturer Voci Armoniche (Antonelli & Salpa)
I'm very satisfied with the sound of my C accordion.

What actually happens when a reed "breaks"? Does it get bent too much for repair or does the tongue actually break off?

The reed starts cracking side to side, usually toward the rivet end. A break is usually pre warned by a wonky sound from the reed. I have owned 54 accordeons. I have never broken a reed.

I have had 3 accordeons with Binci reeds and about 20 with Antonellis.

Here is another differentiation..
The majority of the Antonelli reeds found on boxes in the US are "tipo a mano" not "a mano"..
Castaganari, considered by many to be the best production box made, use "tip a mano" Antonellis as standard.. Bincis on request. Hand made Antonellis on request.

The majority of Binci reeds are true "a mano".. not "tipo a mano" so an apples to apples comparison is not usually a fair comparison.

Also reed sellers are prone to sell Antonelli "tipo a mano" at the same price as Binci "a mano"..
If you are buying Antonellis...ask if they are "tipo a mano" or "a mano".. pay a fair price.

I personally prefer Antonelli "tipo a mano" , however this is also a matter of the tuner who sets and tunes the reeds, and because I am used to them.

He has other you tube videos.

This is a CASTAGANARI in 12TET, not "just" (Cajun)tuning

Key of "D"

Seems to be very air efficient.

Small, tight, fast, loud, excellent/flawless workmanship, excellent resale, hard to get, worth the money and the wait.

Removeable reed blocks for ease of construction and service.