Rubber Vs Metal saxophone mouthpieces - how do you choose?

[@marquissteen170]

I started playing Sax when i was 11 and now will be 30 in December. A lot of these tips have helped me progress a tad further. Never to old are advanced to learn something new. (Or simply be reminded). Thanks brother! Subed!

[@chrisconlon7970]

Of course you are bound to give a good review if he's your brother

[@siddybhasin4014]

I am 11 too and I play alto hopefully I can play until 30 too!!

[@jethrothorne4801]

I’m a brass player who loves to pick up a saxophone and doodle around! Love your videos and your sound is AMAZING!!!!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool! Thanks Jethro. What is your setup?

[@sylvanousmatewe83]

I use a yanagisawa 7 metal mouthpiece and God knows how I love the sounds it produces

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That is a great mouthpiece. I played one for years on my alto and still use it on baritone.

[@Billybillybillyrocking]

I use a selmer c* on my alto. And love the clear dark sound i get and use it for funk and jazz a lot. During intermediate school and now years later. It allows me to change my mouth to change the sound. Great video. I want to switch to tenor as well in my 20s

[@bejhamen7631]

9:30 THE LICK

[@Flerb420]

Oh my gosh I was literally scrolling down to write this when I was watching the video Lmao. Our ears have been so trained to hear it everywhere now

[@tylerbhsax]

L I C C

[@richardjones990]

TW Durga-3 on a Reference Alto here. I'm still sorting it out, (ligature location) . Your video covers your journey with tenor, very insightful.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cheers Richard.

[@tenorman1971]

Otto Link Super Tone Master 7*. I've had it for years. I remember at a workshop with Don Rendell years ago he suggested attacking the ligature with a pair of pliers so that it supported the reed better. Having then not played for a very long time, I recently went back to it, and replaced the ligature with a BG jazz ligature, and it made a massive difference. If I want a really bright sound I can always put in a piece of bluetack to act as a baffle.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That's interesting.

[@SamChaneyProductions]

At 9:29 he plays the first 5 notes of The Lick. Adam Neely, did he get your permission? :)

[@herbiedefoe]

Playing on a selmer s90, I love it for marching, jazz, and concert band.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, that is a good solid mouthpiece David.

[@herbiedefoe]

Ty

[@thethesaxman23]

My main mouthpiece is a Guardala Studio and I absolutely love it!! I play primarily RnB and funk and the Guardala never lets me down. I remember when I was trying out new mouthpieces, I was sure I wanted an Otto Link, but I hated how it played. When I first played the Guardala, I suddenly felt an insane amount of resonance. I’ve been playing it almost exclusively ever since

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for sharing Cameron. I remember my first experience on a Guardala too - also a “Studio”. I couldn’t believe it - played mine for many years ( and thousands of gigs!).

[@calvinhunter70]

Very informative as always and spot on comments. The mouthpiece (set up) journey can be a long one, use what works - what sounds good and feels good to you - that's how to get results isn't it. For me, my go to tenor piece is a wonderful old Florida Link USA stamp (don't make em like that anymore) and for alto, the new D'Addario Select Jazz, a very good quality piece (very vintage Meyer like) for the $$$.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Calvin Hunter Those are both nice pieces Calvin. Those old Florida Links are great. Thanks for your comments.

[@blairsuprenant4848]

Berg Larson 110/2 deep rich sound and projection when needed. I've used it for over 35 years. Works beautifully on my Big B, New Wonder Artist and even my original HS sax. True, on if you find a versital mouthpiece you love, cherish it and take care of it. I use an Otto Link 5 on my Big B, and Super 400 Altos, a Yamaha 4C on my True Tone Sop. Brilhardt 5 stainless on my "The Martin" and Big B bari's.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for sharing - you’ve got a great collection of horns / mouthpieces there!

[@richardcasey7521]

You no doubt will disagree with me but that’s ok. But here’s what I,would like to share resulting from years of mouthpiece redesign and customization.Hard rubber versus metal? Well, the material makes little or no difference. What does make a difference are the following mouthpiece design criteria: Chamber size, baffle or no baffle, and if there is a baffle, then the shape, height and length of the baffle and where it begins relative to the tip rail. Add to that, the tip opening, tip rail width and radius and finally the facing length. The beak angle will affect how comfortable the mouthpiece feels relative to one’s jaw position as well. I’ve spent most of my development time on tenor mouthpieces since that’s what I play professionally. I’m currently still doing Sax repairs at home but spent about seven years as a tech in a big music store hence I’ve played hundreds of saxes and mouthpieces. That experience was valuable to me as a repair tech, mouthpiece guy and player. I’m also affiliated with a shop that has a huge collection of tenor mouthpieces and I’ve played all the good ones. This is naturally my humble opinion, however it is the result of a lot of time experimenting with mouthpieces, necks and horns. The ‘neck thing’ is another interesting area that is too complicated to even discuss. All I’ll say is that it took 5 years to finally find the right neck for my 55 year old Selmer sand the difference it made was dramatic.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Richard. Thanks for your comments here. There is definitely scope for much more conversation on my channel about mouthpiece design. It's something that beginner and intermediate players always get confused by (not surprisingly, because it's pretty complicated as you mentioned!). I really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

[@rameshrao3792]

@@McGillMusicSaxSchool No confusion if you appreciate the science behind it ie converting the 2d vibrations into 3d standing waves, interestingly you have aerodynamics, acoustics and physics coming in ... good stuff

[@musicianmattmattox]

I play a JodyJazz DVNY size 6. I played a hard rubber Meyer before and the switch was great. The DVNY is still dark but it has that metal ring. I do wish it had a little more projection tho. Been playing on the DVNY for about a year now.

[@LFC-Star]

I'm playing a Jody Jazz HR 5* I recently bought a YANAGISAWA Professional Tenor 7 mouthpiece.

[@timw5189]

I switched from a vandoren A45 to a dukkof 8* super chamber on my alto, at first I wasn’t use to it and didn’t like it much but over the course of a month I got more use to it and absolutely love it

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Tim W Cool Tim, the Dufoff is an awesome mouthpiece. Worked for David Sanborn!

[@Jamezward]

I’m using a Geoff Lawton 6b*

[@weiareinboud1273]

I started with a standard Selmer C* on a Mark VII tenor. Later I had a Mark VI of 1971. I tried tons of mouth pieces in the shop, without buying one. Than I bought a metal Guy Hawkins but hardly used it in practice. Several sets of hours of testing in the shop I moved only from C* to D, and stayed very content.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brilliant! Sounds like you’ve found the right mouthpiece for you.

[@victoryokonkwo4140]

Good day sir, please make a video on how to make use of the octave key on the sax

[@cchino_Sax]

i use the otto link and i love it

[@HowardSaxMan52]

Hi NIGEL, I have tried quite a few metal/ rubber over the years,but back to my second choice Berg Larsen 100/2 for Tenor and 95/2 for Alto soul rock n roll magic love it. HAPPY DAYS .Regards Howard .

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Howard Daley Cool Howard, the Berg Larsen pieces are great too. My first ever Metal mouthpiece on alto was one.

[@davidscott1052]

I use an old 1960's link metal mouthpiece 7* (tenor) with vandoran java 3 reed. I use it for every situation does a great job..its more to do with the player than the kit.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, that’s a great classic mouthpiece David. Thanks for sharing.

[@LionelAlbert]

I've played an Otto Link STM 8* on the alto since September 1996, I had tried a Vandoren v16 A7M, good mouthpiece. On tenor I play only one mouthpiece, a metal one Brancher J29, in terms of sound, maybe between an Otto Link STM and a Berg.

[@MrChuck365]

I use a Selmer C* on both alto and tenor. I like to blend with a group, and I like the sound in solo play.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool Chuck - the C* was my go-to mouthpiece on alto for all my classical work back in the day. It's a great mouthpiece. I prefer the D on Tenor though.

[@macmegmatt5]

One of my mouthpieces I played on my tenor was a Claude Lakey 6*3.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Those Lakey pieces have a great sound John. I had one years ago on my alto but couldn't make it work for me. I've heard other players sound amazing on them though.

[@grantkoeller8911]

They have a massive wedge, and that makes them both bright but at the same time thin sounding. I had a friend who said they were DUCKY sounding .

[@vincentgaglio5106]

I also have the Durga 3 in HR that I play a lot , love that one too.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Awesome Vinny.

[@christurner1180]

I am a tenor sax player in a medium sized band and is looking for a good mouthpiece. Our next concert I have a big jazzy solo and I need a good open mouthpiece but has a good buzz.

[@pmwizard48]

I have used the Otto link #8. Love the control in the lower register with this mouthpiece .

[@SkinnyJimQuiff]

Hi.Please tell me there is a mouthpiece similar to the sound of Bob Dukoff 8d*?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

There are a bunch of brighter mouthpieces like the Dukoff. You could check out the Jody Jazz Jet. Here's my review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJWwk4qDe9-siZosi=MD7z1UH20Uw0t41_&t=679

[@colinteahen2218]

T95 goes good with my 10M. The Link makes my old Dorffler & Jorka really purr although the "C#" key needs to be used to get a good middle "D" though. A metal MPC marked Steve Goodson - 7 works best with this old sax. The Selmer "D" seems to fairly useless. Great Video - really helpful

[@martintodd370]

Thanks Nigel, very interesting. Have gone through a few Tenor pieces myself over the years. Started out on an Ebonite 6* Link which was OK but I needed something wider for more power. Next up was a Berg Larsen 115/1 SMS - stainless steel with a medium baffle. Played this for years. It was quite versatile. Then I got in a big Soul band with a large horn section. Found a brighter more cutting sound on a Brancher L29 Ebonite with a high baffle and voicing. It is also very comfortable in the mouth which I think is important and is an aspect often overlooked. Nowadays, I sometimes alternate it with a 7* NY metal Link for quieter situations. Alto, I use a Yanagisawa 7 Silver plated Bronze.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Martin Todd Cheers Martin, that’s a great selection of pieces you have been through. I’m testing out some Brancher pieces in the next couple of weeks - looking forward to trying them.

[@sukstr]

Comment from a fellow sax player some years back when I turned up with my Jumbo Java - "it's like driving a Ferrari with no tyres ". Having now switched to a Theo Wanne, I know what he meant.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That's a great analogy Steve!

[@williamanddeborahblount7758]

Cool

[@Sullystein]

Need to tell us what size reeds you use for each. Thanks.

[@grantkoeller8911]

My Otto Link Tone Edge 8 tenor Hard Rubber mouthpiece can do it all. It's a slant signature 8 tone edge. I have played 45 years, the last 23 years with the USAF Bands. I went though the same mouthpiece journey. For years, I played metal link super tone masters 7*'s and 8's, but now the rubber link can do it all, rock gigs, jazz gigs, shows, weddings gigs, jam sessions, classical tenor, 1950's rock and roll, and 1960's soul ( Mustang Sally) James Brown I Feel Good gigs...

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Interesting to hear that Grant. I agree, they are really versatile. There aren’t many mouthpieces that will work on a classical gig AND a 50s rock and roll gig!

[@anonymousguy7723]

My first mouthpiece was the Otto link in 7*..Since then I’ve been blessed to be able to afford a Theo Wanne Gaia 2 Tenor mouthpiece in 7*. The difference is night and day. You either have a Theo Wanne mouthpiece, or you wish you had one. It’s precision machined and all mouthpieces are numbered. I recently purchased the Theo Wanne Durga 3 for soprano saxophone. But today I finally got a Selmer S80 rubber classical music tenor mouthpiece in C* by returning the Otto Link to the store. It makes no sense to keep a mouthpiece that you don’t use or like...

[@AGC828]

Like this video. Honest. A video novices should watch buying maybe their first or 2nd mouthpiece. I think it has to do with where we're playing (as mentioned). If you're playing in a studio or alone then a dark sounding mouthpiece would be the one. Playing live? Need projection to cut through some loud instruments? Get a "bright sounding" focused mouthpiece that projects. If we don'n't plan to ever play in a group or live...I'd stick with dark sounding mouthpieces or mouthpieces that are more "all around" like the Jody Jazz DV. No point in getting a TW Durga for studio work or playing alone at home. Geometry of the internals. Same holds true for the sax itself. People should all know this. And not buy into the marketing of the type of metal or plating. Jay from Better Sax did a comparison video. $300 sax vs his $4500 sax. The sounds he got from the two...not that different. :) You'd assume the $300 sax would be painful to listen to and start falling apart on first play. He did use a quality mouthpiece at one point. But I think at first he used the included one...still good good sound. :) It's about the player. His or her ablity to move air.

[@DynamixWarePro]

I have tried a range of mouthpieces on my alto and only use 2 on my soprano a Vandoren Optimum AL3 and a E. Rousseau Studio Jazz 6 and I quite like its warm, projecting core sound that the Studio Jazz has when pushed as it never really looses that core sound. On my alto I have tried many mouthpieces. I play with Legere reeds and I found that some mouthpieces worked well with them and some didn't and sounded too buzzy with them. I started on a Yamaha 4C, then thought that around 5-6 months in I'd get a Meyer 6. Too open for me to play on then, so I then got a JodyJazz HR* 7M. Again way too open for me at the time. After returning it, I got the HR* 6M and also a Selmer S80 C***. The C*** worked well for me and my playing really progressed with it. The HR* gave me a versatile sound I was after for other styles like Jazz and funk playing. Since then I tried a Vandoren Optimum AL5 which I liked as it has a smoother sound over the S80, but lacked the projection and felt a little too warm sounding for me. A Vandoren V16 5M, and while I like it and it is easy to play, it doesn't quite have the sound I am after and didn't work well with my Legere reeds. I sold my JodyJazz HR* and instead bought two new ones in different sizes a C* and 5M and like them a lot more as they are at a tip sizes I can control. I was still looking for a mouthpiece that would be my main one that would give me a smooth, warm sound with good projection and worked with Legere reeds. I tried a custom SYOS to see if that would work. I wanted something similar to my S80 and I asked if they could make it with the similar thicker tip it has. I liked how it was really easy to play, stayed in tune easily and had a big sound. However because of the medium chamber, thin tip (which I didn't ask for) and side rails, it played too much like my JodyJazz HR* but without the complexity in the sound and it had a fuzz in it I didn't like which is caused by the table not being smooth. More recently I got a Selmer Soloist E as I am more now into classical playing but wanted more projection and a smoother sound than my S80 has. I do find I like the smooth sound, but it feels a bit too resistant for me, especially in the low notes. I would have went back to playing on the S80 but I accidentally scratched up the table of it with my Francoius Louis ligature plate and I don't overly like the sound, so instead I have ordered a E. Rousseau 4R and I am hoping it gives me a smoother sound for classical playing that I am after, but some projection when I want it.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for sharing Dave - that’s quite a mouthpiece journey! I’m actually testing some SYOS mouthpieces too for an upcoming 3D printed mouthpiece video.

[@tobitest1]

Hi Nigel, wow a great viedeo. Can you please tell me how you would place the Theo Wanne Shiva you reviewed in place between the Guardala and the Durga?

[@timedriverable]

Im a 72 year old flute player....and heard that if you've developed a good embouchure, that entering the world of saxophones would give you some advantages in the beginning stages so to speak. Is this true?

[@nope33]

I believe so. The embouchure of a flute is intense enough that playing a saxophone would be similar just with a little more opening.

[@lydia129]

Yup! I'm a flautist, and started sax 2 years ago, and have progressed so fast on sax that it's now my first study despite having years more experience on flute - it really helped in tone and air speed playing flute first

[@PrinceSwaggy]

Way different got to keep the corners firm instead of having a loss embouchure and alot less air

[@josephstratemeier8619]

I play a jodyjazz dv on alto and tenor now. They are kinda like the durga in that they are very utilitarian, especially on tenor. But I have to play on like strength 4 reeds cause the table cutout and the thin rails make it super free-flowing. Once you get a good reed on it then it sounds great.

[@scottquickel8010]

He's right about playing a mouthpiece for more that just a week or so. I play metal pieces, and I got a new rubber piece and it sounded like I had a sock stuck in my bell; I was ready to return it - VERY dissapointed...but 3 weeks later - wow, I could go into the recording studio with my new sound! Now, only one problem - need to practice more standards.)

[@esfahan1961]

Hi Nigel, loved your video. I alternate between a Selmer Soloist D with a D’Addario Select Jazz 3M reed, a Meyer 6M with a D’Addario Select Jazz 3H and a Theo Wanne GAIA2 #7 with VanDoren V21 3. Long put my Selmer C80 5* away. Love passing from one to the other every other day but haven’t moved playing a metal mouthpiece yet. If I do the Durga 3 #7 or 8 would also find my favor.

[@papik1965]

Thanks Nigel, good information! After a year of of learning I found it interesting when my teacher mentioned re mouthpieces. Sax I rented, which I now own, came with mouthpiece that apparently is not the normal student mouthpiece, in fact it's not clear what the hell it is! But I guess that's what I been playing with. I was astounded though, when I realized the different shapes, sizes, materials that go into them. Not to mention the prices!! Oh well, for the minute I'll keep plodding along with what I've got! The journey!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cheers Keith, mouthpieces can be a bit like a rabbit hole once you start exploring!

[@papik1965]

Yep I reckon so. And going back to your 5 fundamental tips, figure I'll just stick with what I've got and work with that.

[@jerridedgington]

Can you use cane reeds with a metal mouthpiece?

[@Stubummer]

I play all the saxes except bass and Eb sopranino, and flute and I'm always looking for the next set up which will make my sound and playing work. On tenor I'm currently using a Theo Wanne Rubber Datta 8 with a Silverstein lig and a 2.5 Fibercell reed. I also like Vandoren Java reeds currently. The search never ends...well it will eventually. Thanks for a great lesson, very helpful.

[@ajgor64]

So if there is no matter of the mateiral, so what are the real advantages of metal mouthpieces over the hard rubber ones, or vice versa?

[@richardcasey7521]

Love how you play. That’s quite a expensive collection of mouthpieces you have there!

[@jimrakestraw8917]

So you answered 90% percent of the mouth piece questions I have had about mouth pieces!!!!! You are amazing.... Last big question though, Ive been trying to escape that selmer c* super dark classical sound for most of my saxophone playing life. And so by your video I need something with a baffle. On the durga 2 you used a legere 2 1/2. What did you use on the selmer. Trying to figure out how much stiffer or softer a reed you need for something with a baffle.

[@thomaskipfer1008]

Such a great demo... Thanks! For years I've used Berg stainless only. Lately I've found limitations and switched to Berg hard rubber. I'd love your demo using Berg Larson mpc's. T. Kipfer

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Thomas, that would be interesting. I don't have any of the Berg Larson pieces anymore but the first metal mouthpiece I ever played on alto was a Larsen metal. Lot of people love them.

[@blueeyedsoulman]

I have an Otto Link NY 7* and a STM 8. Would you believe the NY is way brighter? Go figure. I have found baffles and chamber sizes mean very little and each MP sounds different.

[@SammyNeverEver]

Rico Jazz :D. Make sure to have it tuned because they might come with kinks on the facing

[@gerrysmith9794]

AS ever Nigel really useful vid. I have been playing a 7* Metal Ambika for just under 2 years and its great, recently though I bought a Yani TW010 from an old friend and he threw in an Andy Sheppard Autograh 7* metal piece which I don't much like, but also he threw in an Aizen HR LS jazz master 7* which I had never even heard of, I have been playing it for a couple of weeks now and am growing to like it. Its pretty much a Japanese copy of the original slant sig and I have to say its pretty good, currently using a Vandoren optimum lig 'something else he threw in with the sax" Jurys still out but its got a lot going for it.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Gerald Smith Cheers Gerry, It’s great to try a bunch of different pieces for some perspective on what you like. Sounds like you’ve got plenty to try there.

[@abedinsubashi]

My classical setup is a Meyer 6L and my Jazz is a Yibuy 8

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for letting me know Abedin. I haven’t heard of a Yibuy?

[@abedinsubashi]

McGill Music Sax School it’s a metal Chinese mouthpiece I bought on amazon for 30 usd. I figured saying the name of the company might make it sound sophisticated😂😂

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey if it works for you then that’s awesome! (And a bargain!)

[@abedinsubashi]

McGill Music Sax School it seriously is a bargain! My altissimo has improved greatly and now I’m able to do a 4 octave Bb (concert Ab) Scale

[@anthonydiecidue7916]

I’ve been playing a Jody Jazz HR 5* on Alto for years and I’m currently buying a Tenor for the first time and need to know what mouthpiece to get on that, should I go for a Hard Rubber or a metal mouthpiece on Tenor? I’m more focused on getting that open jazzy sound instead of a dark classical sound which I feel my alto has. I primarily work in a studio and with studio recording.

[@ronsindric4241]

I am a THEREMIN player who just bought a digi-sax. Can I use a standard mouth piece and reed on my Roland AEROPHONE AE-01 mini. Thank you.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi Ron, the Aerophone has it’s own mouthpiece which has a reed. Have fun with it.

[@grantkoeller8911]

You never played the Otto Link Super Tone Master 8, which I play, its bell brass metal and I also play the hard rubber Otto Link Tone Edge 8.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Grant, you’re right -sorry about that!

[@mikespadafora9077]

As a 51 year old I have tried mybshrebof mouthpieces. My bread and butter is my Meyer 5 on alto. I can adapt to any type of sound that I need. Practicing overtones is more important and time better spent than trying out mouthpieces.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

I agree with you there Mike - for me, overtones is one of the best ways I can improve my sound.

[@grantkoeller8911]

Totally agree, the hard rubber Meyer 5mm, 6MM, or 7MM has the overall tone feel and response of Cannonball Adderley and Phil Woods....

[@tommyt7566]

Oh yeah - my collection very closely resembles yours - my return to HR Mpcs is the same - an Ambika HR is spot on nowadays.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Tommy Thompson Really interesting to hear that Tommy. Thanks for checking out my video.

[@Matrix-nl4it]

do metal mouthpeices last longer. ive spent a lot of money, and i mean thousands of dollars, buying the same mouthpeice over and over again becsue i droped and it chipped. could this be fixed wit ha metal mp, ik it would still bend but that can be fixed right?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great question. If you bend your metal mouthpiece it’s very unlikely that you can repair it. They are also quite fragile. Best plan is to not drop your mouthpiece on a hard surface if poss.

[@bluessax5089]

I've been playing jody jazz hr 8 for years. i switched to the giant then the jumbo java! Man, that Jumbo Java is freakin' amazing!!! i just did a transcription of two dueling rock guitarists and was able to actually capture lots of it using that vandoren piece.

[@vincentgaglio5106]

I love the Metal Durga 3 from the start. Love it because it is bright but I don't find it overly bright, but it does have a lot of projection and I have not yet pushed it but I know it is up for the challenge if I want to learn to play rock, vinny

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, the Durga is a good one for rock!

[@olafsrensen9578]

Hej.You have a beautiful tone on any of the mothpieces. Now I"m playing Berg Larsen metal 95 tenor with a 3 legere reed (syntetic). I played Otto Link metal 7 before but I strugeled with air comming out a litle to the sides. Beeing not so brought the Berg Larsen mouthpiece cured the problem, so it fit"s better to my mouth. O)laf Copenhagen Denmark

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, glad the Berg works for you better Olaf. Interestingly years ago I struggled to find an Otto Link in Australia that didn’t leak. I love the sound of them but you do need to check the accuracy of the mouthpiece face.

[@generalh1042]

Would it be a good idea to use different mouthpieces for jazz and classical playing? Or should I try to find one that will work for both?

[@isaiahd9947]

Pretty late response but yeah having separate mouthpieces is typically how people go. Some mouthpieces do strike a middle ground like meyers can kind of play classical along with jazz

[@kingkong69996]

Hi great video thank you . I play tenor in a big band we play lots of stuff from military marches to west end musicalcompilations my question is I’m torn between Otto link 7* or a Meyer 6 what do you think 😕

[@Derek_whipple]

At you going hard rubber or metal?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+KEVIN BOWEN Hi kevin, I think either would be a good choice. You don’t want anything too bright for that sort of playing IMO

[@perioax6506]

I know you play tenor and alto sax mainly but can you do mouthpieces in Bari. I switched from clarinet to bari sax and looking for a jazz or funk mouth

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great suggestion. I play on a Yanagisawa metal mouthpiece on Bari - it’s a great combo of control and tone.

[@ystak]

It is my first year in band and I'm over here like wtf😂

[@thatonekid4857]

Based on how much time is passed I’d say you’re on your second year now

[@aidanpark7705]

DerpyOrange wow good job doing1+1

[@tylerbhsax]

Quikk maths

[@DadrcNw]

Hey Nigel I habe a question, I Play a Bari sax and I want to play like one of my biggest idols who is Leo p he plays in too many zooz and I’m not sure which mouthpiece he’s using. And one more thing can u show us how to properly squeal with a sax

[@JoelTucker]

I bought a Tonemaster, sight unseen, thinking it would be bright. Wrong. It was my darkest sound ever. The brightest and loudest I’ve played were cheep plastic student mouthpieces. These days, I play vintage Conn alto (a 4-digit “Shooting Stars”). I now like a darker sound. I use a Conn Steelay Standard. The Conn Eagle is a bit brighter, and the Conn Precision (plastic) is very bright and loud.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool. That’s a common mistake I think - a lot of people expect the Tonemaster to be bright. Sounds like a nice setup you have there.

[@ian_s7481]

I'm playing Theo Wanne all the time now and since sorting the problem with the Legere reeds I'm using them too. The Legere reeds seem to give a bit more buzz and seem more alive, as you said you don't have to spend your life being a joiner with the cane.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

The convenience of the Legere is brilliant. One less thing to distract me from practice!

[@saxxmaxx]

Hi Nigel! I use a Beechler. Thanks for this video.

[@edwardsantiago1412]

What brand mouth piece and metal or plastic for romance only on the alto SAX????

[@timtuthill4915]

Nigel: I have been using the Ottolink New York. No baffle, wide open as you know. I was in a skype session with Johnny Ferreria and he told me, that's it. Great tone and sound from you. OK, I'm old, 74. Only been playing 6 years with way too many breaks from practice. I have fun with this! He told me, to play louder. My wife, says, what? Your too loud now OMG! I don't know if I can play louder? I'll see? That's alot of money lined up there! HA Thanks for your info. Tim

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Tim Tuthill Hi Tim, thanks for checking out my video. Great to hear you are enjoying your Link. If Johnny says you sound great, that’s a good endorsement! Keep at it mate!

[@rogersalles200]

Nigel, great video M8.. I went through the same thing with mouthpieces over the years and you are so right about making the mouthpiece work for you- I currently play RPC 115b and absolutely love it, I can play jazz, funk, Pop,Bossa with it and I'm super happy with it, have you tried one? Cheers

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Roger. Thanks for your comments. Actually I've never tried a RPC but heard great things.

[@darylnd]

Thanks, Nigel! Have you any thoughts on a mouthpiece for baritone sax, specifically a Selmer S80? Do you think the Durga an equally good choice there? My daughter will be playing an S80 in a high school jazz band this year. She was 2nd alto in her elementary school district's jazz band for 3 years, but she's twice now been seated on baritone in other all-star bands on the strength of her alto auditions, so I'm starting to think she's more naturally a baritone player. She played baritone last year in an area-wide middle school jazz band, with a Selmer VI and whatever rubber mouthpiece came with it. She uses Rico #3, Rigotti Gold #3.5, and now, since I found your video, Legere #2.5, on baritone. On alto, she's using an Otto Link 6* and Rigotti Gold #3.5. BTW, her twin sister's a trombonist, so the household gets interesting at practice time.

[@christopherburton4309]

Daryl Davis My name is Chris Burton, I've been playing baritone sax for 8 years now in concert and big band settings. I play a Yamaha ybs-52. I recommend the vandoren B35 mouthpiece. It is great for concert band settings with good response and resonance throughout the sax range. It blends well with a band. Not really meant for solo stuff. Good hunting!

[@nvendo]

Brother since 3 years I am playing saxophone, so many things I'am learning from you ,, please suggest me witch mouthpiece I have to buy .. ...in metal in hard rubber . I want to buy both....🙏🙏

[@juanitoperez3754]

For me .. the best mouthpiece...is my mouthpiece....the rest....is only the obsession to find the happiness at another place....

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great comment!

[@stevekeller4814]

I play a Link clone, the Phil-Tone Tribute, which is a cooperative venture between Phil Emgleman and Theo Wanne. (Phil is moving to France so they should be available in the EU pretty soon.) Before I bought that, I played a stock Link, the New Vintage model. With a GOOD Link, it’s possible to get a pretty bright sound - maybe not enough for a full on funk gig, but most any middle of the road show. But finding a good one is not easy. The mouthpiece you’re playing is also a Link clone, though of the hard rubber model. Nice video!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cheers Steve, thanks for your comments. I remember when I got that Link mouthpiece, I had a lot of trouble finding one that worked properly. I was living in Australia then - perhaps we just got a bad batch! I'll have to keep an eye out for the Phil-Tone.

[@stevekeller4814]

Links are notorious for being very inconsistent. Put it another way, I believe that about 10 % of them are any good. BTW, I misspoke, it’s a Link NY model that I have.

[@SlabHardcheese]

Nice video. It's good to hear the history of your MPC collection. It's definitely a journey through time. I played for almost 20 years solely on a 8* claude lakey and my Yamaha YTS-61 tenor, bought new in 1977. Eventually I switched to an original series Durga 9. That was awesome for almost a decade then it started getting a little reed finicky. Not sure what is going on... maybe it needs the rails smoothed up or something. Or I bent the lig? But I started experimenting and played a 10mfan The Boss for a year. It was loud and decent tone but it also had a tendency to chirp (tested on multiple tenors, with several brands of reeds over half a year). I'm pretty sure the one I got needed a slight reface. So I looked around some more. I have a JJ HR piece that works for mellow jazz stuff. Similar to another HR piece by Phil Barone that plays very nice, just a bit soft. I have an HR Gaia 6 on my soprano. (BTW, I bought a Phil Barone Vintage tenor sax with honey gold lacquer to go with my PB Baritone and haven't played anything so nice since I sold my Selmer Mark 6 alto years ago. We are blessed these days. I play Berg 110/0 on Bari.) Anyway, so I tried other Jody Jazz pieces. To me the DV tone was unappealing and I just couldn't get into the response of the DV CHI (which I still own). Then I bought a Theo Wanne Shiva 8 (blue ART materials) and that thing is just super amazing. It plays like the best of them, superb intonation, is reed friendly, and can be really loud when pushed! Almost too loud for our enclosed rehearsal space even with amplified instruments. Still, it can sound pretty sweet too if you don't push it. I have to admit it's been kind of nice being able to cut through when I want. It helps even though I am amplified. After half a year with the Shiva it's a keeper for sure. And finally, I recently bought Theo's Slant Sig 2 size 8. And I have to agree with you, that is one sweet all around MPC. I love it so much! Currently I'm trying to play it in our amplified rock/funk/RnB band instead of the Shiva as an experiment. I've had a couple rehearsals so far. Although I miss being able to just cut through on solos, if I just depend more on my amplification with the slant sig I have such a rich full tone -- just bright enough to work. I definitely blend better with the band when I need to blend. Not sure which one I will settle on in the band but I much prefer to practice and record with the slant sig for the tone and more reasonable volume, but both play beautifully. At this point I wish Theo had an HR Durga 3 for tenor, but really I can't complain as I feel lucky and love both of those Theo MPCs. They just play so well for me. Maybe I'll get my Durga 1 fixed up again too, but if Theo comes out with a HD Durga for tenor I'll probably get it and sell the old one ;). Thanks for the great sax vids.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for sharing this - great to see your journey on mouthpieces - lots of similarities there. I agree that the Slant Sig is a brilliant all-rounder. I think these days I definitely prefer to have a mouthpiece that I like to play in all settings, but rely on the amplification if I need it on a loud gig, rather than playing on something too loud and bright, that I struggle with in an intimate setting, or in my studio. My next challenge is upgrading my soprano mouthpiece and I’d like to check out the Gaia myself for that.

[@SlabHardcheese]

The gaia seems quite nice for soprano. It has sweet tone and great playability.

[@ttttuuuucccc]

I think your Vandoren T95 is a regular Java and not a Jumbo Java. At least it appears that way looking at a freeze-frame at around 1:07. The Jumbo Java has a step baffle and the regular Java does not. (I bought a blue regular Java T55 back in the 1980s and it's slightly too open for me, so I doubt I could get much out of a T95, but I thought you sounded great on it. Just recently I've been trying a Jumbo Java T45.)

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cheers, you might be right. I haven’t played that mouthpiece much in years.

[@SteelFrenchFries]

Hey! Currently i'm playing on a Vandoren TL3, and i'm looking for a new mouthpiece. I've been considering the Otto Link for awhile, but i'm not sure exactly what to buy. I'd prefer not to go over $250 (but can), and I don't want a sound that will stick out of the section. It would also be nice to have a pretty responsive mouthpiece, as I feel like my current one doesn't succeed at. I'll be playing in a Jazz and concert band. Thanks!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

There are loads of options on the market. My best suggestion is to get to a shop where you can try a bunch of different mouthpieces to find what works for you. The Link is a good choice, but there lots of other brilliant options to consider too.

[@benclaps]

Hey, so I play alto. I am wondering what strength reeds I would need for jazz mouthpieces. I tried a 3 and it’s hard to get certain notes out. Should I try a 3.5?

[@jensen2856]

I've been using a tenor mouthpiece on my Alto, not sure what the size is, but it sounds great. Mine is 3D printed (PLA plastic) so I'm not sure if it would sound the same or better wooden, I recommend you try it though.

[@ardesh007]

I’m 53 and and starting to play the saxophone again. If it makes you happy do it.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brilliant! Go for it.

[@radosam8415]

Hi I'm going to be starting university in the fall with a sax major, I was hoping to switch to a metal mouthpiece for my tenor setup. I currently use an E Rousseau studio jazz MPC. I was wondering what your opinion was on the Otto link new vintage. I played one a few months back when I owned a cannonball tenor and loved it. But now I own a p mauriat 66R and was wondering if the new vintages were consistent with their quality (I've had bad Otto link mpc for my alto) any help would be appreciated.

[@oscarkoenders3107]

very helpful video. Thanks! Questions what is the difference in different sizes. I see you play an 8. I think mine has a 7. What difference does that make?

[@lafayettegunter292]

is the alto Otto link metal mouthpiece a piece? I been playing metal pieces mostly on tenor and soprano but I haven't tried metal pieces on baritone and Alto yet but I'm really interested in Otto Link metal mouthpieces🤔

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

HI Lafayette, I've never tried a metal Link on alto, but like the sound on tenor. They are a popular mouthpiece.

[@vodvandorin9454]

Great video thanks but left me totally confused. What do you think of a Vandorin v16 medium

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s a great mouthpiece. You just need to see if it makes the sound you like.

[@KeithTaylorPhoto]

Bummer that of all those you laid out, you didn't play or give input on the V16 with the Versa ligature. I started with a T75 Jumbo Java too due to it giving me the bright metal mouthpiece sound, but then realized it was too shrill / bright for playing ballads, which has been my primary focus. So my instructor recommended I get an ebonite Vandoren V16 T7, which I've loved due to being able to play more evenly on it, and it not being as shrill in the higher register. And most recently, a local music shop had a used Vandoren T75 Java that I played and immediately really liked due to it being kind of like the T75 Jumbo Java and V16 T7 having a child - giving good characteristics of each to it. Some of the metal mouthpiece like edge of the Jumbo Java, with some of the warmth a playability of the V16. They offered me a good enough price on it that I took it off their hands. So now, the V16 is still my primary mouthpiece due to feeling more comfortable with it right now, but I also really like the T75 Java. So I pick one or the other based on what the songs I'm playing. Started to sell the Jumbo Java, but thought that maybe one day I'll be able to control its shrillness better and want to play it again. This is me trying my best to get a Dexter Gordon / Audry Graves / Scott Hamilton sound out of my V16 - and - as you can hear - I've got a lot of practicing to do still: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3vGXomubbN1jbs But, the guy at the piano in that video is a great example of it being more about the person than the mouthpiece. Here's a link to one of his (Mace Hibbard) songs (Hear Me Now) that he recorded with Derek Trucks on guitar that he played on a ebonite T9 V16. To my ears, it doesn't get much - or any - better in regards to tone: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3aUhmyXYsmAhNk

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

+Keith Taylor Cheers Keith, I’ll check those links out. Sorry, ran out of time to cover all the pieces, but the V16 (T8) is a lovely piece. I played it for ages actually before moving to my current HR Slant Sig by Theo Wanne. The T8 is a great compromise and works brilliantly for intimate settings, I even played hundreds of 50’s Rock n Roll type gigs on it - you can get a lovely warm 50s growl if you push it.

[@KeithTaylorPhoto]

McGill Music Sax School So, by saying pushing it to get a growl, do you mean putting more air through it to get a growling type sound, without having to hum or grunt while doing so. Just blowing hard? Maybe that's what I've heard called overblowing a mouthpiece? Never tried it on purpose, but as I remember, when I've put too much air in one on accident, it didn't result in a pleasant sound. I'll try it today with my T7 V16.

[@DERDM]

Is it worth putting an upgraded mouthpiece on a student saxophone? I have a JE Olds alto saxophone and was thinking of getting a Vandoren Jumbo Java A45, Optimum ligature, and Vandoren V16 #3.5 reeds.

[@henrymarocchi7844]

Absolutely I would however recommend getting a selmer s-80 or soloist instead of the vandoren

[@whereisevan]

Btw, did you do a summer clinic with John Mastroianni in Stamford, CT USA back in 1992 or 1993?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi Evan. No, that wasn’t me.

[@Eastsussexbiker]

The one thing that bugs me as a beginner is that a different mouthpiece might suit me better but and help my sound.

[@grantkoeller8911]

For Alto, getting a Meyer 6MM will help yours or anyones sound!!! It's the real deal!!!!!

[@keithdixon1855]

HI Nigel I am torn between two instruments bass guitar and sax can i learn to play of them the same time?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Keith, sure I don't see why not, but it will mean you'll need to practice both! Depends how much time you have.

[@funkylung4395]

I'm 16 and I play on an Otto link 7* super tone master (metal) and I'm using la voz reeds at the moment at a medium strength. Should I be using a different Reed as the la voz is considered quite a basic Reed? I like to play jazz mostly but I need the versatility - is it worth going for a jazz red like the daddario jazz select and using my selmer S80 d for classical playing (and use for example a vandoren 3.5 on that mouthpiece)? If anyone can help it would be appreciated because I'm not sure if these la voz reeds are really going to be a good choice in the future

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi. There's nothing wrong with LaVoz reeds, it really comes down to if you like the sound you're getting with them or not. Your Link is generally regarded as a better "jazz" mouthpiece so if that's what you like to play, just find a reed that suits you and go for it.

[@omega9594]

Hey Nigel, I play Tenor and would like to know if the Otto Link would be a good mouthpiece for me on stuff like Jazz and Symphonic Band. My Master Class tutor recommended that I used one since he also used it as well and he let me try it (clean of course). I liked the way it played, however Im not sure it will do what I want to later on once I get more music. Any tips?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi, the Link is a good all-rounder mouthpiece. It's not too bright but will give you a bigger sound than a hard rubber mouthpiece. Also, the Link does work well in a saxophone section so it's a good choice for Symphonic Band playing (depending on your conductor of course!). I play on the theo wanne Slant Sig which would be my choice for that kind of playing,

[@Swaggussnaregopingpinghaha]

I'm enjoying my Theo Wanne Gaia

[@pmwizard48]

Have you tried the new guardola synthetic mouthpiece? I have only heard it on KZbin.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

I haven’t tried one of those yet. Sounds interesting though.

[@andrewli4484]

Hey Nigel, I had a general question about transitioning to hard rubber/metal mouthpieces. I'm currently on a Selmer C* plastic mouthpiece (on a Yamaha Custom Z alto) since I started playing classical sax, but now I'm looking to transition to jazz. I feel like on the Selmer C* I've got an okay jazz sound, but it lacks projection or edge. Would transitioning to a hard rubber/metal mouthpiece give me greater projection, and would it even help with altissimo? The C* has a large tip opening, so will transitioning to a much smaller opening increase my range at all? I've heard recommendations for Vandoren's V16 A8 and Jumbo A45, but I'm not sure of specifics (or which, either hard rubber or metal, to buy). Do you have any recommendations for more projection and a brighter sound (maybe even easier growling)?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi Andrew. Great question but I don’t think there is an easy answer. Definitely moving to a different mouthpiece will give you more projection than the C• however you need to find what suits you. I used a C• years ago when doing symphonic and classical playing, but moved to a metal Yanagisawa on my alto which gave me lots more choices. I used the Yanagisawa from then on for years doing big band, show playing and even pop gigs. A few years ago I changed to a Theo Wanne Gaia hard rubber size 8 which actually gives me more options yet with my sound than the Yanagisawa and has a better tone for me. I prefer larger tip openings and this seems to give me more access to the altissimo, but you’ll need to experiment to find what works for you. Either way, you will need to spend a lot of time with the new mouthpiece to get the sound you want. Hope that helps.

[@kiseki_k]

I have a question. I play the Tenor and am looking at some metal mouthpieces that is for Marching and Jazz and ended up between with the Otto Link Vintage Series, the Ducoff Metal, and the JodyJazz. What is the best from these 2 mouthpieces? Please give me an answer and a small summary of why it is a superior mouthpiece. Thank You! Also my name is Joshua.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great question Joshua. There are lots of different Jody and Dukoff models but personally I would stick to either an Otto Link or something from Jody for marching band. Dukoff pieces are great but often very bright. It might not be the sound your band director might is looking for!

[@kiseki_k]

@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Thanks you for responding! I have just a few more question and I want you to answer in your opinion. I've been looking at some Otto Link and JodyJazz pieces and stuck on which to choose. From your knowledge and experience, can you recommend me some metal mouthpieces from both brands that could be very good in a Jazz and Marching Band scenarios? I don't mind mouthpieces that has some projection but not too much. Thanks!

[@seanmurphy1047]

I've been playing tenor sax for 2 years now after 3 years of bass clarinet and I was looking to get an otto link super tone master for jazz. Any recommendations?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hi Sean. That’s a great “standard” metal mouthpiece. My only recommendation is that you try a few to find one you like - my experience is they can differ from piece to piece.

[@richardolson8651]

Good video, out of all those mps do you find that some take more or less air to play. I realize that the tip opening and reed play a big part. Where as these are all #8 mpc do you notice a difference in the amount of air it takes to keep them un and running? Thanks Dick

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great question Dick, it depends on the reed you are using. A larger tip opening with a moderate reed works for me and is comfy, others prefer a smaller tip opening and a harder reed. You need to experiment to see what works for you.

[@Logan_Adrian]

So I’ve been playing on a Yamaha 5-c for my whole saxophone career but when I joined my college big band I bought a Vandoren V 16 t6 but when ever I try to play it I’m insanely sharp (even with the mouth piece on the very edge of the neck) and I can’t get any notes out unless I play loud and when I do it sounds like a dying cat. And I don’t know if it’s just me but the facing is really big compared to other mouth pieces I’ve seen so it there something I’m doing wrong because I really need help because because now i have a 200 dollar mouth piece that I don’t even use

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Wow that doesn’t sound good. Have you tried using softer reeds on the V16? Does that help your intonation?

[@Logan_Adrian]

McGill Music Sax School I haven’t tried different reeds yet but I went online and searched up a chart for the recommended reed strength for what type of reed and it said around a 3 for a majority of the Vandoren brands so I got a sample pack to test them all out

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

It might be worth trying a 2.5 just to see if this helps. I think it always takes a bit of experimenting and time to get used to a new mouthpiece. Good luck.

[@Logan_Adrian]

McGill Music Sax School thanks for the advice

[@biergott9416]

Hey :) thanks for the nice video! I a complete new player and want to play more on the Rocky side on my alto:) could you recommend a mouthpiece that is good for beginners?