Best
Alto Sax Mouthpiece
Yamaha 6C
VERSATILITY AND VALUE IN ONE
-
Overall: Intermediate students -
Best Feature: Offers a good range of dynamics -
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Alto Sax Jazz Mouthpiece
Jody Jazz HR
BLEND WITH THE JAZZ BAND
-
Overall: Use in a jazz ensemble -
Best Feature: It works well for all sub-genres within jazz -
TedScore™: 9/10
Click for Best Price
Winner
Best
Tenor Sax Mouthpiece
Yamaha 5C
FOR STUDENTS, PROS, AND EVERYONE IN BETWEEN
-
Overall: A first mouthpiece upgrade -
Best Feature: A short facing that makes it easy to play -
TedScore™: 8/10
I’ve been searching for the best saxophone mouthpiece, and let me tell you, it makes a remarkable difference! It’s not just a small piece of gear—it’s the secret ingredient that gives your sax its unique voice and character.
Choosing the right saxophone mouthpiece can feel like a challenge, but don’t worry! I’m here to guide beginners and experienced players through this musical journey. Whether playing jazz or classical tunes, your chosen mouthpiece can elevate your music.
Let’s go on this musical journey together and discover the best saxophone mouthpieces. Your saxophone deserves to sound like a star, so why settle for anything less?
Table of Contents
Best Alto Mouthpieces
The alto saxophone is one of the best instruments to learn first. Once you know the basics, you can use those skills to switch to the soprano or tenor sax and then learn the baritone.
If you’re focusing on the top alto saxophone mouthpieces, consider some of the best alto saxophone mouthpieces.
Yamaha 6C
Yamaha is one of the best brands to look into for saxophone gear.
In particular, the Yamaha 6C stands out among a variety of alto mouthpieces becasue it provides a balanced and clear tone for saxophone players. Compared to other models, the 6C offers a brighter and more focused sound, making it ideal for jazz and contemporary music styles.
When I use the Yamaha 6C, it feels really smooth and responsive, making it easy to control and articulate my notes.
However, you may find that it lacks the depth and warmth of sound found in other mouthpieces. Despite this downside, the Yamaha 6C is still worth buying for its precise and consistent performance, making it a popular choice among musicians seeking a versatile and reliable mouthpiece for their saxophone.
VERSATILITY AND VALUE IN ONE
DESIGNED FOR: intermediate students
FEATURES: medium-sized chamber
OTHER INFO: offers a good range of dynamics
Check Price >
9/10
Yamaha 6C
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Suitable for classical and jazz -
Nice intonation -
Rubber material -
Affordable
CONS
-
Not for new students -
Hard to blow
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Selmer Paris S80
If you have a Selmer saxophone, try their accessories.
HAND-FINISHED FOR PROFESSIONALS
DESIGNED FOR: intermediate and advanced players
FEATURES: square chamber
OTHER INFO: it has been around since the beginning of the 1970s
Check Price >
8/10
Selmer Paris S80
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Handmade -
Excellent for pro musicians -
Best for classical music -
Long history
CONS
-
Somewhat expensive -
Small table opening
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yanagisawa Metal 7
Don’t just stick to rubber as you advance.
SILVER AND BRASS FOR A BETTER SOUND QUALITY
DESIGNED FOR: jazz players who need a better sound
FEATURES: large facing and opening
OTHER INFO: uses a layer of silver plating over brass
Check Price >
8/10
Yanagisawa Metal 7
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Great combination of materials -
Even intonation -
Square chamber -
Versatile
CONS
-
Pretty expensive -
Not for students
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bonus: Best Alto Saxophone Mouthpieces For Jazz
Whether you play in a big band, as a soloist, or in a combo, consider some of the best alto sax jazz mouthpieces for your next performance.
Jody Jazz HR
Some brands focus on jazz mouthpiece models.
best alto sax mouthpiece for jazz
DESIGNED FOR: use in a jazz ensemble
FEATURES: a mouthpiece pouch
OTHER INFO: it works well for all sub-genres within jazz
Check Price >
9/10
Jody Jazz HR
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Versatile tone -
Warm sound -
Hand finishing process -
Best for professionals
CONS
-
A little costly -
Not for classical music
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Theo Wanne Earth 2
Another popular brand to look into is Theo Wanne.
GOLD-PLATED BRILLIANCE
DESIGNED FOR: professional saxophone players
FEATURES: 24-karat gold plating
OTHER INFO: includes mouthpiece accessories
Check Price >
8/10
Theo Wanne Earth 2
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Comes in different sizes -
Beautiful appearance -
Warm tone -
Good price for what it is
CONS
-
Not for students -
Not solid gold
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Otto Link Tone Edge
A third brand for jazz playing.
A RICH SOUND AT ALL DYNAMICS
DESIGNED FOR: jazz soloists
FEATURES: a wide tip opening
OTHER INFO: comes with a mouthpiece cap and ligature
Check Price >
8/10
Otto Link Tone Edge
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Large chamber for more sound -
Easy to play expressively -
Dark, rich sound -
Hard rubber
CONS
-
Not the most affordable -
Requires more control
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Tenor sax Mouthpieces
The tenor sax is a great choice for players who love the low register. But you can’t use your best mouthpiece for alto sax on the larger sax. Keep reading to find the best tenor saxophone mouthpiece for you.
Yamaha 5C
Start with a solid model.
FOR STUDENTS, PROS, AND EVERYONE
DESIGNED FOR: a first mouthpiece upgrade
FEATURES: a short facing that makes it easy to play
OTHER INFO: offers a balanced sound
Check Price >
8/10
Yamaha 5C
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Well-made -
Good design -
Decent tip opening -
Affordable
CONS
-
Requires some practice to play -
Not for new players
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Selmer Paris Soloist
Every soloist needs the perfect setup.
A BALANCE BETWEEN TONE AND VOLUME
DESIGNED FOR: professionals and solo players
FEATURES: horseshoe chamber to help get a good sound
OTHER INFO: based on the original design from the 1950s
Check Price >
7/10
Selmer Paris Soloist
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Popular in classical music -
Hand finishing -
Great design -
Easy to play
CONS
-
Not the best for playing jazz -
Quite expensive
The TedScore™: 7/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rico C5
D’Addario brings quality to the Rico brand.
A POLYCARBONATE MOUTHPIECE
DESIGNED FOR: early and intermediate students
FEATURES: different sizes
OTHER INFO: it uses a special polycarbonate material
Check Price >
7/10
Rico C5
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
PROS
-
Good sound -
Easy to play -
Helps you produce a nice tone -
Very affordable
CONS
-
Not ideal for advanced players -
A bit basic
The TedScore™: 7/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Metal Mouthpieces vs Rubber Mouthpieces
Metal Mouthpiece
A metal mouthpiece can be made of gold, silver, brass, or steel. Regardless of the specific metal, these mouthpieces tend to offer a bright sound. They can also help you project your sound over a large ensemble, so they’re perfect for soloists.
However, they can be somewhat expensive. Metal mouthpieces require a bit more experience to control the sound and get a good-quality tone.
There’s also the chance that you could have an allergic reaction to the material. Silver allergies aren’t that common, but they happen, and you could develop contact dermatitis or a similar condition.
Rubber Mouthpiece
A hard rubber mouthpiece is the standard choice for many beginners. Most student models come with a rubber mouthpiece, so you don’t have to spend any extra money. Rubber is also a bit more stable than metal mouthpieces, and it’s more durable.
Plus, if you tend to play outside a lot, you don’t have to worry about a cold touch when you first play your saxophone. Metal mouthpieces can match the surrounding temperature and can feel weird on your lips.
Hard rubber is a great mouthpiece material for classical music and jazz music. Many professional saxophonists use rubber, even as they move on from their first mouthpiece.
How to Choose a Sax Mouthpiece
Before you start shopping for sax mouthpieces, it’s important to consider a few factors. Only some mouthpieces are suitable for some saxophonists.
First, consider your saxophone type, such as an alto sax or a tenor sax mouthpiece. Then, look into the following aspects that can impact which mouthpiece best fits you.
Music Style and Player Level
You can continue using hard rubber or switch to a brass or silver mouthpiece as you progress.
For jazz players, consider saxophone mouthpieces with a larger chamber for playing loudly and with more power. If you prefer classical music, look for a mouthpiece with a focused sound and free-blowing. Brands like Vandoren are excellent for classical playing.
If you enjoy playing both genres and are on a budget, look for a versatile mouthpiece that can accommodate different styles of music.
Materials Used
Consider popular mouthpiece materials in addition to musical styles. Gold and silver are great for jazz as they produce a good, full sound, but they may not be suitable if you have allergies or live in a cold environment.
Hard rubber is another common choice, especially for beginners, due to its durability. It’s also less cold in your mouth when you first start playing your saxophone.
Remember that materials can impact mouthpiece prices, so feel free to discuss your budget when comparing mouthpieces.
Tip Openings
The tip opening is the amount of space between the frontal rail and your saxophone reed. If you’re slightly more experienced player more advanced, you might look for a mouthpiece with a larger opening.
You’ve built up some control, and the larger space can help more air enter the sax. That way, you can play louder and more easily.
However, beginner saxophone players can choose a mouthpiece with a small opening. While you won’t play as loudly, you can get a good, clear brighter sound as you learn the basics. You can always upgrade to another model later to work on your sound.
Beak & Bite Plate
The beak of the mouthpiece is the part where your top teeth contact. Consider the angle and size of the beak to help you choose your ideal mouthpiece.
Check some reviews to see if others have struggled with it. If there’s a problem, you can use a mouthpiece pad to keep your mouthpiece in good shape.
Included Cap and Ligature
Professional players often purchase a mouthpiece cap and ligature separately, while beginners and intermediate players can usually find all these accessories bundled together.
Buying them as a set can save money and ensure that the pieces fit well, which is crucial for achieving a clear tone. If you purchase a mouthpiece separately, look for a ligature and cap from the same manufacturer to ensure they fit the same model, even if they are sold separately.
Best Saxophone Mouthpiece
Summary
The best saxophone mouthpiece provides excellent control, versatility, and a rich tone, making it a top choice among professional saxophonists.
When searching for the right mouthpiece for your saxophone, you might feel overwhelmed by the options. But you can start by narrowing down your choices based on the type of sax you have.
Next, consider the musical styles you play, and don’t forget to look at different brands and pricing. Check out mouthpieces from top brands like Yamaha and Selmer. Test them with your current saxophone and reeds to ensure the new setup produces your desired sound.
Think about what you want to express through your saxophone. Choose the options that enhance your experience and improve your performance. With so many mouthpiece choices available, the perfect one for you is out there, waiting to be discovered. Enjoy playing!
FAQ’s
Do saxophone mouthpieces make a difference?
Saxophone mouthpieces can make a big difference in sound and response. Factors like the tip opening can determine how much control you need. They may also allow you to play louder without as much effort.
What alto sax mouthpiece is best for jazz?
A good mouthpiece for jazz should help you project your sound. It should also give you a bright sound quality and be free blowing. The best one depends on your preferences and the brand and model of sax you play.
What is the best sax mouthpiece for beginner?
The best mouthpiece to start on is the one that comes with your student model. Often, they’ll be from the same brand, so they should work well together. Even if the brands are different, the combo can help you get a basic sound as you learn the fundamentals.
What is the best classical alto sax mouthpiece?
The best classical mouthpiece is the Yamaha 6C. It has a decent facing and tip opening, so you can get a resonant sound. But it’s not too bright, so you can maintain a mellow tone, which is important when playing a classical solo.
When should I upgrade my saxophone mouthpiece?
You should upgrade when you start to struggle to get a good sound. If you’ve tried a few different reeds, a new mouthpiece might help you get the sound and response you want.
How does a saxophone work?
A saxophone works by using a reed to vibrate and create sound, which is then amplified by the instrument’s body and projected through the bell. By pressing different combinations of keys and changing the shape of the player’s mouth, a variety of notes and tones can be produced.
