Best
Alto Sax Mouthpiece
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Overall: Intermediate students
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Best Feature: Offers a good range of dynamics
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Alto Sax Jazz Mouthpiece
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Overall: Use in a jazz ensemble
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Best Feature: It works well for all sub-genres within jazz
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Tenor Sax Mouthpiece
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Overall: A first mouthpiece upgrade
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Best Feature: A short facing that makes it easy to play
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TedScore™: 8/10
You’ve played the saxophone for a few months or even a year, and you like it. But you feel like your current saxophone mouthpiece is keeping you from getting the best possible saxophone sound production ever.
Sure, you could upgrade your entire setup, but that gets expensive fast. Another option is to look into intermediate mouthpieces.
There are tons of models for you to try, so you can get a warmer or brighter tone. That way, you can improve and enjoy the process of learning more music. So what is the best alto sax mouthpieces for you?
Well, read on to find out…
How Does a Sax Mouthpiece Work?
A saxophone mouthpiece tip opening is a piece of plastic, rubber, or metal that works with the reed to produce a sound. You connect the two with a ligature so that the reed stays in place. As you blow over the tip opening, air will pass through.
The reed will then vibrate, and that causes your instrument to produce a sound. You can play just the mouthpiece, but you’ll need to connect it to the neck and the body to access the full range of the saxophone.
If you don’t like the sound you get, you can experiment with models from different brands or with different tip opening.
That way, you may be able to get a brighter or darker sound based on your playing style or preferences.
It’s also vital to produce a good embouchure, regardless of the mouthpiece you’re using. You should curl your lower lip over your teeth to protect your reeds from your teeth. Place the reed side of the mouthpiece over your lower lip.
Then, put your top teeth on the top of the mouthpiece. Take a deep breath, and bring your lips in to eliminate any gaps so that all of your air will go into the saxophone.
As you blow, you should be able to get a good sound quality. When you play sax, try to breathe without moving your lips too much and ruining your embouchure.
Understanding the Structure of a Sax Mouthpiece
At the bottom, you’ll find the body of the mouthpiece, which is where the ligature and reed attach. On the side where the reed goes, you’ll find the table and ramp. The ramp leads up to the opening, which is called the chamber.
Near the tip opening is the tip rail and frontal rail. The tip rail refers to where the reed seals with the mouthpiece. Meanwhile, the frontal rail is the top portion of saxophone mouthpieces.
Inside the chamber, you’ll find the inner side walls, which can be flat or concave shape. The floor of the mouthpiece is nearby, and a higher floor can offer excellent projection while you play.
Moving down to the other end of the mouthpiece is the bore, which is the part that goes over the neck of your saxophone.
The bore is on the inside, while the shank is in the same place but on the outside.
Is it Necessary to Upgrade your Sax Mouthpiece?
Depending on the sax you own, you might not need to upgrade to a new mouthpiece. Some models come with a fantastic factory mouthpiece. If you already get the best sound from your sax, keep using your setup.
However, if you can’t sound pretty or as good as you want, an upgrade makes sense. I upgraded the mouthpiece for my alto after a few years of playing. The change helped me get a warm sound without investing in a whole new saxophone.
A quality mouthpiece can be expensive, but it’s much more cost-effective. Some alto saxophones cost thousands of dollars, and even the most costly mouthpiece is a fraction of that.
To decide if an upgrade is right for you, get your saxophone serviced. Then, try a few mouthpieces if possible and compare your sound. You can also ask some professional saxophone players for their opinion on each setup.
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 go shopping for sax mouthpieces though, you should consider a few factors. Not every mouthpiece is right for every saxophonist.
Of course, you should start with the type of sax mouthpieces you have, such as an alto sax or a tenor sax mouthpiece. Then, look into the following aspects that can affect which mouthpiece is right for you.
Music Style and Player Level
Advancing students can stick with hard rubber or move on to a brass or silver mouthpiece. If you tend to play jazz a lot, you might want to look into saxophone mouthpieces with a larger chamber so that you can play loud and with more power.
On the other hand, if classical music is more your speed, consider a model that’s free blowing and can give you a focused sound. Brands like Vandoren are great for classical playing, for example.
Now, maybe you like to play both genres. If you’re also on a budget, look for a versatile mouthpiece.
Materials Used
Along with musical styles, think about some popular mouthpiece materials. Gold and silver can be great for jazz since you can produce a good, full sound. Of course, if you have allergies or live in a cold environment, the material may not work for you.
Hard Rubber is another prevalent choice among saxophone players. It’s particularly useful for beginners due to its durability. The material won’t be as cold in your mouth when you first pick up your sax for the day.
Materials can also have an effect on mouthpiece prices. So don’t be afraid 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.
You’ll also want to look into the bite plate. Check out some reviews to see if others have struggled with the bite plate. If there’s a problem, you can use a mouthpiece pad to keep your own mouthpiece back in good shape.
Included Cap and Ligature
Especially at the professional level, many players buy a mouthpiece cap and ligature separately from the mouthpiece. However, beginners and intermediate players can often find all of these accessories bundled together.
For one, buying them together can help you save money. You’ll also know that the pieces will fit, which is essential for getting a clear tone.
If you want to buy a mouthpiece on its own, look for a ligature and cap from the same manufacturer. They should fit the same model as if they were sold together, but you can buy the specific model of each that you want.
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.
DESIGNED FOR: intermediate students
FEATURES: medium-sized chamber
OTHER INFO: offers a good range of dynamics
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!
- Suitable for classical and jazz
- Nice intonation
- Rubber material
- Affordable
- Not for new students
- Hard to blow
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.
DESIGNED FOR: intermediate and advanced players
FEATURES: square chamber
OTHER INFO: it has been around since the beginning of the 1970s
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!
- Handmade
- Excellent for pro musicians
- Best for classical music
- Long history
- Somewhat expensive
- Small table opening
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.
DESIGNED FOR: jazz players who need a better sound
FEATURES: large facing and opening
OTHER INFO: uses a layer of silver plating over brass
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!
- Great combination of materials
- Even intonation
- Square chamber
- Versatile
- Pretty expensive
- Not for students
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 saxophone mouthpieces for your next performance.
Jody Jazz HR
Some brands focus on jazz mouthpiece models.
DESIGNED FOR: use in a jazz ensemble
FEATURES: a mouthpiece pouch
OTHER INFO: it works well for all sub-genres within jazz
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!
- Versatile tone
- Warm sound
- Hand finishing process
- Best for professionals
- A little costly
- Not for classical music
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.
DESIGNED FOR: professional saxophone players
FEATURES: 24-karat gold plating
OTHER INFO: includes mouthpiece accessories
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!
- Comes in different sizes
- Beautiful appearance
- Warm tone
- Good price for what it is
- Not for students
- Not solid gold
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.
DESIGNED FOR: jazz soloists
FEATURES: a wide tip opening
OTHER INFO: comes with a mouthpiece cap and ligature
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!
- Large chamber for more sound
- Easy to play expressively
- Dark, rich sound
- Hard rubber
- Not the most affordable
- Requires more control
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 Mouthpieces
The tenor sax is a great choice for players who love the low register. But you can’t use your alto sax mouthpiece on the larger sax.
Yamaha 5C
Start with a solid model.
DESIGNED FOR: a first mouthpiece upgrade
FEATURES: a short facing that makes it easy to play
OTHER INFO: offers a balanced sound
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!
- Well-made
- Good design
- Decent tip opening
- Affordable
- Requires some practice to play
- Not for new players
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.
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
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!
- Popular in classical music
- Hand finishing
- Great design
- Easy to play
- Not the best for playing jazz
- Quite expensive
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.
DESIGNED FOR: early and intermediate students
FEATURES: different sizes
OTHER INFO: it uses a special polycarbonate material
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!
- Good sound
- Easy to play
- Helps you produce a nice tone
- Very affordable
- Not ideal for advanced players
- A bit basic
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™.
Essential Saxophone Maintenance Tools
Along with your alto sax mouthpieces or tenor saxophone mouthpiece, consider some accessories to help you make the most of your investment.
Saxophone Mouthpiece Patches
Cover the top of the mouthpiece to keep it in good shape and avoid teeth marks.
DESIGNED FOR: all players
FEATURES: a durable design
OTHER INFO: this pack comes with six and works on alto, tenor, and bari saxophones.
Yamaha Mouthpiece Patch
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!
- Comes with multiple pads
- Works on different saxes and clarinets
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- A bit small
- Not for the soprano sax
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™.
Mouthpiece and Neck Swab
Don’t let spit and condensation build up inside your saxophone. Keep some cleaning supplies in your case, like a swab.
DESIGNED FOR: all saxophone players
FEATURES: a tapered brush end
OTHER INFO: has a small wire handle
Selmer Mouthpiece Brush
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!
- Easy to use
- Fits most mouthpieces
- Avoids dirt buildup
- Bright red
- Not for the sax neck
- Should be replaced frequently
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™.
Sax Cleaning Kit
Sometimes, you don’t want to shop for accessories in multiple places. If you want a kit with everything you need, you can save time and money.
DESIGNED FOR: new students who don't know where to start
FEATURES: a variety of cleaning accessories
OTHER INFO: the kit is an affordable choice
Stagg Saxophone Cleaning Kit
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!
- Comes with interior and exterior cloths
- Includes cork grease
- Great for new players
- Works with alto saxophones
- Not the best quality products
- Not for professional players
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 Saxophone Mouthpiece
Summary
If you’re looking for the right mouthpiece for your saxophone, you may be overwhelmed by all of the choices. Fortunately, you can narrow things down based on the type of sax you have.
Then, you can go even further and consider the musical styles you play. Don’t forget about brands and pricing.
Be sure to look at mouthpieces from Yamaha, Selmer, and other top brands. Try them with your current saxophone and reeds to make sure the new setup offers the sound you desire.
