The only problem Jim is as the upgrades occur so do the improvisations and we are not really left comparing mouthpieces alone but how you are playing as well. Please simplify for a true sound / tone comparison. Thanks :-)
IMHO, he plays to their strengths or show key dif.. The point is one still have to go try ARMED with his brief summary of each that is most helpful, in a short video i affirm some understanding of the key dif between Y, selmer, otto, meyer, JJ, van, etc, and THAT is VERY GOOD already. Some can play a lot but we cannot really APPRECIATE what the KEY dif are and why that sound/tone?
Yeah I had the same problem. Specially at the later portions I really can't tell the difference anymore because I can't separate between what's the mp is supposed to sound vs what he is playing on it.
David Hawkins I think the only way to do it is to have a load of saxes lined up with the mouthpieces already set up and tuned with the same Reed. Or swap the same reed over for each take/mouthpiece, then tune it...then start recording and play from sheet music, then the same scale(s) to a metronome. Then improvise a bit based on how the specific reed pulls you. Prior to the improv, would be perhaps an attempt at classical, an attempt at jazz, and blues. This sounds like overkill, but I’m a sysadmin by day.
Very well done Jim. Personally for me it's difficult to hear the differences as much as I would like. But as you said, the best thing is if people can play them all and then they will be able to clearly see which one feels and sounds the best for them. You are doing a fabulous job for the sax community Jim! Sincerely, Jody Espina
Excellent video. I've just bought an D'addario Select Jazz D6M and played it for the first time for two hours. I always use cork grease but the MP still went on very tight. When I twisted off the MP it removed 1/3rd of the neck cork with it. My previous MP was a Selmer S80 C** and that fitted on pretty tight but the inside of the MP was very smooth so it never damaged the cork. On inspection I found the D'addario MP very rough on the inside and using a piece of very fine Emery paper turned around a 15mm tube I polished the inside until it was smooth and shiney. It's a shame that I didn't inspect the inside of the MP before I played it, because that would have saved my neck-cork. So here's the warning guys: Always check the inside of a new MP before fitting it on your sax!!!
Where I am located, there is no store that I'm aware of in at least a 5 hour radius where I can actually try playing different mouthpieces or saxophones for that matter. So, I pretty much have to go off of a video like this, and after playing saxophone for more than 15 years I think this video is the best resource I have ever found. For me, the Otto Link sounds like the mouthpiece I would choose, with the Meyer being a second choice. I have barely played over the last 3 years, I need to get back into it and work on getting myself an Otto Link.
I've not been a fan of the Meyer 5M that I bought - it sounds a bit strangled. I much prefer the open sound of my Yamaha 4C. I'd like to have a mouthpiece that sounds open like the 4C but a little more delicate for the occasions where the sound of the 4C is too robust.
Thank you! Upgraded my daughter to a C* then to a concept. The concept is superior in my opinion. In fact her instructor whom has a masters degree in saxophone and is a Yamaha artist asked what mouth piece she is using on two different occasions. Told me that he wished many of his college students had that sound. Seriously consider the concept!! I might add we also upgraded her to a Theo Wanne ligature using the silver plate. WOW!!
Joe Caruso - completely agree on the concept. I have the Selmer concept and play in a community orchestra and receive compliments on sound. It is warm and darker and completely agree with the presenter’s assessment (he did a great job). While I try to avoid the gear acquisition syndrome, I also have a D’addario and I can tell the difference - it is good tooand I find projects louder and more focussed. The only problem is the bore (where it fits on the cork) on those really wears down the cork- but otherwise great piece and I really wouldn’t hesitate recommending it.. But for my community band and the type of music (classical-ish)the Concept is a better fit. But I am glad I have the D’Addario too and wouldn’t part with it
Grant, the only reason I commented is because I have indeed tested for myself. For example, at the moment, I have a sample size of 3 ligatures. Each one is different from the next. A standard Rovner (Dark) plays a bit down the middle, but it's held back from expression because it has too much resistance. You can only blow so much air through it until the effort becomes fruitless. It doesn't allow for free blowing and expressive sound. If you're soloing and don't have to stand out, you can deal with a bit of muffle. The Rovner Mark 3 is a great mix of mellow sound but freedom to blow and play to any side you choose. You can make it mellow, or you can ramp it up to a loud expressive sound with a great possibility for articulation and crispness. The two Rovners are very different from one another. Not to mention the sound change when you flip the lig upside down. The only metal ligature I have at the moment is a Yani, and it is by far the brightest of the 3. It's the brightest and most expressive and allows the most free playing and ability to attack the notes. Paired with the right reed and mouthpiece it can be very bright sounding and would easily cut through in a group. There are several players that claim ligs only hold reeds in place, then there are those they claim they will transform the life of your first born. I don't agree with either extreme. I've tried several over the years and they each add their own special ingredient to the pot. To say otherwise is to do yourself an injustice. We are all in search of a certain sound, which is why we watch these videos incessantly. The mix of the 3 parts of mouthpiece, reed, and ligature is a never ending source of consternation to a player because each has the ability to tweak the sound that we're looking to achieve, and the one at which we currently have arrived. There is no one size fits all formula, this is evidenced by the number of options on the market. At the moment, my Rovner Mark 3 is my favorite lig. It's my best all rounder, and combined with my Meyer 6, and a 2.5 Hemke reed gives me the sweet sound I like. If I need to cut through, I'll change to a VanDoren ZZ or Alexander NY which allow for more expression and articulation, and switch to a metal lig. There's no comparison. In the right setting I might even use a Plasticover reed. There's so much variation to be found, I'm sad for you if you're missing it. I'd recommend you play around and find your favorite combo. *Edited to correct the ligature specifics. The more I was thinking about it, something felt off on my description. I went back and checked the original boxes and cleared up the exact models of Rovner I (thought I) was describing.
Been playing alto sax for about 5 years now and started to play tenor this year. I’ve never changed my basic plastic mouthpiece. Guess it’s time I get an upgrade. Thx for the tips.
I bought a student alto saxophone just over a month ago and upgraded to the Yamaha 4C mouthpiece and Rico 2.0 reeds a Legere Signature 2 reed. It was easier to control and my playing improved but not a lot, expected that as a beginner. More recently after seeing this, I wanted to try a different mouthpiece but not being able to go anywhere that I could test some, after seeing this I wanted a mouthpiece that wouldn't be restricting to what I could play so bought the Meyer 6M and a Rovner Versa ligature with Legere 2 1/4 reeds. I liked the sound of the D'addario Select Jazz, but with people saying its tight fitting and can take of the cork on the neck, I decided to not get it. After getting the moutpiece, I found the Meyer was a a bit tight fitting on my saxophone neck and even with a good amount of cork grease (may need a little more) it shaved off a slight amount of cork when I was removing it over the easy fitting Yamaha 4C. Despite that, when I started playing on it, I found I was able to get a better sound almost instantly and was able to have more control over the sound and tone. I first used the Rovner Versa Lig with the metal plate resting on the reed and I was getting the bright, big sound you mentioned (my neighbours will like that I am sure!), but with the Rovner versa lig, I put the rubber flaps over the plate and played again and got a bit of a more darker tone which I was able to control more. Almost sounded like I was playing a different saxophone at first there was such a difference in the sound.
Jim this is the greatest lesson about different sounds that each mouthpiece can make with just one horn, more especially the beginner student one. I never had the opportunity to test all that because of a lack of saxophone-selling gear stores where I live. Thanks.
very interesting video Jim thank you ! I'm playing with the Yamaha 4C as beginner for 8 months and you video will help me for the next , very informative thank you. Cheers from Belgium
Oh, mann, there's more to mouthpieces than I thought! Thanks for these demonstrations, Jim. Total beginner here. Still on my 'Yamaha 4C' and don't really have a style yet. Definitely liked the sounds made on the 'Meyer' and 'Jody Jazz'. Looking forward to upgrading time!
USEFUL! Exactly similar to my experience - Played 4 years, from 4C to S-80 C* to Otto etc, etc, but my goto is JODY HR on YAS62 (then TJ signature custom raw which sounds better than Yamaha IMHO). JJ is open, lively, with just enough brightness, edge, loudness and punch, easy to control the sound you want with dif reeds and ligs. An mpc you can keep. To ME, the jazz select sounds most interesting - perhaps WHY you put as LAST and favourite w/o saying so. THANKS brilliant video. suggest u run up the whole scale for us to compare AND play dif things after to show their strengths.
I've been playing with a cheap plastic mouthpiece for 3 years of band and I never thought of upgrading until my teacher told us about it and I'm troubled on what to get but I think ill go for the meyer
Don't knock plastic. Brilhart's mouthpieces from before they were bought out by Selmer (especially the early Great Neck, NY pieces) are some of the best mouthpieces ever made (and were certainly good enough for giants like Charlie Parker, Benny Carter, and Johnny Hodges). Two years ago I was trying out a bunch of pieces at my local shop, including a few modern Meyer, Berg Larsen, and Vandoren hard rubber pieces without much luck. Then I popped on a Brilly Personaline tonalin, and my horn absolutely SANG. Now I play on a Great Neck (also tonalin) and I'll never play another piece again on my alto again.
I played for 10 years on the 4c and just realized that there is such a thing as upgrading the mouthpiece. Lol I'm dumb. I'll upgrade to the vandoren jumbo java
Hi, it seems like it's a 6*, which is standard medium, equivalent to Meyer 7. I switched from Selmer S80 to Otto Link 6* and it was a happy change! I use it with Rico Jazz 3.5. Hope this helps!
Thankyou, I recently upgraded my tenor saxophone mouthpiece from the poor quality plastic one I got, to a much nicer one, before my mouthpiece made it so my saxophone couldn’t play past a D without ruining the tone, so I was using overtones only. Thankyou so much
I 've playing since August, where I baught my sop. sax ... and I already upgrade d my mouth piece , so if in doubt you can't go wrong with the Jodi Jazz 6*, beutiful, warm, full sound and free blowing ... I just started using val. 2.5 V12 reeds, I like the resistance. ..and so far, the best tone Imo .... great video, keep up the good work, I'll be wanting a tenor soon ;)
If using the same (new?) reed, as the test progresses the reed will absorb water and sound much better. Best test would be to play the same phrases and then again in reverse order to negate water absorption effect.
Interresting comparssion. I'll watch this video again in a few years, when I master my new Instrument well enough that that the limiting factor will be not me, but the Mouthpiece... I'm an absolute Beginner, bought me a Yamaha YAS 280 (4C Mouthpiece was standard) about a month ago. So I guess the only Upgrades I'll need for a long time is emboucher and breath training -> peroids of long tone exercises. (and learning how to read notes...) Exciting times!
@@cj_ocean Uploaded 2 Vids recently about my Progress (have 3 months of practice now). I'm not the fastest learner, but I have much fun. Started Yesderday to learn some songs for Xmas...
i've had 10 lessons by now, started 21th of July, this week, last monday 5-10-20, i purchased a YAS 25, and it came with 2Yam4c mpc. the day after i went to the local retailer, its in the same village i live, and bought myself a Selmer Concept.... i playtested a Yam Custom, Vandooren Optimum, Selmer Cstar, Selmer Concept and a Selmer Seles Prologue.... the Concept came out the best for me, it plays so easily, nice sound and easy for tuning.
I can easily hear the difference.. Of course if you can't stick with the cheap one. But I am thinking that he plays differently expecting the cheap sound. Fair enough I had to edit because there was a mention of reed quality and strength. But that is equally as important as the mouthpiece. The Jody was quite bright, I think the Vandoren would be my choice, warmer tone, but then of course it could have been embouchure
I meant to order an Otto Link Tone Edge 6* but ended up ordering an 8* by accident, and it was the hardest transition I've ever made, especially from a Jupiter generic mouthpiece. I have gotten used to it, however, and it has great tone.
I’m 5 years in and have just never been able to afford a mouthpiece upgrade and now my stock mouthpiece cracked so now I’m looking for a solid budget upgrade I was thinking Vandoren V16 A6 small chamber
I wish this video had been around 25 years ago! I do enjoy the 4C that came with my YAS-62 but would like better dynamics because the instrument is so naturally powerful. I bought a Meyer 5-medium decades ago but rarely use it because the 4C sounds more open. I want to have the option of a more delicate sound but not strangled. A bonus would be greater ability to bend and blend. With my Buescher I could do that easily and smoothly but the Yamaha "clings" to the notes so I regret not keeping both instruments.
When are you guys going to make another duet or quartet or trio etc.? (I think this is a question we all want to know) If you are, can it be one with Jim and Scott?
I've really found a JD Hite has a great sound on it. They had a pro line, but I purchased a cheap version for my Tenor and it performed almost as well. Great range, no squeaks you can get a nice "chewy" sound if you want... I just like them. I also purchased (many years back) a metal Rovner mouthpiece. I love that mouthpiece, and I don't know why they don't make them any more (not that I've seen anywhere)... It had a HUGE deep chamber, and just played strong.
I have played guitar for like 20 years. Just messing around. I watched La La Land and have been music all day since. haha I play piano everyday for a few hours. So, I decided to get myself a sax. Super excited. I got the mouth piece and other stuff today. I was excited to just make a sound with that and the reed. But, the reed was to big for the 4c mouth piece. So, I just ordered a 5c. haha If that does not work, my ass will just go to a music store and ask them what I need. I saw the jazz mouth things when I registered my reeds. I dig their sound. I will have to order one. But, the sax I am getting is the Yamaha YAS 480, which is as expensive as hell. So, I may wait a few months. Great video. Very informational stuff.
hey, I love your videos, and I'm finally going to great Britain this summer and I am excited to visit your shop in London. Is it possible to make a video comparing your favorite metal tenor mouthpieces? I think that would be a really great and helpful video I hope to see you there next summer!
I think if youre talking about all this, maybe mention $$$? It would never occur to me to discuss musical instruments without talking about cost. :) Kind of not fair to get someone very attached to something that's light years out of their league. The Yamaha 4C is all of 25.00. Made a huge difference. So, do-able. I've seen some that are REALLY expensive, tho.
Winds of March Journey/Perry tribute band they’ll show a really good one...then when you go in the shop and see the price, a huge dude will come from downstairs and will walk you to the ATM, or will make you phone around for a friend to bring the money.
Thanks for the demo. I bought a used Yamaha 480 alto and came with a Selmer S80 C* and it wasn't free blowing enough and didn't seal great. I bought another Selmer S80 C* (was supposed to be original facing curve and tip) and had the same situation. I like the tone profile by means of being dark, having enough focus, etc. just I don't seem to have some lack of definition and free blowing experience with Vandoren traditional #3 compared to Yamaha 4C that came with my sax. I like to see in the realm of note definition (classical) and warm and kinda dark tone like Selmer C*, is there any other good mouthpiece (free blowing, fast response, good clear staccato, good control for pitch, in the same tip opening as Selmer C* or C** out there that you can point at? Thanks a lot.
Good video :) can you do one for tenor mouthpieces? I have played tenor sax for years and that is the only one I own. What's interesting to me is you find that several companies make their best mouthpieces for what seems to be one size of sax (alto, tenor, soprano, etc.) For example, Meyer mouthpieces are regarded as some of the best for jazz on alto, but not as highly for tenor. I recently had some things stolen from a suitcase of mind when traveling, particularly my V16 T9 rubber mouthpiece. So I've returned to my very first jazz mouthpiece (Otto link 6* - a great intermediate choice), and it plays well but I am looking to upgrade again soon. Sorry for the long comment, but does that make sense? I would love to get some input from a video or something, even one with metal mouthpieces too. What I've found on the internet when looking for my next best choice mouthpiece has actually been quite unhelpful
First one sounded great. Second one sounded Great. Third one….wait a second, hmmm…🤔I think he might be a great player…That being said The Selmer Concept C** was a better ‘do both’ sound to me, then it was between the Jody Jazz and the D’Dario for the jazz punch. It’s always a bit tricky with such great musicians as they compensate w/o trying to make the sound a certain way!
Here is my question: I want to play classic tunes such as Lily was here, An englishman in New York, Careless Whispers etc so in order to be able to play said songs, to which mouthpiece do i need to upgrade...? PS: I forgot to mention, i just got an Alto Sax as a bday gift, and i have the standard mouthpiece that comes with the sax...
Careless Whisper was played on a stainless steel Berg Larsen, and was actually played on tenor (they manipulated the speed of the recording and that made it sound like an alto). With Lily Was Here, that's Candy Dulfer. She plays on a custom mouthpiece something like a Lebayle or Dukoff (according to her personal website). Both types are metal. Branford Marsalis played the sax part on Englishman in New York. This was a soprano sax, not alto, and I think he may have been playing on a Bari piece at the time. This was a hard rubber piece with a metal shank. Altogether, you're looking at a brighter, edgier mouthpiece.
Should have given probably more information if the same sound as been produced by each to let us ear the real diference. Thanks you for the démonstration anyway
We'd recommend Yamaha mouthpieces all the way for complete beginner's, great to get started with and makes it so easy. This clip is for people who have been playing for 6 months plus and what the next step is after your good ol' Yamaha mouthpiece.
The Jody jazz has a wedge, which makes it perfect for smooth jazz, and rock and roll, The Meyer has the New York Chamber which is round , with a roll over baffle and hollowed out side walls for the true jazz Bebop mouthpiece of all time!!
Hey, great video! Do you have any suggestions for an intermediate/pro alto mouthpiece (as opposed to a beginner mouthpiece) that leans toward a more jazzy tone but is capable of great warmth for classical playing? Thanks!
Very informative, i am on basic plastic that came with my saxophone and looking to upgrade as a learner still, not sure what would be best for me. Yamaha 4c or Selmer C*
On the left, second from the top shelf, what is that reddish looking mouthpiece? And will you be doing similar videos for other types of saxophones, and possibly adding in metal mouthpieces?
Jim ( or anyone else actually), witch one would you say is the most freeblowing?! And perharps the easier to play in tune ? Obs: only between the ; Meyer, otto link, jody jazz , Vandoren and D'addario
It would have been helpful for me if you had indicated both the tip opening and reed strength you were using with each of the mouthpieces. Recently, I dug out a Kell Geometric alto mouthpiece I bought years ago, and I love it.
The only problem Jim is as the upgrades occur so do the improvisations and we are not really left comparing mouthpieces alone but how you are playing as well. Please simplify for a true sound / tone comparison. Thanks :-)
David Hawkins I was thinking the same thing
IMHO, he plays to their strengths or show key dif.. The point is one still have to go try ARMED with his brief summary of each that is most helpful, in a short video i affirm some understanding of the key dif between Y, selmer, otto, meyer, JJ, van, etc, and THAT is VERY GOOD already. Some can play a lot but we cannot really APPRECIATE what the KEY dif are and why that sound/tone?
Yeah I had the same problem. Specially at the later portions I really can't tell the difference anymore because I can't separate between what's the mp is supposed to sound vs what he is playing on it.
I totally agree.
David Hawkins I think the only way to do it is to have a load of saxes lined up with the mouthpieces already set up and tuned with the same Reed. Or swap the same reed over for each take/mouthpiece, then tune it...then start recording and play from sheet music, then the same scale(s) to a metronome. Then improvise a bit based on how the specific reed pulls you. Prior to the improv, would be perhaps an attempt at classical, an attempt at jazz, and blues. This sounds like overkill, but I’m a sysadmin by day.
Yamaha 4c 1:33
Selmer C** S80 5:19
Selmer concept 6:49
Meyer 6 8:01
Ottolink 10:08
Jody Jazz 11:06
Vandoren V5 12:21
D'addario Select Jazz 13:31
Thank you!
Very well done Jim. Personally for me it's difficult to hear the differences as much as I would like. But as you said, the best thing is if people can play them all and then they will be able to clearly see which one feels and sounds the best for them. You are doing a fabulous job for the sax community Jim! Sincerely, Jody Espina
Whoa... didn't expect to see such a renowned mouthpiece manufacturer here. Nice.
What size tip opening did you use with the otto link mouth piece in this video?
Otto Link 6* is the same as Meyer 7MM
haahahaha, is difficult to hear differences
coming from a yamaha 4c, which would be the Jody Jet alto mouthpiece to get. As I saw from online stores, there are different sizes.
I love how the video seems so chill. The guy talking always has a nice voice and the playing is amazing. Love these quality videos.
Excellent video. I've just bought an D'addario Select Jazz D6M and played it for the first time for two hours. I always use cork grease but the MP still went on very tight. When I twisted off the MP it removed 1/3rd of the neck cork with it. My previous MP was a Selmer S80 C** and that fitted on pretty tight but the inside of the MP was very smooth so it never damaged the cork. On inspection I found the D'addario MP very rough on the inside and using a piece of very fine Emery paper turned around a 15mm tube I polished the inside until it was smooth and shiney. It's a shame that I didn't inspect the inside of the MP before I played it, because that would have saved my neck-cork. So here's the warning guys: Always check the inside of a new MP before fitting it on your sax!!!
Why would you play a different thing on each mouthpeice with a different style? Bias? There's no true evaluation and comparison.
Where I am located, there is no store that I'm aware of in at least a 5 hour radius where I can actually try playing different mouthpieces or saxophones for that matter. So, I pretty much have to go off of a video like this, and after playing saxophone for more than 15 years I think this video is the best resource I have ever found. For me, the Otto Link sounds like the mouthpiece I would choose, with the Meyer being a second choice. I have barely played over the last 3 years, I need to get back into it and work on getting myself an Otto Link.
I've not been a fan of the Meyer 5M that I bought - it sounds a bit strangled. I much prefer the open sound of my Yamaha 4C. I'd like to have a mouthpiece that sounds open like the 4C but a little more delicate for the occasions where the sound of the 4C is too robust.
Thank you! Upgraded my daughter to a C* then to a concept. The concept is superior in my opinion. In fact her instructor whom has a masters degree in saxophone and is a Yamaha artist asked what mouth piece she is using on two different occasions. Told me that he wished many of his college students had that sound. Seriously consider the concept!! I might add we also upgraded her to a Theo Wanne ligature using the silver plate. WOW!!
truthfully, any ligature will sound fine....
Joe Caruso - completely agree on the concept. I have the Selmer concept and play in a community orchestra and receive compliments on sound. It is warm and darker and completely agree with the presenter’s assessment (he did a great job). While I try to avoid the gear acquisition syndrome, I also have a D’addario and I can tell the difference - it is good tooand I find projects louder and more focussed. The only problem is the bore (where it fits on the cork) on those really wears down the cork- but otherwise great piece and I really wouldn’t hesitate recommending it.. But for my community band and the type of music (classical-ish)the Concept is a better fit. But I am glad I have the D’Addario too and wouldn’t part with it
@@grantkoeller8911 not a true statement.
@@pimpovic2, I disagree , as you can test for yourself,,,,,truthfully, any ligature will sound fine....
Grant, the only reason I commented is because I have indeed tested for myself. For example, at the moment, I have a sample size of 3 ligatures. Each one is different from the next.
A standard Rovner (Dark) plays a bit down the middle, but it's held back from expression because it has too much resistance. You can only blow so much air through it until the effort becomes fruitless. It doesn't allow for free blowing and expressive sound. If you're soloing and don't have to stand out, you can deal with a bit of muffle.
The Rovner Mark 3 is a great mix of mellow sound but freedom to blow and play to any side you choose. You can make it mellow, or you can ramp it up to a loud expressive sound with a great possibility for articulation and crispness. The two Rovners are very different from one another. Not to mention the sound change when you flip the lig upside down.
The only metal ligature I have at the moment is a Yani, and it is by far the brightest of the 3. It's the brightest and most expressive and allows the most free playing and ability to attack the notes. Paired with the right reed and mouthpiece it can be very bright sounding and would easily cut through in a group.
There are several players that claim ligs only hold reeds in place, then there are those they claim they will transform the life of your first born.
I don't agree with either extreme. I've tried several over the years and they each add their own special ingredient to the pot. To say otherwise is to do yourself an injustice. We are all in search of a certain sound, which is why we watch these videos incessantly. The mix of the 3 parts of mouthpiece, reed, and ligature is a never ending source of consternation to a player because each has the ability to tweak the sound that we're looking to achieve, and the one at which we currently have arrived.
There is no one size fits all formula, this is evidenced by the number of options on the market.
At the moment, my Rovner Mark 3 is my favorite lig. It's my best all rounder, and combined with my Meyer 6, and a 2.5 Hemke reed gives me the sweet sound I like. If I need to cut through, I'll change to a VanDoren ZZ or Alexander NY which allow for more expression and articulation, and switch to a metal lig. There's no comparison. In the right setting I might even use a Plasticover reed.
There's so much variation to be found, I'm sad for you if you're missing it. I'd recommend you play around and find your favorite combo.
*Edited to correct the ligature specifics. The more I was thinking about it, something felt off on my description. I went back and checked the original boxes and cleared up the exact models of Rovner I (thought I) was describing.
I have been playing jazz for a little while now, I have noticed that even variations in reed placement can have a pretty big impact on my jazz tone
*plays jazz*“this one sounds more jazzy” *plays basic Bb scale* “this one is really bland”
Been playing alto sax for about 5 years now and started to play tenor this year. I’ve never changed my basic plastic mouthpiece. Guess it’s time I get an upgrade. Thx for the tips.
I bought a student alto saxophone just over a month ago and upgraded to the Yamaha 4C mouthpiece and Rico 2.0 reeds a Legere Signature 2 reed. It was easier to control and my playing improved but not a lot, expected that as a beginner. More recently after seeing this, I wanted to try a different mouthpiece but not being able to go anywhere that I could test some, after seeing this I wanted a mouthpiece that wouldn't be restricting to what I could play so bought the Meyer 6M and a Rovner Versa ligature with Legere 2 1/4 reeds. I liked the sound of the D'addario Select Jazz, but with people saying its tight fitting and can take of the cork on the neck, I decided to not get it.
After getting the moutpiece, I found the Meyer was a a bit tight fitting on my saxophone neck and even with a good amount of cork grease (may need a little more) it shaved off a slight amount of cork when I was removing it over the easy fitting Yamaha 4C. Despite that, when I started playing on it, I found I was able to get a better sound almost instantly and was able to have more control over the sound and tone. I first used the Rovner Versa Lig with the metal plate resting on the reed and I was getting the bright, big sound you mentioned (my neighbours will like that I am sure!), but with the Rovner versa lig, I put the rubber flaps over the plate and played again and got a bit of a more darker tone which I was able to control more. Almost sounded like I was playing a different saxophone at first there was such a difference in the sound.
Jim this is the greatest lesson about different sounds that each mouthpiece can make with just one horn, more especially the beginner student one. I never had the opportunity to test all that because of a lack of saxophone-selling gear stores where I live. Thanks.
Best sound with Selmer Concept and Meyer HR 6M, to me, old man who played all saxophones till my years of age. Thanks Jim. And good play you gave us.
very interesting video Jim thank you ! I'm playing with the Yamaha 4C as beginner for 8 months and you video will help me for the next , very informative thank you. Cheers from Belgium
I’m in the exact same boat as you were when you posted this 2 years ago 😂. Got myself a JodyJazz HR* :)
Oh, mann, there's more to mouthpieces than I thought! Thanks for these demonstrations, Jim. Total beginner here. Still on my 'Yamaha 4C' and don't really have a style yet. Definitely liked the sounds made on the 'Meyer' and 'Jody Jazz'. Looking forward to upgrading time!
I almost fell into a peaceful, relaxing slumber listening to your voice! I forgot I was looking for sax mouthpieces 😂
The thing is, Jim, you could make a literal bent pipe with a reed sound awesome.
Wow Jim, you really made the sax shine with that Jody Jazz. Amazing sound from that one.
It is so interesting hearing all the tonal differences.
The Selmer Concept was my favourite. 😊
Best comparison of affordable Upgrade mouthpieces for alto. And Great playing and Sound too.
USEFUL! Exactly similar to my experience - Played 4 years, from 4C to S-80 C* to Otto etc, etc, but my goto is JODY HR on YAS62 (then TJ signature custom raw which sounds better than Yamaha IMHO). JJ is open, lively, with just enough brightness, edge, loudness and punch, easy to control the sound you want with dif reeds and ligs. An mpc you can keep. To ME, the jazz select sounds most interesting - perhaps WHY you put as LAST and favourite w/o saying so. THANKS brilliant video. suggest u run up the whole scale for us to compare AND play dif things after to show their strengths.
I've been playing with a cheap plastic mouthpiece for 3 years of band and I never thought of upgrading until my teacher told us about it and I'm troubled on what to get but I think ill go for the meyer
Don't knock plastic. Brilhart's mouthpieces from before they were bought out by Selmer (especially the early Great Neck, NY pieces) are some of the best mouthpieces ever made (and were certainly good enough for giants like Charlie Parker, Benny Carter, and Johnny Hodges). Two years ago I was trying out a bunch of pieces at my local shop, including a few modern Meyer, Berg Larsen, and Vandoren hard rubber pieces without much luck. Then I popped on a Brilly Personaline tonalin, and my horn absolutely SANG. Now I play on a Great Neck (also tonalin) and I'll never play another piece again on my alto again.
Excellent video - I loved the Otto Link. Punchy with some soulful smokeyness in there hidden away.
I've been playing for over 6 and a half years and still play the 4c yamaha xD
I played for 10 years on the 4c and just realized that there is such a thing as upgrading the mouthpiece. Lol I'm dumb. I'll upgrade to the vandoren jumbo java
@@juliankochanowicz5626 Same thing here haha Amazing how a whole new World is unveiling here 😂
@@vincenta.3049 I got an A8 V16. Took some getting used to but i love it. I already sound a thousand times better!
Been enjoying my 4C for 25 years. It's a nice mouthpiece.
@@juliankochanowicz5626 hi. Is this mouth piece good for pop ?? Many thanks Pat
Hey Jim! This video was very helpful! May you review some of the metal mouth pieces as well?
Please do this for Bari! (and Tenor)
Thepineapplemonk We'll try go through all the saxes when we get time 👍🏻
What size tip opening did you use with the otto link mouth piece in this video?
Hi, it seems like it's a 6*, which is standard medium, equivalent to Meyer 7. I switched from Selmer S80 to Otto Link 6* and it was a happy change! I use it with Rico Jazz 3.5. Hope this helps!
Sax .co.uk you better lol
Thankyou, I recently upgraded my tenor saxophone mouthpiece from the poor quality plastic one I got, to a much nicer one, before my mouthpiece made it so my saxophone couldn’t play past a D without ruining the tone, so I was using overtones only. Thankyou so much
I can hear the tonal quality differences between the two mouthpieces.
Great advice; informative discourse.
I 've playing since August, where I baught my sop. sax ... and I already upgrade d my mouth piece , so if in doubt you can't go wrong with the Jodi Jazz 6*, beutiful, warm, full sound and free blowing ... I just started using val. 2.5 V12 reeds, I like the resistance. ..and so far, the best tone Imo .... great video, keep up the good work, I'll be wanting a tenor soon ;)
Meyer - 8:01
Jody jazz - 11:06
D'addario - 13:31
next time, please play the same excerpt or notes so that we can hear the differences more clearly. thank you
If using the same (new?) reed, as the test progresses the reed will absorb water and sound much better. Best test would be to play the same phrases and then again in reverse order to negate water absorption effect.
Interresting comparssion.
I'll watch this video again in a few years, when I master my new Instrument well enough that that the limiting factor will be not me, but the Mouthpiece...
I'm an absolute Beginner, bought me a Yamaha YAS 280 (4C Mouthpiece was standard) about a month ago.
So I guess the only Upgrades I'll need for a long time is emboucher and breath training -> peroids of long tone exercises.
(and learning how to read notes...)
Exciting times!
@@cj_ocean Uploaded 2 Vids recently about my Progress (have 3 months of practice now).
I'm not the fastest learner, but I have much fun.
Started Yesderday to learn some songs for Xmas...
i've had 10 lessons by now, started 21th of July, this week, last monday 5-10-20, i purchased a YAS 25, and it came with 2Yam4c mpc. the day after i went to the local retailer, its in the same village i live, and bought myself a Selmer Concept.... i playtested a Yam Custom, Vandooren Optimum, Selmer Cstar, Selmer Concept and a Selmer Seles Prologue.... the Concept came out the best for me, it plays so easily, nice sound and easy for tuning.
I can easily hear the difference.. Of course if you can't stick with the cheap one. But I am thinking that he plays differently expecting the cheap sound. Fair enough I had to edit because there was a mention of reed quality and strength. But that is equally as important as the mouthpiece. The Jody was quite bright, I think the Vandoren would be my choice, warmer tone, but then of course it could have been embouchure
I meant to order an Otto Link Tone Edge 6* but ended up ordering an 8* by accident, and it was the hardest transition I've ever made, especially from a Jupiter generic mouthpiece. I have gotten used to it, however, and it has great tone.
I find that the Meyer is more for jazz. For me it's really obvious when I play compared to my classical C*
I’m 5 years in and have just never been able to afford a mouthpiece upgrade and now my stock mouthpiece cracked so now I’m looking for a solid budget upgrade
I was thinking Vandoren V16 A6 small chamber
It will depend on what type of music you're playing.
For a budget jazz piece, look at the Rico Metalite. Less than $30.
Great video - I'm pointing my students this way from now on.
Thank you for the help mate!
I thought I was trying to get back into playing Sax but now I really want to learn!! Very handsome ;)
I wish this video had been around 25 years ago! I do enjoy the 4C that came with my YAS-62 but would like better dynamics because the instrument is so naturally powerful. I bought a Meyer 5-medium decades ago but rarely use it because the 4C sounds more open. I want to have the option of a more delicate sound but not strangled. A bonus would be greater ability to bend and blend. With my Buescher I could do that easily and smoothly but the Yamaha "clings" to the notes so I regret not keeping both instruments.
Loved my selmer concept. Great video!
When are you guys going to make another duet or quartet or trio etc.? (I think this is a question we all want to know)
If you are, can it be one with Jim and Scott?
I'm pretty sure you sold me on the Jodi mouthpiece! i'm in the US but if i'm ever in england i'd love to check out your store!
I've really found a JD Hite has a great sound on it. They had a pro line, but I purchased a cheap version for my Tenor and it performed almost as well. Great range, no squeaks you can get a nice "chewy" sound if you want... I just like them.
I also purchased (many years back) a metal Rovner mouthpiece. I love that mouthpiece, and I don't know why they don't make them any more (not that I've seen anywhere)... It had a HUGE deep chamber, and just played strong.
Brilliant review, thanks. Would love to hear the same with Tenor's, this time also with some metal options!
Fabulous and insightful demonstration / video.
Fine playing and a very informative video. Thank you!
I've been playing for 4 years on a stock stagg mouthpiece so ya I'm probably due for a upgrade
I would love to see this same video but with metals. Make it happen!
the jody was my fav
Very helpful, thanks jimbo
Did Jim have a bad haircut or something? ;)
cheek :-D
So, need y'all to go ahead and open a Shoppe in Louisiana, Okay? see you soon
I'll be having my first performance in October so I'm looking for a mouth piece to upgrade for my first show..
goodluck bro.... you'll nail it
Those Selmers sound gorgeous compared to my Yamaha 4C.
Very informative. Thank you.
I have played guitar for like 20 years. Just messing around. I watched La La Land and have been music all day since. haha I play piano everyday for a few hours. So, I decided to get myself a sax. Super excited.
I got the mouth piece and other stuff today. I was excited to just make a sound with that and the reed.
But, the reed was to big for the 4c mouth piece. So, I just ordered a 5c. haha If that does not work, my ass will just go to a music store and ask them what I need.
I saw the jazz mouth things when I registered my reeds. I dig their sound. I will have to order one. But, the sax I am getting is the Yamaha YAS 480, which is as expensive as hell. So, I may wait a few months.
Great video. Very informational stuff.
hey, I love your videos, and I'm finally going to great Britain this summer and I am excited to visit your shop in London. Is it possible to make a video comparing your favorite metal tenor mouthpieces? I think that would be a really great and helpful video
I hope to see you there next summer!
Thank you for the video....I use a metal Claude Lake 8* Alto mpc....it's a screamer when I want that and subito.works well to :-)
Very good tip, plus I prefer the Vandoren
The thing about the Meyer is that its covered in hair!
what???
Personally love my HR * on my tenor sax (only 0.80 tip opening) but it's a fun piece to play on, I came from stock to 4c to HR*
Don't knock plastic. Pre-Selmer Brilharts (tonalin and ebolin) are some of the best mouthpieces ever made.
I think if youre talking about all this, maybe mention $$$? It would never occur to me to discuss musical instruments without talking about cost. :) Kind of not fair to get someone very attached to something that's light years out of their league.
The Yamaha 4C is all of 25.00. Made a huge difference. So, do-able. I've seen some that are REALLY expensive, tho.
Winds of March Journey/Perry tribute band they’ll show a really good one...then when you go in the shop and see the price, a huge dude will come from downstairs and will walk you to the ATM, or will make you phone around for a friend to bring the money.
I upgraded from the Yamaha 4 c, to a selmer c**, and now just upgraded to meyer 6m
Thanks for the demo. I bought a used Yamaha 480 alto and came with a Selmer S80 C* and it wasn't free blowing enough and didn't seal great. I bought another Selmer S80 C* (was supposed to be original facing curve and tip) and had the same situation. I like the tone profile by means of being dark, having enough focus, etc. just I don't seem to have some lack of definition and free blowing experience with Vandoren traditional #3 compared to Yamaha 4C that came with my sax. I like to see in the realm of note definition (classical) and warm and kinda dark tone like Selmer C*, is there any other good mouthpiece (free blowing, fast response, good clear staccato, good control for pitch, in the same tip opening as Selmer C* or C** out there that you can point at? Thanks a lot.
Since your referencing beginners, you might also mention reed size as well
Good video :) can you do one for tenor mouthpieces?
I have played tenor sax for years and that is the only one I own. What's interesting to me is you find that several companies make their best mouthpieces for what seems to be one size of sax (alto, tenor, soprano, etc.) For example, Meyer mouthpieces are regarded as some of the best for jazz on alto, but not as highly for tenor.
I recently had some things stolen from a suitcase of mind when traveling, particularly my V16 T9 rubber mouthpiece. So I've returned to my very first jazz mouthpiece (Otto link 6* - a great intermediate choice), and it plays well but I am looking to upgrade again soon.
Sorry for the long comment, but does that make sense? I would love to get some input from a video or something, even one with metal mouthpieces too. What I've found on the internet when looking for my next best choice mouthpiece has actually been quite unhelpful
You should review the new DICKERSON RESONATOR ligature for alto sax sold on ebay
Do a video on different reeds such as the sizes and the different types of vandoren reeds or reed brands in general
I can hear a BIG difference
First one sounded great. Second one sounded Great. Third one….wait a second, hmmm…🤔I think he might be a great player…That being said The Selmer Concept C** was a better ‘do both’ sound to me, then it was between the Jody Jazz and the D’Dario for the jazz punch. It’s always a bit tricky with such great musicians as they compensate w/o trying to make the sound a certain way!
I love you guys, I just want to fly over to the U.K. And have a playing frenzy!
Here is my question: I want to play classic tunes such as Lily was here, An englishman in New York, Careless Whispers etc so in order to be able to play said songs, to which mouthpiece do i need to upgrade...?
PS: I forgot to mention, i just got an Alto Sax as a bday gift, and i have the standard mouthpiece that comes with the sax...
Careless Whisper was played on a stainless steel Berg Larsen, and was actually played on tenor (they manipulated the speed of the recording and that made it sound like an alto).
With Lily Was Here, that's Candy Dulfer. She plays on a custom mouthpiece something like a Lebayle or Dukoff (according to her personal website). Both types are metal.
Branford Marsalis played the sax part on Englishman in New York. This was a soprano sax, not alto, and I think he may have been playing on a Bari piece at the time. This was a hard rubber piece with a metal shank.
Altogether, you're looking at a brighter, edgier mouthpiece.
When you have the time, Jim, could you do a review of the different professional Yamaha horns collectively in the same video?
This is super helpful, thanks!
Really enjoyed this post.
Should have given probably more information if the same sound as been produced by each to let us ear the real diference. Thanks you for the démonstration anyway
Again, *very* helpful.
Thanks, Jim
Also,I have been playing jazz standards on a Rascher mouthpiece
Wow! You couldn’t get a more classical mouthpiece than a Sigurd Rascher. I imagine your sound is like Paul Desmond?
Very helpful. Thank you much.
Started with Yamaha 4C and 4weeks later mooved to Yamaha 6C. It is a huge diffrence and do recomend 6C. Much bigger and ceaner sound.
We'd recommend Yamaha mouthpieces all the way for complete beginner's, great to get started with and makes it so easy. This clip is for people who have been playing for 6 months plus and what the next step is after your good ol' Yamaha mouthpiece.
stay away from plastic, you need to get a hard rubber mouthpiece ,Meyer is hard rubber, Otto Link is hard rubber
Jim, Any opinion on the Jody Jazz rubber mouthpieces?
The Jody jazz has a wedge, which makes it perfect for smooth jazz, and rock and roll, The Meyer has the New York Chamber which is round , with a roll over baffle and hollowed out side walls for the true jazz Bebop mouthpiece of all time!!
At 11:47 Jim says the Vandoren is a V35 but the video shows v45
Hey, great video! Do you have any suggestions for an intermediate/pro alto mouthpiece (as opposed to a beginner mouthpiece) that leans toward a more jazzy tone but is capable of great warmth for classical playing?
Thanks!
Bryan Nguyen The Meyer or the Jodyjazz are my go to for something more of a hybrid.
It there a relationship between price and quality related mouthpieces? If not, you don’t really upgrade, but trying to find one that suits you.
Very informative, i am on basic plastic that came with my saxophone and looking to upgrade as a learner still, not sure what would be best for me. Yamaha 4c or Selmer C*
I played the original mouthpeice throgh my whole basic music edutiacon of 6 years :D
Is it possible for you guys to make a video on the Eastman 52nd Street alto or tenor? Would be great.
On the left, second from the top shelf, what is that reddish looking mouthpiece? And will you be doing similar videos for other types of saxophones, and possibly adding in metal mouthpieces?
It's Rafael Navarro's mouthpiece
Jim ( or anyone else actually), witch one would you say is the most freeblowing?! And perharps the easier to play in tune ?
Obs: only between the ; Meyer, otto link, jody jazz , Vandoren and D'addario
What would be the best marching band mouthpiece in your opinion
I’ve used the Yamaha 4c for 3 years and my stock ligature just broke should I upgrade both parts or just replace ligature?
Jody Jazz HR * 6M is the most top
Really good videos as always... and i have a question about that Red Mouthpiece in the background... what mouthpiece is that ??
Meyer sounds best - that's why I bought one. Tried them all
I thought the same thing.
Yea i ended up getting a meyer 7M years ago and still love it
It would have been helpful for me if you had indicated both the tip opening and reed strength you were using with each of the mouthpieces. Recently, I dug out a Kell Geometric alto mouthpiece I bought years ago, and I love it.
Why? What might work for Jim may not work for you, this is something you have to test yourself and find the correct lay and reed strength :)