The Gaia hard rubber was the best sound I've ever heard you produce. Great sound on that piece Jay. I could listen to you play that as your main setup forever.
1. The ambika has an incredibly smoky sound, it isn't incredibly dark, but it still has a very mellow sound. 2. Gaia 3 hard rubber/metal I feel they are quite similar to the ambika, but it has more edge and punch, it can go a bit further, I prefer the metal version. 3. The durga 4 is already very bright, kind of sounds like a dukoff, which I play at the moment. Having said this, I'm not crazy about it, I feel like it's trying to be something kind of like a dukoff or a guardala, but is kind of it's own thing. She still sings with a nice mellow tone in the ballade. 4. The shiva is a screamer, shiva is infact the god of distruction. She is powerful, and is so powerful, it is almost like having a Reed that is to light, but in a good way. I love the sound of a bright piece in ballads, the shiva is a perfect example of that. Thanks Jay :)
1) ben webster 2) 3) dexter surprisingly hr edgier without woofy bad sound on many HR 4) dex again more so. High notes break up strangely 5) same as last
The sound is amazing from all of them. Anyway it's from the player 95%. You play beautiful JAY... and thank for all the opportunity you give to your subscribers to win these wonderful and expensive mouthpieces.
I haven't tried a hard rubber in a very long time. I've been using metal mouthpieces the most on my alto and tenor. But I think I need to try a hard rubber to have a good comparison. Thanks for the review!
Sax player in military and bought a Fire series from Theo Wanne because of your review. I have LOVED it and have gotten compliments on the new sound. Has taken me to a new level. Thanks! 🤙🏽
After hearing Julien Wilson and Jan Garbarek, I didn’t hesitate to purchase the Ambika 3 gold #8 for playing standards such as Misty. For the brighter stuff I got the Jody Jazz DV Platinum 20th anniversary. For everything in between I got the Drake Masters Series Pete Christlieb. The best of all worlds.
I like both Ambika and Gaia 3 HR and, on the bright and punchy side the Shiva.. I'm talking of course on how you sound..!! Great video, Jay. Thanks a lot
WOW! I love the Saxophone. I had no idea that you had to switch mouth pieces to play it. You are an incredible Sax player. I enjoyed all of them. I did hear a different sound from them though. I thought the difference sounds came from you playing harder or softer. 🤷🏾🤦🏾 Thanks for sharing.🎷 💞💕👍🏾👍🏾
I felt the Gaya3 hard rubber and the Sheva afforded you the most expression. To me that kind of ease gives way to greater improvisation! I listened to several of your videos today. I’ve never met a sax man that didn’t doctor his horn to preference, that being said I felt that cheap Amazon didn’t get the credit it deserved. I thought your quality on it was rather good. Jean Paul Tenor surprised me and I agreed with you. The bari video was very interesting, the cheaper bari was good but your pro model was sweet! I’m a Mark VI man myself, when you step away from it for awhile, coming back the Mark VI is like picking up a frettless bass! I’m almost 70 and haven’t played professionally for some time, my advice is never stop! I enjoy you my man!
Definitely my favorite is the Ambica3. A beautiful sound. I actually taught the Theo Wanna sales guys to improve their playing. I tried a few mouthpieces on one of his tenors and loved them. Thanks for another great video, Jay.
Very nice Jay, as always! How a mouthpiece plays the notes below low D for me, is the real test. The Gaia 3 Metal on this video is the best, in my opinion. I play a Mantra Metal 8 mouthpiece on tenor, which Theo Wanne no longer sells, and it gives me that same robust low end, lush mids and clear highs throughout the entire range of the horn. Thank you Jay for all your great instructional videos!
I love the Ambika sound! Dark, nice and smooth. They other 4 all sound better then a lot of other pieces you have presented in your other videos but I like dark (but not the color).
On the Gia, I didn't find much of a difference, but certain phrases seemed brighter on the hard metal, but on the ballads the metal Gia seemed more focused...
I prefer the hard rubber mouthpiece, because it sounds cleaner, and glides smoother in the altissimo register, creating a unique class-by- itself voice and timbre. Your composure also appeared more relaxed with the hard rubber version. My first mouthpiece was Berg Larsen open- hole #7 hard rubber mouthpiece, I purchased from Manny's on 52nd St, in Manhattan, NYC. I only paid $20, but that was in 1968.
I tried a Gaia 3 tenor hr a year ago last summer while I was playing a theater show. I really liked the playability of the design and reed friendliness but I found it to get quite “spitty” quicker than other mpcs when doubling and picking it up after having been sitting on the stand between switches. My theory was that the “shark gill” design let more water accumulate on the baffle area leading to more spittiness.
The Ambika is really lovely. I love the warm sound. The difference between the hard rubber and metal Gaia is definitely the fact that the metal is edgier, gives more of a punch. I got the Durga on Alto and love it. I have something similar on tenor, but it's SR Tech, not Theo Wanne. The Shiva is interesting. Gotta say, wasn't expecting a mouthpiece that is brighter than the Durga lol.
I've been on the metal GAIA 3 6* for a couple of years now. I use Rigotti 3.5 M or D'Addario Jazz select 3M unfiled. I use it for every gig I play: jazz quartet to loud commercial bands with a 2 or 3 horn section. It can be a very loud piece and works well for commercial gigs. Very versatile.
What an acutely accurate review: the hard rubber pieces will always be my favorite tenor mouth pieces to play on, but the Ambika has an incredibly unique & vibrant sound quality!! You might actually hear the saxes in the marching band with that shiva mouthpiece though; what a screamer!!
Regardless of what you felt on rubber ( to me ), you sounded better on the metal Gaia 3 though. Even the lowest note 7:51 resonated more. However, it will always be an individual's choice ( as you said ) Agreed with you about the Durga. not for you buddy, and Shiva reminds me of Dukoff D8 Thanks for the review.
Interesting comparison and great video. I used to play the original Gaia HR but now have the Gaia 3 in an 8 tip both in HR and metal. I can't believe how little sound difference there is between them, although the metal has a different feel. The HR is probably the most powerful HR piece I have ever played. With a Silverstein ligature it sounds even better.
I think that the Gaia H/r sounds slightly warmer and more rounded than the Metal, you play them both very well and someone else commented all the mouthpieces tested sound like you. Brilliant video thank you. I would not normally get to hear these mouthpieces as very expensive.
I love your videos! They’ve really helped me improve in my overall playing, as I have switched from clarinet and needed to find a good tone on my sax. I’ve even gotten better at improv! Thank you so much for posting helpful and informational videos!
Gaia HR all day long for me. My immediate reaction was that it sounds warmer than the metal version, even before your observation about how it feels. Nearly bought one a short while ago but baulked at the price. Went for the much cheaper (although still quite expensive) Jody Jazz 'custom dark' and haven't regretted it for a moment!
I thought the AMBIKA was fantastic, but then I heard the hard rubber GAIA. For me the rubber seemed a bit richer than the metal on the ballad. To may favorite is either the AMBIKA or the hard rubber GAIA. Thanks for this review and comparison.
Dang, bought a Durga a couple of years back - the Ambika sounds so much better to my ear - in your opinion is there much difference between the Ambika 2 and 3?
The Theo Wanne mouthpieces are like works of art. They look too beautiful to play. I think that the Gaia 3 and the Shiva are very bright and powerful. The Ambika 3 is smooth and bright. The Durga is darker and full-bodied.
The Ambika 3 does it for me. I prefer the Stan Getz/John Coltrane sound and approach to playing, (If only I was that good!), but I rarely go high or scream so the others are not really my bag. There's another element to playing multiple mouthpiece testing and multiple saxophone testing above a certain quality, which is the player's input. Line up several mouthpieces, keeping all other variables the same, or do the same with good quality saxes by keeping mouthpiece and reed the same, and after a short time they start to sound the same - 'player's input' which can only be a good thing Jay?
I just got my tenor after playing alto for upwards of 8 years. (I bought a yani from tenor madness). I bought a C* because that's what I had for my alto, but, as you can imagine, it doesn't have a solid jazz sound. I was just thinking about getting a jazz mouth piece, and the metal ones have always looked interesting to me.
Thanks for the new video! I was surprised and actually liked your sound on the Shiva the best. I thought it had a lot of detail and overtones but wasn't shrill, and sounded great on the low notes as well as higher.
Jay your review was spot on. I always wanted the Ambika metal for jazz. The Gaia metal is louder but similar to the hr version. I also like the shiva over the Durga. I think the chamber is smaller on the shiva. Now I want to add more jazz into my music
In your Dec 2019 “link inspired” metal mpc review, you intrigued me with your comment about having to get used to the Gaia. Months after watching this video, I bought one and also needed to spend some time with it. I struggled with the 7* metal Gaia until I used a #3 reed for better (crisper) response than my typical #2.5 reed. In my head, I was saying, “Eh.” as I just wasn’t feeling and hearing what I expected…until I listened to my recordings (which I always recommend when evaluating a mouthpiece). I’ve never experienced such a difference between what my head heard and the recorded reality (been playing >50 years). I use the Gaia with a copper Keilwerth (CX-90) tenor which is a “big horn” with a unique bore that likes a greater volume of air. It took me over 1 year to finally try that Gaia. If I had judged it on the first pass, I would have never found out what a great mpc it is for me. Thanks for your thoughtful evaluation and comments.
That's something I've learned over the last few years testing so many mouthpieces. I've gotten much more flexible so it no longer takes me time to get used to a new piece, but this took me a long time to get to that point. For most players who only play 1 or a few mouthpieces, a change will usually feel strange at first even if the mouthpiece is a better match for their target sound. Also finding the right reed match is huge.
The gala hard rubber mouthpiece had that smoky vintage sound that I like and the metal Im not so familiar with but a brighter sound also fine depends on what music you want to play.
Jay There is very little difference between the Gaia metal and the hard rubber mouthpiece, However I will say the the rubber sounds a little fuller And I think produces a very full and warm tone However I do believe it’s more about the player rather the mouthpiece or instrument and that is why perhaps it is difficult to distinguish any real significant difference because you are able to get your sound out regardless of the mouth piece. I
For my taste..Gaia3 metal. I prefer the link sound..so I like very much this Gaia because I found it similar to OL but with more modern sound: Very good sound. Thank you for your videos. Gracias
Never really entered the world of mouth pieces. Has used the same hard rubber Selmer mouth piece for the last 30 years. It sounds good so why change? Hopefully I now get a chance to explore this topic when I win one of these...
Hi! I love this mouthpieces and I really need one of these. I am playing sax like 4 years and dont have a good mouthpiece so I would be reaaaallllyyyy happy if I could get one!
I actually preferred the sound of the hard rubber Gaia. I might be wrong, but the higher register notes seemed to come out a tad cleaner on the hard rubber piece as well. Thanks to you and your reviews, it's rekindled my desire to play! I played for about 15 years straight (concert, marching, and jazz bands) then stopped after college when I started working. I have an old King 613 Alto, but I much prefer Tenor but hesitated due to prices. But thanks to your reviews, I just got my new Jean Paul TS400 and I can't wait to re-build my chops! Now I just need to figure out mouthpieces; I got the Yamaha 5C to start with until I get back to where I once was and need/want something better.
Mouthfeel is so important! As someone who moves between several horns and setups (for jazz/folk/classical), I've been moving away from metal mouthpieces as they just feel so different in the mouth compared to a classical hard rubber piece.
Gaia3 Metal jus has that bit brighter sound over all [resonates bit longer] but i wood also play the hard rubber version 2 Shiva3metal would be nexts choice... loud is good
Hey Hey, Maestro J! Hard Rubber always saves the day and pulls one from the "edge" of metal piece allowing the softness that one can transform into whole other real style.
You seemed SO relaxed on the Shiva! I think it would play if you just looked at it! 😆 I was surprised how much I liked it, as I'm into darker pieces. Sounding great on all of them. Loved the warmth of the HR Gaia but the highs on the metal Gaia were better than on the HR in my opinion. It'd be the Ambika or Gaia for me. Thanks for the review Jay 👍🎷💛
Although you might not feel that comfortable with the Durga and Shiva, you really sound comfortable on those pieces. And your playing is superb. After playing a Ponzol M2 plus .110 for a decade, I switched to a Durga 3 (9) and really am enjoying it. Theo makes some great pieces.
I’m still working hard to hear those importantly different sounds. You make them all sound so good! If I were to pick a fave, it would be the Ambika or the Gaia hard rubber. But I’m afraid I need much more than a better mouthpiece....
I love your sound on the hard rubber mouthpieces. They seem to add warmth and a little heft to your sound. I lean toward the brighter side hopefully I can win something nnew. Peace.
First off, they all sound like you, no surprise there. but I do like the darker ones for myself. I thought the Shiva had a little sizzle to the sound. They are all great, just personal preference.
All drool worthy but i have never won anything in my life but i do wish every else good luck! Ambika 3 would be my choice because im sure it whispered i love you ;-)
You played the 1st one so well, like resonating within me well. It was also an improv so now I’m a little concerned about my palatte 😹 great solo! Edit: Maybe it’s the sound, I just assumed all jazz mouthpieces were BRIGHT and all metal mouth pieces were BRIGHT BRIGHT.
Thanks for a comprehensive and honest review Jay. I expected the hard rubber to be more mellow but I honestly couldn’t tell the difference in the two Gaia3 models. I noticed that with the brighter mouthpieces you played an 8 instead of a 7* and wondered why that is? It also looked like you had the Ligature on the metal Gaia3 one hole nearer the tip than the other ones that were in the middle. Is there a reason for that? Thanks again.
I really liked your sound both, but I agree, I think the hard rubber sounded better to my ears and is right where I’d want my sound to be. I’d seriously consider one of these. And, to my eyes, looking at your embouchure while you played, the HR mouthpiece seemed more effortless, if it’s possible to “see” that.
I play the Durga 4 now and in the past I hated the Durgas, somehow this new model works well for my set up, I would love to try the Shiva but man it is loud. great reviews as always Jay!
Gaia HR for me and I think it will be the best for You. Grate control, correct height in each register and a beautiful, warm, full tone. I think the mouthpiece should help you express yourself on any subject and Gaia will do the best for You.
From what I gather, Theo stopped making the Datta back in 2012. It was a SUPER high baffle piece and plays like a rocket. Really bright! I ended up settling on the Jumbo Java which is really similar.
I think I definitely prefer the Shiva 3. I just borrowed a tenor saxophone from my school but it has a few mechanical problems that render it useless. Buuuuuuuut I’m taking it to the music shop tomorrow to get it repaired and I can’t wait to play it! If anyone has any tips it’d be greatly appreciated, I already play alto and Bari if that helps (hopefully it does!) Edit: Ya know, now that I compare the two, I REALLY like both the Gaia 3 and the Shiva 3.
Gaia 3 hard rubber sounds rounder but there is a slightly higher volume of low mid-range frequency around 400 hz that comes from the metal mouthpiece that I love to not let Gaia’s personality come out a bit thin sounding. However on your reed and mic choice / positioning, you have a swell around 4 to 4.5 kHz that can sound a bit harsh that the hard rubber version doesn’t have. Overall the hard rubber version has a more uniform sound. Not sure if that conveys to a limited tonal profile. Perhaps with different choices of reed the metal one can sound more versatile and the tone fine tuned to the liking. Thanks for the review. I think Gaia has THAT sound! although I found in generation 3 with larger window and reducing resistance by minimizing boundary layer friction the versatility of tone production reduces while we can have such a joy playing effortlessly. I would love if you could try Ambika hard rubber and Ambika metal side by side and let us know what you think. Also if you could compare the tone and feel of let’s say Ambika 7 or 6* and harder reed vs. 7* and softer reed. I think everyone talks about Link Tone Master days of legends but it’s not enough coverage to compare old style of playing (closed tip mouthpieces with harder reed like John Coltrane with #6 Tone Master and 4 or 4.5 reed strength) to more modern choices of medium to large tip opening and softer reeds. Assuming what Theo says for Ambika being a rendition of old Tone Master mouthpiece, I think this demonstration will be very valuable.
Hi Jef. I think the hard rubber sounds more like the style I like. I’m thinking about to by my tenor. The mouthpiece aperture should be like my altos? Thanks
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
The Gaia hard rubber was the best sound I've ever heard you produce. Great sound on that piece Jay. I could listen to you play that as your main setup forever.
It always makes my day when BetterSax uploads!
Same
Ender Dempsey, I agree with you! ✔👍🏾👍🏾
I agree
I wish he kept teaching
Agreed dude, agreed
1. The ambika has an incredibly smoky sound, it isn't incredibly dark, but it still has a very mellow sound.
2. Gaia 3 hard rubber/metal I feel they are quite similar to the ambika, but it has more edge and punch, it can go a bit further, I prefer the metal version.
3. The durga 4 is already very bright, kind of sounds like a dukoff, which I play at the moment. Having said this, I'm not crazy about it, I feel like it's trying to be something kind of like a dukoff or a guardala, but is kind of it's own thing. She still sings with a nice mellow tone in the ballade.
4. The shiva is a screamer, shiva is infact the god of distruction. She is powerful, and is so powerful, it is almost like having a Reed that is to light, but in a good way. I love the sound of a bright piece in ballads, the shiva is a perfect example of that.
Thanks Jay :)
1) ben webster
2) 3) dexter surprisingly hr edgier without woofy bad sound on many HR
4) dex again more so. High notes break up strangely
5) same as last
The sound is amazing from all of them. Anyway it's from the player 95%. You play beautiful JAY... and thank for all the opportunity you give to your subscribers to win these wonderful and expensive mouthpieces.
Thanks! good luck!
I haven't tried a hard rubber in a very long time. I've been using metal mouthpieces the most on my alto and tenor. But I think I need to try a hard rubber to have a good comparison. Thanks for the review!
Sax player in military and bought a Fire series from Theo Wanne because of your review. I have LOVED it and have gotten compliments on the new sound. Has taken me to a new level. Thanks! 🤙🏽
great to hear! glad the piece is working out for you.
After hearing Julien Wilson and Jan Garbarek, I didn’t hesitate to purchase the Ambika 3 gold #8 for playing standards such as Misty. For the brighter stuff I got the Jody Jazz DV Platinum 20th anniversary. For everything in between I got the Drake Masters Series Pete Christlieb. The best of all worlds.
I like both Ambika and Gaia 3 HR and, on the bright and punchy side the Shiva.. I'm talking of course on how you sound..!! Great video, Jay. Thanks a lot
WOW! I love the Saxophone. I had no idea that you had to switch mouth pieces to play it. You are an incredible Sax player. I enjoyed all of them. I did hear a different sound from them though. I thought the difference sounds came from you playing harder or softer. 🤷🏾🤦🏾 Thanks for sharing.🎷 💞💕👍🏾👍🏾
I felt the Gaya3 hard rubber and the Sheva afforded you the most expression. To me that kind of ease gives way to greater improvisation! I listened to several of your videos today. I’ve never met a sax man that didn’t doctor his horn to preference, that being said I felt that cheap Amazon didn’t get the credit it deserved. I thought your quality on it was rather good. Jean Paul Tenor surprised me and I agreed with you. The bari video was very interesting, the cheaper bari was good but your pro model was sweet!
I’m a Mark VI man myself, when you step away from it for awhile, coming back the Mark VI is like picking up a frettless bass!
I’m almost 70 and haven’t played professionally for some time, my advice is never stop! I enjoy you my man!
Definitely my favorite is the Ambica3.
A beautiful sound. I actually taught the Theo Wanna sales guys to improve their playing. I tried a few mouthpieces on one of his tenors and loved them.
Thanks for another great video, Jay.
Is the ambica 3 help getting low b and c sharp?
Very nice Jay, as always! How a mouthpiece plays the notes below low D for me, is the real test. The Gaia 3 Metal on this video is the best, in my opinion. I play a Mantra Metal 8 mouthpiece on tenor, which Theo Wanne no longer sells, and it gives me that same robust low end, lush mids and clear highs throughout the entire range of the horn. Thank you Jay for all your great instructional videos!
I liked the sound of the Otto Link Florida Double Ring, the best👍
You are an amazing saxophonist👍
Love the Ambica and Gaia. I have the Gaia 3 HR Alto and love it, but like you say a cap that could be used for between playing would be useful
I love the Ambika sound! Dark, nice and smooth. They other 4 all sound better then a lot of other pieces you have presented in your other videos but I like dark (but not the color).
I know Theo personally, and he is a really nice guy, and makes truly great mouthpieces
You are spot on with your assessment of the diff in the Gaia HR vs metal
I admire how defined is your playing. Every note is clear as day and every dynamic is very marked. Great for recording.
Both GAIAS sound almost the same, though the Hard Rubber one would be my choice. Sounded warmer, fuller, and sexier to my ears
I prefer the sound of the Gaia metal over HR - for me it sounds a bit clearer - bun I am also very positive surprised of the Shiva
Sound like the Ambika 3 will go where you go. Like you said it has that punch and the Gaia 3 has that mildly darker sound and stays there.
Super interesting. Thanks for posting. The Gaia hard rubber seemed a bit smoother on top. But overall both are very very nice.
thanks for watching
Nice video Jay I bought my Vandoren V16 6 small chamber for my Alto sax today based on your video. Super happy with my purchase. Thanks
that's a great mouthpiece especially considering the price. glad it worked out for you.
I would enter the giveaway, but I don't play tenor, I only play bari. So I will let everyone else have a better chance of winning.
AmericanPatriot1776 thank you, btw the durga 4 on bari is good asf
Same I play alto
Thanks bud
Same here, i'll sit this out for my tenor pals.
The same goes for me. Succes!!!
On the Gia, I didn't find much of a difference, but certain phrases seemed brighter on the hard metal, but on the ballads the metal Gia seemed more focused...
I prefer the hard rubber mouthpiece, because it sounds cleaner, and glides smoother in the altissimo register, creating a unique class-by- itself voice and timbre. Your composure also appeared more relaxed with the hard rubber version. My first mouthpiece was Berg Larsen open- hole #7 hard rubber mouthpiece, I purchased from Manny's on 52nd St, in Manhattan, NYC. I only paid $20, but that was in 1968.
I tried a Gaia 3 tenor hr a year ago last summer while I was playing a theater show. I really liked the playability of the design and reed friendliness but I found it to get quite “spitty” quicker than other mpcs when doubling and picking it up after having been sitting on the stand between switches. My theory was that the “shark gill” design let more water accumulate on the baffle area leading to more spittiness.
Very interesting comment, thank you!
Love both Gaia mouthpieces. Slight difference, but I'd be happy with either. Sounded awesome bro!
The Ambika is really lovely. I love the warm sound. The difference between the hard rubber and metal Gaia is definitely the fact that the metal is edgier, gives more of a punch. I got the Durga on Alto and love it. I have something similar on tenor, but it's SR Tech, not Theo Wanne. The Shiva is interesting. Gotta say, wasn't expecting a mouthpiece that is brighter than the Durga lol.
You sound great on all the mouthpieces I like the Gaia 3 hard rubber
I lucked out. I got a Shiva 3 Hard Rubber a few years ago. Brand new at Sam Ash for $375. Love it.
I've been on the metal GAIA 3 6* for a couple of years now. I use Rigotti 3.5 M or D'Addario Jazz select 3M unfiled. I use it for every gig I play: jazz quartet to loud commercial bands with a 2 or 3 horn section. It can be a very loud piece and works well for commercial gigs. Very versatile.
Ambika for me - and Jay’s saxophone skills Haha. (Enjoying the Harmonic Foundation course. Thanks!)
Thanks, glad you are enjoying the new course!
I like the Gaia hard rubber also. It is expressive and versatile.
What an acutely accurate review: the hard rubber pieces will always be my favorite tenor mouth pieces to play on, but the Ambika has an incredibly unique & vibrant sound quality!!
You might actually hear the saxes in the marching band with that shiva mouthpiece though; what a screamer!!
Regardless of what you felt on rubber ( to me ), you sounded better on the metal Gaia 3 though. Even the lowest note 7:51 resonated more. However, it will always be an individual's choice ( as you said ) Agreed with you about the Durga. not for you buddy, and Shiva reminds me of Dukoff D8 Thanks for the review.
Hey there Jay, thaks for this review! Upon your video I bought the Ambika for my SMVII - this is what I was looking for. I´m really happy. Thank YOU!
Interesting comparison and great video. I used to play the original Gaia HR but now have the Gaia 3 in an 8 tip both in HR and metal. I can't believe how little sound difference there is between them, although the metal has a different feel. The HR is probably the most powerful HR piece I have ever played. With a Silverstein ligature it sounds even better.
The second mouthpiece you played . I Thought was my favourit
I love the darkness of that Ambika !!
All of these mouthpieces are fantastic!But of i have to choose one....Gaia hard rubber for me! It's a great combination of power and softness.
I think that the Gaia H/r sounds slightly warmer and more rounded than the Metal, you play them both very well and someone else commented all the mouthpieces tested sound like you. Brilliant video thank you. I would not normally get to hear these mouthpieces as very expensive.
I agree with you, the more mellow sound of the hard rubber mouthpiece
I love your videos! They’ve really helped me improve in my overall playing, as I have switched from clarinet and needed to find a good tone on my sax. I’ve even gotten better at improv! Thank you so much for posting helpful and informational videos!
Gaia HR all day long for me. My immediate reaction was that it sounds warmer than the metal version, even before your observation about how it feels. Nearly bought one a short while ago but baulked at the price. Went for the much cheaper (although still quite expensive) Jody Jazz 'custom dark' and haven't regretted it for a moment!
Jody Jazz custom dark is a great mouthpiece too. Not as bright as the Gaia
I thought the AMBIKA was fantastic, but then I heard the hard rubber GAIA. For me the rubber seemed a bit richer than the metal on the ballad. To may favorite is either the AMBIKA or the hard rubber GAIA. Thanks for this review and comparison.
Dang, bought a Durga a couple of years back - the Ambika sounds so much better to my ear - in your opinion is there much difference between the Ambika 2 and 3?
The Theo Wanne mouthpieces are like works of art. They look too beautiful to play.
I think that the Gaia 3 and the Shiva are very bright and powerful.
The Ambika 3 is smooth and bright.
The Durga is darker and full-bodied.
The Ambika 3 does it for me. I prefer the Stan Getz/John Coltrane sound and approach to playing, (If only I was that good!), but I rarely go high or scream so the others are not really my bag.
There's another element to playing multiple mouthpiece testing and multiple saxophone testing above a certain quality, which is the player's input. Line up several mouthpieces, keeping all other variables the same, or do the same with good quality saxes by keeping mouthpiece and reed the same, and after a short time they start to sound the same - 'player's input' which can only be a good thing Jay?
Nothing beats trying them yourself. We will all get a different feel from gear.
I just got my tenor after playing alto for upwards of 8 years. (I bought a yani from tenor madness). I bought a C* because that's what I had for my alto, but, as you can imagine, it doesn't have a solid jazz sound. I was just thinking about getting a jazz mouth piece, and the metal ones have always looked interesting to me.
The rubber mouthpiece, but overall "You", you sound awesome!
I've never had any luck with givaways and raffles but who knows... Jay just might give me a new mouthpiece for my birthday
good luck!
Thanks for the new video! I was surprised and actually liked your sound on the Shiva the best. I thought it had a lot of detail and overtones but wasn't shrill, and sounded great on the low notes as well as higher.
I play a Durga 3 A.R.T. piece on my alto. Absolutely love it, and it's blue!
Jay your review was spot on. I always wanted the Ambika metal for jazz. The Gaia metal is louder but similar to the hr version. I also like the shiva over the Durga. I think the chamber is smaller on the shiva. Now I want to add more jazz into my music
They all sound different and great playing. Thanks.
I have a Shiva destroyer 7* tenor model. would like to try the Gaia moder in metal.
In your Dec 2019 “link inspired” metal mpc review, you intrigued me with your comment about having to get used to the Gaia. Months after watching this video, I bought one and also needed to spend some time with it. I struggled with the 7* metal Gaia until I used a #3 reed for better (crisper) response than my typical #2.5 reed. In my head, I was saying, “Eh.” as I just wasn’t feeling and hearing what I expected…until I listened to my recordings (which I always recommend when evaluating a mouthpiece). I’ve never experienced such a difference between what my head heard and the recorded reality (been playing >50 years). I use the Gaia with a copper Keilwerth (CX-90) tenor which is a “big horn” with a unique bore that likes a greater volume of air. It took me over 1 year to finally try that Gaia. If I had judged it on the first pass, I would have never found out what a great mpc it is for me. Thanks for your thoughtful evaluation and comments.
That's something I've learned over the last few years testing so many mouthpieces. I've gotten much more flexible so it no longer takes me time to get used to a new piece, but this took me a long time to get to that point. For most players who only play 1 or a few mouthpieces, a change will usually feel strange at first even if the mouthpiece is a better match for their target sound. Also finding the right reed match is huge.
The gala hard rubber mouthpiece had that smoky vintage sound that I like and the metal Im not so familiar with but a brighter sound also fine depends on what music you want to play.
That black mouth piece is a genie 🧞♀️ they all have a different sound to them my favorite is the hard rubber i
Jay There is very little difference between the Gaia metal and the hard rubber mouthpiece, However I will say the the rubber sounds a little fuller And I think produces a very full and warm tone However I do believe it’s more about the player rather the mouthpiece or instrument and that is why perhaps it is difficult to distinguish any real significant difference because you are able to get your sound out regardless of the mouth piece. I
For my taste..Gaia3 metal. I prefer the link sound..so I like very much this Gaia because I found it similar to OL but with more modern sound: Very good sound. Thank you for your videos. Gracias
Love my Theo Wanne mouthpieces! I play a hard rubber Gaia 1 #6, West Coast Sax Mofo1 .110 (Tenor), and West Coast Sax MOAM .086 (Alto)
Hard rubber is the best sound. I love the color of the sound with just enough edge. Wonderful
No doubt for me,Gaia 3 HR. Ambika is great too,but I prefer Gaia,when you play
Never really entered the world of mouth pieces. Has used the same hard rubber Selmer mouth piece for the last 30 years. It sounds good so why change? Hopefully I now get a chance to explore this topic when I win one of these...
Hi! I love this mouthpieces and I really need one of these. I am playing sax like 4 years and dont have a good mouthpiece so I would be reaaaallllyyyy happy if I could get one!
good luck.
@@bettersax Thank you! :D
I actually preferred the sound of the hard rubber Gaia. I might be wrong, but the higher register notes seemed to come out a tad cleaner on the hard rubber piece as well. Thanks to you and your reviews, it's rekindled my desire to play! I played for about 15 years straight (concert, marching, and jazz bands) then stopped after college when I started working. I have an old King 613 Alto, but I much prefer Tenor but hesitated due to prices. But thanks to your reviews, I just got my new Jean Paul TS400 and I can't wait to re-build my chops! Now I just need to figure out mouthpieces; I got the Yamaha 5C to start with until I get back to where I once was and need/want something better.
great that you're back to playing
Who else got chills every time he played
I use a Yamaha 5c and 7c custom for my sax, and it feels like I get the best sound I have ever gotten out of my sax.
I am a big fan of hard rubber mouthpiece compared to a metal one. I feel the Ambika and Durga has an superb sound and they are my favourite.
Nice test I love T,W mouthpieces wish I could afford one! Maybe Win One !
Súper Exhibition and Professional Explanation , Thanks Better Sax !
Mouthfeel is so important! As someone who moves between several horns and setups (for jazz/folk/classical), I've been moving away from metal mouthpieces as they just feel so different in the mouth compared to a classical hard rubber piece.
Gaia3 Metal jus has that bit brighter sound over all [resonates bit longer]
but i wood also play the hard rubber version 2
Shiva3metal would be nexts choice... loud is good
Hey Hey, Maestro J!
Hard Rubber always saves the day and pulls one from the "edge" of metal piece allowing the softness that one can transform into whole other real style.
You seemed SO relaxed on the Shiva! I think it would play if you just looked at it! 😆 I was surprised how much I liked it, as I'm into darker pieces. Sounding great on all of them. Loved the warmth of the HR Gaia but the highs on the metal Gaia were better than on the HR in my opinion. It'd be the Ambika or Gaia for me. Thanks for the review Jay 👍🎷💛
thanks
Love the darkness of the Ambika!
Although you might not feel that comfortable with the Durga and Shiva, you really sound comfortable on those pieces. And your playing is superb. After playing a Ponzol M2 plus .110 for a decade, I switched to a Durga 3 (9) and really am enjoying it. Theo makes some great pieces.
I’m still working hard to hear those importantly different sounds. You make them all sound so good! If I were to pick a fave, it would be the Ambika or the Gaia hard rubber. But I’m afraid I need much more than a better mouthpiece....
I love your sound on the hard rubber mouthpieces. They seem to add warmth and a little heft to your sound. I lean toward the brighter side hopefully I can win something nnew. Peace.
That Gaia 3 though. Oh so nice.
First off, they all sound like you, no surprise there. but I do like the darker ones for myself. I thought the Shiva had a little sizzle to the sound. They are all great, just personal preference.
For me the best mp is the easiest to play. Which one was the easiest for you Jay ?
All drool worthy but i have never won anything in my life but i do wish every else good luck! Ambika 3 would be my choice because im sure it whispered i love you ;-)
good luck
You played the 1st one so well, like resonating within me well. It was also an improv so now I’m a little concerned about my palatte 😹 great solo!
Edit: Maybe it’s the sound, I just assumed all jazz mouthpieces were BRIGHT and all metal mouth pieces were BRIGHT BRIGHT.
Thanks for a comprehensive and honest review Jay. I expected the hard rubber to be more mellow but I honestly couldn’t tell the difference in the two Gaia3 models.
I noticed that with the brighter mouthpieces you played an 8 instead of a 7* and wondered why that is?
It also looked like you had the Ligature on the metal Gaia3 one hole nearer the tip than the other ones that were in the middle. Is there a reason for that? Thanks again.
My personal favorite is the HR gaia 3. I played alto for years, but if I was a tenor player, I'd jump aboard the gaia 3 hr in a heartbeat
I really liked your sound both, but I agree, I think the hard rubber sounded better to my ears and is right where I’d want my sound to be. I’d seriously consider one of these. And, to my eyes, looking at your embouchure while you played, the HR mouthpiece seemed more effortless, if it’s possible to “see” that.
I play the Durga 4 now and in the past I hated the Durgas, somehow this new model works well for my set up, I would love to try the Shiva but man it is loud. great reviews as always Jay!
Gaia HR for me and I think it will be the best for You. Grate control, correct height in each register and a beautiful, warm, full tone. I think the mouthpiece should help you express yourself on any subject and Gaia will do the best for You.
I like the sound of the rubber mouthpiece better. It sounds warmer to me; more of my preferred sound style.
I was able to get my hands on a Datta a little while ago. Killer Piece!!
Durga you mean?
From what I gather, Theo stopped making the Datta back in 2012. It was a SUPER high baffle piece and plays like a rocket. Really bright! I ended up settling on the Jumbo Java which is really similar.
I think I definitely prefer the Shiva 3. I just borrowed a tenor saxophone from my school but it has a few mechanical problems that render it useless. Buuuuuuuut I’m taking it to the music shop tomorrow to get it repaired and I can’t wait to play it! If anyone has any tips it’d be greatly appreciated, I already play alto and Bari if that helps (hopefully it does!)
Edit: Ya know, now that I compare the two, I REALLY like both the Gaia 3 and the Shiva 3.
Gaia 3 hard rubber sounds rounder but there is a slightly higher volume of low mid-range frequency around 400 hz that comes from the metal mouthpiece that I love to not let Gaia’s personality come out a bit thin sounding. However on your reed and mic choice / positioning, you have a swell around 4 to 4.5 kHz that can sound a bit harsh that the hard rubber version doesn’t have. Overall the hard rubber version has a more uniform sound. Not sure if that conveys to a limited tonal profile. Perhaps with different choices of reed the metal one can sound more versatile and the tone fine tuned to the liking. Thanks for the review. I think Gaia has THAT sound! although I found in generation 3 with larger window and reducing resistance by minimizing boundary layer friction the versatility of tone production reduces while we can have such a joy playing effortlessly. I would love if you could try Ambika hard rubber and Ambika metal side by side and let us know what you think. Also if you could compare the tone and feel of let’s say Ambika 7 or 6* and harder reed vs. 7* and softer reed. I think everyone talks about Link Tone Master days of legends but it’s not enough coverage to compare old style of playing (closed tip mouthpieces with harder reed like John Coltrane with #6 Tone Master and 4 or 4.5 reed strength) to more modern choices of medium to large tip opening and softer reeds. Assuming what Theo says for Ambika being a rendition of old Tone Master mouthpiece, I think this demonstration will be very valuable.
I like the hard rubber Gaia 3 more! It sounds great, there’s not much difference. But I also like darker sounds more.
Hi Jef. I think the hard rubber sounds more like the style I like. I’m thinking about to by my tenor. The mouthpiece aperture should be like my altos? Thanks
And what is your opinion about the Jean Paul tenor sax? 👍🏽
not necessarily same tip opening for alto and tenor. Depends on you.
I made a video about this.
I like the sound of the hard rubber Gaia 3 over the Metal Gaia 3! Just my opinion!
Great video man. Thanks for the help 😊
Shiva is my fave too! Almost traded for one!