Alto Saxophone Mouthpieces

An alto saxophone mouthpiece determines resistance, the onset of the note and the suitable reed strength. The most important specifications are tip opening, facing length and chamber shape. A larger opening is not automatically louder or more professional; it requires different breath support and often a softer reed.

Material alone does not determine quality

Ebonite offers a traditional feel, metal tends to be more compact and plastic is affordable for students. Two mouthpieces made from the same material can sound different because of their chambers and baffles. Compare them on the same alto saxophone, with the same reed and ligature.

Match the reed to the opening

With a more open tip, a reed that is too hard can create excessive resistance. Conversely, a closed student mouthpiece may not respond well with a very soft reed at high dynamics. Change one component at a time, otherwise you will not know what caused the difference.

The shank and ligature must fit

The mouthpiece should slide onto the cork without force and stay in position. The ligature must not press the reed unevenly or extend over its edge. You can find general mouthpieces for other wind instruments in the mouthpieces category, but the sizes are not interchangeable.

Choose the opening according to your embouchure and style, then match the reed and ligature to it on your own instrument.