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10 Best Jazz Tenor Sax Mouthpiece 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Selmer Paris Concept Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece, (S454), Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,282
Facing Length

Most important from
14 reviews

Facing Length
Fantastic for both classical music and mellow jazz, but note that it's very long and requires pushing it way in on the cork to avoid playing flat.

The Selmer Paris Concept Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece (S454) is designed for musicians looking for quality sound and control in their playing. One of its main strengths is the hard rubber bar stock body, which provides a consistent response and excellent projection. This is particularly beneficial for jazz players who require a focused and centered sound, thanks to the round tonal chamber that enhances the tonal quality.

The closer tip opening, measuring 2.10 mm, allows for the use of heavier reeds. This design feature contributes to creating a richer sound and gives players superb control over their notes, making it a solid choice for both intermediate and advanced players. Additionally, its compatibility with all tenor saxophones adds to its versatility.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the tip opening is advantageous for richer sounds, it may be a bit challenging for beginners who are just starting to experiment with different reeds and mouthpiece settings. This mouthpiece may not be the best fit for those who prefer a wider opening for easier airflow. Another aspect to note is the price point, which might be higher than some entry-level options. While it's a quality product, newer players may find more affordable alternatives that still meet their needs without compromising too much on sound quality.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,282
Facing Length

Most important from
14 reviews

Facing Length
Fantastic for both classical music and mellow jazz, but note that it's very long and requires pushing it way in on the cork to avoid playing flat.
#2

Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece for Tenor Saxophone (S404C1)

Rating
10.0
Material

Most important from
114 reviews

Material
Highly durable; with proper care, it can last an entire career.

The Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece for Tenor Saxophone is a popular choice among saxophonists looking for a quality step-up mouthpiece. Made from durable rubber, this mouthpiece offers a comfortable playing experience and is well-regarded for its robust build. The tip opening of 1.8 and a facing length of 24.00 provide a balanced resistance, making it easier to control your sound and achieve precise intonation.

The square cross-section in the chamber enhances the projection and clarity of your notes, which is a desirable feature for jazz musicians who need to cut through ensembles. At 1.6 ounces, it is lightweight, reducing fatigue during long playing sessions. However, some beginners might find the tip opening slightly challenging as it requires improved embouchure strength.

The mouthpiece ranks #7 in Tenor Saxophones Mouthpieces on Amazon, reflecting its popularity and reliability. While it may not be the most affordable option available, its quality and performance justify the investment, especially for intermediate to advanced players looking to enhance their sound quality.

Rating
10.0
Material

Most important from
114 reviews

Material
Highly durable; with proper care, it can last an entire career.
#3

Otto Link OLM-404-5 Super Tone Master Metal Tenor Sax Mouthpiece

The Otto Link OLM-404-5 Super Tone Master is a metal tenor saxophone mouthpiece designed primarily for jazz players seeking a bright, powerful sound with excellent projection. Its metal construction and a tip opening of 0.080 inches provide a modern feel and a strong, cutting tone that many professional saxophonists appreciate. The mouthpiece is known for its wide selection of facings, allowing players to find a setup that balances tone quality and control, which is valuable for nuanced jazz playing.

The chamber size and baffle design contribute to a focused sound, making it suitable for lead playing and styles that require clarity and presence. It also comes with a cap and ligature, so it is ready to use right away. Metal mouthpieces like this one tend to produce a brighter and somewhat harsher sound compared to traditional hard rubber or plastic options, which some players might find less warm or flexible—especially beginners or those who prefer a mellower tone.

The 0.080 tip opening may demand more air support and embouchure strength, making it less ideal for beginners. Intermediate to advanced players looking for a reliable, professional-level mouthpiece that helps their sound cut through in jazz ensembles or solo performances will find the Otto Link model to be a strong choice.

Buying Guide for the Best Jazz Tenor Sax Mouthpiece

Choosing the right jazz tenor saxophone mouthpiece is crucial for achieving the sound and playability that suits your style. The mouthpiece is a key component in shaping your tone, response, and overall playing experience. When selecting a mouthpiece, consider your skill level, the type of music you play, and your personal preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialThe material of the mouthpiece affects the sound and durability. Common materials include hard rubber, metal, and plastic. Hard rubber mouthpieces are known for their warm, rich tones and are often preferred by jazz musicians. Metal mouthpieces produce a brighter, more powerful sound and are favored for their projection in louder settings. Plastic mouthpieces are generally more affordable and can be a good choice for beginners. Choose a material that complements your desired sound and playing style.
Tip OpeningThe tip opening is the distance between the tip of the mouthpiece and the reed. It significantly influences the ease of play and the sound produced. Smaller tip openings (e.g., 5-6) are easier to control and require less air, making them suitable for beginners or players who prefer a more focused sound. Medium tip openings (e.g., 7-8) offer a balance between control and flexibility, ideal for intermediate players. Larger tip openings (e.g., 9-10) provide greater volume and a fuller sound but require more air and embouchure strength, making them better suited for advanced players. Consider your experience level and the type of sound you want to achieve when selecting the tip opening.
Chamber SizeThe chamber size refers to the internal space within the mouthpiece. It affects the tone and projection of the instrument. Small chambers produce a brighter, more focused sound with greater projection, making them suitable for lead playing and solo performances. Medium chambers offer a balanced tone with versatility, suitable for various playing styles. Large chambers produce a darker, warmer sound with less projection, ideal for blending in ensemble settings. Choose a chamber size that matches your playing context and desired sound.
BaffleThe baffle is the part of the mouthpiece that directs the airflow and influences the brightness and edge of the sound. High baffles create a brighter, more cutting sound with increased projection, suitable for contemporary jazz and rock. Medium baffles offer a balanced sound with moderate brightness and projection, making them versatile for different styles. Low baffles produce a darker, mellower sound with less projection, ideal for traditional jazz and classical music. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing the baffle.
Facing LengthThe facing length is the distance from the tip of the mouthpiece to the point where the reed meets the mouthpiece. It affects the response and flexibility of the mouthpiece. Shorter facings provide a quicker response and are easier to control, making them suitable for fast, technical playing. Medium facings offer a balance between response and flexibility, ideal for general playing. Longer facings provide greater flexibility and a more open feel but require more control, making them better suited for experienced players. Choose a facing length that matches your playing style and comfort level.

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