10 Best Sax Mouthpieces 2025 in the United States

The JodyJazz HR CUSTOM DARK Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece 7* offers a warm, rich, and vintage-style sound, thanks to its use of proprietary Chedeville hard rubber and a large open chamber with rounded side walls. This design helps produce a complex, multifaceted tone that many players find pleasing for traditional and modern jazz styles. Made of brass with a heavy 24kt gold-plated ring, it adds body and enhances harmonics, which can give your sound more depth and presence.

Its superior facing curve and carefully hand-finished tip rail and baffle allow for an easy, free-blowing response, making it comfortable to play even during extended sessions. The tip opening size of 7* (.105) is fairly versatile, suitable for players who want a balance of control and brightness without being too edgy or too soft. Note that this mouthpiece does not include a ligature, so you’ll need to use your current one or purchase a JodyJazz POWER RING ligature for an optimal setup.

Some players might find the brass material a bit heavier compared to traditional hard rubber mouthpieces, and the price is on the higher side, reflecting its premium craftsmanship. With generally positive reviews, this mouthpiece is ideal for tenor saxophonists seeking a warm, dark tone combined with excellent playability, especially if they favor a modern design with vintage tonal qualities.

The Vandoren SM711 AL3 Optimum Series Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece is designed with classical saxophonists in mind. Made of brass, it offers durability and a solid feel, which is a key factor for any musician looking for a reliable mouthpiece. The tip opening of 152 (1/100mm) and the medium long facing length make it versatile and suitable for a range of playing styles, though it particularly shines in classical music due to its exceptional roundness of tone.

The chamber size is not explicitly mentioned, but the mouthpiece's design aims to produce a warm and rich sound, which aligns well with its classical focus. The mouthpiece works best with Vandoren #2.5-#4 reeds, providing flexibility for players to find their preferred reed strength. However, those who prefer softer or harder reeds may find this limiting. The baffle design is not specified but contributes to the balanced and refined sound quality.

With a weight of just 0.8 ounces and compact dimensions, it is easy to handle and transport. While it may not be the best fit for jazz or contemporary music styles, it excels in providing a classic, warm tone ideal for classical performances. The Vandoren SM711 AL3 is a strong choice for alto saxophonists aiming for a high-quality, reliable mouthpiece dedicated to classical music.

The JodyJazz DV Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece Model 7 is crafted from gold-plated brass, which typically produces a bright and rich sound favored by many modern saxophonists. Its tip opening measures 2.10 mm (.083"), placing it in a medium range that suits players who want a balance between control and volume. The brass material combined with the modern design indicates it is intended for players seeking a versatile sound with good projection.

This mouthpiece is especially suited for intermediate to advanced alto sax players who want to upgrade from basic models without moving into very specialized or niche setups. Some players might find the brightness of brass and the tip opening size less ideal if they prefer a darker tone or a more open tip for jazz styles. Additionally, its weight of 5.8 ounces means it is somewhat heavier than some other mouthpieces, which could affect comfort during long playing sessions.

In essence, this mouthpiece is a strong choice for alto sax players looking for a reliable, modern brass mouthpiece that delivers clarity and projection, though those seeking very specific tonal characteristics may want to try it personally before purchasing.