Hello Jay. I am very grateful I found your channel. First I would like to say that I played a tenor sax from 4th grade up until I graduated and went into the military. With that being said, I have no experience playing as an adult. A really good friend bought me a used tenor sax as a birthday gift that is in really good shape for what it is. Also I feel I need to mention that the last time I played a sax was 47 years ago, yes this is my 59th birthday. I am sure I will be spending a lot of time on your channel. Thank you for taking the time to make this content available. From a winded woodwind player.
I really like the sound you get on the number 7. It’s noticeably warmer, thicker and meaty-er. The 5 and the 6 sound the same to my ears but probably the feel is different. Great video.
This is the best summation of tip openings and reed strenghts I have seen. Well done Jay. Keep dispelling rumors, this is what every sax player needs most.
Has anyone ever told how great a narrator and presenter you have become? I watched and older Video of yours and the difference is huge! Like an upgrade from a tip5 to an 8. :) Thanks for these great vids.
I'm a beginner, but upgrading from a 4 to a 5 was breath of fresh air! (pun intended). I tried a six and felt like I was swimming. The sound is much bigger and more melodic, but I'll work my way up. The 5 is great for now.
I've been playing alto for basically all my life, I'm gonna be 20 in 2 months, and have played on a Selmer s80 190 classical mouthpiece, it has been very, very easy to play, very easy blowing, but I only got that because my teacher recommended it, because I was playing basically only classical at that point. A little while after he offered me to join his orchestra where I played alto for like 3 years and they mostly play like very known pieces, pop, jazz, jazz-rock and stuff like that, that's when I felt I wasn't loud enough, I couldn't play like the others. I considered purchasing a new mouthpiece, but my teacher, also the conductor of the orchestra, said I was "promoted" to tenor, so I held out on buying a new alto mouthpiece, unfortunately, the tenor sax they gave me had the same mouthpiece as my alto, which at least for me sounded horrible. After a while, the teacher said his buddy gave him a tenor mouthpiece for one reason or another and he gave me that mouthpiece to play. At first, I sounded much worse than I did with the Selmer, I felt like I forgot how to play the saxophone, the new mouthpiece was an Otto Link 7* I don't know the exact model, there is none written on it, It looks like a pretty old one, could be vintage for all I know. So after a while, I started to get the hang of it and sounded decent at best. And a couple of days ago we finally came together after not playing together because of the pandemic, I hadn't played the tenor for more than half a year, and somehow, for some reason, I found that I sound great, the 7* tenor mouthpiece felt easier blowing than my classical Selmer, which is a 3* I think. Somehow after not playing for a really long time, I am sounding, playing the best I ever have. And that kind of ignited a spark in me to upgrade my alto sax mouthpiece, because that's the one I own and actually play. I also play in a saxophone quartet, so that'll help me with that as well, because we don't play classical pieces with the quartet, I ordered it 2 days ago, It's a USA Meyer Alto Sax "G" 6. I got it recommended by a lot of players, in the orchestra as well, one of my friends from the orchestra even gave me to try out his Meyer 6* to see if I liked it, and for the first time in a lot of years, I felt like my sax was sounding as it should've sounded years ago.
im a junior and i was feeling like my mouthpiece was too small for my mouth, i was playing a selmer c* and i was struggling to play a loud sound that also sounded good, and i recently learned mouthpiece makes a big difference on sound and noticed i had an old yamaha 4c that my bother used to play, and i tried it and it has been wonderful, it feels better to play and i sound so much better, along with playing much louder, so it has inspired me to practice way more, im way behind because i never really practiced before now because it just didnt feel good to play but now im starting to learn to love it all over again, since i changed mouthpieces my director has noticed how much better and louder ive been playing, nothing against selmer c* it is a wonderful mouthpiece it just wasnt quite the right shape for me
@@lava_king1112 If a mpc is closed off, and won't play loud for you, try taking more of the mpc into your mouth cavity. I always tell students you 'can never take to much mpc into the mouth cavity'. Because you will always back off, but you need to get the tiny embouchure muscles used to relaxing over the larger beak, and using diaphragm pressure to make the sound. Try long tones this way, and see how the rest of your practice feels easy!
Meyer doesn't do star facings you said Meyer 6*... Otto Link does star facings . On alto, Meyer is most commonly played in 5MM, 6MM, and 7MM tip openings. OTTO LINK is most commonly used in 5*, 6, and 6*, tip openings. Meyer 5MM is .071", 6MM is .076", and Meyer 7MM is .081"
There is a difference in sound, though. On a larger tip 7, thinner reed can vibrate more, the core of the reed vibrates more too, creating more harmonics overall, and a more complex sound comes out. Larger tip openings reveal what the mouthpiece design can really do. And, #7 opening tells this alto mouthpiece is really good. (It has fantastic hand-finishing btw.)
I really like this and i am only 9 years old i would love to see more videos and when i am older i will be like you😀😀 I really like this and i would love more how to play things so i can learn more
On impulse I bought a cheap Rico 7A and I'm enjoying it. I'll be taking a look at some better quality mouthpieces. I like my Meyer 5 so will likely start with Meyer.
That's a very instructive video. When I started playing altosax as a teen-ager 65 yaers ago I would have wanted to have those clever advices . To day I play an Otto Link 7* with Rigotti Gold 3 and I'm very satisfid.
Great overview and consultation for someone who hasn't played in more than 25 years, for various reasons. Kids are playing at school and dad's gotta get his chops back!
I recently bought your Burnin' 5 mouthpiece, and even as a complete beginner I immediately hear a difference from my classical mouthpiece! It gets me instantly into the tone I'm looking for. Thank you so much to you and the team at Jody Jazz! I just published a video on my first impressions if you wanted to watch it.
I ordered this MP after a few glasses of wine, and was second guessing my order the next days I already have 4 MP and am a beginner level player. The Burning MP came in the mail and I debated sending it back, untried. But, I felt that was unethical. I tried it with a broken in Boston Sax 2.5 Reed and the Rover Lig. I LOVE IT!!!!! The low Bb is so sexy and rich! Makes me want to play more. THANK YOU
Hello i am Donald I love the saxophone I play the alto sax and been playing since middle and through high school and now I am 38 years old and still play the alto sax i also like to play it when i am feeling down or happy because you can let your fingers to the walking and the instrument do the talking and you can feel it and other people can feel it I love how it sounds and plays I also love the tenor sax and bairsax would love to have a new saxophone mouth piece and would love to own another sax like the tenor or boar sax I am on fixed income and single parent to two wonderful kids love how the sax makes me feel
JAY ,, ONE OF YOUR BEST EVER LESSONS .. For years including up to now I've struggled with many different reeds and mouthpieces combinations,, Some with false starts and others with immediate satisfaction with the combo i use today ... Listening and learning from you cuts the amount of time I've spent looking for satisfaction & comfort ..No other teacher ever mentioned what you are saying in this most important advise to all players beginners or professionals .. thanks a billion pal... Bobby G.. and keep on swingin'
A teacher that started me on a small tip opening would have saved me months of frustration!!! My dealer started me on a 7 with a 3 reed, and I couldn’t play. I discovered Ralph Morgan and talked to him on the phone-changed my life, Morgan 3C for alto with a 2 1/2 reed, magic! He made me a Morgan 2 for my tenor, with a 2 1/2 reed, magic! Now use Plastic reeds, magic! 😃🚀
Hi. I've always used fibreglass reeds. On first lesson 57 years ago my lip was red and swollen from the cane. Fortunately the player teaching me was a tester / grader for PTD reeds made near London. HE works in mysterious ways! Great for playing in a rock band, we all blew them. Good for Getz ballads too. No blowing in and they last and last (until the bass player walks past - always the bass players).
@@Osnosis PTD went out of busines around 50 years ago. My teacher, Les Evans, was thinking of making an offer. Similar to the Bari Star, same box! Funny that. I have been told that Legere reeds are very good. IMO a bit expensive. I now blow Fibracell, more like cane.
Hello Jay, now this is a lesson about tip opening that I should have learned 10 years ago. So well explained. I was wrong playing 8 on most of all mouthpieces trying to have a better sound. Thank you Jay.
Jay - I’ve been blowin’ on your Burnin’ alto mouthpiece 6 on my Yani AWO20 sax in a big band and lovin’ it! Easy to blend, good control on full range and plenty of power when you need it. Thanks for the great piece!
Love your informative videos. I’m an advanced beginner looking to upgrade from my stock Yamaha 4C (alto). I’m going to see about trying the 5. Thanks for your advice. 😊
on tenor i jumped from a yamaha 4c to an otto link super tone master 7*. transition took a while but oh boy do i not regret that decision. sounds fantastic
Thank you so much for providing such a thorough explanation of how tip opening effect airstream & playability, depending on your needs. This is incredibly valuable information for folks looking to purchase a new mouthpiece, & it will reduce A LOT of frustration in finding one that's a good fit. 👍👍👍
#5 sounds brighter than the #7 to me. I am not sure a darker sound will be an advantage in sax like the trumpet or not, but the sound style can be determined by the opening. Thanks for your demo, Jay.
Hey ! A Rico Royal reed with the stripe logo ! I have some of those (in the light gray box that also has the same stripes on it). I remember those from the 70’s ! Good video! I’ve moved down recently due to age ! I’m 61 and have been playing since 1969 ! Clarinets, Saxes & Flutes . A little Oboe and recorders too
I received my “burnin” mpc.#6 👍🏽 ‘Haven’t heard anymore on my Bettersax alto neck not being able to “snug down” to keep it from swiveling in place. I’m still using my Selmer series ii neck in its place and, having great success 🤷🏽♂️✌🏽🎶🎵🎷
i have a roberto winds reeds 2.5 soft on a jody jazz jet 6 tip opening. i used to play 2.5 on a variety of reeds - rico, green box, nexus reeds. but when i switched to the robertos winds on the recommendation of my jazz director, it was night and day on how it played and the sound. i also find it interesting after listening to your conversation with Vincent Herring, that he uses a soft strength reed AND a small tip opening. it really is just different for everyone.
I play a 160 Berg ( stainless & brass) on tenor & a 130 (stainless & brass) on alto. They sound kind of big , but they play perfectly & will do things a smaller tip just won't do. Thanks, John.
Absolutely one of the better videos ACTUALLY " EXPLAINING" about the different aspects of the mouthpiece-- particularly measurements. Jay (and Adrian Spencer) is. literally, the reason I started playing music again. LITERALLY! I've yet to meet him, or talk to him-- or thank him, but he's the SOLE reason I finally decided to give it another go!
What a great video. Very informative, specifically about older players that haven’t played in a while and which opening would suite me better. Waiting on some new mouthpieces to arrive. Used to play the Clarinet when younger but wanted to pick up the Sax now at almost 57. Thanks for sharing!
This is a great video with solid explanations. I've never really bought mouthpieces; just played what came with the horns (other than a teacher that insisted my alto C* needed to be upgraded to an S90 190, then later to a Rousseau NC4). The tenor was toughest: coming with a C* for band/chamber work and a Dukoff Super Power Chamber D9 for jazz. Only being told that one was a classical piece and one was a jazz piece was not enough information!
Had a 5* Otto link for first jazz alto mouthpiece then 10 years later switched to 7 and 8. I’ve returned the 7s. Got your burnin piece after playing jj hr*. Like them both but really like the fat sound I get with my burnin 7. Great piece just got it last week.
@Better Sax IMHO: #5 - Very nice and clean! #6 - Like #5 but a little bigger with some “hair” on it! #7 - Even bigger with a pronounced bark(rrrrr) that I go back and forth on. The #6 was my favorite! They all sound excellent but decidedly different. Very nice Jazz Etude, I’ll be buying that book! I’ve been teaching jazz phrasing with a book of Jazz Etudes by Dan Higgins for at least 35 years but, unfortunately, it’s been out of print for decades.
I havnt touched my tenor sax since I graduated highschool. Which is about 6 years. A little rusty no doubt but your videos deffinitly helped inspire me to pick it back up and blow a few notes
This is the best channel about saxophone! You tell so interesting and impressive, that it forces to make a progress in my skills. And in spite of that English isn’t my native language and I can’t understand all what you say, I see all you videos with pleasure and also improving my language:) thank you!
So good and accurate. I've played on my C* mouthpiece and Vandoren 3 reeds for decades. This is for band and orchestra. I switch to a Meyer 5 and Rico Royal 2 for big band and pit. I'll take your advice and go for a 6 or 7 . The 5 is "almost" but I want more. Thank you so much.
I needed this video a week ago! haha I F'd up and bought a 0.086" tip opening as a beginner, but slowly making it work! couldn't test it beforehand for health safety reasons
One of the best, most informative videos on this subject! For me, Especially the tips for “older players”/taking a brake from the sax etc... Back in the days, (and probably today?) I think a very common mistake is to go for a biiig opening, done so myself, because of many reasons: loud electrified surroundings, “your sax hero plays a 10 opening!, “It was just these old players that kept to those 5,6 openings.”..And generally; many people want a big type of sound. Currently I’m on 8* on tenor, but with 2 soft reeds to compensate..( gone down from 2 1/2) after hearing this video I’m planning to try out some smaller tip openings.. maybe 7 , 7* and then really try different reeds on that! Also very good tip! Thank you Jay!
OK Jay…I’m not usually one to buy mouthpieces from an influencer, especially one from Long (Strong) Island! (I’m a Brentwood guy)…although I have fallen into the “I want to sound like him, get his mpc…”. I bought my YAS-62 back in 1997 and taught myself saxophone during a 6 month deployment aboard an aircraft carrier…luckily, my best friend was the PAO with the keys to the tv studio on board with soundproofing! I’d sit in there with a cassette/cd and just play by ear (my previous music training was on the trumpet). Dave Koz got me into sax, so hence the 62, and then I bought the Beechler metal mpc with a 7 tip opening to match him of course. Since then, I’ve collected a few mouthpieces. Namely a Theo Wanne Gaia 8, which I love, and a Michael Lington signature Oleg metal mpc (also love) which also has an 8 tip I believe. But, they are all pretty loud pieces. After watching your video, realized I should probably tone down the volume as I’m now in my 50s and playing lead sax in a band isn’t in the cards…So, took your recommendation and ordered your mpc with a 6 tip, along with the Jody Jazz ring. Right out of the box I can say, WOW! This mouthpiece is pretty darn awesome. Gives me a nice rich tone when I want to play softer and can give some edge when I push it. Very versatile and just what the doctor ordered! Glad I went down in tip opening too. It’s making playing more fun…Oh yeah, the reason for the mpc search…I’ve always wanted a silver sax. Didn’t hav the dough to buy my 62 in silver back in 1998. Almost pulled the trigger on a 82z in silver last month when I came across a Mark VI in silver and gave it a test run…after having my tech give it a once, twice, three times a lady over…I’m in love…your mpc pairs with it nicely…like a great Bordeaux…
Jay, I'm hard-headed. I've been working on learning the sax for a few years on my own. I've invested in a soprano, alto, and tenor sax -- along with mouthpieces, ligatures, reeds, and misc. accessories for each -- trying to find something that "fit." I wanted to get the JodyJazz Custom Dark for my alto, but wanted to do it right. I found this video on tip openings, and decided to actually follow your advice, instead of trying to just "grow" into a mouthpiece. I went with a size 5 opening per your recommendation for my honest skill level along with a 2.5 reed, and my first practice with it was an amazing change. I got to play for an extended amount of time without feeling like I was in an overwhelming fight. Finally, I found a setup that allows me to begin figuring out how nuances of pressure and positioning in my embouchure are affecting my results. Appropriate size selection has made a remarkably huge enjoyable difference for me, and you have my sincerest thanks; ... such a significant quality of life improvement just from deciding to follow sound advice! Thank you!
So a year and a half ago I switched from a 4C to a Vandoren T8. I absolutely loved that it opened up my sound in ways that a 4C couldn’t. Been playing hard for the entire time.
@@bettersax absolutely, and as noted by you, the important thing is practicing what you need to and getting familiar with your instrument and your setup.
Recently purchased a V16 7-tip and Selmer Concept - BIG change from my stock Yamaha mouthpiece. Stock feels more powerful at the moment. But I’m hoping I can grow in to the others in the next year. I’m going to step down to a 2 1/2 reed to see what kind of difference it makes...and I’ll take up running this summer to increase my cardio and breath support! Thanks for the video!!
man ive just gotten my first sax from a local pro and came with a drake mpc size 8, no wonder its loud as hell lol! but the sound is very full even only a couple days into playing, gotta love it!
I changed from an Otto Link 8* to a Vandoren optimum 4 because I am now only playing in a community band. With the Otto Link I was always too loud. Now it is even easier to hit the low notes on the tenor sax.
My first mouthpiece was 6 on an Otto Link and I loved that mouthpiece cause it was so versatile and could always give me the sound I looked for when performing. 👍🏻😉😎😎😎
Your video helped me a lot, thank you very much - you do a great, inspiring job just because your sound is a role model. Greetings from the Czech Republic
Bari player here. I went from a 5 tip opening on an Otto link to a 7star Jodyjazz DV. Best decision I’ve ever made. The power and projection is insane.
Thank you for this great information. I found your video on flattening reeds the biggest help in attaining a consistent sound on my saxophones. My embouchure is very picky. There are certain reeds that I can not use. Example Vanduran alto v12 is great for me but the standard Vanduran is hard for me to get a good sound from. I have found that Junos are very good for me, but other players cant stand them. This video helped me understand why one has to pair the right reed to a particular mouthpiece. I love your nice warm tone on the tenor. I am learning tenor now, so far the cheap PVC mouthpiece that came with my horn works great. I did invest in a Rovner ligature that really helped. The metal ligature that came with the horn was cutting into the reed and mouthpiece.
Great information here! Not many sax or clarinet players have ever been told how mouthpieces are sized. This information should be right up there when the student is intermediate to pro level! And I think the 5 tip opening sounded the brightest and most free playing, but I enjoyed how the 6 was a good combination with a little wider sound! The 7 sounded to open and not very focused! Great stuff, Jay!
thanks. The reeds were contributing most of the audible difference in these tests. I played 3 different reeds so don't make the mistake of thinking the tip openings themselves are changing the character of the sound. that is the main point of the video.
20 tip opening is perfect for me. Allows me to do lots of things that you just cant do on any other numbers bellow 16. Great videos on your channel! Thanks,
Very useful information that translates to most read instruments (Bb Clarinet ...) Toying with why I need/want a lower note instrument, Tenor rings my bell although I have two 40's/50's Clarinets, and practicing Banjo as well. Thanks p.s. fun beginner "cheap" sax vids.
Thank you! Good explanation of the relationship between mouthpiece tip opening and reed strength, and how it influences sound. Cleared things up for me. I had been wondering about trying a larger tip opening, but now I’m going to stick with my Meyer 5 medium chamber mouthpiece. I like the sound you get in this video with a stiffer reed.
I play on a Selmer Vintage C* Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece on my Alto. I have been thinking of getting something newer your mouthpiece sounds great and well balanced.
Hello, Thank you for a no nonsense jargon free talk about mouthpiece tip openings. You have made me feel a lot better about myself. I'm 70 now so I'll stick to the smaller tip openings. Is the Burnin mouthpiece available for Tenor ? I'm in the UK. Thank you.
Every new student should see this video to understand why they are struggling!!! Essential information. When Ralph Morgan was still working, I called him and asked for a 2C. He said, “I’ll make it for you; this will be the only 2 I’ll sell this year.” I still play that 2 on my tenor with a soft plastic reed! No struggles since! My first Sax salesman didn’t play and sold me a crap horn with a 7 mouthpiece and 3 reed (hard)…he made me want to quit! Students must see this. Put it in your courses! Rocket 🚀
Hello Jay. I am very grateful I found your channel. First I would like to say that I played a tenor sax from 4th grade up until I graduated and went into the military. With that being said, I have no experience playing as an adult. A really good friend bought me a used tenor sax as a birthday gift that is in really good shape for what it is. Also I feel I need to mention that the last time I played a sax was 47 years ago, yes this is my 59th birthday. I am sure I will be spending a lot of time on your channel. Thank you for taking the time to make this content available. From a winded woodwind player.
I really like the sound you get on the number 7. It’s noticeably warmer, thicker and meaty-er. The 5 and the 6 sound the same to my ears but probably the feel is different. Great video.
I really like the sound he gets on the number 7 and I felt the difference between 5 and 6 is the "air sound" using the 6 is more noticeable.
I'VE BEEN SEARCHING ALL OVER FOR A VIDEO ON THIS TODAY. THANK YOUUUU
Glad I could help!
I love the Watermelon Duo you did with Jody. I can tell the BURNIN is really a great mouthpiece
thanks!
This is the best summation of tip openings and reed strenghts I have seen. Well done Jay. Keep dispelling rumors, this is what every sax player needs most.
Always like your sound but this particular mouthpiece makes your sound even better.
I really like it.
Has anyone ever told how great a narrator and presenter you have become? I watched and older Video of yours and the difference is huge! Like an upgrade from a tip5 to an 8. :) Thanks for these great vids.
I'm a beginner, but upgrading from a 4 to a 5 was breath of fresh air! (pun intended). I tried a six and felt like I was swimming. The sound is much bigger and more melodic, but I'll work my way up. The 5 is great for now.
I really like the warmer slightly darker tone of the 7 opening mouthpiece. Great video.
My Better Sax Alto with Burnin' 5 mouthpiece gets here tomorrow. It's been almost 30 years since I last played so glad I guessed correctly 😂
Very clearly explained. Small tip opening - harder reed; big tip opening - softer reed
i love the 6 tip sound !
Definitely going with a 5. I'm older and have been away for quite a while. Thanx so much.
I've been playing alto for basically all my life, I'm gonna be 20 in 2 months, and have played on a Selmer s80 190 classical mouthpiece, it has been very, very easy to play, very easy blowing, but I only got that because my teacher recommended it, because I was playing basically only classical at that point. A little while after he offered me to join his orchestra where I played alto for like 3 years and they mostly play like very known pieces, pop, jazz, jazz-rock and stuff like that, that's when I felt I wasn't loud enough, I couldn't play like the others. I considered purchasing a new mouthpiece, but my teacher, also the conductor of the orchestra, said I was "promoted" to tenor, so I held out on buying a new alto mouthpiece, unfortunately, the tenor sax they gave me had the same mouthpiece as my alto, which at least for me sounded horrible. After a while, the teacher said his buddy gave him a tenor mouthpiece for one reason or another and he gave me that mouthpiece to play. At first, I sounded much worse than I did with the Selmer, I felt like I forgot how to play the saxophone, the new mouthpiece was an Otto Link 7* I don't know the exact model, there is none written on it, It looks like a pretty old one, could be vintage for all I know. So after a while, I started to get the hang of it and sounded decent at best. And a couple of days ago we finally came together after not playing together because of the pandemic, I hadn't played the tenor for more than half a year, and somehow, for some reason, I found that I sound great, the 7* tenor mouthpiece felt easier blowing than my classical Selmer, which is a 3* I think. Somehow after not playing for a really long time, I am sounding, playing the best I ever have. And that kind of ignited a spark in me to upgrade my alto sax mouthpiece, because that's the one I own and actually play. I also play in a saxophone quartet, so that'll help me with that as well, because we don't play classical pieces with the quartet, I ordered it 2 days ago, It's a USA Meyer Alto Sax "G" 6. I got it recommended by a lot of players, in the orchestra as well, one of my friends from the orchestra even gave me to try out his Meyer 6* to see if I liked it, and for the first time in a lot of years, I felt like my sax was sounding as it should've sounded years ago.
im a junior and i was feeling like my mouthpiece was too small for my mouth, i was playing a selmer c* and i was struggling to play a loud sound that also sounded good, and i recently learned mouthpiece makes a big difference on sound and noticed i had an old yamaha 4c that my bother used to play, and i tried it and it has been wonderful, it feels better to play and i sound so much better, along with playing much louder, so it has inspired me to practice way more, im way behind because i never really practiced before now because it just didnt feel good to play but now im starting to learn to love it all over again, since i changed mouthpieces my director has noticed how much better and louder ive been playing, nothing against selmer c* it is a wonderful mouthpiece it just wasnt quite the right shape for me
@@lava_king1112 If a mpc is closed off, and won't play loud for you, try taking more of the mpc into your mouth cavity. I always tell students you 'can never take to much mpc into the mouth cavity'. Because you will always back off, but you need to get the tiny embouchure muscles used to relaxing over the larger beak, and using diaphragm pressure to make the sound. Try long tones this way, and see how the rest of your practice feels easy!
@@Osnosis T H A N K S👍
Meyer doesn't do star facings you said Meyer 6*... Otto Link does star facings . On alto, Meyer is most commonly played in 5MM, 6MM, and 7MM tip openings. OTTO LINK is most commonly used in 5*, 6, and 6*, tip openings. Meyer 5MM is .071", 6MM is .076", and Meyer 7MM is .081"
Holy yappington
There is a difference in sound, though. On a larger tip 7, thinner reed can vibrate more, the core of the reed vibrates more too, creating more harmonics overall, and a more complex sound comes out. Larger tip openings reveal what the mouthpiece design can really do. And, #7 opening tells this alto mouthpiece is really good. (It has fantastic hand-finishing btw.)
Thank you❤
You are the best teacher in the whole world.
I really like this and i am only 9 years old i would love to see more videos and when i am older i will be like you😀😀
I really like this and i would love more how to play things so i can learn more
Just started playing the saxophone. I am a senior player and loving it. I started on a C melody 1916, but am trying to get an alto saxophone.
Really glad I found this video after I ordered a new mouthpiece
On impulse I bought a cheap Rico 7A and I'm enjoying it. I'll be taking a look at some better quality mouthpieces. I like my Meyer 5 so will likely start with Meyer.
That's a very instructive video. When I started playing altosax as a teen-ager 65 yaers ago I would have wanted to have those clever advices . To day I play an Otto Link 7* with Rigotti Gold 3 and I'm very satisfid.
Great overview and consultation for someone who hasn't played in more than 25 years, for various reasons. Kids are playing at school and dad's gotta get his chops back!
Jay, I just bought both Alto and Tenor Burnin 7 star! Let me describe them in 3 words, they are awesome!!! Great job, sir!
So glad to hear it and I agree 💯
Please leave a review for them where you purchased. It would really help us out and be greatly appreciated.
@@bettersax I already did..at Sweetwater.
I recently bought your Burnin' 5 mouthpiece, and even as a complete beginner I immediately hear a difference from my classical mouthpiece! It gets me instantly into the tone I'm looking for. Thank you so much to you and the team at Jody Jazz!
I just published a video on my first impressions if you wanted to watch it.
Thanks nice video.
Extremely useful information. And again... I could listen to your wonderful playing for Hours.
I ordered this MP after a few glasses of wine, and was second guessing my order the next days I already have 4 MP and am a beginner level player. The Burning MP came in the mail and I debated sending it back, untried. But, I felt that was unethical.
I tried it with a broken in Boston Sax 2.5 Reed and the Rover Lig. I LOVE IT!!!!! The low Bb is so sexy and rich! Makes me want to play more.
THANK YOU
Great to hear! Congratulations on the new piece.
Hello i am Donald I love the saxophone I play the alto sax and been playing since middle and through high school and now I am 38 years old and still play the alto sax i also like to play it when i am feeling down or happy because you can let your fingers to the walking and the instrument do the talking and you can feel it and other people can feel it I love how it sounds and plays I also love the tenor sax and bairsax would love to have a new saxophone mouth piece and would love to own another sax like the tenor or boar sax I am on fixed income and single parent to two wonderful kids love how the sax makes me feel
Awesome! Good video. Glad to hear about softer reeds for larger tip openings. Makes sense now.
JAY ,, ONE OF YOUR BEST EVER LESSONS .. For years including up to now I've struggled with many different reeds and mouthpieces combinations,, Some with false starts and others with immediate satisfaction with the combo i use today ... Listening and learning from you cuts the amount of time I've spent looking for satisfaction & comfort ..No other teacher ever mentioned what you are saying in this most important advise to all players beginners or professionals .. thanks a billion pal... Bobby G.. and keep on swingin'
A teacher that started me on a small tip opening would have saved me months of frustration!!! My dealer started me on a 7 with a 3 reed, and I couldn’t play. I discovered Ralph Morgan and talked to him on the phone-changed my life, Morgan 3C for alto with a 2 1/2 reed, magic! He made me a Morgan 2 for my tenor, with a 2 1/2 reed, magic! Now use Plastic reeds, magic! 😃🚀
Glad Ralph helped get you sorted out.
Plastic reeds are much better and just seem better for me
Hi. I've always used fibreglass reeds. On first lesson 57 years ago my lip was red and swollen from the cane. Fortunately the player teaching me was a tester / grader for PTD reeds made near London. HE works in mysterious ways! Great for playing in a rock band, we all blew them. Good for Getz ballads too. No blowing in and they last and last (until the bass player walks past - always the bass players).
@@derekakien7379 What are PTD reeds? I have used Legere (for a long time), Forestone, and Hartmann, which have all been good.
@@Osnosis
PTD went out of busines around 50 years ago. My teacher, Les Evans, was thinking of making an offer.
Similar to the Bari Star, same box! Funny that. I have been told that Legere reeds are very good. IMO a bit expensive. I now blow Fibracell, more like cane.
Hello Jay, now this is a lesson about tip opening that I should have learned 10 years ago. So well explained. I was wrong playing 8 on most of all mouthpieces trying to have a better sound. Thank you Jay.
I dropped from a Durga 10 to a Durga 9. I love it. The 7 with 2.5 sounded fantastic.
Well described indeed. Newbies need to hear this! FWIW my vote is for the 6.
Jay - I’ve been blowin’ on your Burnin’ alto mouthpiece 6 on my Yani AWO20 sax in a big band and lovin’ it! Easy to blend, good control on full range and plenty of power when you need it. Thanks for the great piece!
Great to hear this. Thanks for the feedback.
Love your informative videos. I’m an advanced beginner looking to upgrade from my stock Yamaha 4C (alto).
I’m going to see about trying the 5. Thanks for your advice. 😊
AH Thanks !!! There is some light into this very special world !!!
on tenor i jumped from a yamaha 4c to an otto link super tone master 7*. transition took a while but oh boy do i not regret that decision. sounds fantastic
Thank you so much for providing such a thorough explanation of how tip opening effect airstream & playability, depending on your needs. This is incredibly valuable information for folks looking to purchase a new mouthpiece, & it will reduce A LOT of frustration in finding one that's a good fit. 👍👍👍
#5 sounds brighter than the #7 to me. I am not sure a darker sound will be an advantage in sax like the trumpet or not, but the sound style can be determined by the opening. Thanks for your demo, Jay.
that 5 sounded like a keeper indeed. not that the others were bad, but it had some lovely extra sweetness
Hey ! A Rico Royal reed with the stripe logo ! I have some of those (in the light gray box that also has the same stripes on it). I remember those from the 70’s ! Good video! I’ve moved down recently due to age ! I’m 61 and have been playing since 1969 ! Clarinets, Saxes & Flutes . A little Oboe and recorders too
Thank you so much for this video! I've been trying to explain this to my son for years. Very well explained sir. Thank you so much!!!
Man, your Burnin' 7 with the 2.5 reed sounds so much warmer/"vintage" than the other two. What a difference!
I totally agree. That combo was bigger and warmer.
I would definitely choose the 7 tip opening !
I received my “burnin” mpc.#6 👍🏽 ‘Haven’t heard anymore on my Bettersax alto neck not being able to “snug down” to keep it from swiveling in place. I’m still using my Selmer series ii neck in its place and, having great success 🤷🏽♂️✌🏽🎶🎵🎷
I’m thinking that the 5 tip opening would work best for me since I am “older”. Thank you for the tip opening explanation!
I would add that if you are returning to playing you may want to consider going down a bit in tip opening. That is where I am at.
dude I need to know your lighting setup. literally one of the best productions I've seen on youtube
i have a roberto winds reeds 2.5 soft on a jody jazz jet 6 tip opening. i used to play 2.5 on a variety of reeds - rico, green box, nexus reeds. but when i switched to the robertos winds on the recommendation of my jazz director, it was night and day on how it played and the sound.
i also find it interesting after listening to your conversation with Vincent Herring, that he uses a soft strength reed AND a small tip opening. it really is just different for everyone.
Thank you for explaining. Now my questions about mouth piece are answered, and now i can pick which one to buy as beginner.
I play a 160 Berg ( stainless & brass) on tenor & a 130 (stainless & brass) on alto. They sound kind of big , but they play perfectly & will do things a smaller tip just won't do. Thanks, John.
Absolutely one of the better videos ACTUALLY " EXPLAINING" about the different aspects of the mouthpiece-- particularly measurements. Jay (and Adrian Spencer) is. literally, the reason I started playing music again. LITERALLY! I've yet to meet him, or talk to him-- or thank him, but he's the SOLE reason I finally decided to give it another go!
Thanks Michael glad to hear it.
@@bettersax Thanks again :)
What a great video. Very informative, specifically about older players that haven’t played in a while and which opening would suite me better. Waiting on some new mouthpieces to arrive. Used to play the Clarinet when younger but wanted to pick up the Sax now at almost 57. Thanks for sharing!
This is a great video with solid explanations. I've never really bought mouthpieces; just played what came with the horns (other than a teacher that insisted my alto C* needed to be upgraded to an S90 190, then later to a Rousseau NC4). The tenor was toughest: coming with a C* for band/chamber work and a Dukoff Super Power Chamber D9 for jazz. Only being told that one was a classical piece and one was a jazz piece was not enough information!
I really love the sound of the 5 the most!
hi jay . your opening several bars on alto sax shows how terrific you play .. wow.
call it great lyrical jazz . the kind i like .. Bobby G..
Had a 5* Otto link for first jazz alto mouthpiece then 10 years later switched to 7 and 8. I’ve returned the 7s. Got your burnin piece after playing jj hr*. Like them both but really like the fat sound I get with my burnin 7. Great piece just got it last week.
@Better Sax
IMHO: #5 - Very nice and clean! #6 - Like #5 but a little bigger with some “hair” on it! #7 - Even bigger with a pronounced bark(rrrrr) that I go back and forth on. The #6 was my favorite! They all sound excellent but decidedly different.
Very nice Jazz Etude, I’ll be buying that book! I’ve been teaching jazz phrasing with a book of Jazz Etudes by Dan Higgins for at least 35 years but, unfortunately, it’s been out of print for decades.
I havnt touched my tenor sax since I graduated highschool. Which is about 6 years. A little rusty no doubt but your videos deffinitly helped inspire me to pick it back up and blow a few notes
Best explanation I have heard in this subject and easily understood
Thank you
Just received my Yani AWO20 alto and ordered your Burnin piece with Ring.. Thanks Jay.
This is the best channel about saxophone! You tell so interesting and impressive, that it forces to make a progress in my skills. And in spite of that English isn’t my native language and I can’t understand all what you say, I see all you videos with pleasure and also improving my language:) thank you!
So good and accurate. I've played on my C* mouthpiece and Vandoren 3 reeds for decades. This is for band and orchestra. I switch to a Meyer 5 and Rico Royal 2 for big band and pit. I'll take your advice and go for a 6 or 7 . The 5 is "almost" but I want more. Thank you so much.
I needed this video a week ago! haha I F'd up and bought a 0.086" tip opening as a beginner, but slowly making it work! couldn't test it beforehand for health safety reasons
One of the best, most informative videos on this subject! For me, Especially the tips for “older players”/taking a brake from the sax etc... Back in the days, (and probably today?) I think a very common mistake is to go for a biiig opening, done so myself, because of many reasons: loud electrified surroundings, “your sax hero plays a 10 opening!, “It was just these old players that kept to those 5,6 openings.”..And generally; many people want a big type of sound. Currently I’m on 8* on tenor, but with 2 soft reeds to compensate..( gone down from 2 1/2) after hearing this video I’m planning to try out some smaller tip openings.. maybe 7 , 7* and then really try different reeds on that! Also very good tip! Thank you Jay!
Thanks!
OK Jay…I’m not usually one to buy mouthpieces from an influencer, especially one from Long (Strong) Island! (I’m a Brentwood guy)…although I have fallen into the “I want to sound like him, get his mpc…”. I bought my YAS-62 back in 1997 and taught myself saxophone during a 6 month deployment aboard an aircraft carrier…luckily, my best friend was the PAO with the keys to the tv studio on board with soundproofing! I’d sit in there with a cassette/cd and just play by ear (my previous music training was on the trumpet). Dave Koz got me into sax, so hence the 62, and then I bought the Beechler metal mpc with a 7 tip opening to match him of course. Since then, I’ve collected a few mouthpieces. Namely a Theo Wanne Gaia 8, which I love, and a Michael Lington signature Oleg metal mpc (also love) which also has an 8 tip I believe. But, they are all pretty loud pieces. After watching your video, realized I should probably tone down the volume as I’m now in my 50s and playing lead sax in a band isn’t in the cards…So, took your recommendation and ordered your mpc with a 6 tip, along with the Jody Jazz ring. Right out of the box I can say, WOW! This mouthpiece is pretty darn awesome. Gives me a nice rich tone when I want to play softer and can give some edge when I push it. Very versatile and just what the doctor ordered! Glad I went down in tip opening too. It’s making playing more fun…Oh yeah, the reason for the mpc search…I’ve always wanted a silver sax. Didn’t hav the dough to buy my 62 in silver back in 1998. Almost pulled the trigger on a 82z in silver last month when I came across a Mark VI in silver and gave it a test run…after having my tech give it a once, twice, three times a lady over…I’m in love…your mpc pairs with it nicely…like a great Bordeaux…
Great to hear. Glad it’s a good fit for you.
Jay, I'm hard-headed. I've been working on learning the sax for a few years on my own. I've invested in a soprano, alto, and tenor sax -- along with mouthpieces, ligatures, reeds, and misc. accessories for each -- trying to find something that "fit."
I wanted to get the JodyJazz Custom Dark for my alto, but wanted to do it right. I found this video on tip openings, and decided to actually follow your advice, instead of trying to just "grow" into a mouthpiece. I went with a size 5 opening per your recommendation for my honest skill level along with a 2.5 reed, and my first practice with it was an amazing change. I got to play for an extended amount of time without feeling like I was in an overwhelming fight. Finally, I found a setup that allows me to begin figuring out how nuances of pressure and positioning in my embouchure are affecting my results. Appropriate size selection has made a remarkably huge enjoyable difference for me, and you have my sincerest thanks; ... such a significant quality of life improvement just from deciding to follow sound advice!
Thank you!
Great to hear!
I play a Link Super Tone Master 9* with either Vandoren Blue 3 or D'Addario Select Jazz 4 Medium and am quite happy with this combination.
So a year and a half ago I switched from a 4C to a Vandoren T8. I absolutely loved that it opened up my sound in ways that a 4C couldn’t. Been playing hard for the entire time.
That's a big leap all at once. If you are comfortable and happy with the sound that's what matters!
@@bettersax absolutely, and as noted by you, the important thing is practicing what you need to and getting familiar with your instrument and your setup.
Work at guitar center and just bought my first sax ( tenor of course ) it comes in early next week in super excited
Thanks Jay, good advice !!!
Recently purchased a V16 7-tip and Selmer Concept - BIG change from my stock Yamaha mouthpiece. Stock feels more powerful at the moment. But I’m hoping I can grow in to the others in the next year.
I’m going to step down to a 2 1/2 reed to see what kind of difference it makes...and I’ll take up running this summer to increase my cardio and breath support!
Thanks for the video!!
It will be really good to know when we can buy a BURNIN’ mouthpiece in the UK.
man ive just gotten my first sax from a local pro and came with a drake mpc size 8, no wonder its loud as hell lol! but the sound is very full even only a couple days into playing, gotta love it!
Smooth playing..really dig it..those Burnin mouthpieces seem reslly nice.
Great explanation. I thought the 6 sounded best, but I think that's down to the reed
yeah 3 different reeds here so the sound will change more as a result of that variable.
5, 6, 7, each one sounds better. Can tell you play a 7, your sound really opened up as the tip opening increased. Nice sounding piece!
I changed from an Otto Link 8* to a Vandoren optimum 4 because I am now only playing in a community band. With the Otto Link I was always too loud. Now it is even easier to hit the low notes on the tenor sax.
My first mouthpiece was 6 on an Otto Link and I loved that mouthpiece cause it was so versatile and could always give me the sound I looked for when performing. 👍🏻😉😎😎😎
Burnin' mpc sounds great !
Thank you for explaining how to properly set yourself up for success with tip opening and reed selection! Great video Jay!
Your video helped me a lot, thank you very much - you do a great, inspiring job just because your sound is a role model. Greetings from the Czech Republic
Very good explanation Of mouthpieces And reed combinations. 👍🏾💯🎷
Bari player here. I went from a 5 tip opening on an Otto link to a 7star Jodyjazz DV. Best decision I’ve ever made. The power and projection is insane.
that's definitely an upgrade in my book.
Thank you for this great information. I found your video on flattening reeds the biggest help in attaining a consistent sound on my saxophones. My embouchure is very picky. There are certain reeds that I can not use. Example Vanduran alto v12 is great for me but the standard Vanduran is hard for me to get a good sound from. I have found that Junos are very good for me, but other players cant stand them. This video helped me understand why one has to pair the right reed to a particular mouthpiece. I love your nice warm tone on the tenor. I am learning tenor now, so far the cheap PVC mouthpiece that came with my horn works great. I did invest in a Rovner ligature that really helped. The metal ligature that came with the horn was cutting into the reed and mouthpiece.
Great information here! Not many sax or clarinet players have ever been told how mouthpieces are sized. This information should be right up there when the student is intermediate to pro level! And I think the 5 tip opening sounded the brightest and most free playing, but I enjoyed how the 6 was a good combination with a little wider sound! The 7 sounded to open and not very focused! Great stuff, Jay!
thanks. The reeds were contributing most of the audible difference in these tests. I played 3 different reeds so don't make the mistake of thinking the tip openings themselves are changing the character of the sound. that is the main point of the video.
20 tip opening is perfect for me. Allows me to do lots of things that you just cant do on any other numbers bellow 16. Great videos on your channel! Thanks,
Very useful information that translates to most read instruments (Bb Clarinet ...) Toying with why I need/want a lower note instrument, Tenor rings my bell although I have two 40's/50's Clarinets, and practicing Banjo as well. Thanks p.s. fun beginner "cheap" sax vids.
Thank you! Good explanation of the relationship between mouthpiece tip opening and reed strength, and how it influences sound. Cleared things up for me. I had been wondering about trying a larger tip opening, but now I’m going to stick with my Meyer 5 medium chamber mouthpiece. I like the sound you get in this video with a stiffer reed.
I have asthma and don't have a lot of air. In general I use a 7 for alto and a 6 for tenor. I can play a 7 with Tenor but I run out of breath quickly.
I know this about the alto mpc but I just had to comment on the tenor 6*. Good gublywubly. This mpc is great.
Good information. I wish I had known these things years ago when I purchased mouthpieces. It will still come in handy in the future.
One for my alto, another for my tenor, and the third for my soprano!!! Fingers crossed! Good luck everybody!
I play on a Selmer Vintage C* Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece on my Alto. I have been thinking of getting something newer your mouthpiece sounds great and well balanced.
Hello, Thank you for a no nonsense jargon free talk about mouthpiece tip openings. You have made me feel a lot better about myself. I'm 70 now so I'll stick to the smaller tip openings. Is the Burnin mouthpiece available for Tenor ? I'm in the UK. Thank you.
Tenor version will be coming soon!
Thanks for also adding millimeters! =)
Thousands of an inch is hard to relate to 😆
Every new student should see this video to understand why they are struggling!!! Essential information. When Ralph Morgan was still working, I called him and asked for a 2C. He said, “I’ll make it for you; this will be the only 2 I’ll sell this year.” I still play that 2 on my tenor with a soft plastic reed! No struggles since! My first Sax salesman didn’t play and sold me a crap horn with a 7 mouthpiece and 3 reed (hard)…he made me want to quit! Students must see this. Put it in your courses! Rocket 🚀
Thanks for all the effort you put into free quality content for us, your chanel is truly amazing.
Thank you!
Definitely want that 7. Current is a .090" but Bergs tend to feel smaller so it's probably like a 7.
Thank u so much. How do i get a mouth piece and reed?
Thanks for very good information even being a beginner with saxophone.
Beautiful m/piece. Bright but rounded and full. Jay, your playing gets better (if that's possible)!!! LoL