Why Ligatures Matter | It's NOT How You Think...

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 มี.ค. 2019
  • #bettersax #saxophone #ligature
    Jay Metcalf explains the importance of saxophone ligatures.
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ความคิดเห็น • 930

  • @jeffoliver4038
    @jeffoliver4038 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1471

    Why ligatures matter: it’s hard to keep the reed in place without one!

    • @nathanaelmarsden1146
      @nathanaelmarsden1146 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      lmao

    • @archungus
      @archungus 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      True!

    • @toiletshark6368
      @toiletshark6368 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Can relate, I brought home a bad ligature that won't catch on the screws, so my bari sax is kinda more difficult to practice

    • @BranMuffinstudios
      @BranMuffinstudios 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      I have had to borrow a hair tie and a rubber band once. Terrible day but the audience did no know otherwise.

    • @sampo7657
      @sampo7657 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I used a hair tie once.

  • @pidgelord9445
    @pidgelord9445 4 ปีที่แล้ว +427

    I mean, obviously a red car goes faster than a car of any other colour.

    • @armaanbhojwani2677
      @armaanbhojwani2677 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      +15 horsepower right there

    • @JoshTms-yy8zp
      @JoshTms-yy8zp 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      +10 hp for racing stripes

    • @UlIxes1
      @UlIxes1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      A very elegant man has a terrible car crash with his red Ferrari. He gets out of the car, looks at the car and shouts: "OMG! My Ferrari!"
      Another man pops up and tells him:"Sir, you miss an arm!"
      The Ferrari man looks down and shouts: "OMG! My Rolex!"

    • @andrewz3854
      @andrewz3854 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Stickers 5+ horses power

    • @KeiNakazawa
      @KeiNakazawa 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      what about pink bruv?

  • @ldever3
    @ldever3 5 ปีที่แล้ว +433

    So that's why my low C goes wawawa; my 35 year old Gigliotti ligature has two screws. The whole time I was thinking it was the light I can see peeking through when the key is closed.

    • @katrinarose2210
      @katrinarose2210 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      It's honestly probably both

    • @ldever3
      @ldever3 5 ปีที่แล้ว +59

      Kenneth Fleming I was only joking. I don’t have light coming through any pads, and I don’t have a wawa on any notes. My old ligature may be outdated, but any bad sounds coming from my horn are from me.

    • @dannyboylan2342
      @dannyboylan2342 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Haha. Funny man.

    • @binaryheadstudios4002
      @binaryheadstudios4002 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      One screw just makes it harder to tighten the ligature unevenly and have your reed slip when you adjust your mouthpiece. It's basically for convenience, and that happens to be Jay's preference. But I personally use 2 screw ligatures on most of my mouthpieces. Good 2 screw ligatures when tightened properly are just as good as some 1 screw ligatures.

  • @gikasmarkantonatos2168
    @gikasmarkantonatos2168 5 ปีที่แล้ว +424

    This is why you are one of the most popular sax bloggers and teachers on the internets. You cut right to the chase, and cut out the bullshit, and are entertaining to boot. Keep up the great work!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      Thanks...

    • @f.thomassimpson4110
      @f.thomassimpson4110 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      And you’re pretty hot to boot.

    • @richardshane456
      @richardshane456 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@f.thomassimpson4110 ah... I'll pass on any comment....lol...good day all

    • @f.thomassimpson4110
      @f.thomassimpson4110 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Richard Shane uh, not you. :-)

  • @featherlite7873
    @featherlite7873 5 ปีที่แล้ว +203

    I am a 72 year old playing in a concert band where all of my colleagues made me feel lower class - since my ligature (which has lasted my life time to date!) is the original one that came with my 57 year old Selmer Mark VI Alto Sax. Thanks for the video, since I will continue to use my antique without prejudice.

    • @eileene.5870
      @eileene.5870 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Your colleagues suuuuck! ALL of my instruments (four flutes, two piccolos, a clarinet, two tenor saxophones and an alto, my three kids and I are all musical) are Selmers/Bundys!! They're amazingly well-made, and they sound great!!

    • @gregjones4722
      @gregjones4722 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      feather lite I'm 75. I have the same Sax. Silver finnish. Thanks!

    • @gregorysabol4172
      @gregorysabol4172 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I too have a ‘63 Selmer Mark VI Alto, bought new, with the original Mouthpiece and Ligature. I haven’t played since I got out of College but after seeing this site and subscribing, have decided to start playing again. My thanks to JM.

    • @jeremyryannoel
      @jeremyryannoel 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Seriously? If it works, what say anyone?

    • @sunnypunsing
      @sunnypunsing 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      the original selmer ligatures are actually one of the best. Not kidding, they are seriously good.

  • @yamiii
    @yamiii 5 ปีที่แล้ว +316

    I learned half of the stuff I know from this channel

    • @kajstridell9306
      @kajstridell9306 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Frpm Kaj to Jay: You know a lot, and you talk a lot, too much talk and too little showing in closeup
      on the items you are talking about! When you hold a ligature, half hidden by your hand and in front
      of your face, in the size of your baird, how can I get any good impression of the thing!!? Rather, take
      picture of the thing so it occupies at least half of the area of the picture, so that we can see the details!
      Yours is a one man job, I imagine; Why not take help of another curious cameraman, who is eager to
      make the pictures ”talk” of what you say?
      WeAll love your programmes, but show and play more and talk less, is my humble wish!
      d

    • @srithangayam5271
      @srithangayam5271 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@kajstridell9306 english at its finest

    • @juannavarro1100
      @juannavarro1100 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ordinary Videos maby thats why you still shit

    • @rico._5067
      @rico._5067 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Fr

    • @tedcoop2681
      @tedcoop2681 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Amen

  • @DrSaxLove
    @DrSaxLove 4 ปีที่แล้ว +163

    Very cool and informative, sax brother. Makes me feel okay that I CANNOT HEAR THE DIFFERENCE between ligatures! 😊

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Thanks bro

    • @ethano3099
      @ethano3099 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      It changes the feel of playing, but tone-wise, it’s always seemed like a placebo effect to me. One of my favorites is a piece of cheap 8 inch long Velcro.

  • @funk4ever
    @funk4ever 5 ปีที่แล้ว +54

    Man my sides hurt. Its like when producers would ask for a different bass tone and I fake-flipped a switch and played with my nails until they walked off. They always swore that was they tone the wanted. You rock Jay!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks Derrick.

  • @Grimmlock78
    @Grimmlock78 5 ปีที่แล้ว +112

    This guy is the “Bob Ross” of sax videos. I’m going to subscribe and I haven’t picked up a sax since I was 14yrs old. I’m 40, now lol

    • @red_ford23
      @red_ford23 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Pick one up, Chris. :)

    • @stanhegeman8751
      @stanhegeman8751 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Biter done, Chris!

    • @HellyHere
      @HellyHere 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hope you got your saxophone out!

    • @red_ford23
      @red_ford23 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I went to the outdoor shop a Christmas and got two bucks in my case. whats great is little kids that have never seen a horn in real life.

  • @KidsToysPlayChannel
    @KidsToysPlayChannel 4 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    Loved the switch up for the intro. Great hook.

  • @thombilayukallo6922
    @thombilayukallo6922 5 ปีที่แล้ว +139

    Stan Getz could use duct tape instead of a ligature and nobody would notice the difference in the sound

    • @Captaincrab77
      @Captaincrab77 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Tell my old director that xD

    • @rebelxapologist4505
      @rebelxapologist4505 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You win the funniest comment award for the day .... well, my day. Thank you!!!!

    • @scubadiva666
      @scubadiva666 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      As I commented elsewhere, I was sitting next to a saxophonist once who used a rubber band for a ligature. If it works, it works.

    • @karibari7673
      @karibari7673 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      i had to use tape last year for half of the year because we didn’t have another ligature for me💀

    • @disgruntled_llama
      @disgruntled_llama 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I recall playing the sax as a beginner with my grandpa - I forgot my ligature, so he gave me his and he used a hose clamp. Made no difference whatsoever.

  • @MegaMech
    @MegaMech 4 ปีที่แล้ว +47

    5:00 "The colour of your car will make it go faster" It is true, that if you paint your car with racing stripes you get atleast twenty more horse power. That's just a fact.

    • @asuchri
      @asuchri 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      If you put flames on it its +25 horsepower

    • @MegaMech
      @MegaMech 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@asuchri No... You lose 25 horse power if you put flames on it. Flames makes the car annoyingly noisy like ricers.

    • @asuchri
      @asuchri 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@MegaMech sure ill agree, but adding a spoiler to your car adds 100k horsepower easily.

    • @jorkles4691
      @jorkles4691 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Same way with having a red mountain bike makes it go faster.

    • @occashares
      @occashares 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Maybe could have said: Whore power, attracts them like bees to honey

  • @wperkins1728
    @wperkins1728 5 ปีที่แล้ว +119

    Jay, I pretty much enjoy all of your videos, but this is by far, my favorite. Anything that "cuts the crap' is aces with me. Thank you, Sir!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Lots of crap to be cut out there... Thanks.

    • @vrufino
      @vrufino 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I have used the BG ligatures on clarinet and sax. My one gripe with the reed cap is that the plastic will crack if dropped. This has happened to 2 of their ligs. that I own. Also like the Rovner Versa, because of the changeable plate and freedom of using metal touching reed or vinyl. This helps with reeds that are not working as well as when I first begin using them. I have the freedom to customize the vibration of the reed.@@bettersax

  • @grantkoeller8911
    @grantkoeller8911 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I'm 60 years old, and have been playing saxophone for 50 years, 44 years professionally. 23 years with USAF BANDS. I went through a 10 year phase were I used hand tied string, and it really is wonderful! Like a Silverstone but even better and way cheaper! Preferred string was nylon boot lace and parachute cord. Today I use on Alto sax a German silver C melody sax ligature. It fits perfectly and looks cool too on my Meyer 7MM. When I was at North Texas Lab Bands I used for lead alto, a Meyer 7MM and now 40 years later I still use a Meyer 7MM,for bebop jazz alto.

  • @nobodyofconsequence9930
    @nobodyofconsequence9930 5 ปีที่แล้ว +178

    What type of hat do i NEED to sound like Stan Getz ?

    • @bordersw1239
      @bordersw1239 5 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      It depends if you’re playing bossa nova or bebop - they require different hats 😉

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      That's a whole other video...

    • @johnpiettro4644
      @johnpiettro4644 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      That's not the hat but rather specific underwear that will change the way you sound. That's actually the hardest part to figure out: you can glance at the Stan's mouthpiece or ligature but his underwear or his socks... not everyone can figure that out but once you do... wow! - The sky is the limit for you in saxophone playing!

    • @nobodyofconsequence9930
      @nobodyofconsequence9930 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Everything in life is a compromise. Underwear thst lets you get the mellow bass subtones won't work for altissimo . Conversely underwear that helps with altissimo puts you at risk for a hospital stay.
      What does everyone think about a Sherlock Holmes deerstalker cap ?

    • @norman-ankhlove7447
      @norman-ankhlove7447 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      The new clone-lig.. they took a cast of Stan's lips and molded into real life like Getz lips to place over your own with included $3.59 ligature made in Taiwan Walmart factory

  • @bigeman25
    @bigeman25 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I love jazz and my favorite instrument is the saxophone, tenor, alto, bass any sax is good with me. I say this to say I subscribed. One day maybe I'll try to learn how to play the saxophone. I'm over 60, I best get started!

    • @HellyHere
      @HellyHere 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hope you played some saxophone.

    • @karltorento3358
      @karltorento3358 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Always stay hungry!

  • @sampo7657
    @sampo7657 4 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    Used my friends hair tie once instead. Sounded the same.

    • @avacable1019
      @avacable1019 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Kitty765 😂😂😂

    • @ethano3099
      @ethano3099 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Felt more free-blowing, right?

    • @sampo7657
      @sampo7657 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ethano3099 felt the same except I felt like it was gonna fall off

  • @IanJonesOnSax
    @IanJonesOnSax 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    The ligature that came with my yanagisawa mouthpiece is a 2-screw that BARELY keeps the reed in place when fully tightened- that is until last night. With the ever-so-slightly smaller synthetic reed, it slips. This video came just in time! In for the Kenny G special (through your link!). Thank you!!!!

  • @medicareplanningwithjohnde8751
    @medicareplanningwithjohnde8751 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This intro banter between good guy/bad guy was the funniest segment you have produced yet. Almost got in trouble laughing out loud watching at work on my lunch break. You so help me be content with modest equipment and focus instead on playing well and expressing emotion meaningfully. You are a gifted teacher. I so look forward to each of your weekly releases. Thanks.

  • @colettehuynh8613
    @colettehuynh8613 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    this vid was amazing!!! i had trouble with the sound of my sax and i kept thinking it was how i was playing. then i watched this and got a new ligature. it has improved the sound sooo much

  • @AntonMoiseyenko
    @AntonMoiseyenko 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This is the best and funniest video, especially the introduction part! You made my day!

  • @aidenf.o.1656
    @aidenf.o.1656 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    I really like the way you talk. Your studio lighting is on point and I'm digging the real talk. Subscribed.

    • @warpatato
      @warpatato 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      The way he talks really sounds a lot like Rick Beato

  • @tomward5003
    @tomward5003 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great info!!! I have been trying to get some straight literature on ligatures - and not until Jay's video above did I feel that I understand this issue. Thanks Jay!

  • @dthomas2047
    @dthomas2047 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great info Jay! I never thought that much about my ligature just thinking that the one that comes with the mouthpiece is the one to be using. This was really helpful, thanks for the this segment.

  • @SpookyStina
    @SpookyStina 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I love the intro. Omg. Being in music all my life, after growth up, hearing this is hilarious because it's so accurate and we all have met "that person".

  • @a-funk1253
    @a-funk1253 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have a Rovner with my soprano. Bough it + Yamaha 4C mpc. I only play a couple of times a year but when watching these videos, makes me want to play more frequently. Rovner stays in its place and doesn't scratch my mpc. Also very easy to use and when being flexible 'ribbon', contacts evenly and holds its position. Worth its price, definitely. Thank You for your videos.

  • @dnc12265
    @dnc12265 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Thank you for cutting through all the hype, Jay! I’ve been using a tenor Rovner since I started jamming about 8 years ago, and highly recommend it for the price and functionality. Thanks for making more than one recommendation at different price points!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks David

  • @karlschroeder1207
    @karlschroeder1207 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for the rundown on ligatures, Jay. I generally use wither a D'Addario H or a Selmer 404 on my metal tenor mouthpiece, D'Addario H on alto, and a Rovner on bari. They work great I've had them for a while.

  • @samuelstapelman8077
    @samuelstapelman8077 5 ปีที่แล้ว +103

    Me with a broken, bent ligature with a total worth of $0.25 be like...

    • @wob3786
      @wob3786 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      25 cents could get you one whole gumball from walmart

    • @emimagran7520
      @emimagran7520 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I felt that

    • @jib21812
      @jib21812 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      School instruments be like

    • @jessesheehan4051
      @jessesheehan4051 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      just bend it back

    • @oatjohnsonmeal3292
      @oatjohnsonmeal3292 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Same

  • @rreganjjohnn
    @rreganjjohnn 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I bought a cheap leather ligature on eBay, well artificial leather, and within a week it had stretched too big. So I took out the screw rod and two small bars and fitted them onto a piece of webbing which I glued in place I placed a small piece of cardboard just to support the reed and .well it plays fantastic, I can't believe it!!! magic my sax now sounds like a super pro model and intonation is so easy.

  • @wiejetze8397
    @wiejetze8397 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey man, thanks a lot for this! Here and there I read about ligatures and all these miracle things they should do and I thought I had to do something in this matter. You calmed me down and proved what I'm thought by myself. I had to lough with you about all that b...t they tell about these phenomenal attributes.
    BTW: You're a real cool and sympathic guy. I'ts a pleasure to watch your vids.
    Cheers from Berlin/Germany

  • @johnhodgson5313
    @johnhodgson5313 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for a no nonsense review. I have read many advertisements for clarinet ligatures and couldn't figure out the physics behind them. Now I know why.

  • @marks.6656
    @marks.6656 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    My side hurts from the awesomeness of this video!!!! Thanks Jay!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm glad someone appreciates my sense of humor. thanks.

  • @anonymousguy7723
    @anonymousguy7723 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    My saxophone teacher has used rubber bands and plumbers clamps when he was in a pinch.!!! I use a Theo Wanne ligature and I’m happy....

  • @Sax4Him
    @Sax4Him 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    2yrs later and STILL one of my most favorite videos! So great.

  • @anthonymiller3697
    @anthonymiller3697 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So glad to see this post. I've never bought into the hype of all these ligatures. Aside from any ligature that has come with a mp, I've always been fine with a rover for all mps I've played. Its holds the reed much better then many of these more expensive ligatures. Sure some of them may aesthetically look nicer on your particular mp, but many don't hold up there functionality for the price they cost.

  • @mathewwallis2863
    @mathewwallis2863 5 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Jay, my friend... I just want to say, I've been playing for almost a year now, and I started out watching EVERYone! A few guys, I still keep tabs on, from time to time (and let me just add, there are MANY REALLY good instructors on line), but my time is precious and the videos I always find myself watching are YOURS!
    Keep up the GREAT work, my friend! You rock! You're my 'Go-to' guy!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Good to hear Matthew, thanks.

  • @paoloalbano4690
    @paoloalbano4690 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Jay, great video again..! So clear, so true. Your videos make me feel better. Thank you again

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Paolo.

  • @ntxmt
    @ntxmt 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Whew! You had me going there for a minute. I couldn't believe it was you giving that intro!

  • @mikebrown3820
    @mikebrown3820 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just ordered a Rovner with your link. Thanks for the tip and the great video. Keep ‘em coming!

  • @eternal_hangnail
    @eternal_hangnail 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    About halfway through the semester, my tenor ligature snapped. I started using rubber bands (or a hair tie in a pinch) and i was so surprised with how natural it sounded that i didn't bother replacing it

  • @joer3481
    @joer3481 5 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    I saw a bass clarinet light comparison on utube....he actually used a shoe string at one point and it worked....also g with a rubber band...... C# or Bb :-)

    • @zacharynelson8558
      @zacharynelson8558 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Old clarinet-like instruments used string, but that's kinda gross to use shoe string. I've used tape before. It sucks

    • @villager2236
      @villager2236 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Here is the video: th-cam.com/video/6ghMCiV8hTg/w-d-xo.html

  • @10morrissette
    @10morrissette 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love the intro, because it is soooooo true. I played a Rovner for years and it does exactly what it needs to. Then I got sucked into "upgrading" my ligature. Yes, the Francois Louis Ultimate plays a little lighter and the Vandoren Optimum is more powerful, but if there are differences, I'm the only one who notices.

  • @MarkPeotter
    @MarkPeotter 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Greatest discussion ever on ligatures! I stopped buying the "next best" lig sooner than you did, apparently. The only thing I notice is a slightly brighter tone with metal over leather - or maybe I just play the altissimo better with a metal lig. The other thing is that I can't use the Otto Link lig, because the reed twists when I tighten it up!

  • @Jazzznbluezzz1
    @Jazzznbluezzz1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks for for the very entertaining post. I agree with you to some extend. From my experience I dare to declare that there are ligs that really do affect the sound. Rovners I do not like at all as they seem to dampen the tone. Like you I also like the BG single screw ligs but not only for their efficiency. To my ear the BG really appears to make the sound fuller and rounder. Some ligs do clearly affect the tone by adding some brightness like the old Bonade inverted and a solid brass ring slide on lig that I found cheap on Ebay. I occasionally play a bronze Berg Larsen and with its original 2 screw lig it sounds OK but when I put on a old Runyon 1-screw lig the tone appears to get extra depth and dimension. Well, maybe the Berg lig just sucks but just saying there can be a difference made in tone.
    I also experimented with tie ribs (the cheapest ligs on the market) and you will be suprised what difference it makes. It is a pain to position it on and off though.
    It is fun to experiment with all kind of vintage cheapo 2-scew and 1-screw ligs. But I would suggest to avoid the expensive boutique ones. They are just eye candy and too much money for too little difference in tone if at all.

  • @jaredgonzalez8300
    @jaredgonzalez8300 5 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    *Just want to say, Thank You for your videos*

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thank you for the comment.

  • @wesleyotter8752
    @wesleyotter8752 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I don’t even play a Saxophone I play clarinet and trumpet I found your channel a while back but I just like your style keep up the good work!

  • @ariksax
    @ariksax 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Chapeau for telling the truth!!! I am a professional classical player, in 22 years since I am playing a Saxophone I have owned 5 ligatures in total for alto,soprano and tenor. Every time some of my professional colleagues would tell me about the great sound or response of the xy ligature I am shocked . The points for a good ligature you brought here are absolutely the most and only ones which should be considered when getting a ligature. Thank you for speaking the truth and making clear what a ligatures purpose is in the construction of saxophone.

  • @parker550
    @parker550 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Another good sensible take on marketing BS... Top lad🎷👍💣

  • @T.H.W.O.T.H
    @T.H.W.O.T.H 5 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    I've been using the 'Kenny G' for a while now, but I still don't my own a gold lamé jumpsuit or aircraft though.
    I once dropped my lig during a hurried setup and the drummer stepped backwards onto it. Completely funked! Ended up using a couple of winds of elastoplast. Worked fine. Not a bad gig either.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      That's where a Rovner is good.. You can step on it...

    • @rillloudmother
      @rillloudmother 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      If you get enough money and have to buy a plane, try not to tell anybody.

    • @lylecrawford2794
      @lylecrawford2794 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Isn't that kind of a band-aid solution?

  • @jimneely2052
    @jimneely2052 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Jay... always good info on anything to do with saxophone. Thanks.

  • @panpansax825
    @panpansax825 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've wanted to start playing the saxophone about 15 years ago now (I'm 23) but I don't come from a very wealthy family so never had the opportunity to actually buy one. I've started watching your videos because I was looking to see if there were any cheap ones that could get me started and found yours on the 270$ alto from amazon and now that I am older and have a job I am extreamly impatient to buy it at the end of the month on my next pay check. Anyway its just to say that I don't have any saxes at home but I've been watching your videos non-stop for two months now and I just want to thank you for making my childhood dream reborn inside of me again and reminding me to go out and live that dream! (Yes my childhood dream was to own a saxophone, always been obsessed with this instrument)

  • @daddycavefish
    @daddycavefish 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love the BG Duo have 2, minimal contact points , under screw point its padded rubber never messes up the MP, and looks great, also the rovner dark is great

  • @ak9041
    @ak9041 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I was just about to drop some serious cash on a new ligature after falling for all the crap I’ve heard. Then I dropped by your channel to see if you had a video on ligatures. Thanks for saving me a heap of money!

  • @leowright8016
    @leowright8016 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    OMG 😂😂😂once again Jay thank you for sharing! This one will go far, 🎶🎶🎷😎👍🏾

  • @antoniocruz1163
    @antoniocruz1163 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm glad that you are bringing stuff like this to light and to stop the nonsense.

  • @sheskimusic
    @sheskimusic 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    To some degree I agree with what you’re saying. I do understand however, that the ligature absolutely does have an effect in the vibration of the instrument. Because of this, if the player is sensitive enough to these minute changes, the feeling in the approach is definitely different. If I can feel the “buzz” and vibrations I feel more connected and my sound will surely reflect that

  • @jguillermoii
    @jguillermoii 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    22 years ago today, I've been using the same
    ligature...

  • @ickeyshufflin1288
    @ickeyshufflin1288 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Jay, I have been following you awhile and have to say buddy- your production value is getting to be top notch and your content has always been the best! I trust your opinion and appreciate your videos!

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, videos are like saxophone, the more you practice the better you get.

  • @robstevens9590
    @robstevens9590 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like the way you put the add-hype into proper perspective. They can make a ligature sound like the answer to all your problems. Ha. Great post! I use a BG-Revelation on my alto sax Otto Link hard rubber #7 and it does sound better than the original simple 2 screw ligature.

  • @SModex777
    @SModex777 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Jay I was laughing my behind off with this one. Reminded me of my youth and early adulthood.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Glad it made you laugh...

  • @melosunny
    @melosunny 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    When I was first starting out at alto sax in band, I barely tightened it and my reed shot out:

  • @profitleads
    @profitleads 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I had wondered if anyone would ever actually produce a video explaining the only important function of a ligature. Glad someone finally did.

  • @MrGuto
    @MrGuto 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Better Sax, you've nailed this one! I have the exact same 5 criteria for choosing my ligatures. Functionality above all. I'm a big fan of the simplest Rovners, also like the M/O.

  • @mrp1217
    @mrp1217 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I love this video! The ligature doesn't contact the vibrating column of air, so how could it possibly affect the timbre?

    • @matthewhetzler4912
      @matthewhetzler4912 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      This sounds like something you should study!

  • @craigmckinney2219
    @craigmckinney2219 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Director, not player, but a good vid. Drop the one turning green in baking soda and water. It should help. I always found on my trumpets that keeping a little valve oil on the spots that turn green will deter the verdigris.

  • @aaronbensi9723
    @aaronbensi9723 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good advice...
    Rovner and the vandoren good value and great ligatures...
    Darker sound ..more the mouthpiece... and reed...
    Fantastic job..👍

  • @awrwayne
    @awrwayne 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love the humor Jay. Finally an honest opinion of the effect on tone. I can't hear a difference either; at least not enough to change from the ligature that came with the mouthpiece (Otto Link STM).

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      The ligatures that come with the Otto Link Metal mouthpieces aren't the best at holding the reed on... The Selmer three band ones you can see in this video are nice for those.

  • @munichmapper3245
    @munichmapper3245 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My friend's grandpa has a massive ligature collection. (I mean, also saxophone stuff in general, but the ligatures are the ones that he has the most of.) My Tenor (when I still played it) sounded 10x better when I tried on one of his Jazz ligatures, and he said this year for jazz band he will let me borrow one of his Bari jazz ligatures. 👌

  • @MegaMech
    @MegaMech 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Everyone always puts the cheap/default 2 screw one that comes with beginner instruments on upside-down. They think the hole in it is supposed to match the symbol on the mouth piece, when it's actually made so you can see that the ligature is on the center of the reed. Got this tip from a PhD saxophone player. He does sessional thingies. I knew he was going to say the same thing he said like two years ago. So when my concert band sax players along with many sax players from many schools were waiting for him. I was joking to my friend that his ligature was on upside-down. He was like "No it's not, what are you talking about". I was kinda making myself look like a fool on purpose. Then the PhD guy comes in, says an intro. And the first thing he says "Your ligatures are on upside-down" so all the people who thought I was crazy begins unanimously flipping their ligatures around. It was hilarious, I was laughing so hard.

    • @Daedalus33
      @Daedalus33 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      MegaMech idk man it seems to fit better upside down for some reason

    • @grantkoeller8911
      @grantkoeller8911 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      The ligature can be put on the mouthpiece 12 o'clock, 6 o'clock and also 3 and 9 oclock

    • @MegaMech
      @MegaMech 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@grantkoeller8911 The PhD guys main reason was he thought the default ligatures put more pressure on the reed and makes a better seal. Real solution in my experience is buy a better ligature.

  • @esfahan1961
    @esfahan1961 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Enlightening video Jay, once again. I use most of the ligs you mentioned but haven’t noticed my Silversteins stretching beyond what they should. If they do I’ll tell you. Many thanks 👍🏼

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Thierry.

  • @gsco82
    @gsco82 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I agree with your assessment of Rovner ligatures. I use them on all my saxes and clarinets. But then, I have never tested a more expensive ligature.

  • @900schutter
    @900schutter 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    great video. i use the rovner tenor ligature on my baritone syos mouthpiece, works absolutely great. before this i used the BG leather lig with the 2 metal ridges, but that started to slip/loosen up after a couple of years.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The Rovners are very versatile.. Great value.

  • @lapislazers2373
    @lapislazers2373 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Company: this ligature will make u sound like a god
    Oboist: hold my beer

  • @major7jazztuition67
    @major7jazztuition67 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    That was very helpful. I've been thinking about getting a new ligature and this was informative, thank you!

  • @theblueriverjazzbandmusic2540
    @theblueriverjazzbandmusic2540 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Recently saw Melissa Aldana in an interview was saying the Silverstein was ideal ( $200+) but then shortly later saw her with a Boston Sax Shop one. It’s nice when people give you stuff for free. I’m so happy you keep it real Jay!

  • @derekakien7379
    @derekakien7379 5 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I like the way you cut through the BS. Almost Shakesperean! LoL.

  • @johnchapin7707
    @johnchapin7707 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Yeah man: i need that rounder sound! I can only get round sound with the round-sound lig...!!! HAH! Awesome post. But for the record: blue cars are really slower than red cars. Just sayin.... ;-)

  • @Jpetersson
    @Jpetersson 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I´m not into saxes at all but if I was, I´d loooove this channel! Well done dude!

  • @jurenard3109
    @jurenard3109 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very nice intro ! And for a non native english speaker : thanks for the way you talk. I just have a remark about the Vandoren MO ligature because it does not fit very well on bari V16 with all kind of reeds. However I really apreciate the Optimum Ligature by Vandoren even though it is a litle more expensive. It fit very well on most of tenor+bari mouthpiece. The different types of plates may sometime be usefull according to the quality of a reed and/or the style. But this also maybe just an illusion only felt by the player... What ever thanks for this video.

  • @vasylsahan
    @vasylsahan 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    You Rock!!! You just made my day🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣!!

  • @schildster
    @schildster 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    For maximum efficiency of air pressure in initiating the standing wave place the lig at the center of mass of the piece. Higher mass and minimum contact area with the barrel will also increase efficiency. The Rovner leather lig dampens the standing wave oscillator (mouthpiece) preventing higher frequency resonance and constraining the dynamic frequency range of each tone. For some like Kamasi or that guy from the Revivalists who play metal pieces this is desirable although less efficient

  • @chrisparker5372
    @chrisparker5372 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your wittiest video to date -- just made me smile and "uh-huh" all the way thru! And super helpful, as I've just started stewing about ligatures, and was close to buying something fancy and bad.

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Chris.

  • @Lfunk1983
    @Lfunk1983 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    HAHA Jay this was friking hilarious. Your videos are incredible. I try to practice at least 8 hrs a week because of your suggestions...love my tenor!

  • @jjy135
    @jjy135 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey Better Sax!
    I recently have been considering trying out the soprano saxophone, and I've been playing the Alto for a few years now. Do you have any suggestions for soprano saxophones under $1000 (USD)?
    Also, I noticed that soprano saxophones are extremely expensive, so if $1000 isn't enough to buy a decent saxophone, do you you have any suggestions for a decent soprano?

    • @zachc9532
      @zachc9532 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      look on amazon and craigs list

    • @jjy135
      @jjy135 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@zachc9532 Used or new?

    • @zachc9532
      @zachc9532 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jjy135 Id say that a used soprano would be alot easier to find for under $1000. I have a used alto that i got from Craigs list for $500 that works great. just make sure the used instrument is in great condition. it will be harder to find a new soprano for under 1000. its hard to find any new sax for under 1000

    • @jjy135
      @jjy135 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@zachc9532 What brands would you recommend? Also, how can you tell if it's in good condition?

    • @zachc9532
      @zachc9532 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jjy135 I would recommend Yamaha. And to tell if its in good shape, tell the person selling it to you on craigs list to let you play on it im front of the seller before the final purchase. If you get it off of Amazon, look at all the images and look at the description to see the if its in good condition.

  • @kai-tu3mn
    @kai-tu3mn 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    when im playing one of ny schools saxes:
    *ligature moves and the reed shifts out of place after one scale*

  • @vasylsahan
    @vasylsahan 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    By the way... about those fancy silverstens. You just can use string ligature, just piece of twine as old school clarinet players does! I was try it once. Has same effect))) I'm using this some times on my rubber tenor Larsen and it feels and sounds very similar but it takes time to put it on which is annoying but my point is that you don't need to spend 250$ for piece of string...
    And again great video!!! Very inspiring and helpful stuff as every time!

  • @grantkoeller8911
    @grantkoeller8911 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The Selmer Magnatone is one of the greatest, I learned this when Ralph Morgan handed me one, and I thought wow this is a killer slip on ligature!!!

  • @mnaber2003
    @mnaber2003 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This cracked me up. All so true.

  • @ironmight3656
    @ironmight3656 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    “unbelievable blowing ease”

  • @mrbigg151
    @mrbigg151 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Ha! Love the opening scene. I've played clarinet for a while and I lean toward the one screw ligature myself.

  • @yvesbajulaz
    @yvesbajulaz 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, neverless I bet, in a blind test, you’d still find the same favorite ligature by sound/feel. Some ligatures sound way different, like a rovner dark vs a jjazz power ring… The one which I can’t live without anymore is the Silverstein. The articulations in the low notes are much easier than any others I’ve tried, and the size of mine is well within my mouthpiece size, so 5 years later, still tightens really well and wont slip under load.Fave lig is like fave slippers…

  • @moises9847
    @moises9847 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Coloca a legenda em português.um grande abraço...

  • @kiraharden1204
    @kiraharden1204 5 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    “All the best sax players on instagram use this”

  • @rezzab
    @rezzab 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I went through the ligature minefield and over the years tried a few, some rather expensive, about a year ago I was looking for something in my bits drawer and saw my old favourite standard metal one, I gave it a try, it sounded good, I use it all the time now.

  • @ofoflofo7815
    @ofoflofo7815 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I just started saxophone and this channel has been a huge help. Thank You

    • @bettersax
      @bettersax  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for watching

    • @ofoflofo7815
      @ofoflofo7815 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for making great videos

  • @kd5nrh
    @kd5nrh 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I now have motivation to become a great saxophone player so I can get famous for using a radiator hose clamp as a ligature.

  • @bungorogers7067
    @bungorogers7067 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Same crap guitarists tell themselves when wood species come up - "I can hear it!" Also the "this brand of sax has these aural characteristics" is b.s. with all the possible variables in any sax.

  • @davidburckhardt7672
    @davidburckhardt7672 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks, nothing really new for me, but a confirmation of years of playing sax and clarinet. Spot on.

  • @jazzlife
    @jazzlife ปีที่แล้ว

    Using both the Mark 6 143,XXX and a Yamaha 62S Purple Logo, switching back and forth as they have similar keywork without having to adjust too much. And always wondered why if the horns added had anything to do with the reasons why the artists I love chose these horns. To take it back from a recording engineer perspective, I even contacted the engineers from the albums I enjoyed listening to growing up. Yes it's the player but I can prove that the mouthpiece and sax, down the the exact vintage and facing /model has also contributed to the equation. I have tried them all out and have done an intensive study on this more than I would have liked. I enjoyed your videos and wish to discuss all this someday with you