10 Best Sax Mouthpieces 2025 in the United States

The Theo Wanne DU5-TG7S Durga 5 Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece is a high-quality option for tenor saxophonists seeking a modern sound. Its standout feature is the gold plating, which not only adds a luxurious look but also contributes to a brighter, more resonant tone. The tip opening of 0.105 inches (7*) is relatively large, making it suitable for experienced players who prefer greater flexibility and dynamic range in their playing.

Weighing 9.9 ounces and measuring 6.5 x 2.5 x 2.25 inches, it's a substantial piece that feels solid in hand. Customer reviews are highly positive, with users rating it 5.0 out of 5 stars, indicating satisfaction with its performance. It's ranked #110 in Tenor Saxophones Mouthpieces on Amazon, suggesting it's a popular choice among tenor saxophonists.

The main drawback might be its suitability for beginners due to the larger tip opening, which requires more skill to control. Also, the gold plating, while aesthetically pleasing and tonally beneficial, may make it a pricier option compared to other mouthpieces. This mouthpiece is best suited for intermediate to professional players looking for a high-quality, modern mouthpiece to enhance their sound.

The Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece for Alto Saxophone is a well-regarded choice, particularly for musicians looking to elevate their playing experience. Its rubber material offers a warm and rich sound, which is often preferred by many saxophonists. With a tip opening of 1.70 and a facing length of 22.00, it caters well to a variety of playing styles, making it versatile for jazz, classical, and contemporary music. The square cross section in the chamber is designed to enhance sound production and response, contributing to a more dynamic performance.

This mouthpiece is particularly suitable for those who are stepping up from beginner to intermediate level, as it can significantly improve tone quality and ease of play compared to lower-quality options. On the downside, some players may find the tip opening a bit narrower compared to other models, which could limit certain playing techniques or styles, especially for those who prefer a more free-blowing experience.

Finally, being a rubber mouthpiece, it might not provide the same brightness and projection as metal options, which some players might prefer for certain genres. The Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece is an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to enhance their sound and performance across various styles of music.

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

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

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