10 Best Sax Mouthpieces 2026 in the United States

The Vandoren SM813M A7 Medium Chamber V16 Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece is made of brass, which gives it a bright, powerful sound favored by many alto sax players. Its tip opening size of 0.204 mm and medium-long facing length strike a nice balance, offering good control and a comfortable playing feel that suits a wide range of styles. The medium chamber design helps produce a warm tone without sacrificing clarity.

This mouthpiece works best with Vandoren reeds in the #2 to #3.5 range, so pairing it with the right reed is important to get the best performance. Players will appreciate its dynamic range and the control it offers across volumes, making it suitable for both solo and ensemble playing. On the downside, brass mouthpieces like this can sometimes be a bit brighter or harsher compared to harder materials like hard rubber, which might not suit everyone’s preference.

If you prefer a larger or smaller tip opening, this one may feel restrictive or too open depending on your style. This mouthpiece represents a solid choice for intermediate to advanced alto saxophonists looking for a versatile, warm-toned option with good projection and tonal control.

The Selmer S-80 C* tenor saxophone mouthpiece is made of rubber, which generally offers a warm, rich tone favored by many sax players. Its tip opening of 1.8 mm is moderate, making it a good fit for players moving up from beginner to intermediate levels who want more control and flexibility without sacrificing ease of play. The square cross-section chamber affects the sound by producing a focused and clear tone, ideal for jazz and classical styles.

With a facing length of 24 mm, it balances response and tonal richness well, giving players comfortable control over their sound. Because the material is rubber and not metal, it might not provide the brighter, more cutting tone some advanced players look for. The chamber design suggests a smoother, less edgy sound.

This mouthpiece is a popular choice for tenor sax players seeking a reliable and versatile mouthpiece that helps improve tone quality and playability. It may not satisfy those looking for extreme brightness or a very aggressive sound, but for many, it offers a solid step up in performance without being too challenging to handle.

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.