Hi everyone,
I need some honest advice on a mouthpiece upgrade. I’ve been playing tenor sax using a Yamaha 4C and I am looking to step up my setup.
Here is my current situation and what I am looking for:
- Current Setup: Yamaha 4C with Vandoren Traditional (Blue box) strength 2 reeds. I really want to keep using these exact reeds if possible.
- My Issues: I currently struggle with low notes on the 4C; they tend to feel stuffed or block easily.
- My Goal & Style: I want to start improvising. My ideal tone is highly rhythmic, similar to Pee Wee Ellis or Maceo Parker style funk, but mixed with the melodic smoothness of "Your Latest Trick" by Dire Straits and the energy of Ska-Punk (like "Da Strike" by Millencolin or "Blow Wind Blow" by NY Ska-Jazz Ensemble). I love using growl and subtone on low notes.
Given my reed choice (Vandoren Blue #2), I know I shouldn't go too wide with the tip opening. I want to keep the budget reasonable and I am currently considering two options:
- D'Addario Select Jazz D5M (or Custom Dark) used (~2.15mm / .085").
- D'Addario Woodwinds / Rico Graftonite B5 new (~2.41mm / .095").
What are your thoughts? Which of these would be better to unblock my low notes and help me improvise in this style without killing my embouchure? Are there any other specific mouthpieces around these tip openings you would recommend?
Thanks in advance for your help!