Morgan Jazz Vs Classical Mouthpieces

[Roger Aldridge]

Has anyone played both Morgan classical and jazz clarinet mouthpieces? I love the RM15 mouthpiece. But, I've been curious about the J5. If someone has played both types of Morgan clarinet mouthpieces please describe your impressions of them.

[Anji]

The Jazz stuff has a fairly high baffle. While the J- series has particularly good projection, I think his RM- series are better all around.

I played an RM-28 which was a compromise between the two designs and found it similar to the J- series.

I have both a J-6 and J-7 (new, old stock) that could be yours... $95 each!

Dave Hoskins also sells them...


<http://www.junkdude.com/saxes/morgan_clarinet_facings.htm>

(For what it's worth, I think you already have the pick of the litter.)

[cc]

What reeds work best for you on your RM28?

[Roger Aldridge]

It took awhile with Ralph's shop being backlogged with orders, but I got a Morgan J5 mouthpiece and was able to compare it to my RM15 and RM28. One thing I have to say upfront is that finding the "right" mouthpiece depends upon a lot of variables such one's particular clarinet, set up, tonal conception, and style. The RM15 is a FANTASTIC mouthpiece! If I had a Buffet or Leblanc clarinet I would probably stick with the RM15 as a superb all-around mouthpiece. I used both the RM15 and RM28 on my larger-bore 1966 Noblet. Between the two, I definitely prefer the RM15. However, I was looking for easier response and a bit more projection. The J5 brings those qualities to my Noblet. It's easier blowing, response & projection are excellent, and my sound is livelier. I'm quite happy with it.

In talking with Ralph about the RM15 and J5 it sounds like there are two main differences between them: 1.) The J5 has a 1.25 MM tip opening whereas the RM15 is 1.15 and 2.) the J5 has a slightly shorter facing curve. Unless I'm mistaken, that's it. In other words, the J5 doesn't have a higher baffle than the RM-series mouthpieces. It's the facing curve that makes for most of the difference. The J5 is closest to the RM28 (1.28 MM). Personally, I find the J5 to be easier blowing and I prefer it's sound and response.

Again, in making these comparisons I have to stress that it's how the mouthpieces work on my particular clarinet. With another clarinet it's possible that I might prefer the RM15 or RM28. I'm now using the RM15 on my Particola C clarinet and find it to be a GREAT match.

[Roger Aldridge]

I had a really interesting discovery! I found that the J5 works very well for me in solo and small group settings. But, in a large ensemble I miss the darker and "thicker" sound I get with the RM15. Using the J5 recently in our community concert band it seemed to me that my sound disappeared. I had plenty of voume. But, there was something about the quality of my sound that was disappointing to me. During a break I checked out my set up and it sounded perfectly fine. However, when the band started up again I wasn't comfortable with my sound. When I use the RM15 it has a "presence" that fills up and supports the collective sound of the clarinet section. This is missing with the J5. Remarkable difference! I talked with Ralph about this and he understood what I was trying to describe. He said that's why he makes his various mouthpiece models. Therefore, I'm now carrying BOTH the RM15 and J5 in my clarinet case! :D

[sinkdraiN]

I used to play with a guy in an orchestra who used a Morgan J7. He sounded strong but it was difficult blending with his bright tone. Eveen in jazz I prefer hearing a big fat dark clarinet so my vote goes to the RM models. I have a RM28 which works great for all styles - though I prefer my B40.