[Matthew Hanson]

Don't laugh too hard, but I am in need of a bass sax mouthpiece for a Buescher bass that is relatively capable of playing at soft dynamic levels and preferably with a nice sound. I realize this is an odd request, but I really need something that will get out of the way of other instruments in an intimate setting where soft dynamics are necessary. The less the piece sounds like a chainsaw, the better, but QUIET is the real issue here. I've not yet come to a conclusion on whether a close piece with soft or medium reeds is going to be better than an open piece with soft reeds. Bass mouthpieces just aren't as accessible to try out as others, so I'm looking at using baritone mpcs that are suitable for use on bass . Next to changing mouthpieces, with consideration that this *is* a bass afterall, I believe I'm doing what is humanly possible playing-wise to control the dynamics, but I'm not happy with the results so far. Bass is in good adjustment. I'm open to suggestions, especially on reeds for use with whatever mouthpiece you might recommend. I really could use some advice from experienced bass players, even if it means custom mouthpiece work from someone who knows what they are doing.

 

[Merlin]

What you're looking for is something like a large chamber bari mouthpiece, or a real bass sax mouthpiece.

I use an original Buescher bass m/p (has the B stamped on the m/p body) or a refaced Buescher bari piece.

Current production Babbitt large chamber barrel style mouthpieces will work. Keep in mind that we're talking about a very close tip opening mouthpiece here - if you want something more open, you'd be best to get the Babbit and have someone open it for you.

 

[rhysonsax]

I've been playing around with mouthpieces for the bass sax that I bought just before Christmas.

For a bright and projecting sound I use the Zinner/Keilwerth bass mouthpiece that came with the horn and has an added baffle, but some bari pieces work OK, just not so good intonation for me.

For a warmer and less projecting sound I quite liked my Buffet classical bari piece (big round chamber), but the best is a NY model bass sax piece by Ed Pillinger. It's not advertised on his website, but is priced the same as his bari pieces (at the moment) and is great. Scooped sidewalls, pretty low baffle and a large chamber.

I think the Pillinger's only drawback for me is that the sound is a bit too soft, but that might be just what you need. His mouthpieces are beautifully finished and all the facings I have tried are very good and reed-friendly.

I've got Pillingers from sopranino to bass, with just the C melody missing (he doesn't make them). But no financial relationship with Pillinger - just a satisfied customer.

Good luck

Rhys