[xbabby95g]

So I've been playing on a Studio Jazz6 mouthpiece my instructor lent me and now it's time for me to buy my own. I'm debating on whether to stick with the Studio Jazz or to try the JDX, I'm also wondering if I should move up a "size". I play with Vandoren Java Red 3s and a Rovner light ligature, I use my sax mostly for marching band so I need a very loud dark sound, at the same time though I am in Jazz band so I need something that allows me to have a good "jazz" sound as well.

Appreciate the help!


(Oh, and should I switch down to a lower strength reed? I heard that with jazz mouthpieces you should play with softer reeds)

 

[MM]

I don't see why you'd need a very dark mouthpiece for marching band. The JDX is the brighter of the two but either should be able to work. Something you ought to know is that the tip openings are different for the number between those two. The Studio Jazz seem to follow the Meyer system more or less (6=.076, 7=.081 etc) while the JDX series is much closer for the same tip. Look for some facing charts or google around for the Rousseau specs.

Most people use a softer reed for more open mouthpieces. You'll have to find what works out best for you.

Rather than buy the same model, I would suggest you try a few different ones in stores or trial purchases. Try a Meyer 6 or 7 and Vandoren V16 A6M or A7M if you can. I recommend nothing too radical at this stage (not a Dukoff or a Lakey for example.) Try to find something comfortable to play, easy to play in tune and articulate with good dynamic range--lets you play loud and soft. There's no real "need" to go to something more open than your SJ6, plenty of great players are on mouthpieces with smaller tips such as a Meyer 5, but a 7 just might suit you better. Good luck.