[stradivarius151]

I'm finally looking to change my setup from the Jumbo Java. It's a little bit too much for me. I like the Runyon Custom, Lakey, Beechler Diamond, and Level-Aire. I'm looking for maybe a metal, but hopefully a slim plastic/HR. I still want something that could go Jumbo Java level (or at least close) when pushed, but still alot smoother. Any other suggestions? Likes, hates of those mentioned?

 

[Pete Thomas]

Why not a Java?

 

[stradivarius151]

I've been hoping to try one, not sure how I would sound on that. Actually I forgot to mention it there.

 

[saxmusicguy]

Why not a Java?

That seems like the logical choice.

 

[stradivarius151]

Yeah, but I was hoping to get a smaller blank, I don't like the feel of the Vandoren mouthpiece.

 

[stradivarius151]

And let me say, I would never depend on a mouthpiece to get a certain sound. OK, maybe you won't hear me play a Jumbo Java in concert band, but if I absolutely needed that sound with that mouthpiece I could get darn close. I can get the sound I'm looking for on the Jumbo Java, I'm just looking for something that would make it easier to get "smoother" like I said.

You wouldn't jog in high heels, would you? (I certainly hope not, men). You would wear running shoes. I am sure an athlete could still run quite well in formal footwear, but they would try to maximize their potential by wearing shoes designed for the job. Same applies for mouthpieces, etc.

 

[TyroSax]

I could take the baffle down a little for you without changing the general feel of the piece. I could just tone it down a little. I have done this to a few pieces that I like that maybe were juts a Tad too bright. I also could also, re shape the beak for a different bite. Let me know if you are interested. Thanks Jim

 

[super20dan]

if you must have metal -yani metal is a good choise-not a bright as most

 

[MM]

The Runyon Custom and Runyon Custom Jazz are slimmer than most. You already said you like the Custom and the Custom Jazz is a notch brighter but not as extreme as the Jumbo.

 

[stradivarius151]

If this helps any, lighter is another good word to describe what I'm looking for. I can go Cannonball Adderley sound with it, because it's a harder sound. Think light, sunny texture.

 

[The Saxist]

SR Tech Pro Alto...

 

[Bill Mecca]

Runyon Quantum

 

[stradivarius151]

Here's a new development.

I found some Plasticovers, and was afraid to try them on the Jumbo (can anyone say paint-peeling?). I tried them on my "classical" (as if I ever play THAT stuff) mouthpiece (a Hite Premier). Despite it being really soft for that close facing, it sounded quite nice. I could have used a little more life in the sound. I thought a metal Link could be good for this. BEFORE you say it, I will go try some Links at the Sam Ash and see if there are any that actually work (if not, there's another store that's about the same distance). Assuming that I can find a good Link, is this worth it? I actually have played metal Links in the store before (soprano, alto, and tenor) and have never had chirping or anything. Dunno what you guys are talking about. I also might have to get plasticovers for tenor, just to see if the extra life in the sound is any good. I'm not a fan of Bright or Edgy, just Vivacious.

BTW no offense to classical people (because they read threads about Jumbo Javas....) I just joke a lot like that.

 

[Grumps]

Likes, hates of those mentioned?

Hates. Get a Meyer type piece, like a V-16 or SR Tech Legend and refine your alto sound.

 

[corsiar]

Maybe try a Brilhart Level Aire

I was kind of skeptical about the changeable inserts but they work, can go from a nice jazz sound to a brite very edgey sound just by changing the inserts. Also has a long facing so the sound can change just by how much mouthpiece is in your mouth.

The one I bought was machine faced so I faced it myself on my works granite inspection table and some 600 sand paper.

I use a hand scraped java red 2.5 to get the sound and flexibility without my teeth going through my bottom lip

Great mouthpiece for the price