[Chris P]

Hi all,

I am just thinking about advantages of harder reeds vs more open mouthpiece. I am thinking a more open mouthpiece is better because thats something you can't change once you buy it. Then just adjust the reed accordingly.

So with this in mind when ordering a mp from New Zealand where the selection is basically next to nothing, is it better to overcompensate? Just to be sure. Or am I falling into a trap of some sort?

Is it harder to have good intonation with a soft reed with an open mouthpiece than it is with a more closed mouthpiece with a harder reed?

thanks!
Crysp

 

[EZ]

If the reed is too soft for a particular tip opening, the intonation can get off - usually flat in the higher register.

Can you share what piece and reed you are playing currently? That along with whatever you might be contemplating as your next piece. With that, you can probably get some recommendations from the crew here.

 

[Chris P]

Currently on a yani metal 8* with 3 and 1/2 rico royal reeds.

Thinking of switching to phil Barone's Fusion or a Guadala. Possibly a Lawton.
I guess looking for a Breaker, modern type sound.

I'm just feeling so lost because I know each mouthpiece is different for every person. I don't have access to trying out many different mouthpieces side by side.

The yani I know isn't bright and focused enough when trying to match to tones I like.
It has enough volume usually though.
Oh yea I play a YTS-61

Thanks again for anyones comments.
Crysp

 

[DJ TJ]

It's a good idea to play something that is comfortable for you. Unless you have a very good reason, an extreme tip opening is not recommended.

Here is some information on tip openings by Paul Coats that you may find interesting:

Embouchure and Mouthpiece by Paul R. Coats
Mouthpiece Sizes by Paul R. Coats

One of the things I like about the Guardala's is that I don't need to choose a tip opening. Dave seems to have figured out the optimum opening for each of his designs, and they work great for me.