[audsnire]

Hi there,

I'm currently using a No. 6 Yanagisawa Ebonite mouthpiece, which I rather like (alto sax). I would like to try a brighter mouthpiece however, and am thinking of a Vandoren Java or Jumbo Java. Can anyone offer advice on these two mouthpieces and also give me some indication of what size/model I would need. I'm completely lost!!

Thanks,
Audrey

 

[Pete Thomas]

If you want bright, then the Jumbo is brighter. I really like them. I can't help with what would be the best size for you though. I liked the A45.

 

[elmiguel]

One thing to consider is that Jumbos tend to speak much more easily than the tip opening might lead one to think.

If I recall correctly, the ebonite Yani 6 is around a .72" opening, and the smallest Jumbo available (A35) is around a .81" tip opening… so either the Jumbo A35 or A45 sound like good choices, if you take that route.

 

[Pete Thomas]

One thing to consider is that Jumbos tend to speak much more easily than the tip opening might lead one to think.

This is why it often makes little sense to assume same tip opening fro every mouthpiece. The facing curve is just as important as a parameter to compare.

 

[Ribeiro]

I have played the Vandoren java for the last 12 years and it+s great... the Jumbo is brighter, so all depends on taste! I mostly use 0.75 openings but the Java is a A45 and is realy easy ... go with the A35 or A45

 

[zorroperro]

What I have played for years is the Jumbo Java A45 and have tried A35 and A55. Have settled with A45. Not tried the Java, but many other Vandoren mouthpieces and liked them all. The Jumbo Java is a bright piece and also you have to consider, in my opinion, the reed you are going to use. For the Jumbo Java A45 the Java reeds No. 3 work very good. This combo gives a very bright but not harsh sound. In my liking, a Rovner Light ligature can compensate any tendency to too much brightness and give an all around sound that pleases almost any modern playing concept, with a lot of flexibility.

I personally use Plasticover No. 3 Reeds and an Optimum ligature by Vandoren. My saxophone is a Series II by Selmer. As picking a mouthpiece, my advice is to take into consideration the whole setup, not only the mouthpiece and I believe that you will be very happy with your Vandoren Java or Jumbo Java, being it A45.

All the best,

JI