10 Best Sax Mouthpieces 2026 in the United States

The Selmer S-80 C* tenor saxophone mouthpiece is made of rubber, which generally offers a warm, rich tone favored by many sax players. Its tip opening of 1.8 mm is moderate, making it a good fit for players moving up from beginner to intermediate levels who want more control and flexibility without sacrificing ease of play. The square cross-section chamber affects the sound by producing a focused and clear tone, ideal for jazz and classical styles.

With a facing length of 24 mm, it balances response and tonal richness well, giving players comfortable control over their sound. Because the material is rubber and not metal, it might not provide the brighter, more cutting tone some advanced players look for. The chamber design suggests a smoother, less edgy sound.

This mouthpiece is a popular choice for tenor sax players seeking a reliable and versatile mouthpiece that helps improve tone quality and playability. It may not satisfy those looking for extreme brightness or a very aggressive sound, but for many, it offers a solid step up in performance without being too challenging to handle.

The JodyJazz DV HR Alto 6 mouthpiece is made from hard rubber, a material known for adding warmth and richness to your saxophone's tone. Its tip opening of .078" (size 6) offers a good balance—it's free-blowing, meaning it doesn't require a lot of effort to play loudly or softly, which can help both beginners and experienced players. A unique feature is its patented DV design, inspired by natural proportions, which enhances mid and low harmonics. This gives the sound more depth and allows you to cut through in a band setting without becoming too sharp or harsh, making it versatile for different music styles, including ballads.

The mouthpiece includes a bite plate embedded in the beak, increasing durability and comfort during long sessions. A gold-plated brass ring on the shank adds mass, which improves sound stability and richness. This model's size 6 is popular and well-reviewed, with users praising its power and tonal beauty.

If you want a reliable, warm-sounding hard rubber mouthpiece that performs well in various musical settings, this JodyJazz is a solid choice. For those seeking a very bright or edgy sound, or who prefer a different mouthpiece material, exploring other options might be advisable.

The Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece for Alto Saxophone is a well-regarded choice, particularly for musicians looking to elevate their playing experience. Its rubber material offers a warm and rich sound, which is often preferred by many saxophonists. With a tip opening of 1.70 and a facing length of 22.00, it caters well to a variety of playing styles, making it versatile for jazz, classical, and contemporary music. The square cross section in the chamber is designed to enhance sound production and response, contributing to a more dynamic performance.

This mouthpiece is particularly suitable for those who are stepping up from beginner to intermediate level, as it can significantly improve tone quality and ease of play compared to lower-quality options. On the downside, some players may find the tip opening a bit narrower compared to other models, which could limit certain playing techniques or styles, especially for those who prefer a more free-blowing experience.

Finally, being a rubber mouthpiece, it might not provide the same brightness and projection as metal options, which some players might prefer for certain genres. The Selmer S-80 C* Mouthpiece is an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to enhance their sound and performance across various styles of music.