Hi,
I've recently been given a Yamaha Soprano Saxophone and I've been recommended the 4c or 5c mouthpiece for it. Could you tell me what the difference is please?
Thanks
Ivar
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Hi Ivar,
The number refers to the tip opening (the space between the tip of the mouthpiece and the reed).
The lower the number, the smaller the tip. Smaller tip openings are easier to control and require less air and less strength, so they are good for beginners, but they don't allow the player as much flexibility. Smaller tip openings are also good for building strength, since they work well with harder reeds, allowing a young player to build up gradually.
Large tip openings allow for more volume and more flexibility for experienced players, but they are harder to control and to play in tune, and they require lots of air and strength. Because they demand softer reeds, younger players wouldn't have the opportunity to build up gradually.
So in answer to your question, the 5c has a larger tip opening than the 4c. The 4c is what's supplied as standard with their saxophones and is a good 'all rounder' from experience. The 5c as described above will allow for greater expression, volume and flexibility, but only for a player capable of using it.
I do hope this helps.