In 1945, Berg Larsen designed and manufactured a range of ebonite mouthpieces for clarinet and saxophone which later evolved into a range made out of stainless steel for an increased lifespan. Stainless steel mouthpieces were developed for increased life and for their different tonal quality. The reflective nature of stainless steel results in a brighter, more edgy sound. The bite plate insert is made of high grade black ebonite.
The tip opening is the distance between the tip of the reed and the tip of the mouthpiece, measured in thousands of an inch. Generally speaking, the wider the tip opening, the softer the reed that may be used. For most beginners a narrower tip opening will result in a clearer tone and more consistent intonation.
The degree of edge or brightness the player obtains is dictated by the size of the tone chamber. Referring to the diagram above, the more 'baffle' that is built into the tone chamber, the more edge the tone will have. A '0' tone chamber will have the most edge and a '3' will have a more mellow tone.
Tone Chambers: '0' - BRILLIANT, '1' - BRIGHT, '2' - ROUND, '3' - MELLOW.
The term 'SMS' or 'M' indicates the choice of facing. The SMS, or French facing is usually shorter with a steeper curve. The 'M' or American facing is slightly longer with a flatter type curve. These facing term is only to indicate the facing curve length and in no way affects the actual sound of the mouthpiece.
If you would like to see a picture of the specific item that you would receive from us, please contact us with the item/s that you are interested in before placing your order.
Any of our items that are described as "Demo" condition have either been used or sold/opened. They are in either "Like New" or "Near New" Condition and function perfectly. "Used" items have been used more extensively and may show signs of wear such as scratches, discoloration, and worn off logos/lettering. All functional parts are in good condition and operate as intended, such as tips, rails, tables, cups, and rims.
Both "Demo" and "Used" items are cleaned as needed and Mouthpieces have been cleaned, sanitized, and sealed in a poly wrapper.