Vandoren Optimum TL3 Mouthpiece Tenor Saxophone

Answer by Musikhaus Kirstein:

The Vandoren Optimum TL3 mouthpiece for tenor saxophone you have requested is supplied - as is usual with many high-quality mouthpieces - without reed screw and capsule. This gives you the opportunity to choose a reed screw according to your personal sound preferences and playing style.

Basically, there are different types of reed screws:

- Metal reed screws, which often produce a more brilliant, direct sound.

- Leather screws, which produce a warmer, softer tone.

- Plastic or textile screws, which offer a medium compromise between flexibility and sound focus.

The construction (e.g. with pressure plate or free-swinging) also has a significant influence on the response and sound development. Many players test different models to find the optimum combination for their mouthpiece and personal style.

For the Vandoren TL3, I particularly recommend the following reed screw, as it comes from the same manufacturer and is perfectly matched to Vandoren mouthpieces:

https://www.kirstein.de/Weiteres-Zubehoer-Blaeser/Vandoren-LC58DP-M-O-GL-Tenorsax-Blattschraube-inkl-Blattkapsel.html

Thanks to its lightweight design and the innovative M/O system, this screw offers an excellent response and a very balanced sound. In addition, the capsule supplied is of course included.