Classical MP for Kohlert 57 Alto?

[markm]

I checked the 'set-up' thread but opted to start a new one here. Please forgive the subjective concpets in this post, but that's what makes these so fun ( and confusing).

Does anyone use what they consider a Classical MP on their Kohlert? I'm looking for a dark, reedy sound and do not need a lot of projection. I have an unidentified Bilger that works pretty well with a Rovner Dark lig, but still I search on. I've not had luck with a few large chambered vintage MPs -vintage Martin, a Penzel Mueller. They may just be too closed and would benefit from some tweeking - but does the big bore of a Kohlert rule out the traditional choices of say, vintage bueschers that were designed for a much narrower horn.

Of course, I could try differnt reeds or a new lig or just play more, but trying to buy that holy grail I hear in my head is so much easier. Assuming I'll always troll ebay - what should I look for?

[Peterogping]

I'm not sure what you mean by classic. I have a Kohlert Winnenden, but a tenor, from 54 which I guess is not too far from the sound of a 57 and went through a search for the right mpc - for me - which is definitely not the dark sound you describe. If one can extrapolate from tenor to alto sax, I can say that I rejected 3 mpc for being too dark, an Otto Link STM 7* which did have a lot of projection, an RPC .095 roll-over baffle which had a lovely soft sound and a Runyon "SR" whose sound was more dry in my ears. I suggest you try the SR for alto. It comes at a reasonable price and might be just the right piece for you. You can buy it directly from www.runyonproducts.com I have ended up with a Morgan with a large (for better intonation) chamber after recommendation from Ralph Morgan.
I forgot to mention that Runyon also have the "Finesse" mouthpiece which was created for classical music. Check the Sound charts on Runyon's website.

[Sax Magic]

Try a Selmer S80 C*, C**, or D. These have the square chambers, though, and might be brighter than you want.

The older C*, C**, and D (not S80) have round chambers and will be darker. The C* will be the least open, and the D the most open. However, these are not open mouthpieces at all, so again they will have the darker sound you are seeking.

Among inexpensive mouthpieces, the Morgan Protone might be just the ticket for the sound you are seeking. Another inexpensive choice might be the Rico Royal Graftonite A5 (the A3 is also good, but the A5 has a bit longer window for more of the reed vibrating.)

I am sure others will chime in with far more revolutionary choices (and far more expensive, too). :D

Sax Magic

[Hurling Frootmig]

Try something like a Morgan 3C or maybe an Otto Link hard rubber.

[kammy]

older brilhart w/ serial# - search ebolin, tonalin, etc

[RootyTootoot]

I've used old Buescher, Rousseau, C* and others on my Kohlert 57. All were fine in terms of response and tuning (for me, but i'm no great shakes as a classical player and if you're playing difficult pieces with a lot of high passages they might not work.) It very much depends on how it sounds and feels to you, I would have thought. The Morgan and Link suggestions seem good for the direction you're after. I do think the old Buescher (or Conn?) m/ps work well for that very dark, centred sound, but maybe these are hard to get hold of.