Is a metal MPC what I really want?

[Jeff C]

I have a 1945 Dukoff brass mpc that was inherited. It is awesome, once I found a vandoran java 2 1/2 for it. (as recommended by a fine member here) I love the bright, cut-thru-the mix, growly, jazzy sound it gets thru my MK VI Tenor. Now heres the question. I cant afford another Dukoff for my alto. Been alternating between a Rico Royal Hard rubber B5 w/ a rico #2 ( have ordered java #2's , but they havent got here yet) and an old Selmer soloist C* w/ a java 2 1/2. But w/ either alto setup, the sound is very restricted, dark , and clean, compared to the tenor setup. Is it just that I need a metal mpc for the alto? If so, can someone recommend me a metal mpc that is say less than $100? I am will to search Ebay for a used one. The Dukoff on the tenor is a D6 (95 tip opening). Oops, I guess this should have been posted in the alto mpc section.

[jazaddict]

So I guess ur lookin for a brighter setup for the Alto? You don't have to go metal, you might find a Lakey (HR) for under a C-note. Problem is the Lakey's are wildly varying in specs; you'd wanna play em before you commit $$.
Good luck.

[thejoyofsax]

Consider footing a little extra cash and look into Vandoren's jazz pieces. Their V16 and Jumbo Java models might possess the sound you're looking for. They may not give you all the brightness of a Dukoff, Beechler, or high baffle Berg but they're consistent and (I think) a little more versatile. V16 available from Woodwind/Brasswind for $129.99. I play the A6 on alto and am very satisfied.

[Carl H.]

Low budget, search ebay for a rico metalite (they aren't made anymore), then look into a Runyon Bionix. Both are very inexpensive and will give you that "metal" sound you are seeking for MUCH less money.

[DanSax64]

I'd agree with other SOTW folks that you don't necessary need a metal alto piece for what you are looking for. I've played both Dukkoff metal pieces for tenor (D9) and alto (D8, L8) and the sounds slightly different between tenor and alto (much brighter, edgier and screaming on alto...). I found a modern metal Brilhart that very much giving almost that same guts of Dukkoff, but price is much lower... Runyon alto HR or plastic pieces, especially with the spoiler, would also match up the type of sounds you described... Some of other higher baffer HR pieces would also do the jobs well (I have Ponzol, Meyer and Brilhart HR pieces with modifed/added high baffers which can be screaming if pushed)

Just my 2 cents and good luck on your "journey"...

[arunas]

as it was in my case, lakey proved to be quite hard to control (especially pitch).
i would recommend you the mouthpiece i really love - Morgan excalibur 7E. free blowing, easy to control, really nice sound, perfect pitch, bends well, lets you play any style.