Vandoren Optimum as a jazz piece

[cfbugsbunny]

Any thoughts out there (I know you are OK with this Jim R.) on the Vandoren Optimum BL4 as a jazz piece? 8-)

[jmathesonjr]

I have yet to find any VanDoren Bari mouthpiece that works well as a Jazz piece.

I have not played this model, but I know from people who are using the Tenor models that they are not quite right for their tastes.

Try it. If you get a sound that does not make your teeth itch, then use it.

Personally, I recommend Bergs, Links, and Meyers as good Jazz Bari pieces. Lawtons seem to be the favorite among the most Bari players i have talked to in person. I know there are some here who disagree with that.

[retread]

I've used a BL4 in big band with LaVoz MH reeds. Works fine.

[TenTenTooter]

I used one in a big band for about 6 months when money got tight and I sold my JodyJazz ESP. Worked fine, though it took some coaxing to get as much volume out of it as I got out of the ESP.

[Ike Webkins]

I use a B35 reworked by Erik Greiffenhagen : outstanding piece!

other refacer rework also these kind of piece (Mojo, EZ, etc...)

[dongs]

I love the bl4. It needs harder reeds than I would have thought, but I love it.