Availability of Rascher Alto Mouthpiece...

[ding]

Well...i've spent sometime searching on the web for more information about this mouthpiece, especially the availability of this piece.
So far, i have only found it available possibly from http://www.mailordercentral.com/classicwinds/ ...unfortunately, the digital signature by Verisign seems to have expired last October, which makes me ponder again over the security issues (buying online on this store).

So, any other trusted online store that currently stock a Rascher Alto Mpc?

One more question...is there any form of authorize dealership for this mouthpiece or information on the manufacturer (e.g. URL or email) that can be reached?

It seems weird that documents (design, sound, performance...) are not well documented online, given that it's designed and used by renowned saxophonist Sigurd Rascher. Yet, what i only managed to collect are people's comments...

Help...throw in your comments here...

[awholley]

I think Weiner music in NYC has them. However, I think the latest run of them may have problems. I ordered one from Classicwinds and it chirped like crazy. You can often find vintage Buescher mouthpieces (of which the Rascher is a copy) for less money on eBay. Try posting in the Buescher forum, and someone may have a Buescher or Rascher mouthpiece they'll sell you.

As for a description..... The mouthpiece is short and fat with a round inside chamber and a relatively close facing. It produces a very sweet dark sound. You can probably find sound samples of Larry Gwozdz or Harry Kinross-White or John-Edward Kelly at Amazon.com to get an idea
of the sound. The mouthpiece is quite resistant, and takes a while to get used to, but if you like the sound, it's worth it. I have found the Alexander Superial DC reeds to be a good companion for them.

Good luck!

[paulwl]

It seems as though these pieces are getting harder to find, almost as if they're becoming a word-of-mouth thing again as they used to be.

The reason there's no info floating around on the facings or dimensions is simple, really. You're supposed to adapt to the Rascher, not adapt it to you. So the specs are considered pretty much irrelevant.

[ding]

Thanks awholley...

I have visited their websites...it seems a little strange, with no secure channel for online ordering. Instead, they offer the following means of ordering:

a) Send your order to us by mail with your check or money order enclosed.
b) Send your order to us by mail or fax with your credit card # enclosed.
c) Send your order to us via e-mail at WEMUSIC@EROLS.COM with your credit card # and expiration date

Apparently, the 3 means, especially method (c) sounds a little risky?
Anyone has ordered from the store online?...how's the service like

...However, I think the latest run of them may have problems...

How did you know that they might have this problem?

Probably i will email them and see how...any other sites suggestions?