Selmer’s new Jazz Tribute tenor saxophone mouthpiece has arrived with a lot of buzz. It promises vintage tone with modern consistency—a nod to the legendary models of the past, built for today’s players. I’ve tested it extensively and shared my full review, play test, and thoughts in this video on #DansVlog.
Here’s a breakdown of what I found, who this piece suits, and whether it’s worth your money.
First impressions
The design takes clear inspiration from the classic Soloist short shank, but it’s not a straight copy. The facing is more forgiving, the chamber slightly refined. It’s machined from brass not moulded, so you get better consistency and feel from piece to piece.
Out of the box:
- Tip opening options are standard (I tested the 7*, and 8* but the 7* came out tops for me).
- Medium round chamber
- Slight rollover baffle
- Medium facing curve, good balance of resistance and freedom
Build quality is clean. No visible imperfections in the facing or rails. Ligature fit is snug but not overly tight.
Tone and response
The Selmer Jazz Tribute plays evenly across the range. There’s a subtle core to the sound—focused, but not stuffy. You get a touch of edge when pushed, especially in the upper mids, but it never gets brittle. Tonally, it leans more towards the vintage side than modern bright pieces.
What stood out:
- Easy subtone in the low end – the low Bb’s ARE SO EASY TO PLAY!
- Controlled altissimo (no wild jumps)
- Fast articulation, reed response feels immediate
- Slightly darker than something like an Otto Link Florida, but more direct than a vintage Meyer
It’s not a paint-peeler. This is a piece for players who want flexibility, nuance, and warmth—not a high-baffle screamer.
Who’s it for?
This mouthpiece will suit intermediate to advanced players who:
- Are after a warm, centred jazz tone
- Need something reliable for both live and studio work
- Prefer vintage-inspired gear but want modern consistency
It won’t replace your Slant or Florida if you’ve already got a killer one. But it’s a solid option if you’re tired of chasing eBay ghosts or rolling the dice on reissues.
The downside?
The price point puts it in the pro-tier bracket, and while the performance is solid, it’s not radically different from other high-end metal pieces in the range.
If you already have a piece you love, it may not be enough of an upgrade. But if you’re in the market for a new jazz tenor mouthpiece that actually delivers on its promise, this deserves a look.