Detail 01
6 tip opening
Moderate opening. Easier to control than a 7 or 8 while still allowing volume and pitch bending.
Product detailSKU #1274228071458
Claude LakeyOriginal Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece 6*3
1/3
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A Claude Lakey Original alto mouthpiece in the 6*3 facing. For alto players who want a bright, projecting sound with quick response.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Alto players cutting through a loud rhythm section or horn line
- Rock, blues and funk gigs where projection matters more than blend
- Players who already know they want a brighter voice than stock
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Classical and concert band players who need a dark, blending tone
- Beginners — the response rewards a developed embouchure and air stream
- Anyone on a tight budget; there are far cheaper step-up pieces
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
*3 facing length
Claude Lakey's facing designation. It sets how far the reed curves away, which drives response speed and resistance.
Detail 03
Original series
The company's long-running design rather than a specialty or signature model.
Detail 04
Alto-specific fit
Bore and shank are cut for an alto neck. It will not seat on tenor or soprano.
Detail 05
Premium price
This sits well above typical step-up pieces. Worth it if the bright, forward voice is specifically what you're after.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Ligature and cap are not included — confirm yours fits this blank
- 02Expect to re-test reed strengths; the facing changes what feels right
- 03Neck cork may need adjusting for a proper seal and tuning position
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What does 6*3 actually mean?
The 6 is the tip opening size and the *3 is the facing length designation in Claude Lakey's numbering. Together they set how open the piece plays and how quickly it responds.
02Is this too open for an intermediate player?
A 6 is manageable for most intermediate players. It asks for more air and embouchure control than a stock student piece, but it is not an extreme opening.
03Will it work for concert band?
It leans bright and forward, which usually works against section blend in a concert band setting. A darker chamber design is a better fit there.
04What reeds should I start with?
Start about half a strength below whatever you play on a stock mouthpiece, then move up if the sound feels thin or the pitch runs flat.
