Detail 01
170 facing
The most closed opening in the S90 numbers. Less air to control, easier soft playing, less top-end volume.
Product detailSKU #1274115060086
Selmer ParisS90 Series Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece 170 Facing
1/4
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Classical alto sax mouthpiece with a close 170 tip opening. For concert band, orchestra and lesson players who want an even, controlled, blending tone.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Concert band and orchestral alto players who need to blend
- Students moving off a stock student mouthpiece
- Players who want easier control over raw volume
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Jazz, funk or rock players wanting edge and projection
- Players who bend pitch hard or growl often
- Anyone unwilling to re-match reed strength after switching
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
S90 series
Built for classical work: even response between registers and a focused sound that sits inside a section.
Detail 03
Alto-specific
Sized for an alto neck cork only. It will not fit soprano, tenor or baritone.
Detail 04
Close tip opening
Generally pairs with a harder reed than an open jazz piece. Expect to move up in reed strength.
Detail 05
$259 price tier
Professional pricing for a mouthpiece. It is a long-term piece, not a stopgap for a rented horn.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Check your ligature fits this body before playing; sizes vary between makes
- 02Budget for new reeds a half strength harder
- 03Cork grease and a snug neck cork matter more on a close tip
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What does the 170 mean on an S90?
It's the tip opening designation. 170 is the closest of the common S90 facings, so 180 and 190 open up progressively and take softer reeds.
02Is this good for jazz?
Not really. It's a classical-oriented piece — even and blended rather than bright and projecting. Jazz players usually want a more open tip and a different chamber.
03Will this fit my alto?
It fits standard alto saxophone necks. Cork thickness varies, so a very thick or worn cork may need adjusting by a tech.
04What reed strength should I use?
Most players go up roughly half a strength from an open mouthpiece. Buy a mixed box and test before committing.
