Detail 01
170 facing
The most closed tip in the S90 range. More resistance under the reed, crisper articulation, and a compact, controlled sound.
Product detailSKU #1274115059653
Selmer ParisS90 Series Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece 170 Facing
1/4
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Classical-side tenor saxophone mouthpiece with the S90 line's closest facing. For concert band, orchestra and lesson work where blend matters more than volume.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Concert band and orchestral tenor parts needing an even, blending tone
- Students stepping off a stock mouthpiece for auditions or juries
- Doublers who want predictable response and controlled low register
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Rock, funk or R&B players who need edge and volume
- Players who prefer soft reeds and a wide-open tip
- Bright jazz work — the closed facing keeps the sound contained
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
Selmer's classical-side line, voiced for intonation and section blend rather than projection.
Detail 03
Tenor sizing
The bore and cork fit are specific to tenor. It will not seat on an alto or soprano neck.
Detail 04
Selmer Paris made
Same maker as the horns, and a common reference piece teachers name when specifying a step up from stock.
Detail 05
$299 price
Well above a stock mouthpiece. What you get is pitch stability and consistent response, not more volume.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01A closed tip usually wants a harder reed; budget for a box in a new strength
- 02Check whether a ligature and cap come with it — sizing is mouthpiece-specific
- 03Neck cork may need sanding or building up before it seats at the right pitch
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What's the difference between the S90 170, 180 and 190?
Tip opening. The 170 is the most closed of the three, so it's the most resistant and controlled. Higher numbers open up, take softer reeds and give more volume.
02Is this a jazz mouthpiece?
No. It's built for classical and concert playing — contained, blending tone. For jazz you'd want a more open tip and a brighter chamber.
03What reed strength should I use?
Closer tips pair with firmer reeds. Most players move up about half a strength from what they use on an open jazz piece, then fine-tune by brand.
04Will it fit my tenor if it isn't a Selmer?
Yes. Tenor neck corks follow a standard taper, so it fits most tenors. Cork thickness varies, so a tech may need to adjust yours for the right pitch.
