Selmer S90 - 170 ALTO

Henri SELMER Paris and the S90 Series: A Benchmark at the Heart of Modern "Classical" Playing

Since the late 19th century, Henri SELMER Paris has established itself as one of the most respected houses in the saxophone world, both for its instruments and its playing accessories. This reputation is based on a demand for consistency, finish, and uniformity from piece to piece, a crucial point when choosing a saxophone mouthpiece.

Within the brand's range, the S90 series holds a special place: designed to offer a reliable balance, a clear response, and a centered sound, it has become a highly appreciated choice when seeking a stable, versatile, and "no-surprise" mouthpiece. The Selmer S90 170 carries this DNA with a particularly reassuring setup, ideal for building (or regaining) solid reference points.

Who is the Selmer S90 170 for?

The Selmer S90 170 mouthpiece suits a wide range of saxophonists: beginners learning sound production, intermediates looking to gain comfort and consistency, as well as advanced and professional players seeking a reliable daily mouthpiece.

Its character is particularly well suited to contexts where stable intonation, homogeneity, and clean articulation are expected: classical repertoire, wind orchestra, brass band, teaching, section playing, but also popular music when the goal is to achieve a centered and controllable sound. It is a relevant choice if you want an "all-terrain" mouthpiece that remains comfortable during long sessions.

Sound, response, and design: square chamber and control guaranteed

The S90's signature is built around a square chamber, a design element that promotes a well-centered sound, with a structured timbre and clear projection. This architecture helps maintain a pleasant homogeneity between low, middle, and high registers while preserving a sense of stability in dynamics.

The 170 tip opening (i.e., 1.35 mm) combined with a 24 mm table contributes to a clear sound production and quick response. The result: the mouthpiece gives an impression of immediate control, useful for working on attack, interval precision, and note holding. The high and altissimo notes stand out with good clarity, without requiring complicated adjustment, making it an excellent ally for securing the upper range.

In practice, the Selmer S90 170 is a saxophone mouthpiece that prioritizes consistency and control: it helps produce a clean sound, maintain ensemble intonation, and keep a stable response when playing becomes more demanding (speed, articulation, dynamics).

Recommended Compatible Accessories

This mouthpiece comes with a mouthpiece patch. To play, you will need to provide a ligature and a mouthpiece cap compatible with this mouthpiece (not included). To ensure good hold and regular vibration, be sure to choose a ligature/cap set that matches the exact size of your mouthpiece.

Technical specifications

Category	alto saxophone	Color	Black
Material	Hard rubber

Tip opening	170	Mouthpiece patch	included
Measured opening	1.35 mm	Ligature	not included
Table length	24 mm	Mouthpiece cap	not included
Chamber	square