The Best Ligature for Alto Saxophone: Comparison Review
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The Best Ligature for Alto Sax
I'm going to explain from my personal experience the differences between these two alto saxophone ligatures and its major effect on the reed’s vibration.
In both their simple design, these leather ligatures either include 1 metal plate while the other does not include a steel plate.
These ligatures might look similar with similar adjustable screws, however, they are completely different ligatures.
The Best Alto Sax Ligature
The very best saxophone ligatures come with interchangeable pressure plates that work to strategically support the reed.
I'll show you an up close view on a hard rubber saxophone mouthpiece right now!
So, here you can see how the steel plate provides the reed with two different pressure plates or contact points on which to vibrate.
Steel plated ligature
This structure supports the reed in two precise locations along the length of the reed to maximize the vibration potential of the bamboo.
So it doesn't smother out the reed or the player's sound, it provides a structure (most important factor) for the reed to play its best.
Rovner Ligature Quick Setup
It is my personal preference to have a ligature that has one adjustment screw in the design of the ligature to speed up the setup process. Also makes for easy adjustment.
This saves time when switching between reeds which can be useful if a reed breaks or simply needs to be replaced quickly in band class.
Non-Steel plated ligature
This ligature, however, smothers the reed with its secure grip and doesn't really give the reed a living chance to perform at its best.
It doesn't have specific pressure points, rather, it's like taking duct tape to your saxophone reed.
For best results, don't tighten the ligature too tight in either case, which is a key factor. Tightening the ligature too tight hinders the vibrational potential of the bamboo itself. Learning optimal ligature tightening comes with time.
Worthless Ligatures
Saxophone instructors and experienced players like myself think its a good idea for this ligature to go in the trash.
As you can probably guess, many more saxophone players and saxophone teachers alike prefer the steel plated ligature as opposed to the non-steel plated/rubber ligature.
This is because these ligatures are fundamentally different ligatures and offer wildly different qualities.
Though they probably look really similar, they're just completely different!
Now, if you are using either one of these ligatures, especially the non-steel plated ligature, make sure you don't screw down too tightly this ligature or else you're smothering out your sound and just squandering your reed.
The Eddie Daniels Rovner Versa Ligature
This is why I highly recommend this as the best saxophone ligature.
The Eddie Daniels Rovner Versa ligature. You will notice a huge difference in different sounds and overall feel.
Especially, as opposed to non-steel plated rubber ligatures like what I described earlier.
Watch my Alto Saxophone Ligature Comparison and Review Video
Attention Alto Saxophone Players!
If you're interested in trying out different ligatures go ahead and click on the link below and support this blog.
For me, it was a good choice to get it; I hope this will help you find the right ligature for you.
So thank you very much and let me know what you think what I've found to be the best alto saxophone ligature!
Related:
How to Choose the Right Saxophone Mouthpiece
Keilwerth Saxophones: The Best of the Best?
Sax Mic: One of the Best Microphones for Saxophone
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase.