Deep, Classic Sound with Rich, Full Tone and a Modern Brightness
The Otto Link Early Babbitt (EB) mouthpiece masterfully combines the rich, classic depth of jazz with a touch of contemporary brightness. Crafted from JJ Babbitt’s proprietary hard rubber, this mouthpiece is celebrated for its thick, full-bodied tone that resonates deeply, especially in the lower registers. It embodies the timeless charm of vintage jazz sounds while delivering a modern edge that cuts through dynamic musical landscapes, ensuring every note stands out with clarity and precision.
Designed for players who crave a seamless balance between richness and clarity, the Otto Link EB offers a moderately free-blowing experience that transitions effortlessly from warm, mellow tones to punchy, vibrant projection when the moment calls for it. Inspired by the iconic sound of legendary saxophonist Stan Getz, this mouthpiece serves as the perfect bridge between tradition and innovation, expanding the expressive range of any saxophonist while staying true to the iconic sound that has made Otto Link a legend. Its distinctive construction features a slightly higher baffle than earlier Slant Signature models, specifically crafted to provide greater brightness and power—ideal for louder, electronically amplified environments like those of the 1970s.
A True Classic…Reborn.
A quick look online reveals the almost legendary status of the Otto Link Tone Edge Early Babbitt tenor mouthpieces. Coveted by both saxophonists and collectors, these mouthpieces often sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars in playable condition. Their unmatched sound, personality, and performance characteristics have inspired numerous attempts at imitation by competitors over the decades, but none have quite captured the original's essence. Now, with the reissue of the Early Babbitt (EB) model, JJ Babbitt proudly restores this craftsmanship to its former glory, faithfully preserving the qualities that have defined its legacy.
This EB model is not redesigned, not retooled, and not reimagined in any way. It is meticulously created using JJ Babbitt's original molds and cores, compounded rubber, and the same vulcanization processes that were employed from 1975 to 1979. Manually machined and hand-finished just like the originals, this mouthpiece delivers a robust, thick tone that becomes brighter and more powerful when pushed, all while maintaining a rich “core” and excellent focus. The Early Babbitt EB’s medium baffle enhances projection without sacrificing the lush warmth of its low end, allowing it to excel in both soft ballads and powerful solos. It stands as more than just a mouthpiece; it's a gateway between the vintage tones of jazz’s golden era and the modern versatility demanded by today's saxophonists.
Playing Demo & Deep Dive
JJ Babbitt Artist Ambassador Mike Gibilisco breaks down the nuances and natural tendencies of the Otto Link Early Babbitt Hard Rubber mouthpiece.
The Details…
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Performance, Professional
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Proprietary Hard Rubber. Molded & Vulcanized.
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Classic Jazz, Modern Jazz, Big Band, Funk, Pop.
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Thick, deep tone with a brighter edge when pushed; maintains a rich, full-bodied core.
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Medium resistance; moderately free-blowing to enhance player control.
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Outstanding projection; focused and powerful for cutting through both jazz ensembles and amplified settings.
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Tenor Sax
5* - .085
6 - .090
6* - .095
7 - .100
7* - .105
8 - .110
Looking for a specific facing or tip opening that’s not listed? Custom options are available upon request for an additional fee. Please reach out to us for more details and to explore personalized configurations.
