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King Super 20 Silver Sonics Tenor Mouthpieces

The King Super 20 Silver Sonic tenor saxophone (especially models with the sterling silver neck and bell) is known for its powerful, bright, projecting tone with a big core and excellent response. It's often described as "loud" and flexible, pairing well with a wide range of mouthpieces depending on the desired sound— from classic jazz to more modern or edgy styles.


Mouthpiece choice is highly subjective and depends on your playing style, reed strength, and genre, but based on extensive discussions among players


Popular and Frequently Recommended Mouthpieces


Otto Link Super Tone Master (metal) — Often in 7* or larger tip openings (e.g., Florida-era or vintage). Many players report it brings out the horn's power and brightness without needing excessive baffle. One common setup: Link STM 7* with Vandoren Java reeds.


Berg Larsen (metal) — Vintage 1950s/1960s pieces (e.g., 105/2 or similar) are praised for suiting the Super 20's character, providing projection and edge. Famous players like Yusef Lateef used metal Bergs on early Super 20s.


High-baffle pieces (for maximum power and cut) — Options like Dukoff, Guardala (e.g., Super King or Brecker models), or modern high-baffle pieces. These can make the horn "take off" and are great for lead or rock/fusion, but may be too bright for some.


Large-chamber hard rubber pieces (for darker, vintage jazz tone)

  • Otto Link Tone Edge or vintage Florida Links

  • Vandoren V16

  • Boutique options like Lamberson SB8 or Navarro Bop Boy. These provide a full, smooth core while taming the horn's natural brightness.


Other options:

  • Brilhart Levelaire (vintage 1960s, e.g., 8*)

  • RPC (custom high-baffle)

  • Ted Klum models (often Link-inspired)


Key Notes

The Super 20 is "mouthpiece-picky" for some players but very responsive overall. Large-chamber rollover baffles can sometimes "deaden" the sound on Silversonics, while higher baffles unlock its legendary volume and projection.


Original factory mouthpieces from the era were often white plastic (Tonalin-like) or hard rubber similar to Brilhart designs—mild baffle, medium chamber—but most players upgrade for better performance.


Tip: Try before buying if possible, as the horn responds dramatically differently to various baffles/chambers. Start with a metal Otto Link or Berg if you want the classic "King roar."


Ultimately, test several in person—many players swear by trying both low- and high-baffle options on this horn.

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