Vandoren V16 A9 Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece - Small Chamber (SM815S+)

The Vandoren V16 A9 S+ is the ultimate powerhouse of the V16 ebonite series. Designed for the professional saxophonist who requires no limits on volume or projection, the A9 features the largest standard tip opening of 225 (1/100mm). When paired with the S+ (Small) Chamber, this mouthpiece delivers a laser-focused, high-velocity sound that can cut through the loudest brass sections and electric ensembles. It is the definitive choice for soloists seeking maximum expression and a commanding stage presence.

Angkor Music Jazz Performance Note

The A9 S+ is a high-performance tool that rewards players with strong air support. At Angkor Music, we recommend the S+ Small Chamber for this specific tip opening because it provides the airflow compression needed to keep such an open mouthpiece focused and punchy. While the 225 opening is generous, the medium-long facing ensures that you can still achieve a lush, smoky sub-tone when needed. This is a top-tier choice for contemporary jazz, R&B, and lead alto players who need a "wall of sound" profile.

Unmatched Power & S+ Focus

The V16 A9 S+ is engineered to provide an expansive canvas for the modern jazz soloist.

  • S+ Small Chamber: Redesigned for optimized airflow, the small chamber provides a bright, compact, and incredibly focused tone that emphasizes core projection.
  • Massive 225 Tip Opening: Offers the highest level of flexibility for note bending, tonal manipulation, and extreme dynamic range.
  • Medium Long Facing: Balanced to provide a stable altissimo and a free-blowing response, ensuring the mouthpiece remains expressive across all registers.

Professional Ebonite Craftsmanship

Vandoren combines historic jazz inspiration with the precision of modern French engineering to create a mouthpiece that is as reliable as it is powerful.

  • High-Density Ebonite: Crafted from premium vulcanized rubber, providing the harmonic richness and warmth that defines the classic jazz alto sound.
  • Vandoren Precision: Every SM815S+ is finished to exacting standards, ensuring perfectly symmetrical side rails and a flat table for an optimal reed seal.
  • Expressive Range: Despite its immense power, the A9 S+ remains sensitive to the player’s input, allowing for nuanced phrasing during intimate solo passages.

Specifications

Model Code SM815S+ (A9 S+)
Tip Opening 225 (1/100mm)
Facing Length Medium Long
Chamber S+ (Small)
Series V16 Ebonite
Instrument Alto Saxophone

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the A9 S+ too bright?
The Small Chamber (S+) is designed for brightness and focus. While it is brighter than the Medium chamber, the high-quality ebonite keeps the sound from becoming "brittle," maintaining a rich, woody jazz quality.

What reed strength is recommended for a 225 opening?
Because this is a very open mouthpiece, we recommend using softer reeds to maintain control and endurance. Vandoren Java (Green or Red) or ZZ reeds in strengths 2.0 to 2.5 are ideal for most players on this model.

Who is this mouthpiece designed for?
The A9 S+ is a professional-level mouthpiece. It is best suited for experienced players who have developed strong embouchure muscles and air support, particularly those playing in high-volume environments.

SKU VASM815S
Brand Vandoren

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