Steven Mead models feature further refinements and result in a mouthpiece that excels in accuracy, articulation, flexibility, range and overall response.
The Steven Mead Ultra X series is for players looking for a sound that has more brilliance than the standard Ultra Series or classic Steven Mead Series. The cup has been rounded to a more defined bowl shape which adds more brilliance to the tone and provides better upper register response. The rim has been altered to have a slightly sharper inner edge which increases articulation response and accuracy.
Sizes
SM3XR, SM4XR, SM5X, SM5XR, SM2U, SM3MU, SM3U, SM3X, SM3XM, SM4MU, SM4U, SM4X, SM4XM, SM5MU, SM5U, SM6MU, SM6U
Please tell us in the comments section during check out, which size you are wanting to purchase.
Steven Mead on the SM4X:
“I recommend this mouthpiece for anyone who currently plays the current Ultra SM4U and looking for more support and power especially in the upper register. In addition, anyone who currently plays a mouthpiece with the 5 rim should find the step up to the 4X beneficial and very easy to manage.
Since we launched the Ultra series of mouthpieces for euphonium and baritone, I’m really thrilled to see that these mouthpieces have gone on to become much loved and established amongst leading players as well as amateur musicians. The combination of positive response, rich tone, extended range and the comfortable rim has made it one of the most popular mouthpieces around.
We redesigned the internal shape and depth of the existing models, in a combination of rim size and cup depth that has not been experimented with before in the world of euphonium and baritone mouthpieces. Almost always a large rim has meant a deep or very deep cup depth, and a small rim has implied the need for a very shallow depth. It was time to break one or two conventions!
I have been using the new Ultra X (in the 3 size) and can honestly say I have never felt more comfortable with my performance. I have done some very physically demanding concerts and recitals, often up to 2 hours in length, including some new works that test the high register rather mercilessly! The new Ultra X has passed the test with flying colours and I’ve found that I can play day after day with no ill effects after a very heavy day’s playing the day before.
It may be that the Ultra X for euphonium (Model size 3 and 4) and baritone (Model size 4) will not be for everyone, but I have a feeling, a very strong feeling, that it will give performers of all ages and experiences added confidence and improve performance.
• You will undoubtedly feel an improvement in stamina.
• You will find much greater clarity and stability in the high range. This means that not only are the high notes a lot more achievable, and for a longer time, but will also be much more controllable dynamically and tonally.
• It also helps to stabilise the embouchure, requiring less movement from the lips, especially with flexibility, slurring and playing right across the range.
• Low tones are also clearer and less ‘spread’.
• Articulation seems to be generally more reliable, especially at soft dynamics.
• It also enables you to play slightly longer phrases.
• For some, you may even feel that you don’t need to practice quite so much to keep up your stamina.”
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