Vintage M.C. Gregory Diamond 5A 18 Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece

The Gregory Diamond series, produced between 1946 and 1968, is considered one of the most highly regarded and sought-after vintage tenor saxophone mouthpieces, known for its exceptional balance of warmth, projection, and articulation.

Designed by Malcolm Culver Gregory and distributed by Rico Products, these mouthpieces were used and appreciated by some of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century.

Gregory Diamond models are especially associated with the legendary saxophonist Warne Marsh, a key figure in the cool jazz movement and the Lennie Tristano school. Gregory mouthpieces were also used and highly regarded by major musicians such as Paul Desmond and Gerry Mulligan, helping to establish their reputation for a warm, focused, and highly expressive sound.

Unlike earlier Gregory models made from hard rubber, the Diamond series was produced in “Resonite”, a fiber-reinforced resin material developed by Rico for its stability and durability.

This example features the characteristic Gregory Diamond internal design, with flat side walls and a smooth rollover baffle, delivering a focused vintage tone with warmth, excellent projection, and strong flexibility.

M.C. Gregory nomenclature and specifications system:

Tip opening: produced in sizes from 1 to 5. Size 1 was only available for clarinet.

Facing (lay curve): ☆ = short facing; A = medium facing; B = long facing.

Chamber size: 16 = small chamber; 18 = medium chamber; 20 = large chamber.

This mouthpiece is in original condition and corresponds to one of the largest tip openings available within the M.C. Gregory system for tenor saxophone (5: 0.82 inches).

It features a medium chamber (18) and a medium facing (A), a very balanced configuration within the Gregory Diamond range, offering a flexible response, focused tone, and excellent projection with the characteristic vintage sound of this model.

Condition:

Carefully inspected and fully functional.

Worldwide shipping available with secure professional packaging.