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***We are CLOSED on Friday! Due to inventory, we will be closed on 6 March!***
***We are CLOSED on Friday! Due to inventory, we will be closed on 6 March!***
Ligatures & Caps

Ligature & caps for saxophone and clarinet 

Perfect hold. Free vibration. Better sound. Whether you are a beginner, an ambitious amateur musician or a professional in an orchestra or big band, the right ligature and cap are crucial for the response, tone colour and protection of your mouthpiece. In our category, you will find a large selection of ligatures and mouthpiece caps for saxophone and clarinet, tailored to different playing styles, mouthpieces and sound preferences. A high-quality ligature ensures that the reed is fixed optimally on the mouthpiece – not too tight, not too loose. This allows the reed to vibrate freely and you benefit from direct response, stable intonation and a balanced tone. The right cap protects your reed reliably from damage during breaks in playing and protects the mouthpiece during transport.

The function of the ligature – small component, big impact 

The ligature for saxophones or clarinets holds the reed securely in place on the mouthpiece. It has a significant influence on:
• Response – how quickly and easily the note is produced
• Tone colour – warm, dark, brilliant or focused
• Projection – Carrying power and assertiveness
• Flexibility – Dynamic range and articulation 
Different designs – such as classic metal ligatures, textile ligatures or models with single-point or two-point support – allow for individual sound shaping.

Overview of materials and designs 

Reed screws vary in material and design depending on the model: 
Metal ligature
• Direct feel
• Clear, centred tone response
• Particularly popular in jazz and big band music
Textile or leather ligatures
• Warm, round sound
• Even pressure distribution
• Ideal for classical music
Silver-plated, gold-plated or lacquered
• Different tonal nuances
• Visual refinement
• Corrosion protection 
The mouthpiece cap is usually made of sturdy plastic or metal and reliably protects the reed and mouthpiece from impact and damage – an indispensable accessory for any transport in a case or gig bag.

The 5 most frequently asked questions about ligatures and caps 

1. Does the ligature really affect the sound?
Yes, significantly. The material and design affect the response, tone colour and projection.
2. Which ligature is suitable for beginners?
Models that are easy to use and distribute pressure evenly are ideal for beginners.
3. Does every reed screw fit every mouthpiece?
No. The size must match the mouthpiece and instrument exactly.
4. Do I really need a cap?
Highly recommended – it protects the sensitive reed from chipping.
5. How tight should a reed screw be tightened?
Only as tight as necessary. The reed should be held securely but be able to vibrate freely.

Tips for optimal sound 

• Ensure that the reed is positioned correctly – slightly below the tip of the mouthpiece.
• Tighten the screws evenly.
• Try out different models – often, a different ligature system can noticeably change the feel of your playing.
• Clean the reed screw and cap regularly to prevent deposits from building up.

Why buy reed screws and capsules from Schagerl?

• Large selection of brands and models
• Trained specialists with practical experience
• Wide range of accessories for saxophones and clarinets
• Convenient online ordering with personal advice 
We will help you find the perfect combination of mouthpiece, reed and reed screw – for your individual sound.