Re: Joe Bananas
I really don't think either one of them would be a particularly good choice for a Conn Transitional horn. I've used a Selmer S-80 on both my New Wonder Series II alto and my 6M and intonation was terrible. The closed tip, square chambered mouthpiece just didn't match up very well with either horn.
I've never tried a Jumbo Java. I've always been a little skeptical of Vandoren mouthpieces. My concern with the Java mouthpiece is that the high baffle and small chamber, may also cause some intonation and pitch problems for your horn. It's probably a better choice than the S-80, but vintage Conn horns need a large-chambered mouthpiece with a facing of about .070 on up. The Otto Link Tone Edge works well on vintage Conn saxophones. I've heard several others recommend Morgan mouthpieces. I've been trying to get my hands on one!
I would check the intonation with the Vandoren mouthpiece. Use an electronic tuner and play a full scale from hi C all the way down to low Bb. Note the differences in pitch. Some fluctuation is normal, especially on a vintage horn. No horn will have PERFECT intonation. Quite often, many notes will play sharp if the chamber is too small, and low notes (C and below) will be difficult to play, or may bellow.
Hopefully the Vandoren will work out for you. If not, I would suggest possibly listing it for sale or trade here on Saxquest, and try to get either a Morgan, Otto Link Tone Edge, or a Meyer "G" series mouthpiece.
Good Luck,
Jim
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