Hi, I think I can speak on Sugal products with some actual experience. I have 4 of his mouthpieces and 2 of his horns. I think his mouthpieces are some of the most high quality pieces on the market. Bright or Dark is a matter of taste as far as sound. He has models that cover both ends. As for the Saxes, I have an antique tenor and alto. These are the Mark IV models. Gary's horns are great buy for the money. THEY ARE NOT STUDENT HORNS. They are pro quality horns. They are not Mark VI's but they are definitely not Taiwanese junk. If I was purchasing a NEW (thats an important word) sax and wanted pro quality, but wanted to spend around 1500.00, I would consider buying. Its usually double that for something new of similiar quality.