9 Things Every Sax Player Needs in Their Case

Playing the saxophone requires more than some players may think necessary. Of course, every player has their take on which items are “essentials,” but some accessories are non-negotiable. You can get away without these items — like proper cleaning tools — for only so long before your sax needs serious maintenance. Thankfully, Sweetwater carries an extensive assortment of accessories to keep you and your instrument happy and healthy.

You might wonder if you already have what you need. On the contrary, you should be worried that you’re seriously underequipped. There’s no need to fret (you’re a sax player, not a guitarist!) because we’ve compiled a list of what you need. Here’s a list of nine accessories every sax player needs in their case!

Note: At Sweetwater, we know there’s no such thing as “best” when it comes to music gear. Every player and artist has unique tastes, which is what makes selecting gear so fun! The items on this list feature some of our favorite products from top manufacturers to help you start your buying journey! Explore these recommendations and dive into Sweetwater’s massive collection of gear on our online store. For personalized picks and expert advice, please contact our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700!

D’Addario Multi-reed Storage Case with Humidification SystemKey Leaves USDA-certified Organic Cork GreaseD’Addario SJA18 Padded Neck StrapJazzlab Saxholder Sax Shoulder Strap/HarnessKorg MA-2 MetronomeYamaha YAC SAX-MKIT Saxophone Care KitReedGeek Black Diamond Universal Reed ToolD’Addario RMP01B Reserve Mouthpiece PatchSaxophone Reeds

D’Addario Multi-reed Storage Case with Humidification System

Humidity-controlled storage for your reeds

Keep your reeds in top playing condition with this humidity-controlled D’Addario Multi-reed Storage Case. With a case this good, keeping your clarinet or saxophone reeds in top form is easier than ever. This case securely holds eight reeds and prevents warping. Additionally, D’Addario has included a Boveda 2-way humidity control system to maintain 72% relative humidity inside the case. You’ll love that this case has an airtight gasket to keep the good air in and the bad air out, making reed care effortless!

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Key Leaves USDA-certified Organic Cork Grease

Keep those joints in motion!

What belongs in your case and takes up little space? Cork grease. This lip balm–shaped tube of Key Leaves USDA-certified organic cork grease is incredibly easy to use. Plus, it comes in a convenient size that fits inside practically any case. It’s also made in the USA from all-natural lubricants, including sunflower oil, beeswax, and other organic compounds, so you can rest assured you’re giving your saxophone the royal treatment it deserves while making assembly a breeze.

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D’Addario SJA18 Padded Neck Strap

A simple tool for day-to-day comfort

A padded neck strap like this D’Addario SJA18 is a handy piece of gear for anyone suffering from neck or shoulder discomfort. By supporting and redistributing the weight of your saxophone, a padded neck strap reduces the pain associated with playing for long periods. It also ensures you won’t drop your sax — accidents happen!

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Jazzlab Saxholder Sax Shoulder Strap/Harness

An over-the-shoulder instrument holder

Like a traditional neck strap, the Jazzlab Saxholder sax shoulder strap/harness redistributes the weight of your instrument across your shoulders for increased comfort while you play. However, due to its rigid Kevlar and aluminum design, this harness can be put on using just one hand. The cherry on top of this fabulous harness is its versatility; whether you play soprano, alto, tenor, or baritone saxophone, this accessory works just the same!

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Korg MA-2 Metronome

Get things up to speed

Every instrumentalist needs a metronome. Musicians at Sweetwater recommend getting your fingers up to speed with the Korg MA-2 metronome! This metronome gives you a variety of rhythms to choose from, and you can even accent up to nine different beats to help you nail down those tricky time signatures. The MA-2 also includes built-in reference pitches for quick tuning, making it a perfect all-in-one practice tool.

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Yamaha YAC SAX-MKIT Saxophone Care Kit

Clean sax, pristine performance

If you take one piece of advice away from here, let it be this: you need an instrument care kit! This is particularly important for sax players, as your instrument has many nooks and crannies that collect moisture and grime from your warm breath. Keep corrosion and tarnishing at bay with the tools included in this Yamaha YAC SAX-MKIT saxophone care kit!

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ReedGeek Black Diamond Universal Reed Tool

Custom reeds at a moment’s notice

When you keep the ReedGeek Black Diamond universal reed tool in your case, you’ll have the power to customize any reed. This tool is compatible with natural cane and synthetic reeds and comes with a back scraper, radius tip, and contoured and curved rail bevels for precise adjustments. It’s easy to use, fits right in your case, and gives you immediate results!

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D’Addario RMP01B Reserve Mouthpiece Patch

Lock in your perfect embouchure

Tons of clarinet and saxophone players — including many here at Sweetwater — have dealt with their teeth slipping and sliding on their mouthpieces. D’Addario RMP01B Reserve mouthpiece patches provide a secure base for your teeth, which improves embouchure stability and lets you focus on the performance. The patches take advantage of a unique adhesive that holds tight to the mouthpiece without leaving residue behind when you take it off. Moreover, these black D’Addario Reserve mouthpiece patches unobtrusively blend with your mouthpiece.

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Saxophone Reeds

There’s one for every player

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate beginner, Rigotti Gold reeds are guaranteed to suit your needs. These reeds are meticulously crafted to deliver effortless response and produce a pristine, crystal clear tone. Because these reeds are sourced from the finest cane available, they elevate your musical experience to new heights and are incredibly durable. (Remember to rotate your reeds rather than always playing on the same one!) Their extensive instrument compatibility and diverse strength varieties make them a stellar choice for any saxophone player. Plus, they’re available in Classic and Jazz cuts so that you can find your perfect fit. Trust us — you’ll want to keep a pack in your case!

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You’ll need a reliable synthetic reed, like the Légère American Cut, for superior durability and consistent playability. These can be particularly handy for unpredictable climates and outdoor ensembles like marching bands, but they’re also great for musicals. If you’ve ever played in a pit, then you know most of your time is spent counting rests and waiting for your next entrance. There’s nothing better than having a reed that’s ready when you are, and that’s what you’ll get with a synthetic reed!

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Shop Sax Essentials at Sweetwater Today!

Although this list contains several accessories to choose from, there are plenty more you can find on our website. Contact one of our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700 for even more personalized recommendations. You’ll be stocked and ready to go in no time!
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