I'm only a beginner on the sax and started with a Yamaha 4C. It's a fine mouthpiece but I hate the ligature. So when I decided to try out an Optimum ligature, I splurged and got the matching mouthpiece too. I'm certainly glad I did. When switching between the two, I notice how notes often sound a little buzzy on the 4C, a fault the Vandoren makes it easier to avoid. I'm sure a more competent player would get more out of it, but I found it a good investment even for a beginner (just make sure you get that excellent ligature too!)