Lacquer

Showing all 54 results

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  Buescher Big B Alto Saxophone Original Lacquer Good Condition 324407

  $ 1,600

  This is a 1949 Buescher “Big B” Aristocrat, so named for the ornate engraving of a, well, a Big B on the bell.  This horn is in very good condition, and the typical wear around the fine engraving of the B on the bell is not present, which indicates that this horn has led a life mostly in a closet somewhere.  There are no resolders or past dentwork to speak of, and it plays *way* better than it should on some very old pads, but you would want to get this repadded to play like it can, which is very, very good!  

  These horns are undervalued in my opinion.  I mean, you can get this one in such great shape with all of its original Snap-on resonators and overhaul it for not a whole lot more than a new Yamaha student model in total- seems like a good buy to me!  Johnny Hodges famously played one of these, and his tone is a very good example of the blend of sweetness and power these horns possess.
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  Buescher Big B Tenor Saxophone 293523 Original Lacquer Fresh Full Overhaul Excellent!

  $ 3,500

  This is an original lacquer Buescher Aristocrat Big B tenor with the desirable small bell. It’s one of the most beautiful vintage Bueschers, with extensive engraving and gorgeously translucent, dark nitrocellulose lacquer. They don’t make them like this anymore.

  This tenor just got a full mechanical overhaul, and I mean the works! When I got it, it had new pads, but the pad work was not that good, so now it has a really great overhaul and plays excellently. The keywork is in great condition – nice and tight. The missing lacquer on the back of the bow doesn’t show when you play, and is from a small dent that was removed a bit to vigorously at some point. That is now fixed, and the rest of the horn is quite nice. Neck is in good condition also. There are no dents or dings. It is hard to find this desirable version of the vintage Buescher tenor in good shape, and this one is better than all but a few. It has the snaps and spuds intact, but has correct style ‘real’ pad work that works around the spuds. (If you watch Matt Stohrer’s video on Buescher overhauls, you’ll see what I mean. This is extra work, but worth it to do right the first time.)

  Playing wise, it’s tons of fun. It has a centered, warm tone with excellent response and intonation. It would be pretty hard to sound bad on this tenor. It has that classic American straight-ahead projection that fills a room whether you are amplified or not. And it’s just pleasant to listent to. So many of the modern options I hear people playing are different flavors of bland and rather hollow-sounding. This tenor is rich and full of color. Bueschers like this tune well with a wide range of mouthpieces, and they can do anything from classical to jazz to R&B.

  Only one available.
• 

  Buescher Top Hat & Cane Alto Saxophone Great Deal 359118

  $ 750

  This is one of the very last “Top Hat & Cane” Buescher 400 alto saxophones made- the model run ended around serial number 360,000.  The lacquer is not original, though it has not been overly buffed, and about half of the relacquer remains. The keys are nickel plated, which I imagine was not original, but it was very well done.  The original Snap-On resonators and amber rollers are present, and the horn is in pretty good physical condition. It will need an overhaul, but it is a pretty solid sax with no major damage or dents, and the price is considerably less than most Top Hat & Cane altos.   
• 

  Buescher Top Hat and Cane Tenor Saxophone Fresh Overhaul Factory Relacquer 300849

  $ 3,300

  This highly-desirable Buescher Top Hat and Cane tenor is in excellent condition, AND it just got a complete restoration, which means an overhaul of everything that can be done. That’s like a $1000-1500 value added right there.

  This looks like original lacquer, but is actually a factory relacquer job done with basically no buffing or changes to the brass of the horn. Probably just a chemical strip, hand polish, and re-spray. It looks really good, and plays great too!

  The Top Hat and Cane is easily the most desirable of the Bueschers, and it is one of the most beautiful vintage saxophones also, with the raised metal Buescher logo, the castle engraving, and all of the little design touches that set it apart. I personally love the silver ‘tone ring’ underneath the bell flare. A lot of work to add; not very visible, but they did it anyway. And there are details like that all over the horn.

  This is a great all-purpose tenor. It is warm and full sounding – nice fat upper register, responsive low register. Intonation is very easy. And it works with a wide range of mouthpieces. A lot of those beach band 60’s tenor solos are on Bueschers like this, but you can just as easily play jazz or classical repertoire on them. You’re saving about $1500 off the price because it has a new coat of lacquer. That’s a great deal.

  Only one available!
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  Conn 10M Tenor Saxophone 1935 Fresh Overhaul Original Lacquer Great Deal!

  $ 3,850

  This is this kind of Conn 10M tenor saxophone that makes people ditch their Selmers and Yamahas. Keywork is comfortable, intonation is excellent, and the tone is to die for. Wide, dark, but still punchy and with a good amount of focus. Palm key tone is gorgeous and full, not a bit thin. Priced to sell quickly. It’s cheaper than a new Taiwanese tenor and is built better and sounds better. By the way, this is what original lacquer looks like on the early 10M’s from ’34-35.
• 

  Conn 10M Tenor Saxophone Late Example Great Deal! Needs Repad

  $ 950
• 

  Conn 10M Tenor Saxophone Naked Lady Rolled Tone Holes Original Lacquer Good Pads 322571

  $ 3,150

  Price just lowered 6/19! Great deal on an original lacquer, rolled tone holes Conn 10M tenor. This horn came from a big collection of great American saxophones that I recently bought. It was repadded at some point before it came in, and the pads are still in good condition. It has a huge, warm, medium dark, powerful tone that fills a room instantly. And the intonation is also great. The keywork is quite fast and comfortable once you get used to it, which only takes a couple of weeks if you are coming from a Selmer.

  The only past repairs are some small dents removed from the back of the body tube. Probably from a mouthpiece rattling around in the case with the horn long ago. One in the upper body tube, one near the strap hook, and one near the thumb hook. Also a small one removed from the top of the neck. It’s in very good shape now. It’s uncommon to see a 10M like this with so few repairs and nothing resoldered or seriously damaged and repaired. This is one of the good ones for sure! Engraving is beautiful and crisp also.

  Only one available! Get it now.
• 

  Conn 6M Alto Saxophone Original Lacquer  Metro Neck Great Condition New Pads 271271

  $ 2,450

  Beautiful original lacquer Conn 6M VIII alto saxophone with the desirable Metro neck. Recent overhaul, plays great. This is the one to get. Priced to move!
• 

  Conn 6M VIII Alto Saxophone Pre-War Original Lacquer Excellent Condition 282496

  $ 2,100

  Full description coming, but this is a beautiful Conn 6M VIII alto with great original lacquer. This is pre-war, original pads, needs a good overhaul, but besides that, man, this is the one you want.
• 

  Conn 6M VIII Alto Saxophone Pre-War Original Lacquer Very Good Condition Plays Well 294775

  $ 1,950

  This pre-war (from the American perspective, meaning prior to the government order than restricted the manufacture of musical instruments along with anything else made out of brass) Conn 6M was built in 1941, and is the desirable “VIII” version, with the VIII stamp on both the body and neck.  

  It is in very good physical condition with original lacquer, no dents, and no major or minor past repairs or resolders, with the exception of a repaired dent on the bowguard, which is visible in the photos.  It has what appears to be a recent repad, or perhaps an old repad that wasn’t played much after it was done, and Conn Res-o-pads were used. It plays well with a big voice, and although to my professionally-obligated-to-be-picky tastes it is not quite as astoundingly slick under the fingers at these feel when they have been overhauled as the best repairers can do, it is definitely playable as-is and will beat the pants off of most any challenger, especially modern imports that cost a lot more and give you a lot less than this fine example of vintage American saxophone craftsmanship.  
  
  Oddly, the lacquer on the neck is more worn than the rest of the horn- although physically the neck is in immaculate condition with no dents or past pulldowns.  In the past when I have seen this the culprit is usually a homemade neck bag that was lacquer-unfriendly, or perhaps the owner had a habit during rests to hold the horn with the neck in his hand.  Given the lack of wear elsewhere on the horn, I’d guess a neck bag was the culprit here, although I can’t be certain. But again, though the lacquer itself is mostly gone from the neck (and the neck alone), the neck tube is flawless and there are no signs of past repairs of any kind.  

  The microtuner is free and functional, and all of the original rollers and present and moving freely.  The engraving is crisp and clear with no lacquer loss, and the pearls seems largely unworn. The keywork is tight and the body is straight.  This is a very clean example of the most desirable vintage of the most desirable variant of the Conn 6M, and it can be yours for less than a new Yamaha YAS-26.  
• 

  Conn 94M DJH Modified Tenor Saxophone Keilwerth Made Excellent Pro Tenor!

  $ 2,750

  Getting a complete high end overhaul right now! This is in the hard-to-beat-for-the-price category for sure. Made by Keilwerth for Conn, this is like a Couf Superba 1 with straight tone holes and Conn 10M engraving. As you may know already, the Superba 1 is one of my favorite tenors. I’m not surprised that when Conn wanted to add a new professional instrument to its line, it went with the Keilwerth. It is the most like a Conn of any modern horn, and it is well made, tunes well, feels great undet the fingers. It really checks all the boxes of what you might want in a tenor.

  This particular example has original lacquer and no resolders. It is getting overhauled right now, which is a big job – 30+ hours of highly-skilled labor goes into a good overhaul, and that means the horn will play its very best with all new everything, for a long time into the future. It’s a joy to play a horn like this with a fresh overhaul. Just the work costs around $1100-1500 to do everything, which means you are getting an excellent value. The horn itself is less than half the price!  Buy it now to reserve it. It should be ready in the next 2-3 weeks (so June 2019).
• 

  Conn Connstellation Alto Saxophone 28M Very Good Condition Original Lacquer 335771

  $ 2,350

  You could be forgiven for thinking that because there are two original lacquer, very good condition Conn 28M “Connstellation” saxophones on my website at the moment that these are somewhat common, but I assure you that is not the case!   I will copy and paste the general statements about the 28M from the other description, with the unique description of this particular instrument’s physical and playing condition at the bottom.
  
  The Conn 28M will always have a special place in my heart.  It represents the last time one of the great American saxophone manufacturing companies tried something wholly new, and although the horn never really found a market and not many were made, they are fantastic instruments that besides being unique and historically interesting, play *really* well.  

  These saxophones were redesigned, utilizing many ideas from Allen Loomis (Conn’s resident saxophone visionary) and Hugh Loney, with input from Santy Runyon, with the aim of creating a saxophone that had extremely slick keywork and a very balanced scale.  The keywork, although familiar under the fingers with regard to placement and layout, is mechanically quite different from any other saxophone and has been built from the ground up with the goal of reducing mechanical friction. There are no pivot screws anywhere on this saxophone, instead the long rods have a very long hinge rod with the middle machined down so only the ends touch.   The G# has a very unique torsion mechanism to provide a G# feel that is smooth throughout the range. The side keys are designed so that the angle and distance of travel is the same for each key. There are adjustment screws on the upper and lower stacks as well as the left hand pinky table. The bell keys are on the left side, and the pantsguard/bell keyguard is a large acrylic plate that was designed with the idea in mind of allowing the horn to vent properly regardless of playing position or clothing choice.  The octave mechanism has three pips (octave vents), one on the neck and two on the body, which has the end result of a very clear middle D and no hiss on the A or G#, as well as excellent intonation. The keywork in general is very light, and the pearls are larger than usual for Conn and a little flatter. The overall feeling is of a very light horn, extremely slick, easy to play, excellent intonation, and very even throughout.

  The one downfall of this design is the pantsguard, which is fairly brittle and often broken.  Although nowadays there are excellent replacements available, this one has its original guard in decent condition.  There is one repaired crack (visible in the photos) and the common small cracks radiating from some of the screw holes.  I would anticipate, absent any further damage, that this keyguard will last and should not present any problems- although I will furnish you with contact information for obtaining a well made (and somewhat more durable) replacement should you ever need it.  And believe it or not, I have experience shipping these so you can rest easy knowing I will remove it for shipping, wrap it separately, and it will arrive to you in good condition.

  This instrument plays quite decently on what appears to be an older repad with plastic domed resonators, with a strong, moderately bright, cheerful voice.  The clarity of the tone is notable, and it is a lot of fun to play with a unique look and feel and timbre that would lend itself easily to classical, big band, or small group jazz.  The lacquer is original and in good condition with some playing wear and a few stand scratches near the low C#, with no evidence of past repairs or dents or resolders of any kind. It is also a unique and interesting piece of saxophone history, in very good condition, and whoever owns this instrument next will have a lot of fun being its steward for the next generation.  
• 

  Conn Pan-American Baritone Saxophone New Wonder II Style Recent Full Overhaul!

  $ 3,000

  Well here’s something of a unicorn.  A well overhauled vintage baritone in good shape without any gremlins hiding around the corner, and although it has the 12M body tube AND is keyed to high F, because it is a Pan-American (Conn’s second line brand) it is cheap, baritonely speaking.  Plus, this horn is just so fun to play. The overhaul was done with black kangaroo skin pads and domed resonators, the key heights are correct (12Ms like fairly open key heights) and even the neck tenon receiver has been replaced with a very well done custom replacement- which is amazing and excellent because those neck receivers are a major pain point, almost always leaking or cracked and not easy to replace well and impossible to replace cheap.  

  Physically, the horn has seen a good bit of use and has the scratches and dings to prove it, but it has no major damage, the neck is in good shape, the keywork is tight, and its ready to play reliably for years out of the box.  The lacquer looks to be original, though I find it harder to tell with Pan-Americans since they sprayed it over the engraving a lot of the time. At least it certainly doesn’t look to have been buffed to my eyes. The toneholes are straight, not rolled, but other than that this is basically a Conn 12M and it plays just like one- that is to say with an enormous, rich tone that makes playing a joy and listening a treat.  

  Curiously, at some point in the past, somebody installed adjustment screws on the bar for the C# and F# in the upper and lower stacks, like a modern Yamaha.  It was well done, and would not have been cheap. Combined with the neck tenon receiver replacement and professional quality overhaul, the person who owned this before I did clearly cared a great deal about it and spent a lot of well-aimed money with a talented repairer making it an exceptional baritone- and they succeeded.  This baritone is worth more than it will sell for, and the next owner is a very lucky person.
• 

  Couf Superba 1 Alto Original Lacquer Fresh High-End Overhaul Plays Great

  $ 2,350

  The H. Couf Superba 1 is one of my favorite vintage saxophones. They remain one of the best options for a great sounding alto sax with modern keywork and a rich, interesting tone. Darker and fatter sounding than a Yamaha, with rich, wide upper register, and a full, projecting low register, this alto will do it all. If you are looking for a great all-purpose alto, or even for an ideal smooth jazz or commercial sounding alto, the Couf Superba 1 fits the bill. I just sold one of these to a smooth jazz player who loves the fat sound that stays warm when brightened up with a bright mouthpiece. And he loves the comfort of the keywork. These are among the only saxophones that sound this full and rich and also have modern keywork. (Modern saxophones have, as a rule, moved towards a clearer, rounder, more contained sound, and can’t deal with as much air as a Superba 1 can take.)

  This alto came with its original pads still intact, and it is getting a full mechanical overhaul right now, which means it will be back to like new, or better-than-new condition mechanically, and playing wise. If you’re not used to used saxophone lingo, that means that a highly-skilled woodwind repairman is going to be spending about 30 hours of labor on this horn going over every detail, and replacing everything that can be replaced, (all new pads, corks, felts, mechanical work, setup, play testing, neck fit, full disassembly, cleaning, fresh oil etc.) so that it’s totally rebuilt and ready for its next many years of playing. That’s a big added value for you, because you don’t have to worry about the horn needing more than minor occasional maintenance to play its best for many years to come. It also means that it will play effortlessly, and saturatedly at low volumes, in the low register. Low Bb is just another note, even if you want to play it at pp.

  I have no trouble selling a Couf Superba 1 alto as soon as anyone plays one with the fresh overhaul. It’s really hard to beat, regardless of price. And at this price, it is really hard to beat.

  Only one available!
• 

  Couf Superba 1 Tenor Very Good Condition Original Lacquer Getting Overhauled!

  $ 3,850

  Just freshly overhauled. This might be the best playing tenor on the entire site (see also this Conn). This tenor has a HUGE, powerful tone, with effortless, fat low register, and crisp, fat upper register. It is just a joy to play. It got the premium TenorMadness hand-machined, slightly-domed, reusable metal resonators that work so well on these horns, and that look great also. 

  This is a very nice condition Couf (made by Keilwerth for Herb Couf) Superba I tenor, which is a great modern ergonomics horn with a lot of the big, fat tone of an old Conn.  Some people also compare them tonally to a good Selmer SBA, and they do indeed share the big sound you can get on a great Selmer.

  This particular sax sports a high F# key and has lived a relatively cosseted life thus far.  The only evidence of any repairs or damage past or present is a resolder on the low Eb keyguard foot, which is fairly common on these, and has no impact on playability. The original gold colored lacquer (which has a particularly beautiful lustre to it that can often be mistaken for gold plate) is in very good shape.  

  The Couf Superba I sports rolled toneholes and a really cool modern engraving pattern and was built in West Germany by Keilwerth to be imported by Herb Couf, a distinguished professional saxophonist who later was a Vice President of the W. T. Armstrong company.  As told to me by those who knew him and also as evidenced by playing the saxophone he chose to put his name on, the man had good taste in saxophones. If you have been looking for an extremely well built modern ergonomics horn with a bigger sound than you find on most modern instruments, look no further- Couf has you covered.  

  This is a very nice condition Couf (made by Keilwerth for Herb Couf) Superba I tenor, which is a great modern ergonomics horn with a lot of the big, fat tone of an old Conn.  Some people also compare them tonally to a good Selmer SBA, and they do indeed share the big sound you can get on a great Selmer.

  This particular sax sports a high F# key and phas lived a relatively cosseted life thus far.  The only evidence of any repairs or damage past or present is a resolder on the low Eb keyguard foot, which is fairly common on these, and has no impact on playability. The original gold colored lacquer (which has a particularly beautiful lustre to it that can often be mistaken for gold plate) is in very good shape.  

  The Couf Superba I sports rolled toneholes and a really cool modern engraving pattern and was built in West Germany by Keilwerth to be imported by Herb Couf, a distinguished professional saxophonist who later was a Vice President of the W. T. Armstrong company.  As told to me by those who knew him and also as evidenced by playing the saxophone he chose to put his name on, the man had good taste in saxophones. If you have been looking for an extremely well built modern ergonomics horn with a bigger sound than you find on most modern instruments, look no further- Couf has you covered.  
• 

  Ishimori Wood Stone Alto Saxophone Pre-Order Brand New WSA-VL with F# Dark Lacquer

  $ 4,500

  Accepting Pre-orders for delivery summer 2019.

  This is the highly sought-after Ishimori Wood Stone alto saxophone available. The model is WSA-VL with high F#. It has dark, cognac colored lacquer and beautiful hand engraving, the among the most elaborate of any modern saxophone. Effortless player. Hard to emphasize how effortless. Completely effortless low register, low Bb pops out like any other note. Altissimo is easy. Tuning is great. The tone is sort of Selmer-ish but punchier. Easy to play delicately and softly with plenty of saturation and projection. Action is low, fast, and snappy. Great for jazz, concert, ballads– really anything. I’m impressed. $4500 brand new.
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  King SilverSonic Alto Saxophone Super 20 Fresh Overhaul 346xxx Plays Like Crazy

  $ 7,950

  This is the King to get if you want all the bells and whistles AND you want the most modern version of King keywork. It lacks only the side/palm key pearls to be virtually the same as the coveted Series II SilverSonics, and it plays the same as those, but with more comfortable left hand spatula keys.
• 

  King Super 20 Alto 328773 Original Lacquer Plays Great

  $ 3,950

  King altos are the best altos ever. This one has some lacquer wear from use, but it is original lacquer. The saxophone is in great shape, and plays quite well on the current pads. No serious past repairs at all. It is such a great tone that you get from these full pearls Super 20’s. This is the ‘Series II’ which has the best combination of beauty, features, and key work of all of the Super 20 altos. You really can get the Cannonball Adderley vibe going on one of these (with lots of practice) better than almost anything else. Cannonball played almost exactly this serial alto on Kind of Blue. This plus a Meyer 5 plus a soft reed and lots of guts is what you need for what I consider to be the benchmark for good alto sound.
• Sold Out

  King Super 20 Alto Saxophone Full Pearls Series II Orig. Lacquer Exceptional Player! 339676

  $ 5,650
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  King Super 20 Tenor Original Lacquer Full Pearls Fresh Overhaul!

  $ 6,450

  Price just lowered 6/4/19! This is one of the most beautiful saxophones ever produced – the King Super 20 with pearl side keys and palm keys, bell and bow key cups engraved, solid silver neck, three ring strap hook – just about as de-luxe as it gets.

  But wait, there’s more! For a price lower than a new Keilwerth Shadow, or a new Selmer Reference etc, you get not only one of the best-built, most beautiful, best-sounding tenors ever made. You also get it with a fresh overhaul done by one of the most meticulous saxophone repairmen in the business – Carlo Cennamo of cennamowoodwinds.com . I have been hearing good things about Carlo’s work for a few years, but I finally got to see it earlier this year, and it is just top quality. Full mechanical rebuild including all key fitting to precise better-than-new tolerances; excellent pad work that feels dry and snappy under the fingers and makes the horn resonate its notes on its own as you close the pads; adjustment materials that make sense throughout; a carefully done neck fit for a good seal; nice, even spring tensions. This is a $1500++ overhaul and takes Carlo almost an entire work week to complete. So that’s a big deal.

  The only past repair I see on this horn is a resoldered brace on the bell side that popped off on its own when the horn was disassembled. It was popped right back on and is in good shape now. This horn has obviously been babied since it was new. It has almost all of its original lacquer intact. For you King geeks out there, this is King’s ‘light’ colored lacquer advertised in its sales brochures. The dark lacquer ranges from caramel to chocolate colored and looks completely different. By the way, it now has the correct neck screw and Eb key guard screws. I need to update the photos.

  This horn just sings, with a medium dark core tone that gets brighter and punchier as you push it. The solid silver neck gives you more upper partials and a bit more of a ringing focus to the sound. The whole horn comes alive as you play, and the response is particularly satisfying. If you have never played a saxophone that is actually right, then I hope that you will soon get to experience it. Low Bb is just another easy note to play, and you can play the entire low register easily at any volume, including pianissimo without losing ‘saturation’ in the sound. Basically, the horn just gets out of the way and lets you play what you want. It’s a beautiful thing.

  This comes with a new BAM Classic tenor case, and you can swap that out for a different case if you want to discuss options. There’s only one available of this beautiful Super 20. Get it now!
• 

  King Super 20 Tenor Saxophone Full Pearls Original Lacquer Near Mint / Exc Cond! 328628
• Sold Out

  Martin Committee II Tenor Saxophone Very Good Condition Original Lacquer Orig Pads 139670

  $ 1,800

  One of the best condition Committee II Tenors I have seen. These are very rare, and they play beautifully. Very hard to find like this with ORIGINAL lacquer! It has old pads. Add an overhaul, and it will be fantastic. (Talk to me if you want advice on that.)

  The tuning, ergonomics, and build quality on these is really excellent. Tone is warm, powerful, classy, and medium dark. One of the best horns you can get per dollar spent.
• 

  Martin The Martin Alto Saxophone Excellent Condition!

  $ 1,150

  Here’s a beautiful The Martin Alto that has no dents, no dings, and no past repairs. It looks like it has some original pads still intact also. The patent stick is still on the body tube, and the horn is ready to get an overhaul and play really well. I’m pricing it low, as if it were a relacquer, because the lacquer is over the engraving. The engraving is very sharp though, so this may be a case of the factory engraving first, then lacquering, as the rest of it looks clean and original. So you save several hundred dollars on it for that reason, but for all intents and purposes, playing wise, it’s in beautiful shape and will be a real gem with a good overhaul.

  Martins have among the thickest brass of any saxophone, and they are built like tanks. The whole horn feels solid and sturdy, and it was built to last! It’s the only saxophone I know of that came with a 50 year warranty from the factory! Pretty crazy! The Deco design unity of this horn’s keywork and braces is delightful. From any angle, it’s a coherent object – thought through from the cork through to the bell flare.

  The Martin Alto’s (Committee III) are among the best saxophones for the money that you can possibly get. Quality per dollar spent is hard to beat. This is one beautiful example, and it’s priced to sell.

  Only one available!
• Sold Out

  Oscar Adler Curved Soprano Saxophone – Crazy Right Hand Bell Keys! 992

  $ 1,600

  Highly Collectible Oscar Adler Markneukirchen-made curved soprano saxophone. This instrument has three ‘petal’ keys that allow you to play low C#, B and Bb with your right hand fingertips, which is pretty useful actually. I have never seen another instrument like this one in person or online. Excellent condition. I had two of the petal key touches expertly (and invisibly) restored where they had been shortened. Comes in a cool possibly-original red case with tons of storage. Pads are older of course, but it will play a bit on them, with a big, wide, dark spread tone.

  Super cool piece of saxophone history here. This instrument may be from around 1909 or so, though I am admittedly not an expert on dating early Oscar Adler saxophones.
• 

  Selmer Cigar Cutter Super Sax Tenor Saxophone 17xxx Original Overhauled Modern Keywork!

  $ 7,500

  See the full description below for more info. Here’s a 1933 Selmer Super Sax tenor with a recent overhaul, original finish, and several modifications/modernizations: a larger right hand thumbrest, a later-style geared octave mechanism with Mark VI style righward-tilting thumb key, and Balanced Action style left hand pinky table.  These modifications significantly modernize the feel of this horn, and ergonomically it feels about a generation younger than it actually is.

  The modifications themselves were done quite competently, and fit and blend in well with the horn, not being noticeable upon casual inspection unless you know where to look.  The saxophone itself is in good physical condition, with moderate lacquer wear and no major past damage that I can see.

  These types of modifications are not easy to do, are quite expensive, and are not often done, so it could be a good long while before you see another Super Sax with a modernized left hand pinky table.  If you’ve been interested by the big Selmer tone of the Super Sax models but are used to modern ergonomics, this could be the horn for you.
• Sold Out

  Selmer Mark VI Alto From 1967 Original Lacquer Very Good Condition Low A!

  $ 8,000
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Original Lacquer American Engraved Excellent Condition 233486

  $ 5,450

  This very clean, American-assembled late Mark VI alto is a good example of why I think the late American-assembled VIs are a relative bargain.  It is very nearly unplayed, sporting most of its original pads (I had a bit of repair work done on it to bring it up to playable) and it possesses an undeniably huge tone, probably the most strident and powerful of all the VI altos.  The American-assembled Mark VI altos in the very late run have a large patch soldered to the inside of the bow at the factory to reduce the overall volume of of the interior of the bow, and they play better with noticeably less burble and resistance down low.   It is a low-tech solution, but one that works very well and was therefore done at the factory to every American-assembled Mark VI alto after around serial number 210,000 or so.

  This particular saxophone is in very good condition, with its original lacquer.  There are a few small scratches here and there and some playing wear on the touchpieces of the side keys and palm keys, but 99% or more of the lacquer remains and it shows no evidence of past repairs or resolders.  This is a nice, solid Mark VI alto in excellent condition that will blow the doors down if called upon to do so.
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Original Lacquer American Engraved Great Deal 214844

  $ 4,750

  Extremely good price for an original lacquer Selmer Mark VI alto. This horn has older pads, so plan on getting it overhauled. But it won’t be a complex overhaul – just the regular, and Selmer Mark VI’s are easy and fun to restore at your local saxophone expert’s place. The later VI altos have a beautiful, balanced tone. Selmer finally got the alto really nicely in tune by the end. It plays with an even scale and feels great with a lyrical French Selmer core and plenty of warmth and complexity to the tone. It’s medium between bright and dark, possibly medium bright when pushed, but it will really do most anything you want it to, depending on your choice of mouthpiece. So for the price of a new Yamaha, you can get the storied Mark VI and own and enjoy it while it goes up in value. What’s not to like about that?

  Only one available!
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Saxophone 160941 Beautiful Original Lacquer Matt Stohrer Overhaul!

  $ 7,650

  Getting all gussied up by Matt Stohrer to be one of those world-class altos that I love to sell. The 160k range is excellent for the VI altos specifically, because you get a rich tone and well balanced intonation. If you want one of those life-long, world-class VI altos that also has the world’s best overhaul (that I have seen at least), then get this one. Matt’s work on a VI looks like it came fresh from the factory, and feels like a million bucks. Effortless to play, and dependable to maintain. It has all the little touches that take a horn from good to great.

  Photos are with original pads. I’ll take new photos when the overhaul is done in about a week (late May).
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Saxophone 1958 Original Lacquer Excellent Condition 75703

  $ 9,000
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Saxophone 1961 5-digit Serial 96xxx Fresh Overhaul! Relacquer

  $ 5,950

  This very clean refinished Selmer Mark VI 5-digit serial number alto saxophone is just received a high-end, full mechanical overhaul, and turned out to be an amazing player! It already played well on the old pads, with a dark, powerful, projecting, focused tone that feels almost like a tenor saxophone. Now, it’s one of those horns you just don’t want to put down. Medium dark, free blowing, effortless low register, as softly as you want to play, easy altissimo. The key feel is nice and snappy, and feels like a brand new horn. This horn had never been damaged at all, and is super clean, apart from the new coat of paint it got at some point. You can read around on here to see what a big job a full overhaul is on a vintage horn. The short of it is, this horn is totally restored. The clock is turned back to new mechanically, and it will need only routine checkups to play its best for many years to come.

  I keep meeting so many good players who, it turns out, have never played a sax that was actually right all the way through. This one will is. It’s a joy to play!

  The resonators are the expensive TM Custom ones, that are slightly domed brass reusable resonators like the 50’s Selmers originally came with before they went to plastic. They look good and work just right on these horns.

  Only one available! Whoever grabs this is going to be in a really good place alto wise! If you want to get it with a new BAM case, I’ll sell you one at a great discount as a package deal.
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  Selmer Mark VI Alto Saxophone Original Overhauled Excellent! 165069

  $ 6,950

  This is one of those altos you don’t want to put down. It’s just gotten a complete overhaul / mechanical restoration, which means that it feels and plays like new or even a bit better. I wanted to get this horn overhauled, because I had a really good feeling about how it played even on the original pads that it had when it got here. If you want a VI that will be problem-free for many many years, and plays better than any modern horn on the market, (and will go up in value) this is what you want!

  This was a one-owner horn that was well cared-for for decades before now, and now it is getting a good start on a new life with a top shelf overhaul. This thing has a beautiful voice. Medium between bright and dark, rich, and resonant. The late 60’s Mark VI’s are my favorites for all-around Selmer altos, because they do basically everything well. Intonation is good, scale is even, low notes are saturated even at pianissimo, upper register screams. This has the ‘medium bow’ if you’re wondering about such things, which means the low register tunes the best of the Mark VI’s. You can’t beat a Mark VI alto like this for build quality and all-around satisfying playing experience. You get the beautiful, unbeatable tone of a Mark VI, the comfortable key work, the excellent intonation, and the feel of a new horn under your fingers, and all for less than a (let’s be honest) comparatively poorly made new Selmer alto. Plus this holds its value and appreciates, while your new horn is going to be worth approximately half the new price in about one second after you unbox it (gasp).

  Comes with the original case, and you can add a great BAM case for a big discount if you contact me.
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  Selmer Mark VI Soprano from 1971 Excellent Original Lacquer 189112

  $ 5,250

  This is an extremely nice condition, original pads Selmer Mark VI soprano.  It appears to have been played very little, and actually plays extremely well on its original pads, which to me is an indication that this horn has led a very sheltered life and harbors no surprises for its future owner.  This horn is original lacquer, Euro-assembled with no engraving. The original case, protected by a case cover, is in excellent condition. The horn plays with the warm, centered and focused tone that VI sopranos are known for- with the certain alluring beauty that makes them hard to put down.  If you’ve been looking for an original, unmolested Mark VI soprano to make your own, it would be hard to find one in better shape than this one, and the later serial makes it one of the less expensive ways to acquire one.

  It includes the case in the photos, and if you want to add a nice BAM Signature soprano case, I can get you a great discount on one. Keeps the horn very safe in shipping and gigging.

  Only one available!
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  Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone 253537

  $ 4,850

  Beautiful original lacquer Selmer Mark VI soprano saxophone in excellent condition. The pads are a mix of older and newer, mostly older. But it plays nicely on them with a warm, resonant tone. This is a great VI soprano and sounds rich, and also tunes quite well. Original case is in good shape too. No dents or dings, no resolders. A bit of stand wear inside the bell flare is about all there is to say about this very nice Mark VI soprano!
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  Selmer Mark VI Tenor 195260 Original Lacquer American-Engraved Plays Well

  $ 5,950
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  Selmer Mark VI Tenor from 1973 Saxophone Original Lacquer Overhauled Great!

  $ 6,350

  Just overhauled. This horn plays REALLY well. Super nice under the fingers, great response. Plays, feels, and responds better than most 5 digit tenors out there. If you want the loud, powerful late VI tenor sound, this is hard to beat.

  This is a mechanically very clean original lacquer Selmer Mark VI Tenor saxophone with American engraving. This horn has some speckling in the lacquer, as you can see, but if you look at what counts, this Mark VI tenor is in excellent condition. There’s no damage, no resolders, neck is in great condition. It JUST got a complete overhaul / restoration done, and it’s back to factory fresh mechanical and pad condition.  (An overhaul takes around 25 hours of skilled work, and represents a big added value to any saxophone.) That means all new pads, corks, felts, setup, mechanical work, neck fit – whatever it needs in order to play like a new horn.

  The later VI tenors are excellent players. Better tone and feel for the dollar than almost any other saxophone that you can buy period. And this one is mechanically very nice, which is what you want. If you have been wanting a solid pro tenor that is easy to play and sounds excellent, but is in the mid-range of price for a pro tenor, that’s this. Plus, rather than depreciate like a new horn, this Mark VI tenor will go up in value, and will be easy to re-sell at any point later. Buy it and get playing!
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  Selmer Mark VI Tenor Original Lacquer 103142 Excellent Condition Gorgeous!

  $ 10,500
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  Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone 1968 Original Lacquer Very Good Condition 151919

  $ 7,950
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  Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone from 1970 American Engraved

  $ 6,450

  This is a beautiful example of a Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone from 1970. It is American engraved and assembled. The entire horn is original lacquer. Except for the neck, which has been relacquered, but still completely matches the horn in look and color. The neck evidently had a dent removed under the octave key, and the original owner wanted it to look as good as the horn, so had the dent removed and the neck resprayed. Anyway, it’s not a big deal playing wise, but I’m lowering the price of the horn by around $1500 to give someone a great deal on an original lacquer VI in excellent condition that is also cheaper than buying just a regular new Selmer tenor sax. Compared to a new Series II tenor, or a new Ref 54 or (gasp) Ref 36, you are saving hundreds to several thousands of dollars and getting a horn that is better made, plays better for almost any style but classical (nod to the Series II and III purists here) and will hold its value or go up in value rather than going down like a new Selmer would.

  To keep the price low, I’m selling it with all of its original pads still intact. It actually still plays quite well on the original pads, and seals up with little ‘note like’ pad pops all the way down to Bb. It’s a joy to feel the high quality pad work that Selmer Elkhart did on its original factory setups.

  All in all, this horn is in AMAZING physical condition. You very rarely find original lacquer horns that are 48 years old that look so great. It’s a great opportunity for someone to score a really eye-turning VI tenor for a discounted price.

  Only one available.

   
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  Selmer Mark VII Alto Excellent Condition Original Lacquer Original Pads 281771

  $ 2,750
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  Selmer Mark VII Alto Saxophone 244831 Excellent Original Lacquer American Engraving Near Perfect

  $ 3,950

  The Selmer Mark VII, the last remaining relative bargain Selmer-wise, is a very well-built vintage Selmer with a slightly odd left hand pinky table, but it more than makes up for it with quality, value, and tone.  Speaking of tone, the VII alto features the same big, powerful, and deep tone of a late VI alto, and I find them to be very similar (and I really like late VI altos, especially the American-assembled ones).

  This particular instrument has recently been serviced, and plays very well on a mix of older (some original) and newer pads.  It has not seen much use in its life based on how little wear it has, and the lacquer is original and in extremely good condition.  There is no evidence of past repairs, dentwork, or resoldering, and the original case is still in very good condition as well. The ergonomics, although slightly different from a VI (and the following model, the Super Action 80)  in the left hand pinky table and Eb/C spatulas, are easy to get used to, and some players with large hands even find it preferable over a VI. I possess hands of merely average size, but I don’t find it to be different enough that I really notice it at all in playing.  
  
  All in all, this is an excellent condition alto that plays very well and represents an uncommonly good value for a Selmer.  
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  Selmer Series III Alto Saxophone SOLID Sterling SILVER Near Mint Getting Overhauled!

  $ 9,500

  Update: This sax is currently receiving a top shelf, full overhaul that will make it as perfect as can be. If you are not used to used saxophones, that means someone with a bunch of years of training in the craft of saxophone repair is going to be spending somewhere around 25-30 hours of skilled labor on this saxophone to make it totally fresh and new (better than new). It costs somewhere around $1000-1500 to have done. It will play so much better than any other Series III you might find for sale that you will be surprised that they are even the same model of saxophone. Not kidding.

  If you play classical alto and you want to play the best, and set yourself apart tonally from the crowd, this is your dream alto. There really is nothing like it. I try to avoid overusing superlatives in saxophone descriptions, but this horn deserves them. The tone is dark and centered, and it has a haunting quality that is extra special among saxophones. This is the alto for a serious alto player who wants something that is built for saxophone study and performance. These are especially nice for classical playing. Doug O’Connor’s tone on one of these has left a lasting impression on me. Just gorgeous. I recently got to hear Doug play the Bach Chaconne on this alto, among other pieces, and I have to say, it was a high point for me in experiencing transcendent music on the saxophone.

  There’s no damage, no wear, no past repairs. This horn has not been played much since new, and it’s in near mint condition. The neck is great. The whole horn tunes well with a classical setup. You can buy one of these new for $18329 online, or you can get this one OVERHAULED!  for right around half price here. It’s a great investment if you are wanting the best.

  Original case, fresh setup, and the original S80 mouthpiece is included also.
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  Selmer Super Balanced Action Alto Saxophone 41881 Euro Very Clean Condition Chesterfield Case

  $ 3,900

  This is a very clean relacquered Selmer Super (Balanced) Action SBA Alto saxophone from 1950 in extremely good physical condition.  The original owner’s family says it has never been refinished, and my repairman says it still has many of its original pads, though I think it must be a factory relacquer to look this good. (Pads could be factory from the refinish). I could be wrong, which would make this an extremely good price. I just watched one of these sell on shopgoodwill.com for $6501 with terrible photos and an error-filled description, so go figure.  With this particular version of Euro-engraved and lacquered Selmer, it can be hard to tell, because they were originally engraved first, then lightly buffed and lacquered, which is what a relacquer looks like at other vintages. Nevertheless, I’m selling it as a relacquer, due to the red rouge (buffing compound) in the little nooks and crannies of the horn, that I do not think is likely to be original. OK enough about lacquer. It’s just a coat of paint after all. The horn is what matters, and this one is super nice and very clean mechanically and cosmetically.

  No past repairs, no resolders, no damage to the neck, body tube, or bell flare. Pads are old, so plan on an overhaul, and it will be a wonderful player with a rich, medium dark tone with a moderately focused, lyrical core.  It comes in its original Chesterfield case with both zippers still smooth and fully functional (what a treat!), and it sports the Euro-style engraving, having been assembled in Paris and imported to Canada where it was originally sold.

  This saxophone, though due for an overhaul, is in uncommonly clean physical condition.  There are no dents or repaired dents, no evidence of any resolders, the pearls are largely unworn, and the neck has no evidence of past repairs or pulldowns.  There are some scratches in the lacquer from the neck strap, and some wear from where it sat against the case, but the lacquer remains at 95% plus. There is some playing wear on the touchpieces for the palm keys and the octave key and thumbrest, but combined with the overall excellence of the physical condition I believe the owner of this saxophone was careful and meticulous, and loved this horn very much.  If you’ve been thinking of springing for the lush, full tone of a Selmer SBA, don’t want to be afraid to play it, would like to get it overhauled to your specs, and would like to get a specimen that should hold its value over time, it would be hard to go wrong with this one. It’s a superb deal as well, on a sax that will play and sound warmer, and more beautiful than any modern pro saxophone, and that will also be more satisfying to own and will hold its value better. Only one available!

   
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  SML Rev D (Gold Medal 1) Tenor Saxophone Original Lacquer 11774 1954 Needs Overhaul

  $ 1,950

  This original lacquer SML Rev D tenor saxophone is the same as an SML Gold Medal 1 Tenor. (The Rev D is what won the ‘Gold Medal’ so that they named it ‘Gold Medal’). This horn needs an overhaul, but it is original lacquer and it is in good condition with no dents. The neck receiver and one foot of the Eb key guard have been resoldered, and some dent work is evident on the back of the body tube (by the serial number, thumb hook, strap hook, and under the D palm key foot). There are no dents now, and the horn is ready to be overhauled. When these horns are all ready to go, they just sound fantastic, with a Selmer-Conn sort of tone – lyrical core like a French saxophone, but big, wide, and lush like a Conn. Palm keys stay nice and fat and full sounding, and don’t thin out, and the tone is nice and medium dark. It brightens up beautifully with a bright mouthpiece, giving you the sort of sound that many players are going for on Conns, but with the SML keywork and other special features that set these horns apart. This has rolled tone holes and is currently original pads. It was one owner until now. Once it’s all overhauled, you will have a top notch pro tenor that feels good under the fingers, tunes well, looks great, and sounds extremely good. I have an SML much like this in my collection, and it’s one of my favorite horns. They usually sell for much more than this price, even with old pads. I have seen a few go for more than twice this price on eBay not too long ago.

  Only one available!
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  Tenor Madness Custom 500SL Tenor Saxophone Cognac Lacquer High F# Effortless Player Newest Model L01110

  $ 4,340
• Sold Out

  Yamaha / Ishimori Woodstone 82ZWS 2 Custom Necks Alto Saxophone D76004
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  Yamaha Purple Logo YAS-62 Alto Saxophone Excellent Condition Overhauled!

  $ 3,450

  Yamaha 62 ‘Purple Logo’ or Purple Label alto saxophones are Yamaha’s first real professional saxophone from the 1980’s. They remain one of the best options for a great sounding alto sax with modern keywork and a rich, interesting tone. The YAS-62 Purple Logo has more warmth and complexity to the tone than the later 62-II or III versions (which are more clear and round).

  So many players are looking for that one alto that does everything well, and sounds warm and interesting. The 62 Purple Logo is one of those rare horns that really does do everything well. It tunes great, feels really comfortable under the fingers, and just responds effortlessly. This particular example could hardly be nicer. It’s in excellent condition with no past repairs and no damage.

  This alto is getting a full mechanical overhaul right now, which means it will be back to like new, or better-than-new condition mechanically, and playing wise. If you’re not used to used saxophone lingo, that means that a highly-skilled woodwind repairman is going to be spending about 30 hours of labor on this horn going over every detail, and replacing everything that can be replaced, so that it’s totally rebuilt and ready for its next many years of playing. That’s a big added value for you, because you don’t have to worry about the horn needing more than minor occasional maintenance to play its best for many years to come.

  I have no trouble selling these Purple Logo Yamaha 62 altos as soon as anyone plays one with the fresh overhaul. It’s really hard to beat, regardless of price. Plays circles around new Selmers that cost twice as much, unless they too have been overhauled!

  Only one available!
• Sold Out

  Yamaha YSS-875EXHG Soprano Saxophone Excellent Condition

  $ 3,450
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  Yamaha YTS-475 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone Good Playing Condition Great Value! 298213

  $ 1,600

  Great deal on one of the best intermediate tenor saxophones on the market. The Yamaha 475 is made in Japan and plays a lot like a YTS-62, but costs less. This tenor has been played a fair amount. The pads are sealing pretty well right now, but it is a mix of older and newer pads. The neck had a dent removed, and it was done well, so it looks good now. If you want a very well-built tenor, that feels good, tunes well, and is easy on the budget, this is it. Don’t waste your money on a new no-name sax. Those will be worth peanuts as soon as they are used. Yamaha horns are quality and hold their value really well. You can basically play it and enjoy it and sell it later for right around what you paid. Hard to beat.
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  Yamaha YTS-875 Tenor Saxophone Very Good Condition

  $ 2,950

  Nice condition Yamaha Custom 875 Tenor Saxophone in very good shape. This horn is nice and clean and comes with the original case also in good condition. Great deal for a fully professional Yamaha tenor saxophone that will serve well for any level of playing from a serious beginner player through a full professional career. This horn has a medium dark, rich tone compared to other Yamaha saxophones. It tunes well, and it feels great under the fingers. Good purchase!

  Only one available!
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  Yanagisawa A901 Alto Saxophone Good Condition Pro Alto All New Pads!

  $ 2,350

  This beautiful Yanagisawa A901 Alto Saxophone is in excellent conditionl. It is also in very good playing condition, having just gotten all new pads by Matt Stohrer, who does excellent pad work. The 901 alto is among my favorite modern saxophones, regardless of price. It tunes well, feels great under the fingers, and resonates with a very lively body tube. Yanagisawa altos like this are among the best built modern altos also, and that makes them reliable and easy to keep in good adjustment. Plus it sounds great with a projecting, medium-bright tone that works equally well for concert band or for jazz or whatever, depending on your choice of mouthpiece. It’s great that you can get a nice, pro alto like this in the price range of many student and intermediate saxophones. Get it now, and you won’t ever have to upgrade.

  Only one available!
• Sold Out

  Yanagisawa A901B Black Lacquer Alto Saxophone Near Mint Condition Gorgeous

  $ 2,450

  This is a beautiful, near mint condition Yanagisawa A901B professional alto saxophone in excellent condition. It has original black lacquer with engraving cut through the black into the brass, giving the horn a beautiful two tone look. This horn just got tuned up thoroughly by Matt Stohrer, and it plays extremely well. I like the 901 the best of the modern Yanagisawa saxophones. It has a freer vibrating body tube than the 991, and it has a big, medium bright, open tone that works great for a range of playing settings. You can darken it up with a classical style mouthpiece, or you can brighten it up easily for jazz. Intonation and ergonomics are excellent. This horn is super well-built. Yanagisawa has the best build quality of any modern saxophone, and it will really hold up well over time.

  Only one available! This is a rare finish, and turns heads. I also have a fancy $1000 gold plated Yanagisawa neck I could throw in for $500, and a solid silver Yanagisawa alto neck I could include for $500 also.
• Sold Out

  Yanagisawa S6 Soprano Good Condition
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  Yanagisawa TWO-010 Tenor Saxophone Near Mint Condition Great Deal!

  $ 3,950

  This is a nearly-new Yanagisawa WO-10, which is Yanagisawa’s current model that replaces the 991 series, taking the same “elite professional” spot in their lineup (the “basic professional” spot being held by the 901 previously and the W0-1 currently) and other than being priced like a used horn, it is basically new.  It appears to have been played very little and comes with its original case showing it was bought as Kessler Music, where they sell new for $4900.

  This one appears to be nearly flawless, with just a couple of light scuff marks here and there if I look closely, and it is missing its original mouthpiece that would have come with it.  It plays very well, feeling to have a slightly bigger tone than the 991, and definitely feels lighter and a little more svelte under the fingers than the 991, although it still seems plenty robust.  I’ve seen a few of these since the WO series came out, and besides the confusing branding of of mixing Os and 0s, I really like these horns. Since they are still fairly new, chances to grab one used are few and far between, so I’d be surprised if this one stuck around for too long.  Grab it while you can and enjoy Yanagisawa’s newest professional tenor saxophone at a discount.