Description

The Conn New Wonder II ‘Chu Berry’ alto used to be one of the most over-priced altos in the vintage saxophone world. Now it is one of the most under-priced! I have no idea why. In any case, now is the time to buy one. This one is the kind to buy in my opinion (which is why I bought it!).

It is one of the later serial number ones that have great build quality and tone and intonation. It has real, actual gold plate (not gold lacquer, but real live gold, folks!) covering the entire saxophone. (Sorry to belabor the point, but you would be surprised how hard this is to communicate to people who are not used to the idea.)

This horn needs a full repad. It has old pads, and will need the standard saxophone overhaul job: disassembly, cleaning, gentle hand polish, new pads, setup etc. Plan on spending $500 on the low side and $1000 on the high side for a good overhaul locally. If you need some names, I can give you my recommendations of who will do a good job on this. With an overhaul and polish, this horn will look gleamingly, stunningly beautiful. You will find it hard to believe.

And it will vibrate under your fingers at the slightest provocation, like it has its own wild energy inside waiting to escape. If you have played one of these properly overhauled, then you will understand that this is by no means an exaggeration. These are among the most fun vintage altos to play, and they are just great for all kinds of music.

Get this one now, get it overhauled, and you will own a treasure among American saxophones.