SAXOPHONE FACTS
Frequently asked questions concerning step-up and professional level saxophones:
FAQ: Given two major brand intermediate or pro level saxes having the same features, body condition, finish, and in excellent playing condition, what reasons would one have to choose one over the other?
ANS: One of the primary reasons would be the tone quality of the instrument. Much depends on the type of playing that will be done (concert band, jazz, commercial, etc.), as different brands of saxophones have characteristic tone qualities that are darker, brighter, mellower, etc. For some players the feel of the instrument may be a factor as well, in that the mechanical characteristics of various brands differ somewhat. For the majority of players, however, it all comes down to tone quality.
FAQ: What is the significance of a used saxophone described as having original lacquer versus one that has been relacquered?
ANS: While in some instances there is little significance, in the case of some professional vintage saxophones an original lacquer instrument can often command a much higher price than its relacquered counterpart. The reason for this is that many players believe that relacquering the instrument significantly alters its sound. Many vintage saxophones are prized for their characteristic tone quality, part of which is attributed to the particular lacquer formula used by its manufacturer during the period in which it was made.
FAQ: What is the purpose of a high F# key?
ANS: High F# is a note often found in more advanced saxophone literature and is the the first note of the saxophone's altissimo (extreme upper) register. The addition of a high F# key allows the player to play that note using a much easier fingering than otherwise would be required. The tone quality of that note using the F# key is also better than with other fingerings.
FAQ: How important is it that a used saxophone be free of dents and dings and have a good finish?
ANS: With the exception of dents that are severe enough to affect the playing characteristics or body integrity of the instrument, they are not very significant. The same holds true for the condition of the finish. Minor dents, dings, scratches or lacquer loss are primarily a matter of cosmetics and, while they do affect the price of the instrument, have no bearing on how it performs.
FAQ: How is it possible that some saxophones that were made 30 or 40 or more years ago can sell at prices higher than new ones of the same manufacturer?
ANS: Many saxophone models of various manufacturers made during certain periods have over the years developed reputations based on their desirable playing characteristics. Players who value the playing characteristics associated with a given vintage saxophone are willing to pay what may seem like a high price relative to a new model to have an instrument with those characteristics.
FAQ: Other than appearance is there a difference between saxophones coated in the traditional gold lacquer and those having other finishes such as silver, etc.?
ANS: Silver plated instruments are somewhat more expensive than lacquer. The finish, on average, may tend to hold up somewhat better than lacquer finish, but much depends on the care given to the instrument by the player. Apart from that consideration, if 10 saxophone instructors or professional players were polled, one would likely get about an even split in their opinions as to which finish produces a darker, brighter, mellower, or edgier tone quality.
FAQ: What is the difference between an intermediate and professional level saxophone?
ANS: Intermediate level saxophones generally have a high F# key and incorporate more advanced mechanical features than are found in student line saxophones. Professional level saxophones generally represent a higher level of workmanship, structural and mechanical features, and are capable of a better tone quality than intermediate level instruments.
FAQ: I have had the same make and model saxophone described to me by different salesmen as being an "intermediate," an "advanced," and a "professional" level instrument. They can't all be right! What gives?
ANS: This is a very murky and troublesome subject area for many consumers. Unfortunately, it's really a matter of terminology being applied by salespersons, manufacturers' promotional literature, and other sources in an inconsistent and often indiscriminate manner. It's a question of how one chooses to define "professional," "advanced," and "intermediate" quality. My personal definition of "professional" quality, for example, is limited to instruments that would customarily be used by professional players in a professional setting. Intermediate level quality begins with instruments beyond the student line having such features as a high F# key, etc. In the end the quality and features offered by a given instrument are far more important that the term used to describe it. When in doubt, expert advice should always be sought.
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