Forum of the Saxes

musicalprodigy · Joined: 03 Aug 2005 Posts: 119

I'm thiking of getting a vintage alto sax. which is the best? i'm looking for one that's loud, projecting, and with a full, and rich tone.

saxmaniac · Joined: 21 Jun 2005 Posts: 184

Bueschers are very nice. Their True Tones, and 'crats are absolutely amazing horns. :smile:

Bariman · Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 1:56 pm Post subject:

I would agree. The True Tones come very cheap nowadays, but I would invest in a good Aristo. Kings are good too, I like the Zephyr line the best.

Bariman
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acdcgraphics · Joined: 02 Jan 2006 Posts: 64 Location: California

I never thought I'd do this...

But I am considering buying an old 1922 Buescher Tru Tone alto. I'd have to sell my Yamaha 23 that my parents bought me in high school, so there's some sentimental value there...

I love the idea of a vintage horn, and my repairman loves Bueschers, I've tried his TH&C tenor and so I am wondering if, for the sake of my instrument collection, if I should sell my Yami.

Are Bueschers of that age much harder to play? I know my Yamaha is about the easiest thing in the world, but I know it's not worth that much, and the Buescher is probably more valuable as time goes on.

Any thoughts out there on my dilemma???

Thanks!

Ava
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Bariman · Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 10:09 pm Post subject:

It's not that much different, but you'll definetly notice it. If your tech is really into bueschers, then he should be able to set up the horn nicely so it is easy to play. You'll of course get a different sound with the buescher, so it might be a good idea to try the horn out before you buy if at all possible. TH&C's are arguably some of the best of the bueschers, though I do favor the Aristos more. Hard to describe, but the difference is there.

It's hard giving up a good horn, I hope you make the right choice in what to do.

Bariman
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acdcgraphics · Joined: 02 Jan 2006 Posts: 64 Location: California

Well, that's also a reason for considering the switch. I love vintage sax sound, I'd love a mellower alto tone (not too difficult compared with my Yamaha which is very bright). What I'm thinking of doing is going for the Buescher, and if it sounds good, sell the Yamaha. If I don't like it, I'll just turn it on Ebay or maybe post it here or something and hope that I can get the price I paid back and call it even.

This one is too old to have the front F altissimo key. If it doesn't, how would I get altissimo notes out??? (not that I know how to play them well now, but I do get two altissimo notes out).

What would be too much to spend on this horn? The finish is about 50% it's the gold not the silver and there is a ding in the neck-- doesn't look too bad. Am I being too cheap if I offer $150?

Thanks again for the help!
Ava
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reisio · Joined: 05 Oct 2005 Posts: 177 Location: Florida

reisio · Joined: 05 Oct 2005 Posts: 177 Location: Florida

Bariman · Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:56 pm Post subject:

What's the serial on the horn? Do you think the finish is Gold Plate of Lacquer. If lacquer it's probably a relac, which brings down value. Do you see any silverish tint shining through where the finish was?

Bariman
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acdcgraphics · Joined: 02 Jan 2006 Posts: 64 Location: California

Well the serial is 950XX, which puts it in the early 20's. But all I have is a photo, so I can't tell if it's lacquer or gold plate. Would it's age/serial # help identify which finish it has???
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reisio · Joined: 05 Oct 2005 Posts: 177 Location: Florida

Call me crazy, but I figure how it plays is the only important factor.

Bariman · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 5:28 pm Post subject:

ACDC: Not neccesarily. My best guess would be it's a lacquer. I'll do some research later and get back to you on price. Note: When you post a serial number, always enter the last 2-3 digits as X's to prevent fraud/horn identity theft.

R: Yes, of course, but unfortunately AC dosen't have the luxury of play testing it.

Bariman
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reisio · Joined: 05 Oct 2005 Posts: 177 Location: Florida

I wouldn't buy a sax I couldn't play first (or be able to return if after playing it decided it sucked). Doesn't matter if it's made of pure gold.