Saxophones A Test - How Lacquer Affects Sound

[PigSquealer]

Each unit for testing needs to be assembled by the same technician. The amount of HMG on each pad differs from each tech. The density of the glue mass could alter the sound.

 

[jazzdoh]

Each unit for testing needs to be assembled by the same technician. The amount of HMG on each pad differs from each tech. The density of the glue mass could alter the sound.

I think there is a myriad of reasons why there might be the slightest of difference as discussed above, but manufactures and sellers want to keep the mystic alive so as to justify their finishes of their horns.

 

[JayeNM]

favorite unlacquered pig noise band without saxophones, from: Boegies pearls for pigs

They may be unlacquered, but they seem shellacked to me 😳

 

[Tonehole]

I agree no two saxophones are exactly the same, they don't sound and feel the same to the player unless they are total crap!

So are BetterSax horns actually that much better? Or just like play testing YAS23 / 26's consistent to the point that it does not matter what one you buy as they are pretty much all the same.

I am interested in trying the new STM's the "Wabbits". Are they the equivilant to a C* or 4C? No one searches for the best playing 4C to give their. sound a sprinkle of omani to their playing!

Boutique brands say they make an exact copy of the best Double Ring or Slant based on their choice of what they decide the best is. May not be what works for you. So if you try it and don't like it do you stick with it or just give up on the search?

I can remeber as a teen playing ten or so HR tenor Links in the store and picking the one I liked the most. Others bought what I left and were likely happy with their choices.

From the talk so far I am to assume you play one of these pieces you have played them all! No need to try a differrent piece save for tip size. Has that been players experience with Theo & Jody Jazz pieces? I have only had access to one piece at a time to play test these pieces.
I have 3 Beechler Bellites and they play different but are also different generations and modified one by the Factory the other by Yoakum. Each good in it's own way but different.
I have two Freddie Gregory MKIV tenor pieces one I love the other I hope I never have to play as a main.
I had 5 Miami Dukoff tenors at one time and they all played different for me.
I play a A45 Blue Limited piece so is it safe to say if you played one you have played them all?

I tried a load of STM's at an estate sale a week ago and every one played differrent. I bought 3 of them a Florida, Wide tip fat body and an EB. I am heading back this Sunday to buy a EB drop beak HR Tone Master tenor piece and an F scroll shank soprano. The seller has dropped the prices substatially.
I want to revisit a NY EV a nice playing piece and I understand why players are attracted to the EV but not sure it is for me nothing special but a potenial flip. I also need to spend some time with a Theo thats for sale as well, I am taking different strength reeds this time.

Here is another twist on finish. What about powder coat?
These guys do it -https://www.hayesmusic.co.uk/ourshop/prod_8280532-Stalaxy-Eclipse-Alto-Saxophone-Black.html Stalaxy Eclipse Alto Saxophone - Black
But with with a caveat - "Despite its unique powder coating, we guarantee first-class response and intonation on every Stalaxy. You can play the saxophone completely freely and with your own individual sound."

I often state I am taking a horn or mouthpiece for a ride, push it to it's limits see if it is a Bronco to be tamed, a race horse or a draft horse. I usually choose the Bronco!

Anyone tried truck bedliner on a horn?

 

[Woodpad]

They may be unlacquered, but they seem shellacked to me 😳

In that area they drink a lot of jenever to wash away the shellack.