I stop by my local sax shop the other day, with a hour to spare, and played threw a few tenors - I had taken my MP with me so I was well set up.
I tried some Mauriats which I have to say I have always felt are great horns at a good price (although the feel is a little angular). However the price of them is creeping up and I have to wonder whether they are such good value any more.
I personally love Yanigasawa's (owning a 992 and 9930) myself) and naturally also the Yamaha's which I find to be very similar.
Just when I was ready to pack and leave, the shop assistant handed me a Cannonball Vintage Series Lady Godiva - which in my ignorance I had only vaguely heard of.
Well, I have to say that I was blown away. I am looking for a free blowing light actioned alternative - for soul/funk - something raucous, and it fitted the bill exactly. Mind you the yani's and yamahas still do it for me for a first horn.
The Cannonball was also very well priced.
The sound is very much like I would expect a King to sound like - although I have never played one myself.
The internet is full of people who love them and some who question the build quality. I have to say their marketing is a bit naff and gimmicky but I can live with that.
They do a stone series which has semi-precious stones for pearls - e.g. tiger eye, jasper, which they claim influences the sound - hum?!
On first sight they appear to be made in the USA but on further investigation I believe they are 'designed' in the US, made in China and then finished in the US?
Just wondered if anyone had one or had any experience?
Steve
I tried some Mauriats which I have to say I have always felt are great horns at a good price (although the feel is a little angular). However the price of them is creeping up and I have to wonder whether they are such good value any more.
I personally love Yanigasawa's (owning a 992 and 9930) myself) and naturally also the Yamaha's which I find to be very similar.
Just when I was ready to pack and leave, the shop assistant handed me a Cannonball Vintage Series Lady Godiva - which in my ignorance I had only vaguely heard of.
Well, I have to say that I was blown away. I am looking for a free blowing light actioned alternative - for soul/funk - something raucous, and it fitted the bill exactly. Mind you the yani's and yamahas still do it for me for a first horn.
The Cannonball was also very well priced.
The sound is very much like I would expect a King to sound like - although I have never played one myself.
The internet is full of people who love them and some who question the build quality. I have to say their marketing is a bit naff and gimmicky but I can live with that.
They do a stone series which has semi-precious stones for pearls - e.g. tiger eye, jasper, which they claim influences the sound - hum?!
On first sight they appear to be made in the USA but on further investigation I believe they are 'designed' in the US, made in China and then finished in the US?
Just wondered if anyone had one or had any experience?
Steve