Saxophones comparing P. Mauriat System 76 Soprano (2nd ed) with Yani SW 010

[pek]

Could I have some advice on the quality of the P. Mauriat System 76 Soprano Saxophone (2nd edition). I would like to get an intermediate double neck soprano and am trying to compare this to the yani SW010 without any opportunities actually play the instruments. As you might expect, there is a big price difference.

 

[Stephen Howard]

The Mauriats tend to play well, with an impressive presentation. However, the build quality of the action isn't reflected in the price. Perhaps not such an issue on larger horns - but for long-term reliability on a soprano you want the best action you can get.
As such I'd recommend the Yanagisawa. If you're on a tight budget, look out for a used 9XX series Yani.

 

[LostCircuits]

The good news about the P. Mauriat though is that they tend to break early if there is a manufacturing defect. Kind of like the old Jaguar XJ6, once you get past the infant mortality, they are actually not too bad. On a good day anyway.

 

[Stephen Howard]

Can't say as how I've noticed any tendency for them to break early. That's the rub - the bodywork is usually pretty good. It's just the action that lets them down.

 

[LostCircuits]

My biggest gripe is the octave mechanism on my sop. The brass is so soft, it bends when you look at it. And I remember having another key that was bent out of shape and I tend to be very careful with my horns. The good thing is that it is easy to bend them back just with the thumb.

 

[pek]

This is all very good information. I like the idea of getting a used yani. One question. What is meant by "best action" on the saxophone? Just another bit of info. I am now playing a jupiter JPS 475 soprano.

 

[Yansalis]

This is all very good information. I like the idea of getting a used yani. One question. What is meant by "best action" on the saxophone? Just another bit of info. I am now playing a jupiter JPS 475 soprano.

Precise and stable as to adjustment, because the pitch range of the instrument means small changes have a large impact on tone and especially intonation.

 

[Alphorn]

Just another bit of info. I am now playing a jupiter JPS 475 soprano.

What is a Jupiter JPS475? Is this a typo? 475 for me is associated with the Yamaha YSS-475, but I don't claim to know all the horns out there.

If it is about a 2 neck soprano you might as well consider a Yamaha YSS-675. They have a smooth and precise action paired with a very good intonation. It has been the succesor of the YSS-62. As the 62 was very much loved the 675 had a hard time. It is no longer on offer in Europe but is still listed as a model on the Japanese Yamaha homepage. Used YSS-675 are not often found but if so they are massively undervalued and can be found for < 2000 € while 99x Yanagisawa usually go for > 2000 €

Alphorn

 

[pek]

What is a Jupiter JPS475? Is this a typo? 475 for me is associated with the Yamaha YSS-475, but I don't claim to know all the horns out there.

If it is about a 2 neck soprano you might as well consider a Yamaha YSS-675. They have a smooth and precise action paired with a very good intonation. It has been the succesor of the YSS-62. As the 62 was very much loved the 675 had a hard time. It is no longer on offer in Europe but is still listed as a model on the Japanese Yamaha homepage. Used YSS-675 are not often found but if so they are massively undervalued and can be found for < 2000 € while 99x Yanagisawa usually go for > 2000 €

Alphorn

Thanks for the correction. it is actually a JPS 547GL that I play. I hate those digit reversal in my brain.
So yesterday I ordered a Yanagisawa SW 010 Thanks for all the feedback on this forum. I very excited to get what seem to be a great horn.

Paul K

 

[Yansalis]

When I was starting out I got my Yani used and during the first year took it to a few techs. That thing sure put a gleam in their eyes. The first one told me it was "more horn than you will ever need", and the second one kept talking about how she really needs to buy one for herself. From what I've read about the tonal tweaks to the SW series not only are you going to enjoy getting that new horn but it's likely you're going to keep realizing all over again how awesome it is for years to come.

 

[Dr G]

This is all very good information. I like the idea of getting a used yani. One question. What is meant by "best action" on the saxophone?

You're about to find out. Congrats on your selection. I've owned a couple Yanagisawa sops (both SC-992), and really enjoy the feel and response.

Enjoy!