Re: Everything Saxophone - Theo Wanne Reviews: Gaia Metal and Hard Rubber (sound clip
Thanks, Matt. I was surprised too. Actually I didn't know what to expect, but I'm usually disappointed. This was a nice change.
Though the metal Gaia is similar to a vintage link, I don't think this should be considered an either or situation. There are a couple of important differences. The Gaia is definitely a tad brighter, at least when compared to my vintage link. The Gaia also has, in my opinion, less ability to produce contrasting colors. Similar to the way if often feels you can coax more tone colors out of some vintage horns relative to some modern horns. The link feels like it has more tone color possibilities, but not extremely so.
I don't think this is a situation where one will give you more bang for your buck. Its about preference. Relative to my Florida, I really like the added vibrance and slight brightness of the piece. I didn't dig the narrower range of tone color.
IMO, an SBA can more easily produce varying tone colors than a Mark VI, yet many many players prefer the Mark VI for its often livelier and more vibrant tone color. Decisions, decisions...
