first timer

[Pete Thomas]

I would suggest a bit more research before forking out on an Earlham

 

[bobk]

I hesitate a little to suggest it, simply because it's another of those 'try MY sax' comments, but why not try a Walstein tenor on sale or return? There are lots of people (all with much more experience than me) who really rate them - I love mine.

Here' one from today. If you search the breakfastroom for 'Walstein' you'll find a lot of other positive comments.

It may be cheap but it seems very good and you can spend some of the money you saved compared to a YTS275 on a nice mouthpiece (and a soprano sax!)

cheers,

Bob

 

[frankb]

bobk wrote:
I hesitate a little to suggest it, simply because it's another of those 'try MY sax' comments, but why not try a Walstein tenor on sale or return? There are lots of people (all with much more experience than me) who really rate them - I love mine.

Possibly even get one on sale / return, then go to Ackermans and try their selection. If you like one of those better, return the Walstein and get your preference. Otherwise keep the Walstein.

Nothing to lose except the postage...

(Or am I being unethical?)

 

[bobk]

FrankB wrote:

bobk wrote:
(Or am I being unethical?)

Seems perfectly ethical to me. If a company sells by internet but wants to offer something comparable to the 'try before you buy' that you get in a normal shop then surely this is exactly what no quibble sale or return is for.

cheers,

Bob

 

[Pete Thomas]

I have seen a discussion on how the other way round might be unethical.

If you try instruments out in a shop, using all their facilities and large stock, then go and buy one cheaper from an online company, then some would say thart's unethical.

Physical shops often can't compete with online prices as they have to pay more staff, rent and usually need to hold more stock for window dressing and trying out.

Having said that, there are online sellers who do allow customers to visit and try things, Hanson & also the Walstein supplier, Woodwind and Brass Ltd both allow visits by appointment. However you won't of course get the vast range to try that you would at somewhere like sax.co.uk

 

[frankb]

Yeah, that's sort of what I thought.

As Ackermans don't sell Walsteins it's just an informed comparison of alternative saxes. Out of their range and the Walstein too it should be possible to find something that appeals at a good price.

I think my guilt complex was just feeling under-exercised! 😉

 

[Pjonah]

I woud suggest a visit to Stephen Howards web site to see his opinion on the Earlham.

I took his advice and got a Gear4music alto for some fun and it's fine, certainly better that my old Conn, but best bet is in the pudding, trying it that is.

I hear Walstein, Hanson and the big three; Yanagisawa, Yamaha, Selmer(Paris), all make pretty decent new horns to suit various budgets. Next to them there are the vintage instruments from the likes of Conn, Buescher, Martin, King etc.

As a newby my advice would be to get professional advice from an independant source and go and try said horn(s). If something feels right it probably is.

Mouthpiece wise its gotta be a Yamaha 4-5c, can't go wrong with that.

Steer clear from ebay unless you have good advice from someone in the know!

Simon