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Message: <blockquote data-quote="griff136" data-source="post: 614103" data-attributes="member: 31"><p>New saxophones, have to be checked over to make sure they are in top playing condition.</p><p></p><p>Some high end saxes (Selmer Paris being the biggest culprit - In My opinion) need the most adjustment so that they are playing well.  </p><p></p><p>Most manufactures will test play their insturments which is fine however, a good player will be able to blow through any minor leaks. Ideally these firms should get a relative beginner to test them!</p><p></p><p>The problems that occur most on most new saxes straight out of the box could include (in no particular order)</p><p></p><p>Crook collar scratched and dirty.</p><p></p><p>Lack of or no lubrication.</p><p></p><p>leaking pads</p><p></p><p>sticky pads (due to either being wedged shut for transit and/or the materials used for waterproofing the leather.</p><p></p><p>loose crooks</p><p></p><p>too strong or too weak spring tensions</p><p></p><p>All the instruments in the shop I work for in london both new and secondhand commission sales go through the workshop and are thoroughly checked over before the customer sees them.</p><p></p><p>as far as saxes go   I firstly check the mechanism to make sure there is no binding, then I solve the sticking pads, cork is then checked on each key to make sure that  it is secure and there is no double action on the keys.  The crook is then leak tested, the sax has a leak light put down it to check for leaks and any leaks rectified. The instrument is then lubricated and all screws rods are checked to ensure they are secure, and rollers are checked to make sure they roll freely.</p><p></p><p>As far as the shop is concerned, I check the case to makes sure the keys and locks work and that there is no damage. the saxes are checked for dents, scratches or any blemishes/runs in the lacquer.</p><p></p><p>Some retailers just sell the saxes straight from the box, some play test them, others give instruments a proper set up. Thats one reason how one sax can be cheaper than the same model somewhere else.</p><p></p><p>Also with the shop I work in, the instruments come with warranty, free insurance if the item costs over a certain amount which is most saxes. and a free Checkover at the end of year one.</p><p></p><p>I find that Yanagasawa and Yamaha, and to a lesser extent Jupiter tend to have their instruments, well packed and fairly well set up.</p><p></p><p>Selmers dont even arrive  inside a case!  Just a box with polystyrene inside it. If you want the case thats classed as an accessory and cost even more mula!</p></blockquote><p></p>

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