Quote:

<...>You've probably read all those threads on the sax and brass forums where people argue about the material and its effect on the sound, and the wisest ones maintain it makes no difference when you do a true double-blind listening test. So why not get a finish that will last? My Mark VI (which was a gift from a dying friend, and I don't play it nearly enough) has lost a lot of its finish, for sure.<...>



I don't think lacquer makes a difference but I do think the plating makes a slight difference. But not enough really to make a significant difference. The bore, taper and density of the brass makes the bulk of the difference in tone.

The brass does vibrate in my hands when I play the sax, and that has got to color the sound. Vibrating metal does indeed produce sound waves. And the plating probably affects the density of the brass and therefore the vibrations. I agree, it's subtle, and I'm not sure everybody (especially the audience) can hear the difference.

Gold is a little edgy, silver has a nice ring to it, and nickel is a little darker.

At least to my ears.

The horn looks good, responds good, and sounds good. That's all that counts.

A lot of guys on the sax forums talk about ergonomics too. I find that whatever sax I pick up, my fingers adjust to the exact key placement quickly. I've never had one that is difficult to play because of key placement. The Mac is comfortable in my hands.

BTW, that VI of yours is probably worth a lot of money. Sometimes I wish I never sold mine. I liked my Couf better, but the VI really went up in value (like a Pre-CBS Fender guitar). But then, by the time I traded in the Selmer, it had a LOT of wear on it. I played it through school and on the road for a number of years before trading it in.

Notes

Bob "Notes" Norton smile Norton Music
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