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Question: Dear Steve, Back in the seventies I bought a Conn Conqueror 30M from a small music store in Libertyville. At the time I didn't realize that they put a Beuscher neck on it. Recently I decided to sell the Conn and found out that it was made it 1936 and would be worth more if I had a 30M neck for it.Do you know where I might find one? Thanks for your help!! Mary

Answer: I think your only option is going to be have a neck made for your horn. This is likely to be VERY expensive.

Question: What is tip opening your alto HR mouthpice?

Answer: You can get it in .060,.070,and .075

Question: i have a vito alto sax model 20006a. looking to sell but would like more info to be a smarter seller. is there someplace on web i may see what they are how well made, and prices?

Answer: Those are pretty common horns, and pretty well made. I'd say the best one in the world (in absolute perfect condition, needing nothing) is worth $400 at most. Deduct the retail cost of any needed repairs to make it perfect.

Question: Hello. I am a 50-year old man who has decided to learn to play the saxophone (I'm not getting any younger, am I?). Can you give me some advice? Everything I read says start with an alto, which is fine. But what brand? How much should I expect to pay? Is buying mail order okay? Or is it better to buy from the local music store? Do you carry anything that would be good for my situation? Any help or advice you can give me would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Answer: There is an article on my blog about buying a saxophone for beginners. There's a link to my blog in the NEWS section of this site.

Question: Steve: I am an instrumental music teacher at The American School of Doha in Doha, Qatar (a peninsula in the oil rich Arabian Gulf). I've come across a Korean made soprano saxophone under the brand name of Khon. There is an umlaut over the "o" and the branding also states U.S.A. I played the horn and it felt good in my hands. With my limited knowledge of what to really look for when inspecting an instrument, it seemed quite like other soprano saxes that I have played before. The asking price is $500. I would like to get your opinion on the instrument. Thanks a lot! Mark Seay Instrumental Music Director American School of Doha (www.asd.edu.qa)

Answer: Sorry, but I am unfamiliar with that brand. I am also unaware of any saxophone factories in Korea.

Question: Hi Steve, One of my students recently purchased one of your new baris from Marsh Woodwinds in Raleigh. It was on consignment. The sax player from Cravin Melon sold it. Anyway, the horn is great except for excessive airyness on G and G# with the octave key. It is very distracting to the tone. A few different players have tried it, all with the same results. The repair techs at Marsh have concluded that nothing can be done about it's just "the horn". I am dissapointed for my student, becasue it is such a beautiful instrument otherwise.

Answer: I would say you need to find some techs who know how to adjust an octave mechanism! Apparently, the people you are using don't know how to do it! We've NEVER had this complaint before. It should be a very simple adjustment.

Question: I just recently inherited my grand fathers alto sax. It's a Selmer..BundyII. Whatever info you know would be appreciated. Thanks Keith

Answer: That's a student model horn marketed by Selmer USA. It's super common, and not very valuable.

Question: hi, My father left a sax that was his in the 20's (or later)sometime. It is a Buescher True Tone serial number 141606 low pitch license dec 8 1910 (looks like a 10 ? not sure) Am looking for some help regarding history, value and registration information. I have read many forms on lie and am pretty confused at this point. Thanks so much. Mary Parisi-Fien

Answer: There's a value guide and serial number chart on my www.saxgourmet.com site. Be sure to read the preface to the value guide first!

Question: What is your policy on "trying" the mouthpiece before purchase. A good mouthpiece is worth its weight in gold but laying out a couple hundred on a maybe is risky. I am interested in the bari piece, what are the tip openings?? thanks, Al

Answer: See the FAQ for policy. The bari piece comes in .105 and .120 tip openings

Question: Hi Steve I was left a sax and I was hoping you could give me some info on it. age value such. It is a CG Conn LTD PATD DEC 8 1914 PAT APPD FOR A M265431A L ANY HELP YOU COULD GIVE ME WOULD BE MOST APPRECIATED THANKS BOB

Answer: That's a Conn alto made for the North American market. There's a value guide and serial number chart located at www.saxgourmet.com

Question: Hey Steve. I have one of your Saxgourmet pieces. Blows pretty nice but the ligature that came with it is all messed up. Screw doesn't work at all. Any replacements available. I like its setup, it just doesn't work so I'm using one from one of my other pieces for now.

Answer: Sure, I'll be glad to send you a replacement. Which mouthpiece do you have?

Question: hi mr goodson.im honored to be able to e/m you.your a hero in my house.anyway, i love the vintage sound too. and i have a 68 10m.its real brash.i am always looking for that vint.tone.why are the rolled tone holes so much more in demand and better sounding than the newer ones? ive tried several m/ps.and still cant get the sound like i had on my [school loaned] 40.s elkhart beuscher.do you have any sugestions on what m/p to try?? thank you for your very valuable time,mr goodson. P.J.

Answer: P.J.: There's a school of thought that says that older is better. I don't subscribe to that! There's NO WAY that the rolled tone holes can make any difference, NONE! Try the Blues Blaster mouthpiece on your 10M. Thanks for your question!

Question: Have a Selmer Mark VI. The High D is getting sharper. Does the cork pack down and create this problem or is it the operator. I have 20+ years playing and I have been monkeying around with mouth pieces, but kind of out of answers. Bob

Answer: That's pretty common on VI's.....look on my www.saxgourmet.com site and go to the overhauls section. Click on the photo tour of Steve's personal Mk VI and you'll see how I corrected it.

Question: Steve, your old web page used to have half a dozen fantastic audio tracks playing in the background...but your new site does not appear to have them...or am I doing something wrong ?...How do I get to play them again...?

Answer: We've now restored them, by popular demand!

Question: HELLO,I'M DAMIANO AND I'M ITALIAN AND SEND IT TO A COUNTRY IN THE MOLISE, ITALY.I'VE A TENOR SAX Selmer MKVI NY 105XXX Elkhart, which I bought ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO.i HAVE THE PASSION OF REPAIRING THE INSTRUMENTS AND I realized that the SAX is STATE OF METAL clad with I BELIEVE THAT IS NICHEL.IL instrument sound is quite good ......... BUT THAT CAN unfasten METAL AND HOW? THANKS AND APOLOGIES FOR MY ENGLISH

Answer: I never saw an Elkhart version in nickel

Question: I am renting a Selmer Student Alto Sax and I personally don't like the tone and intonation. The tone is really thin and the scales are uneven. I purchased a Meyer 6M and the tone improved, but not to the level I would like it to. As a High School student I am economically strained and the Selmer is all I could afford at the time. As an innovator is there anything you can think of that can easily improve the instrument without having to permanently remain on the instrument.

Answer: Which model are you using?

Question: Is there a proper way to store a saxophone when not used for long periods of time?please be as specific as possible thanks

Answer: First, make sure the interior of the horn is completely dry. Treat all of the pads with VooDoo Pad Juice to prevent drying. Apply paraffin to the neck cork and heat slightly so it is absorbed Put a coat of oil on all springs Completely oil the mechanism with Bourbon Street Key Oil Clamp the keys down using key clamps Put several silica Gel packs in the case

Question: Will the Alto neck enhancer work on any neck? I play a Sherwood Master (Conn Stencil) for '32/'33. Thanks!

Answer: Yes, it most certainly will.

Question: do you send to israel?

Answer: Yes we do. We have many customers there

Question: Mr Goodson, Can you, Will you Custom build any sax similar to your "Orpheus Orpheo" Tenor/Sax Gourmet Tenor going down to low "G" pass flat. Going up to High G# key or maybe even A? Thanks for your time. cheers, -Nate

Answer: We can do anything you wish, provided you have the budget for the project

Question: Are you making your Saxgourmet Neck for a MKVI Selmer alto sax ?

Answer: they should be available in around 30 days. We'll also have some solid silver and solid copper necks for alto and tenor.

Question: I am a high school saxophone player and doing my grade 7 jazz this march. I was wondering if the steve goodsen models are suitable for this standard if I needed an upgrade in the next year or so. I currently play a jupiter student and I do not know how versatile your models are. Thanks.

Answer: they are absolutely the most versitle horns on the market. Just look at the features: they are available nowhere else.

Question: hey mr. goodson.so when are you going to make vintage sax cases. for l.h.b.k.

Answer: When there's enough demand to pay for the initial tooling

Question: I do not see any tip openings on the low rider baritone mouthpiece? Is this mouthpiece made in just one opening, if so what is it?

Answer: .105 and .120

Question: Hi : in my repairshop I have an old Dolnet tenor sax and I need to buy for a client 1 saxgourmet maestro start airtigh solid brass pad set.Please inform me if I can buy from you.I would sed you the dimensions pads if is afirmative your answer. Thanks

Answer: you can buy them from music medic

Question: What facings does the Fat Boy come in, or do I just tell you what I want when I order?

Answer: tip openings are .090, .105, and .120

Question: Yo Steve,I'd like to get a bari piece;I'm playing a metal Ponzol .110 w/Rigotti 3.5 light/med.reeds on The Martin bari...jazz,latin,swing...I probably would go w/the .105 lowrider. What do you think? You say the pieces blow easy;great!Should I try a .120? I don't need to work hard,but need,and get,a big,full sound...Thanks a lot;I played out here,SF,w/bassist Sam Price, from your town...do you know him?I'll look out for your advice............

Answer: Get a .105......I played with Sam about 15 years ago in an original material rock band...... We've got 'em in stock and ready to go. Your order will ship the same day you place it.

Question: Hi steve!This is Christodoulos Antoniou from Cyprus.I have a Selmer Paris Saxofon BREV.SGDG 920653 M114852 but is only the body,No keys,no any screws.Is that possible to fix it?And how mutch is will cost? Thanks for your attention.

Answer: I don't know where you could get the parts

Question: steve, i play tenor and baritone sax in a touring cover band. we play a lot of motown. i currently play a number 8 brilhart metal and .120 bari gold metal, both are off the shelf pieces. i'm very interested in purchasing two of your handmade mouthpieces. which one of your mouthpieces would you recommend for these instruments. your professional opinion would be very helpful. thanks,greg

Answer: i THINK YOU WILL LIKE THE HANDMADE SERIES.......IT'S PERFECT FOR MOTOWN

Question: Steve, I am considering buying a Buffet Super Dynaction tenor that appears doesn't have an original neck. Do you offer one for this or could you if I provided ID of neck tenon? Thanks, Bill

Answer: At this time, no

Question: Steve, I'm interested in buying a new neck for my Holton 241 tenor. (241-199-2000) Will your replacement necks fit this horn? Thanks, Sam Hudson sammy1h@aol.com

Answer: Yes, provided the tenon is 27.5mm as it should be (that's original spec)....your horn is very old, and may not be at original spec

Question: I am looking at your advertisement in the Saxophone Journal. Which model of tenor sax mouthpiece is the one with "compound baffle with slight rollover", "beak has a pronounced duckbill", "solid brass" and is available in.90 .105 & .120 Thanks Ron M

Answer: That's the Florida

Question: HI! I`ve just got one question, what is best of Curved and straight Yanagisawa s991? I`m playing tenor sax today, and shall by myself a soprano, i`m pleased with my yani tenor.

Answer: The best available is the Saxgourmet Saxello

Question: I love my saxgourmet saxello but can not keep the low C# key from sticking. I've fussed with the spring tension, cleaned the pad and now keep it in the case with a piece of material with Talc on it. She still sticks. Is it new pad time Thanks, Scotty

Answer: Don't use talc! Clean the top of the tone hole with 1500 grit emery paper and the sticking will stop.

Question: What is a "power pip", and what does it do? I have a 1957 Mark VI tenor. What would one do to my horn? Good or bad? Also, I noted that you offer threaded pips on some of your horns. What does this add?

Answer: It will improve the intonation and response, and will significantly improve the altissimo. All the Power Pips are threaded to reduce hiss.

Question: Hello Mr. Steve, I saw a picture of one of you necks and the inside of the tenon looked as though it had a light threading. Is this something you would recommend? If so, what thread size should be used? Just to remind you I have a 500k+ Buescher 400 Alto. I threaded the mpc end as you suggested and the pips. I found a Morgan 6C and I am pleased with the sound I am getting. Keep up the good work of educating us dummies. Best regards, Joe Petrof

Answer: Yes, it's a good idea for ANY neck....I use a pretty coarse thread, around 18/36

Question: How can I get in touch? Yesterday, I went to New Orleans Music Exchange to no avail. Found this address for you on internet. I have a Mark VI that I need to discuss with someone. Can I get an address or phone number? thanks Eldridge

Answer: give me a daytime phone number and I'll call you...we see clients by prior appointment only and I'm generally not availble for incoming calls...the choice is that I can spend all day on the phone or I can get some work done!

Question: Do you have necks for a soprano sax. I noticed that some of the heavy weight musicians have a long neck on their horns. This is what I am looking for. Price range?

Answer: We're working on some soprano necks right now....stay tuned

Question: Hi Steve, Greetings from Louisville, KY. I have an interest in your tenor mouthpieces and my curiosity was peaked after visiting your forum section. One person talked about a three pack he purchased which contained the blues blaster, florida and fat boy. Is this package still available and if so what cost? Thanks

Answer: That was a holiday special....we may do it again in the near future......just watch the site

Question: Hi Steve, I have a 1959 MK IV tenor. There is no serial number on the neck. Do you know if this means it's not the originla or did selmer not put it on all the necks? Cheers Paul

Answer: The number does not appear on the neck of all Mk VI's

Question: I am hoping you can help me make a decision on a tenor mouthpiece...I have tried many different pieces over the years...Dukoff, Meyer, Ponzol, Link, Berg, Yani, etc... I currently use a Gary Sugal Super Gonz II .110 or a Phil Barone hard rubber 9. I play a '56 The Martin. The sound I get is like a Dexter Gordon, & I am looking for more like a Jr. Walker or Lenny Pickett sound. Thanx for your time - Bob

Answer: Try the Fat Boy. You will be delighted with the results! Get a .105

Question: I play series 111 selmers, and do all my own replacement pads,but I find it almost impossible to get replacement pads thin enough to match the original selmer pads. ive tried the best quality I can get over here but they seem to be much thicker and dont seat properly. i was wondering if your own brand of pads would suit better. Yours sincerely Jimmy Mat

Answer: You can get the thin pads you need from www.musicmedic.com

Question: Steve, I know you are a busy man but, I have been playing alto for about three years and enjoy it very much. However I like the sound of the soprano and I am wanting to buy one. Every body I talk to says I should go for a Yamaha or a Selmar but I just can't justify that amount of money. I have seen your Vespro model on the Saxophone Factory site and I'm very interested in it. Would it be suitable for some one of limited ability who is getting on in years but who enjoys playing. I play in a woodwind ensemble and would be playing with the clarinets. Hope you can find time to advise me to buy your sax. Love your website. Martin

Answer: I've got a demo horn (black nickel with silver keys) that I can make you a fine price on. Contact me at saxgourmet@cox.net and give me a daytime phone number and I'll call you

Question: hey there mr.G.. just thought i would try out this site again since ive been talking to you off of the sax repair forum.. any way,, just wondering about you with all of that nasty weather in LA. i hope all is well with you and the mrs.oh yea! your puppy too!!i hope you build a water proof vault in that mansion you and sharon are restoring. for all of your exquisite horns.please be safe my bro.P.J.

Answer: Thanks, PJ!!!

Question: Hello: My father recently passed away and I inherited his saxophones. He played them all my life and were his pride and joy. I need some help in determining their values. Could you please help me? Here are the specs. All are Selmer Mark VI Soprano sax Mark VI, model # N. 259732 Alto Sax Mark VI, model # 199660 Tenor Sax Mark VI, model # 72186 Baritone Sax Mark VI, model 80107 Thank you for any help you can give me. Sincerely, Lisa

Answer: Please send clear, detailed pictures

Question: Hi Steve ! im looking for a wireless mike for my sax! looked all over web. could you give some advice where to go ? to buy like a store with a phone number or a web. address i need some help thanks the Rock phone is 1 870 350 3935

Answer: I tried to call you....no answer

Question: I have been givev an original selmer serie 22 tenor but it has no crook. Before I spend any repair money I would like to know if it's going to be possible to get a neck and is it financially viable

Answer: I don't know where you would find one....you could have one custom made, which would be very expensive

Question: I purchased a Steve Goodson model tenor and it is by far the sweetest horn I've played. Projection like no other, a nice edge or a smooth darkness, depending on whatever you desire. Very nice. My problem is that I would like to use a more compact air airline friendly case but due to the altissimo key, I can't find a case to fit the horn. Any suggestions? Thanks for making a great horn, Dano

Answer: we'll have a new line of cases later this year

Question: Do you have a picture or video on the saxgourmet Curved soprano sax. And what is your current price Thx Joey

Answer: they will be availabl,e in the late summer

Question: hai Steve my inglish is bad here is my question is it true that if you don have selmer saxophon you are bad player every one tells my by selmer by selmer stayaway from yamaha.s and others brands .thanks Steve love your playing skills

Answer: Selmer makes some nice saxophones. There are many other brands you should consider.

Question: I caught wind of a dicontinued sax by you I believe it was called orpheous. Is it still available and where.

Answer: The Orpheo horns that I designed were last manufactured in 2007...I have no idea where you could find one. I have nothing to do with the horns currently sold as Orpheo on eBay. They are NOT the same

Question: Hi Steve, I have been playing the sax for 30+ years, & was hoping you could answer a question for me. I play a '56 &'54 The Martin Tenor & Alto respectively, & a Kohlert Bari. On the Tenor I use a Sugal Super GonzII .110. The sound I get is more like a Dexter Gordon-Kirk Whalum. I am wondering how do guys like Lenny Pickett, & Jr. Walker make a tenor sound the way they do? Is it the mouthpiece? If so, what do you recommend to make that sound? I know you sell mouthpieces, but I haven't ever seen one of the fluted ones anywhere. I am also looking forward to that new Tenor! Finally it sounds like someone is trying to take the horn to the next level w/ some awesome features for Pros. Maybe we won't have to find tricks for intonation - Thanx - Bob

Answer: Thanks for your kind remarks! Try the Fat Boy for the sound you are asking about

Question: Hi Steve I´ve always wondered how to use the "pad saver" properly. I use it every time I finish playing and going to put my sax back in the case, but the question is, after using it to dry the horn, should I leave the pad saver inside or outside the horn? How is the correct dry procedure once finishing playing in order to maintain my sax the better? Thank you very much.

Answer: YOu should use it to dry out the horn. Do NOT leave it inside the horn

Question: I have your two dvds on saxophone repair also many other dvds from various repair men. My problem that the leaks keep coming back!!! First I make sure each key closes individualy, the I colse all the keys using vedges, then I give the pads a heat and leave it over night, then I check for the leak between keys that work together and close them. After a little while the leaks are back!! What am I doing wrong? Thanks Sarkis

Answer: have you leveled the tone holes?

Question: Hey Steve, This could be considered a dumb question: but the way Im understanding it, and I could be wrong, but does the copper tenor neck that you are displaying in that YouTube video fit both Selmers and Yamahas or is there a separate model for each. Im guessing the later as the octave mechanism is so different, but it would be nice as I own both a Mark 6 and a YTS62. One more thing.....Ive never been happy with things about the YTS62 (tone too bright, hard to play certain notes in tune (Im a tuning freak and most of the players I work with are even worse, so I cant really the Yammy on a gig) and it has some kind of weird harmonic makeup). I bought the thing on ebay for a good price but the neck was mashed up on arrival. Ive gotten the creases in the neck rolled out and playable, but do you think this f.....d up neck could be the cause of this horn's problems? As far as the brightness, would stripping the lacquer do anything or are we dealing purely with cosmetics? Thanks for reading this, Take care.

Answer: the necks are different.......stripping the lacquer is a cosmetic procedure only

Question: Hi Steve, I was wanting to know if you were involved with the design of the LA Sax LA-750AT Earthtone special edition model. Here is a link to one Noteworthy is selling in their eBay store currently. http://cgi.ebay.com/LA-SAX-ALTO-SAXOPHONE-EARTHTONE-LIMITED-EDITION_W0QQitemZ130304459566QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item1e56c0432e&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A3%7C294%3A30 I'm also looking at one of the Orpheo models they are selling as well. thanks, Mike

Answer: no.....those horns were bought "off the shelf" from Shin Foo Pin

Question: what finishes do your tenor sax come in?

Answer: All our horns come in bright copper plate only

Question: I am 58 years old and have played clarnet since 7th grade and tenor sax from 11th. 15 years ago My tenor sax was stolen from my church in a breakin.Haven't relaced it untill 2 years ago. Bought cheap Shill and mexican Conn of ebay. Got what i payed for but was all i could afford. I go to a Apostolic Pentecostal church and we play all styles even jazz and blues. Soon as I can come up with the money I am getting a pro horn. Was lookin the second time at you tenor 400 seris video. With what i have already said which one of your mouth pieces would you suggest I use at church. the horns and setup I am using is really fustrating me because of slow response. Wgat do you suggest to a man on Full disability and limited resourses. thanks

Answer: Try the Fat Boy

Question: I found a sax in my shed! I'm a guitar player but would love to learn new instruments. I was wondering if you could tell me what exactly I have? It looks old, it's says made in italy, serial # B3947. It's ingraved on the front" Lakeland Classic". Maybe by the original owner? Thought maybe you could help...Thanks!

Answer: Please send some clear detailed pictures to saxgourmet@cox.net

Question: Steve: I've found a silver-plated Conn for sale at $359.00. Serial # is 74400 which, according to the online lists, puts it around 1920-1922? So, is this horn reputed to be a good player or is it too early before all the improvements of the next couple decades? Think I ought to buy this horn and play it? Thanks for the thoughts! Chris

Answer: It's too old to be of much use in a modern context

Question: Hi Steve, I purchased a Tenor Saxgourmet VI from Noteworthy Musical but it came without a tenon screw and a neck plug.Can I purchase those from you separately as I cannot get the original seller to provide them Cheers Peter

Answer: That's a discontinued model, but I'll see if I can round up a tenon screw for you...any standard tenor neck plug should work fine

Question: Hey Steve, I am a 57 year old man that is a intermediate sax player that could only wish to play like you. Anyway I have a 52 yamaha alto and would like to buy a tennor. I noticed on your other website you have alot of horns for sale.I was wondering if I could come to your location and check out your inventory.I am leaning toward the super 400. my freinds are all custom z players,so you know what they have say. I work in laplace so it would be no problem to go to n.o. I would love to see a super 400. Thanks, Clyde

Answer: we're currently re-doing the site with new pictures and details......we should have the changes up next week

Question: Hi. I`m from Argentina and want to ask you your opinion about alt sax Buffet _Crampon Evette. Is an student/intermiddle, sax, isn`t it?. I`m learning sax and clarinet and i found your web site FABOLOUS!! thanks a lot. Jorge de Argentina

Answer: It really depends on which model you're talking about.......some are good, some not so good

Question: Again me!! i forgot to ask if you sale and ship instruments to my country, because sometimes there`s a great difference between prices in eeuu and Argentina.!please suggest me the best option! Thanks!jorge

Answer: we ship worldwide

Question: I am curious as to where your saxes are actually manufactured. I understand that they represent your own design concepts but are you actually having someone else (i.e. Taiwan,or Japan) do the manufacturing to your specs.? I am a pro player and repairman in Vernon (B.C., Canada) and a general sax fiend. Thanks Steve

Answer: Why do you need to know?

Question: Concerning your sopranino mouthpiece, the available tip openings are .045 and .055. hmmm... I need one, but which tip opening? I play some wide open MP on soprano, Alto, Tnr & Bari. The sopranino came with a small opening MP and very soft reed, easy to play, but high end difficult. I need sopranino reed also, would like to try some #2 & #3 strengths.

Answer: get a .055

Question: i recently purchased a Steve Goodson Model alto from Noteworthy Music. It's a joy to play and to look at. I am presently using a modern Otto Link 5* metal mouthpiece with a 2.5 or 3.0 Vandoren V16 or Rico Royal reed. I'm happy with the nicely centered and full sound, but I would like to know if you have any ideas regarding use of one of your mouthpieces on this horn or any other thoughts on this setup. I am a returning player after a long time away and just getting my chops back. Thanks for your time.

Answer: Try our hard rubber alto piece to get the most out of that horn. I know you will love the difference!

Question: Steve, I purchased an old stencil Tenor with rolled tone holes. I thought it may be a very early Buescher as the number 5478 is stamped on the back. It also has Marlboro stamped on it (looks like belonged to a school or something). The laquer is quite wore so I cannot make out anythihg else on the horn. My theory about the Sax being a very early Buescher is disproved because of the High F key. I don't believe Buescher manufactured horns with rolled tone holes. I am guessing it's a Conn. Would you be able to tell me anything about the horn is I were to email pictures? Thank You Tony DeWitt

Answer: I probably can....send them to saxgourmet@cox.net

Question: If I buy a sopranino mouthpiece from you, where on your order form does it let me choose the lay (.045, .055)? also what is approx delivery? Al

Answer: Just send us a note on your facing choice......we also inquire on our confirmation.......they're in stock and ship the same day payment clears

Question: Hi Steve, I recently got a curved Yanigisawa soprano (0012XXXX) vintage, I believe, early 1980s. I had some work done on it by the local repair tech and (most of) the leaks were tightened up. The really annoying thing left is the sound of C (on the staff) is really stuffy and barely sounds. Any obvious clues what might be causing this? I know looking at it would be more telling, but thought maybe you have run across this before. Thanks for any tips.

Answer: I'd really have to see and play the horn to tell you, but nbe sure the C pad closes well. Is there a difference in the two C fingerings? This would tell me much more....

Question: Hi Steve, You just recently posted the question that I had asked about changing the angle of the neck by moving the lever on the altissimo key. I thought i would give you an update on the situation. I ended up taking it over to a friend of mine who is the local horn repair tech. He thought we could bend the lever enough to reposition the angle of the neck, which we did slowly and carefully. We were able to change the angle enough that I can now play the horn comfortably. I'm glad that I did not send the horn back as it turned out to be a sweet playing horn! It's the black nickel one and I love the finish. When I first started practicing with this horn I was playing out of tune and quickly discovered that I no longer needed to compensate for those out of tune notes on my old vintage ------. I still love my old horn, but I never realized how much extra work I was doing just to play it in tune. The biggest regret I have now is that I didn't get the SG tenor too. This horn is way better than anything else I have played in this price range and some that were way more expensive. [$3000 range] Thanks for making a great sounding, yet affordable horn.

Answer: Thanks for your business!

Question: I have a Paris Selmer, 22221, which according to your info is a 1936 model. It is perfect, and I haven't used it for 20 years. Richly engraved etc. Not the original case. You seem to not like eBay as a resource. How might I go about trying to sell the horn and what might be a reasonable price? Thank you.

Answer: For that sort of horn, you'll reach the most buyers worldwide on eBay...that's what I would do with it....be careful, require payment via bank wire only, and don't ship until the wire has cleared......set your "first bid" at the lowest amount you would take for the horn...don't worry about reserves

Question: I have a Selmer Mark VI Tenor, #847xx, and had it recently overhauled. Then, I had leaks fixed by Best Instrument Repair in Oakland, CA. Good people there. But, while practicing today, my low C# stopped working. There on the floor was a spring and collar (w/screw). No doubt, it came loose and fell off. Can you e-mail me a photo or sketch to show how it goes back on? This is Saturday and I won't be able to get back to Best until Monday. Thanks.

Answer: I won't be back in my office until Monday myself, so I'd suggest you take it to Best

Question: I have a Conn alto sax that we bought 20 years ago and we just had it completely refurbished. The serial number is N208733. I was thinking of selling it but I don't have any idea how much it is worth. can you help me?

Answer: Please send clear, detailed pictures. I really can't tell you nmuch unless I see it.

Question: Steve, Bought a King Tempo tenor at a garage sale for $50 but can't seem to find any history on it. It is in very good shape but needs adjustment and some pads. I currently play a Bundy II which I rent(tight for cash). Should I spend the coin to fix the King or should I fill it with cement and use as a boat anchor. Which one of your Saxgourmet mouthpieces would you recommend to bring this beast to life. Thanks Lawrie

Answer: Those horns are OK, not great, but OK....try a Blues Blaster

Question: hey Steve, looks like i will be down you`re way pretty soon . I did not know wether or not the rock n roll reeds are still in production. If they are i am lokking for 15 boxes for tenor at 1 1/2 strength and a varie lig for metal tenor mouthpiece. please give me an update , chris

Answer: We're not making the Rock and Roll reeds any longer (I've become a convert to synthetic reeds) but I've got some here. I'm not sure what's on hand, I'll have to dig them out. I'm sure I've got an old Varilig around here somewhere. Look forward to seeing you!

Question: Hi Steve I have this Beautiful Vito Leblanc alto sax, I believe it is called the System? Its in Pristine condition the serial # is 8704A. I am looking to sell < confused on what it is worth? and where to sell it, I would love it to go to someone who really appreciates it! Thanks in advance! Yvonne

Answer: Those horns are not very common. I have two in my personal collection. I'd say that a perfect one is worth around $1500, deduct for any needed repairs

Question: Hi Steve, What made you decide to use 4 octave vents on the Category 5? Also, what is it about an individual horns design that makes one play easier than another, even of the same brand?

Answer: In the perfect world, a saxophone would have TWELVE octave vents, one for every semi-tone of the chromatic scale. That would be a mechanical nightmare, of course, and is not practical. Most saxophones have only two vents, so there is a considerable amount of compromise. To give a simple answer to a complex subject, by increasing the number of vents to four, we have reduced the amount of compromise by 100%! This makes the upper register MUCH more in tune and responsive. The answer to your other question is much more complicated, and I'll address it a future article in The Saxophone Journal.

Question: Ref : Mk6 Baritone w/low A. Power Pips SG power pips I ordered from MusicMedic sometime last year specific for this horn. I am installing them soon. Curt has kindly refer me to you for information. Q1. Soft solder OR Hard solder Q2. Upon inspection- as both looks the same- size and dimension. Does this assume that pips can be applied to either Octaves. Is there a difference in dimension size between the Upper & Lower Octaves? Q3. Do I need a drill bit to size bigger for this pips to be inserted. If not what size drill bit. Strap hook Ring I am ordering one soon. About placement would it be higher or lower on the body. Thank you for your insight. Sincerely, Hutapea H Jeremiah

Answer: What make and model of horn do you have? I need this information to advise you.

Question: Hi Steve, I play a Conn 16M with one of your custom necks ( love it ) and a Sugal series IV tenor, with both I use a Guardala King with Fibercell # 2 reeds. Your mothpieces seem to be a good buy. I like the Guradala but am always looking for 'more'. Jr. Walker and King Curtis are my favorites. What do you recommend with my horns? Thanks, Joe

Answer: We've got a new model which should be available next week, the Super Duck, which I think will do just what you want.

Question: Hi, I am an aspiring saxophone playewr and a couple of questions about the saxophone necks you sell, first question: does your handmade copper alto saxophone neck come with your neck enhancement alreday built in or, will I need to purchase it seperate second question: I am considering purchasing a buffet 400 series tenor and was wondering if you know if any of your necks would fit or fit with minor adjustments thank you for your time

Answer: The copper necks do NOT have a built in enhancer, that feature is ONLY on the Saxgourmet series. Yes, our SAXGOURMET series necks will work great on a Buffet, with minor adjustments

Question: Steve, I have a King Super 20, serial # in the mid 3's with silver neck. Plays well, and nicely in tune, but 3rd octave f# is always 25 to 30 cents flat. D,E and F are right on. Any suggestions. Appreciate the feedback.

Answer: Those horns are notorious for that sort of thing....I've owned and worked on a bunch of them over the years...about all you can do is get somebody who knows what they are doing to install some tuning crecents into the palm key tone holes.

Question: I have a Selmer Tenor MkVI neck that a hole was drilled and has a receiver for a varitone mic. Can this be removed and the hole be repaired. Will it affect the tone of the neck.

Answer: If done properly, it will have no effect. If done improperly, it will.

Question: Steve, I have a Selmer mark VI serial # 234029, but according to the Slemer website serial # list this hon would be a Mark VII made in 1975, can you shed some light on this situation? Thanks

Answer: Sure......the Selmer website is wrong. I've owned a 244,000 VI tenor, and have owned a 236,000 VII tenor. There was an overlap in production.

Question: On all Yamaha YTS-23s I've owned, and there have been many, the G5 and G#5 will altissimo far too easily. I'd dismissed this as my own rather weak nerve damaged embouchure but other players have also commented on it. I read somewhere this might be a result of the body octave vent being too large. Any truth to this and would the Power Pip help? Thank you.

Answer: G5? If you can play a G5, I salute you! My range, and the range of everybody I know doesn't extend that high (G4 on a good day, with all the planets in proper alignment), and I have no experience with notes that high in pitch.

Question: Hey Steve, is there any chance that you will do another run of the Steve Goodson model horns. I love the alto i have and would be interested in a matching tenor if I could find one.

Answer: If there was enough demand, yes. We'd have to have firm orders for 25 of them. I rather doubt this would happen, of course, since the Super 400 and Voodoo Rex are much better horns. Our designs evolve over time, we learn as we go along.

Question: DO YOU HAVE A TRY-OUT/RETURN POLICY FOR YOUR PRODUCTS, ESPECIALLY YOUR MOUTHPIECES AND SAXOPHONES?

Answer: See the terms of service and our FAQ

Question: Dear Steve, I have an alto sax from my high school days and wanted to know if you could give me an idea of when it was made and and an approximate value. On the bell it says CG Conn Ltd. Elkhart, IND USA the serial info on the back is kind of hard to read buy I think it says: PA DEC 8 1914 111 99 54 A M157338 L

Answer: There's a value guide and serial number chart located at www.saxgourmet.com

Question: Hi Steve, just discovered you and your site so I ordered a fat boy yesterday off you for my LA USA Tenor . Today I realised I didnt spec which opening . To be used for Jazz/Rock & Roll . I bought the LA in 1998 , played 4years just started again still in novice stage. Any advice welcome regards frank mumby

Answer: Get a .105 or .120

Question: Dear Steve, I have questions on two horns, both of which deal with flat tones in the upper register from the high B and above. Can that be fixed? First horn (soprano) - is an Arnaldo Borgani made in Italy probably in the early 1930s or 1920s. There is no serial number, but the inscription is "Premiata Fabbrica, Arnaldo Borgani, Macerata Esportazione Mondiale". Is it worth fixing and can you tell me anything about the horn. I assume it is a B-Flat horn, but is there any chance it is a Concert C horn? How can I tell? Second horn (Tenor) - H.Couf Royalist, made in Germany, No. 63227. Can the upper register flatness be fixed. Thanks, Bob 248-681-0777

Answer: Both of those horns are probably not worth a significant investment. The Borgani is most likely hopeless. The Royalist series from Couf was designed for student use, and is quite unlike the Superba series. They're not very good horns.

Question: Dear Steve, Do you have any good tips on how to begin playing in altissimo?

Answer: Sure........first, learn to play scales and tunes on JUST the mouthpiece, without changing your embrochure. Get a couple of study books, "Saxophone Altissimo" by Bob Luckey, and "Top Tones for Saxophone" by Sigurd Rascher. Practice, then practice some more.

Question: Would you please tell me how much my Buescher 400 series, 1963,fair condition, but plays,alto saxophone is worth? Thank-you

Answer: There's a value guide located at www.saxgourmet.com.......be sure to read the preface, and deduct the FULL retail cost of all needed repairs to make it perfect

Question: Hey Steve, i sent an email earlier using your "contact" option, and then I saw your "Ask Steve" link. I apologize if you receive this twice. Long story short, I've been playing for some time now, with a 6 year hiatus in between. I play a Selmer Mark VI tenor which I love, but am still stuck with my student model alto. I need an upgrade desperately, but don't want to spend the thousands of dollars right now. How do you personally feel about the LA SAX Big Lip series that's fairly new. It's an attractive price, and the different lacquered appearances would look nice on stage with my band. If you don't recommend that horn, which direction would you send me for a decent up scale horn for around 1,000? Thanks!

Answer: Given your budget, I would not suggest the LA Sax, there are better horns for the money. Look for a Chateau, a Unison, or a Jinyin. These are all great horns for players on a budget.

Question: Hi Steve Are you Making Tenor Necks for Cannonball Tenors Thanks Bob V 954-592-3189 bvjazz@bellsouth.net

Answer: yes

Question: Hi, I just bought a Yamaha Tenor for a great price. I was told it is a pro model from the late 60s' the ser. # is 00019. It plays great but needs an overhaul. Can you tell me anything about it? I once played in a practice room at shop in San Fernando Valley in CA with Jim Morrison. It was in 68 or 69. Thanks & God bless Bruce

Answer: What is the model number? It should appear on the body below the serial number

Question: Hi Steve, Out of all your MPs which one is your very favorite??. Don't tell me all of them. I am thinking about buying the Blues Blaster. I never play with anyone else. I do all solo work and play mostly in my Church and for Weddings. Theo Wanne made me a Fake 5M New York Meyer for my alto and it is the best sounding piece to date for my alto. I cannot seem to find a tenor sax MP that feels right. Most seem like I have to push them and no response. I hope to try this Blues Blaster and who knows maybe its the one. If you think I need a different model for the type of music I play let me know. Thanks John Burkhart

Answer: I'm currently playing a Yellow Moon on tenor and a Voodoo Child on alto.

Question: Just bought the HurriCane reeds (tenor/alto sax). Really good! Altissimo G just comes right out without trying! But I had to buy a Hard to get enough strength, so now I have to take it down a drop. Just want to check before I mess it up: I just take the tip down a bit like a regular reed, correct? Don't touch the vamp or heart, I assume. Please confirm. Thanks!!

Answer: You can adjust the Hurri-Cane reeds in exactly the same fashion and using the very same tools as you would a regular cane reed. Thanks for your kind remarks. This has been a very successful product for us!

Question: Hey Steve Ive been playing Tenor Sax for a while now and Ive been wondering what difference does tip openings make? Like whats the difference between .90 and .120 Thank You

Answer: A larger tip opening gives more volume and dynamic range, and makes the lower tones a bit easier. Of course, they are a bit more resistant and a little more difficult to control.

Question: HELLO STEVE, WHAT MOUTHPIECE WOULD BE A GOOD MATCH FOR A BUESCHER BIG B ALTO

Answer: If you want a classic Buescher sound, get a Saxgourmet Hard Rubber. For something brighter and more power, get a Voodoo Child

Question: I was wondering which mouthpiece has more of a fatter sound (Tenor Sax)? Blues Blaster or Fat Boy

Answer: Blues BlASTER

Question: Hi Steve , I bought a LA USA Tenor back in 1998 here in the UK, it has a ser. number 231419 can you tell me anything about it.I carnt compare it as I have not owned anything else. Thanks.

Answer: The LA Sax serial numbers were random, so I can't tell from that. If you'll send some pictures (clear and detailed) I might can tell you something

Question: Steve, I am interested in your hurri-cane reeds, but am unsure of which strength to buy. Have been plyaing on a #3 fibracell for a while and its a bit soft. Is there a comparison chart available? Wishing for the day I could afford one of your horns... Todd

Answer: Get a hard

Question: Steve, What is your opinion of the new P.Mauriat sax line? I have had many saxes in my past - King Super 20 tenor, Buscher 1930's alto, Dave Guardala alto, Yanagisawa curved soprano, LA Sax alto and straight soprano but I stopped playing professional years agao and now have a P.Mauriat for my current soprano. Of course my clarinet is a 1960's Buffet R13. Anyway, I am headed overseas for a few years and want to take a couple of instruments with me. I am in the Air Force and a scientist (got my PhD after I left music). I have enjoyed watching your videos with Derek Nash and am very interested in the sopranino. My P.Mauriat 2400DK curved soprano sounds much like your curved soprano (at least from what I can hear on the video) but there are no sopranino's available from P.M. in the US yet so I am looking at yours. I will be headed to Central Asia on a 24 month deployment in January and sort of wanted to try a horn before buying it. Do you known where there may be one of your sopranino's out there somewhere? I plan to visit my parents before I leave the country and they live in Las Vegas. I know, too much information but from your videos you seem like the kind of person that does not mind listening. I one of the old farts still in the military that they keep sending out there because of my scientific specialty. Okay, enough. Let me know what your opinion is and where I might try out a sopranino. thanks, Mitch Fadem LTC, USAF Reserve Biomedical Science Officer

Answer: I don't know of any Steve Goodson Model sopranino's available anywhere. That model has been discontinued, and will be replaced by an all new Saxgourmet sopranino next year.

Question: When will you have pic's of the baritoneon the site? I'm saving up for your bari and I'd like to see what I'm going for. Thanks

Answer: The production examples are scheduled to arrive on 10/28

Question: Steve Hi, I purchased a Saxgourmet model six which I play in a covers band - absolutely love its bright tone - its a fabulous instrument. I have changed mouthpieces over the years and purchased a saxgourmet model 6 (80) which creates a great sound. The only problem is that on occasion it can squeak- my fault I guess. I have tried 2.5 to 4 reeds etc et but it ( or me) will let the sax down at that all important gig solo so I have gone back to the old ebony pieces for gigs. I continue to practise to try and control the mouthpiece, but other than technique is there another mouthpiece that can produce the same tone - any advice either way ? many thanks

Answer: Try our Yellow Moon if you want a bright sound, the Blues Blaster for a more traditional tone

Question: Steve, Thanks for responding to me about the possibility of a new Saxqourmet Sopranino. If it is not too much trouble, drop me an email in Uzbekistan when they are ready. I will be deployed here for the next two years. thanks, Mitch

Answer: When we get the 'nino totally figured out to our satisfaction, trust me, we will let the world know!

Question: Dear Steve, would any of your after market necks fit on a Julius Keilwerth EX90 series III tenor sax?

Answer: I need to know the tenon diameter

Question: Steve, I play on a Yamaha YTS 62 with a Guardala King mouthpiece. I need a more all around piece that can be a bit bright when needed or dark/mellow at other times. The Guardala is just too bright and edgy, especially in the studio. But I do like the free blowing aspect of it. Which of your pieces and openings would you steer me towards. I don't really care if it is metal or rubber. It's more about the feel and what comes out the end of the horn. Meyer 6's medium chamber seems to be a step in the right direction, but they or so darn inconsistent from piece to piece. Thanks.

Answer: Get the handmade......it's just what you asked for

Question: Steve, I was wondering if straight tenor saxes are the same as normal curved tenor saxes?

Answer: No, you have to change the bore dimensions

Question: Hi, I am currently on a yamaha yas-23 ( yes I know not a great sax), and was wondering if I should get a better sax, or get a new mouthpiece first. It would be for concert/ jazz band and I would keep the yamaha for marching. Thanks so much.

Answer: Try a new mouthpiece first........

Question: Hi Steve, I am looking for an easy blowing mouthpiece for my tenor. I have been looking at the fat boy after discovering it on E-bay. I had not played in years and have recently picked the horn up again. Which of your mouthpieces would you recommend for me staring out again, and which tip opening would provide the easiest playability for me as I practice to improve? Thanks, Alan

Answer: If you're looking for an alto piece, the Voodoo Child is the easiest blowing....for tenor, the Handmade is the easiest blowing, although the Fat Boy is not resistant at all.......get a .070 for alto or a .090 for tenor

Question: just wondering what the differences are between the saxgourmet category five tenor is and the 400

Answer: They are entirely different instruments, with a very different bore, necks, keywork, and mechanism. The construction methods used in manufacturing are very different. The Category Five uses a different acoustic concept for the upper octaves.

Question: Steve What tenor mouthpiece would you recommend for a jazz yamaha tenor 82Z. I currently play a nice hard rubber mouthpiece tip .105 with a vandoren V16 2.5 reed. looking for something warm with some punch as well. Please advise cost plus shipping to UK. Can you include single screw lig if possible. Thanks Peter

Answer: Try the Blues Blaster, or if you prefer a hard rubber, our new Black Mambo. Prices are on the site.

Question: Hey Steve...I have just bought a Corton Alto Saxophone Amati serial no. 183429 with IL underneath. I started to learn 27 yrs ago, but business commitments soon stopped that! Could you tell me anything about my sax, and recommend a mouthpiece/reeds,etc., as it hasn't one. Kindest Regards Paul

Answer: I'm sorry but I ma unfamilar with that particular model

Question: hi, mr steve, have you some catalogue of your all models of sax alto and prices for me? tank's

Answer: If you are wanting printed catalogs, no, we don't have them. We are a strictly an internet business, and everything we have is on this site. I don't see any need for paper catalogs.

Question: Do you make a neck enhancer for soprano saxophones. If so, how do I get one? Thanks for your help. Michael

Answer: At this time, only alto and tenor models are available.We're working on a soprano and baritone version, and hope to introduce them next year. I'm afraid I have too many projects on my plate right now to give this one priority!

Question: Hi Steve I have a 1939 Martin Committee II Tenor sax needing a new neck. Do you have a tenor sax neck that you recommend such as your saxgoumet necks. Do you make one suitable for this model of Martin Thanks Geoff

Answer: Yes we do.......please provide your tenon size

Question: I have a 1952 Conn 10M that I love but it plays sharp with my Jumbo Java mouthpiece. Would one of your replacement necks enable me to use a modern high baffle mouthpiece on the horn and not be sharp? Do you have a tenor mouthpiece that can make my 10M project more and still play in tune? I have a 12M bari that has the same problem it plays sharp. Thanks, Bill

Answer: Our neck will help considerably...try our new Yellow Moon stainless steel tenor mouthpiece...it has a high baffle and a blended chamber

Question: Hi Steve again! Great to hear your have a neck for Martin Comm II 1939 tenor. Tenon size is Depth 32.8 mm Diameter 26.9 mm I can have tenon adjusted locally. Will purchase ASAP next business day! Thanks Geoff PS I love the look of your Selmer necks with the weights $225?. Any hope one of those could work ?

Answer: Order the Yamaha neck. The tenon will have to be shrunk a very small amount. Let me know it is for your Martin.

Question: Hi Steve! I'm seeing new LA Sax horns on the market and am wondering if these are similar to the ones they used to sell. I played a bunch of them at NAMM in Anaheim a few years back and was thought they had good horns and were being unfairly labelled as junk because of the crazy colors they came in. Do you think these horns are good for a working professional (mostly alto - and play a Yamaha 82Z)?

Answer: They are in NO WAY the same....different factory, different design, far fewer features....check out our Super 400 model

Question: Steve, I have a yahama Tenor YYTS52. I'm a complete amature playing for about 5 years. Mostly along with my favorite music. Any way I'd be very intrested in your Florida mouth piece. But I have no clue about the .90 or .105 or .120, I use a 2-1/2 reed. Can I still use my normal reeds? I plat an like blues, rock an allot of soul music. Can you tell me about these diffrent numbers that I could order a mouth peice accordingly/ Thx Pat

Answer: The numbers refer to the tip opening in 1000ths of an inch...A Florida is a good choice for an amateur because it is so easy to play...get a .090 and let me know how you like it. Thanks in advance for your business! Your regular reeds will work just fine.

Question: Hey Steve its me again. Im bought a soprano sax and should be coming in through the mail. Im a tenor sax player and I was wondering are any major differences between tenor and soprano besides a smaller mouthpiece? Thank You

Answer: Besides the size and the difference of an octave in pitch, the soprano enjoys a reputation for more difficult intonation and response. I don't buy into that, believing that a good soprano plays as easily as any other saxophone.

Question: Steve, just saw Tom Scott down here and he "raved" about the horn he was playing...said you guys were maniacs for great sound. I have a Conn 10m with the double sleeved neck that I adore. Will your necks fit it??

Answer: Sorry, but we don't make necks for any double socket horns at this time. If there was enough demand, we would, but the tooling cost is high, and we would have to be assured of a certain number of sales to justify it.

Question: What's the difference between vintage alto conn's made in mexico or usa?

Answer: Materials and workmanship

Question: Caro Steve,quale bocchino mi consigli per avere un suono potente, premetto che utilizzo un Mayer6. Saluti

Answer: Sorry, but you'll have to submit your questions in English

Question: Hey Steve, I just purchased the Fat Boy and I was wondering if it comes with a single screw ligature? Thanks

Answer: the Fat Boy tenor has two screws, the alto Fat Boy has one

Question: Dear Steve, I´m playing a silver plated Conn 10M Tenor with the serial no. 312xxx. The neck of my Tenor was equipped with an electric pickup - in the 60ies I think - so there had been an additional bore near the octave vent. This additional bore was soldered and is nearly perfectly closed by the leading european saxdoc in the Netherlands. My setup is an Otto Link NY 7* with Vandoren ZZ or V16 reeds. Some years ago I tried a Peter Ponzol neck which made it easier to blow and made a more focused tone with a more modern sound. However, that was not what I really wanted from my “Ladyface”. Today the Ponzol neck does excellent work on an SML but on the Ladyface I went back to the original neck. For me the big advantage of the 10M is the great range of sound from fragile Lester Young to Ben Webster and beyond. Especially in the medium high register you can have this nearly fragile subtle but even strong tone with somewhat like subtones but in the upper register. (Yeah, like Lester Young in his later years, with a tone in great harmony and similarity with Billy Holiday´s voice) – that´s what I don´t want to loose with a new neck. A friend of mine owns a Ladyface tenor from similar date of built with dark brown lacquer finish and rolled toneholes as well. Compared to mine, this horn has a bit more colorful sound in the upper register. The silver plated one sounds a bit fatter in the lower register. I thought the difference could be caused by the neck, so we tried changing necks on the saxophones, but this didn´t give a clear result.(Another difference between the two horns: the lacquered one has usual metal-resopads, the silverplated horn has toptones) So here is the question: what would your Conn-neck do with the sound? You wrote the neck enhancer is integrated in your necks – is it removable or not? Some people in the web wrote the opinion, that the main effect is to reduce the chamber of the mpc. But when I´m blowing a Link NY I want the great chamber. A speculation from me: Is it possible that the fragile colorful sound, which I tried to describe above, is induced by turbulences between mpc and neck? And if so, what would your neck enhancer do to this effect? I´m looking forward to you answer, thank you in advance keep swingin´ Yours Axel Koch

Answer: We make a neck SPECIFICALLY for the 10M, in both lacquer and swilver plate. It does NOT change the basic sound of the horn, but brings out the beautiful charecteristics, improves response, and corrects intonation problems. The enhancer is built in and is not removable. The people who told you it reduces the size of the chamber have very obviously never seen our played one, since this is not the case. You should ask someone who has actually tried the product themselves! The Neck Enhancer increases mass, reduces turbulence, and increaases velocity, w3hich results in decreased resistance and evens out the response and tone.

Question: Hi Steve. After careful examination it appears that my bent neck from my dad's 1956 Dolnet Bel-Air is a LARGER diameter than the Selmer and Yanagisawa. It appears to be closer to 28 mms. The neck is TOO large for a Selmer 27.5 mms. What do you suggest I do if I'd like to purchase on of your necks for this horn.

Answer: The Conn neck will work. It's 28.4mm.

Question: Dear Steve: I won one of your Copper Necks for a Yamaha Tenor, would a neck enhancer noticeably, improve upon the already rich sound? Thank You Tony DeWitt

Answer: It won't change the sound but it will quicken the response and even out the timbre throughout the range

Question: Hello! Do you have some of your new baritonsaxes in stock??? Best Regards! Hans

Answer: Yes, they are in stock and immediately avaialable

Question: I'm the farther of a young talented musician. He is wanting a jazz mouthpiece for his tenor sax. He play's his panio in a small restaurant and they have asked him to start brining his sax to play also. What would you recomend as I know nothing about them. He, Dalton, is going to be 14 next month and this will be his gift. I'm thinking the fat boy.... Thank You

Answer: The Fat Boy would be a good choice

Question: Hi Steve Recieved the neck and have had modified for the Martin 1939 Comm II Tenor. Very imressive. Very, very free blowing neck, easy to control and even between registers and increased projection. Much prefer to the original Martin neck. The sound is lighter/brighter than the original Martin neck but after an hour of playing I really liked the tone. Will need to rethink reed choice - to harder reed(I liked the tone of your neck to begin with!)Overall very impressive. I have a Selmer Alto (black)Super action series II and am definately tempted to try one of your necks on this. What are the copper necks like. Also, can you recommend books on saxaphone design (out of interest), I have "The Saxaphone is my voice". and both your video's but want to research further. Thanks for your help. Very good product, will recommend. Geoff

Answer: I'm glad you're happy. We've sold HUNDREDS of necks this year. I'm using a Saxgourmet solid copper neck with nodal weights on my Voodoo Rex alto, and love the complex tone. This neck (along with several others) is on sale this month! If there are any books about saxophone design, I have never seen them. I have in my library everything I can find about woodwind acoustics, and a two volume set of saxophone patents. The only thing I have seen written about design are my columns in every issue of The Saxophone Journal. If there is anything else, I don't know about it.

Question: Want you to know the video clips are very helpful. I'm going to purchase the Florida Tenor mouthpiece today. I have played both Alto and Tenor for years but just started taking it serious after about a 5 year hiatus. Chops are still coming back. What opening size would you suggest - 0.90 or 0.105? Thanks

Answer: get a .090 if you are still getting your chops back.....thanks in advance for your order!

Question: Hi Steve, I'd love to try your alto neck, will it fit my 182,xxx mark VI? I'm using a reference neck at the moment that I like better then the original mark VI neck. What's your return policy? Thanks. -Russ Peterson Concordia College Moorhead, MN

Answer: Please see our terms of service. Let me know your questions.

Question: I play a Tenor Keilwerth SX90R and was wondering do you have any necks for that horn. I like the Keilwerth model and sound. I am a fan of Kirk Whalum and always wonder about his neck on the sax if it made the difference

Answer: Yes, we do. The Saxgourmet neck works very well on that model. It improves the response and cleans up the intonation considerably.

Question: Hi Steve-- I recently had power pips installed in my SBA tenor. It immediately improved upper register response, but I can no longer sub-tone below c#. Do you have a reccomendation? Thanks-Joe

Answer: There is no reason the pips would have any effect on low C# if they were properly installed. Check the G# key to see if it is opening slightly when you press the low C# key.

Question: I am a master saxophone student in CUNY and also I'm a mouthpiece refacer. I have only four months in NY, if you need some of my services as a mouthpiece refacer it will be a pleasure. Angel.

Answer: We do an extensive refacing business at our shop. As a matter of policy, we do not send work out. You should order our Mouthpiece Refacing video.

Question: Thank you so much for the quick response of my first question! The G# is definitely closing. The horn is in great adjustment. I had the original pip re-installed into my neck (only) and my subtones came back instantly. They re-installed the power pip and the subtones were gone again. The shop carefully checked all pads and adjustments. I am confident in there work. The power pip is much longer than the original pip that is in my neck. Could this have anything to do with it? Any other suggestions? Thanks, Joe

Answer: I suspect that the pip is leaking.....if it is tight, there is no reason whatever that it would cause the problem you describe....the science just doesn't work that way.....

Question: Hi Steve. Just to let you know that the Florida tenor mouthpiece arrived today. It is without doubt one of the best pieces I've used on my Conn 10M...better than my Link STM. Very free blowing and intonation seems to be improved. Beautifully finished as well! Instills confidence, so much so, that with only two hours rehearsal, I plan on gigging with it tomorrow night and can at last compete with the guitars without blowing my lips away every time! Congratulations on a great product.

Answer: Thanks so much for your kind remarks!

Question: My otto link tenor is beginning to loose its altissamo range. I am in the range for buying a new mouthpeice. Which of your mid priced metal mouthpeices are best for rock/R&B and how is better than the runyun spoiler, I have tried. Must be sharp and quick in the altissamo range.(cost also) Thank you Wayne in Edmonton

Answer: I think the altissimo is the easiest on the Florida....it has the highest baffle

Question: I am curious about the enhancer. Where does it fit on the neck, between the neck and body or mouth piece and neck? Q #2 I have a Selmer Signet purchased in 1992, some of the lac is rubbing off just general use, Approximately / and would it be advisable to; in refinishing it; ask to have it redone in silver. WE in Kitchener have a horn repair shop that specialize in saxes (a family owned firm) What might be a range of pricing that would guide me if I proceeded with re furbishing. Thank you Wm. E.J.

Answer: We have a video on YouTube that explains how to use the enhancer. It's on our YouTube site "Saxgourmetproducts".

Question: Hi Steve,I want to perchase a neck enhancer for my Martin tenor,whats the best way for me to pay you,plus post etc. Bernie Leigh

Answer: just order right off the site.....you can use PayPal or any credit card...shipping is figured automatically for you

Question: Steve: I have a Selmer Signet Cerca 1992. I t is showing wear /the lacker is being rubed off it in palces down to the brass. I would like to have it refinished. Pnodering about refinishing it in silver. REASON! I have a silver Buescher patin date 1914 # 179315 true tone trade Marked Wtih tirangle tuning fork and bell insignia IN SILVER. The tone quality is mellow and rich. Q?? Will the selmer have a similer tone Quality if refinished in silver? //I use an E bore Mouth piece on the Alto for a mellow tone presently. Wm.E.J.

Answer: no........the finish has NOTHING to do with sound

Question: my parents purchased me a fatboy mouthpiece and it is just as you described I will be buying from you in the future Trevon

Answer: Thanks for your business! I'm glad you are happy, please tell your friends!

Question: Steve: Do you have any Super 400 altos left in stock?

Answer: Yes, we have three left as of today

Question: Dear Steve.: I have looked over your info on C Melody Sax s. I am still not understanding it clearly ( Just My Reception.) I have a silver C Melody Martin with Gold interior in the Bell Silver exteriior coating, INSIGNIA reading Martin Hand Craft Elkhart Ind. serial # 53397 Low Pitch. I have hand cleaned it and am prepairing to re pad it. Q?? Once Finished What could be a reasonable price for it in US DOLLARS? ( My guess About $1100) Please advise. I have not been able to decifer your sugested page on pricing. Thank you Wm. E. J.

Answer: If it's in great cosmetic shape and plays perfectly it's a $500 horn at most.....there is almost NO demand for those, particularly Martins......the demand is for Bueschers and Conns

Question: I want a new mouth piece for my 1950's Busher Bari. My 1950's GRETSCH MOUTH PIECE, no markins, about 170 opening, dose great for most gigs. Just finished a Christmas proghram at church, I plaid a Chello part on my Busher with the Gretsch, and some of the guys said, man you sound like a chello. When I play a Jazz gig those guy want me to play lowder, 5-4-4-4. Here is the problem, the new mouth pieces I try want tune all tune too sharp. Here is the question what mouth piece will tune on my horn.

Answer: Our Low Rider will do a great job for you. We've sold lots of them and everyone has been delighted with the intonation, with no reported problems

Question: I have a martin bari Troubadour approx. 1933. The high notes are great and the low notes speak well but the second stack notes with octive are terribly out of tune. The stacks are the same heights. I am using a selmer C* vintage mouthpiece with a vandoren 2 1/2 reed (blue box). Any hope of fixing the problem without a trip to the city for a repair tech to look at it? Thanks for your help.

Answer: I've got one of those horns in my collection, and love the quirky mechanism. Mine plays reasonably in tune (for a horn from that era). It's hard to diagnose this sort of problem without seeing and playing it. I'm sorry to tell you but you most likely need to take it to a professional technician who is familiar with vintage instruments. "Familiar with vintage instruments" is the improtant phrase here........a school band shop most likely does not have the expertise.

Question: I have this saxaphone that looks to be sterling silver. It has a stamp on the front that says GG Gonn made in Elkhart, IND. What can you tell me about it? Thank You, Don

Answer: I am not aware that Conn made any solid silver horns. Your instrument is most likely silver PLATED.

Question: HELLO STEVE~ I want buy a neck for my conn 10m tenor sax, is made in 194X, S/N 301191. I want to know "SAXGOURMET CONN TENOR SAX NECK: SILVER PLATE " can with my saxopone?

Answer: That's the one you need

Question: we have a 1961 selmer sax. great condition, 95% laquar, needs one pad on the E. can u tell its value?

Answer: there is a value guide at www.saxgourmet.com be SURE to read the preface!

Question: Hi Steve! I have been looking at your mouthpieces and debating about which one I want to buy. I'm a saxophone music major at Dixie State College in St. George, Ut. I recently bought a new cannonball tenor sax and love the horn. But I'm still trying to develop my sound. I've played on a Lakey resin mouthpiece that is ok to me, but seems hard to control. Recently I acquired an Otto Link 5*. I just started using Alexander, superial DC reeds in a 3 1/2 strength. I see myself as a fairly aggressive player and am looking for a sound that is going to stand out. I'm debating between your Blues Blaster or the Fat Boy. What do you think?

Answer: Get a Fat Boy................it is ythe more aggressive of the two

Question: Working for the Navy and living in Japan, I just bought a new Selmer Series III Soprano sax via eBay (what was I thinking)! I received the shipped horn in a damaged state, after not being able to play the new horn I had a technician's review of the problem at Ishimori Wind Instrument shop (Tokyo Japan.) http://www.ishimori-co.com/ I was told by the technician that the horn was "bent." After contact with the seller, he told me that it was possible to have bent the horn inserting the neck. Long story short and my question..."is it really possible to bend a soprano so badly that the keys are touching, not closing and that the horn will leak?" By the way, I was very gentle in inserting the horn's neck, treating the instrument with kid gloves because it was supposedly brand new. In advance, thanks for your time. Ted V.

Answer: it is possible, yes

Question: Hi Steve, I just bought a Yamaha custom Z EX in black laquer. It comes with a G3 neck that i like better than the Ponzol neck, although I play a Ponzol neck on my Mark VI. I have been playing since age 14 and am now 58, but I just want to play better, you know. I am looking to sound better in the super register. I know you make necks that fit the horn but would you also recommend an enhancer or a pip? Are they the same thing? BTW, I own an old Selmer tenor that was made with a pip. I believe they called it a smoke stack. Thanks.

Answer: Try our Saxgourmet neck. We make one specifically for Yamaha, and the tenor version has a built in enhancer

Question: Gday Steve, you mention on the "choosing a saxophone case" page that you're developing a heavy weight touring case, dude, thats what i gotta get so the good people of the roadcrew can smash my alto, tenor and bari into the back of a truck REALLY roughly. whats the good oil on these cases? otherwise, what else is out there? Thanks, AB

Answer: We suggest the Anvil brand........I decided not to enter that market

Question: hello. i am have innotation issues with my buescher tt. i was wondering if your saxgourmet alto neck with nodal weight would fit in. thanks

Answer: yes

Question: oops, sorry. i forgot to ask this. The blue blasters mpc you have on sale is bar brass. Wouldn't these tarnish very quickly? my teacher told me brass finished mpcs tastes and smells disgusting when it gets old. thanks

Answer: They don't tarnish quickly and are very, very easily cleaned........your teacher is incorrect

Question: I need a neck for an old (The Martin) Bari Sax that I'm Restoring. It would have the Octave on the Neck Itself. The Bari's Serial # is 212968 I can be reached by phone at (509) 444-4140 any day except Wed. or Sun. Do you have any or any Ideas as to How to Proceed. Thanx Patrick French

Answer: I am not aware of anyone who has Martin bari necks available. They are very long, and I am not aware of any substitutes. You will have to get one custom made, which will be VERY expensive.

Question: i have a selmar mark iv saxphone can you tell me what year it is ser. no.315810 pat. 271558 pat. 28461917 it also has brevsgdg 920653 thank you gene

Answer: there is a serial number chart located at www.saxgourmet.com

Question: Hello again. Do you ship in the states only? While i was filling the adress information. There was no option to other countries. Also, for products for sax mutes and reeds, mpcs, how do we choose the reed strenght, tip opening and ect.? Thanks

Answer: click on international

Question: hi steve i am looking to buy a new mouthpiece and i would like to know if the new super duck is available for tenor. please let me know thanks Ron

Answer: They shipped yesterday.....we should have them late next week

Question: I wish I'd have known who you are a long time a go because I could have saved me a lot of money. I'm playing a Yani straight soprano and I wanted to know if you make any hard rubber mouthpieces for soprano.

Answer: At this time, all the soprano mouthpieces are made from brass

Question: I have 1917 Conn New Wonder Alto Sax with original mouthpiece that is very restrictive. I have a tried a new generation Otto Link Tone Master with an 8 facing. The sound is good with the link but I am a casual player and find it difficult to get the lower notes without having to belt them out. I am looking for a recommendation for a mouthpiece and facing that will work well for this sax. I have no preference for metal or rubber, just looking for a recommendation that you think will play well for me.

Answer: Get our Saxgourmet hard rubber alto mouthpiece......it comes in .070, .080, and .090 tip openings

Question: Forgot to mention that I was looking at Saxgourmet mouthpieces and what you would recommend and the facing as well! Thanks

Answer: If you like the Otto Link sound, get the Blues Blaster.....try a .105

Question: Dear Steve, I own an older tenor #7 Steve Goodson metal mouthpiece and it's great. I recently purchased a used Saxgourmet #90 Florida tenor mouthpiece and it is thin sounding and very difficult to play in the low registers. Please advise if you could rework it or exchange it and what would be the cost. Thank you David

Answer: Send it to me and let me have a look....it's impossible to say without seeing it

Question: As the reed closes onto the mouthpiece a sound wave is created? This wave then travels into the neck where it plows into the pip and distorts? How far does the wave travel before it recovers from the pip smash? As this wave makes the turn in the neck, does it again deform due to the distance difference between the turn inside and outside turn radious? How much distortion happens when the sound wave runs by each tone hole? If the material composition and Characteristics influence the sound, is it because of the intrument itself vibrating in a frequency to be heard or does each type of construction material manipulate the sound wave differently?

Answer: Please post your questions on my saxophone acoustics group on Yahoo groups...they require a lengthy explanation which is beyond the scope of this column.

Question: This is a very good, informative site. I learn something new everytime I visit. And the Florida Tenor MPC I bought from you is OUTSTANDING. In one of your responses you compare the Jin Yin favorably to the LA Sax Big Bell series? I need a 'second' horn for when I'm on the road. How would you rate Jin Yin versus CE Winds?

Answer: I've never played a CE Winds (or don't recall doing so) so I can't offer an opinion. I will tell you that all the Jinyin horns I have played (many of them) are all of good quality and played great.

Question: Hi Steve, can you help me to choose the tip opening of the Saxgourmet Blues Blaster Tenor Mouthpiece? Many thans. Best regards. Nunzio

Answer: Well, it's hard to say what will work best for YOU, but the most popular opening has been .105........

Question: Hi Steve, bought your SG model- tenor, but the neck arrived without octave key. Can you supply me with this part? I would need the golden version. tanks L.

Answer: I don't have one, and don't stock parts for horns not sold by our comoany. Go bback to the original seller, Orpheus Music in San Antonio, Texas. If they can't help you, I'll be glad to see what I can do.

Question: I have an old (late 60's) Selmer Bundy Alto Saxaphone serial # 008904 that I would like to get some idea of it's value. Played it form 1970 - 1974, and recently spent $200 replacing all cork & pads. Might you be able to help?

Answer: How much does it weigh? Figure the value of the brass, and that's a realistic answer.....there's no demand for those horns, as you can now buy a far superior new horn for less than $300 on eBay and elsewhere

Question: I have an opportunity to buy locally a Rampone baritone saxophone in reasonable playing condition. It looks to be around the age or perhaps even older than my 1948 Conn 10M Baritone which I foolishly sold back in the 1980s. My question is, of course, what is such a saxophone worth? and how good were Ramponies before Cazanne came into the picture? Having the right price gives honest people an opportunity to really give a fair deal both ways. I appreciate your help on the question of YTS-61s, and I was able to get hold of one in London, and gave me a chance to really appreciate how good my decision was to put it aside to give my brand new King Super 20 Silversonic (serial number 719736)a fair chance, which I ordered in mid to late 1978, with the body and bow bright silver plated to match the solid sterling silver neck and bell, and I had the wash of gold plating on th inside of the bell. I have twice had an opportunity to swap it for one of the best Selmer Paris MKVIs I have seen, but could not bring myself to, since although the MkVI was a very much less temperamental sax, it did not have the larger than life deep rich tone of my Silversonic, which still reigns supreme of all saxes that I have put it up against, in my taste that is. What you could also tell me, is how would my sax measure up to a good SML Gold Medal or a good Conn 10M Naked Lady (Lady Face?)and which order would you put these three and how would that order be upset if we added a good Buescher Top Hat and Cane, all tenors of course. I ask because these are the saxes that interest me, when I have not the opportunity to play them in far off NZ? Regards John Bayne johnbayne@ihug.co.nz

Answer: John: I see almost no Rampone horns over here, certainly none of the vintage you describe. I really have no idea. I would suspect the market for one of those is very limited because the brand is uncommon. I will say that the new Rampone horns I have tried are of very good quality, but honestly have very little experience with them.

Question: Which of your neck and/or accessories will be the best for this YAS 61 I just picked up? Steve

Answer: You'll get the best results with the solid copper neck with nodal weights

Question: I have an old selmer bari #17352 and I think the neck has been shortened. How can I tell if it has been...i don't know how long it should be, and why do people shorten necks in the first place.

Answer: They shorten necks in an effort to improve intonation. This is a fool's game! It almost never works! I have no idea what the original specification for your neck should be. Those old Selmer baris have questionable intonation at best.

Question: im new to the sax world. I have been whanting to play for years.I dont whant to start on a sax you'll find in most high schools... I would like a sax just a bit better thin that but nothing major and I seen this one and was whanting to know your thoughts on it? And what shud I get for a mouthpiece im a swing dancer and would like to sound good with that hoppen music http://www.wwbw.com/Barrington-Model-301-Student-Alto-Saxophone-463758-i1413080.wwbw

Answer: The Barrington horns are very cheaply made and not durable in my experience, a very poor choice

Question: i have a Mirage Alto sax and i only paid 100 bucks for it but it has a bent neck my question is how much will it cost for a new neck and where can i get one? thanks brittany

Answer: I am not familiar with that brand. In all proabability, our alto necks will work. You can order right off this site.

Question: I have a Blessing tenor (made in Taiwan) It may be a freak, but it is a great horn. I would like to upgrade the neck, but it has really strange dimensions, not like Selmer or Yamaha or ?. It seems longer,etc. Do you have any necks for this horn or any suggestions? Thank you

Answer: Since you brought it up, what are the "strange" dimensions?

Question: Hello, Does your yamaha tenor neck come in a silver color, as id like to try it and read some good things, however my YTS-62II is silver so id like a match if possible

Answer: We've got 'em.....we are running very low on silver plated ones, so I took them off the site so we didn't oversell.

Question: Hi Steve I wonder if you can identify a selmer Eflat alto I have. ON the bell is stamped Henri Selmer..4 Place Dancourt Paris France..Selmer logo..modele 26 No 7476. there is no other embelishment on the bell. Now as far as I can make out the key work is that of modele 28 ie...G# trill, an altissimo D# trill key...Eflat vent (an extra key on top of the low D key)..and a front altissmo F. I believe the 28 mod. didn't have a lyre holder, my sax does. The other major difference is my alto has a microtuner neck. I have not been able to identify any Selemer with the above key work/microtuner configuration. I can supply photo's if nec. Many thanks Bernie Walsh

Answer: That sounds like a most unusual horn. Please send clear, detailed pictures of all the features to saxgurmet@cox.net so I can help you

Question: I have a few old otto links and have played most vintage and new mouthpieces over the years - I play an ols tone master 6 on a 1916 silver conn U.S. navy tenor - I am playing the piece to death - I know the new links (super tone masters) are junk - but what about this new vintage series - for the money the design sound right - and experience with them

Answer: I've played a couple, and thought they were nothing special

Question: Hi Steve, i AM PLAYING A SERIES 111 TENOR.Can you fix me up a copper neck for it? Are all sales final? Regards, Mikole Kaar

Answer: Yes, we have copper neck on sale for your horn, and yes, all neck sales are final.

Question: I finally bought a 1924 Conn Tenor. I would like to try your neck for Conn. What about price? any room in 400. James

Answer: The firm price is on the site.

Question: I would like to learn to repair saxophones. When are you classes? Thanks

Answer: We give them as institutions book us. I am tryting to do less of this as it takes a tremendous amount of my time, which is in short supply these days. A good place to start is with our instructional DVD's, which are available on this site.

Question: Can I pre-order a baritone neck enhancer? When do you think they will be available?

Answer: We should have them around the first of April. I'll have them on the site as soon as we have the delivery date firmed up.

Question: I just acquired a 1955 Buescher Aristocrat tenor sax. I've never played much tenor, but I've played bari for over 30 years. I play a Berg Larsen 100 over 0 hard rubber bari mpc. I've never owned a tenor mpc. Which tenor mpc. and tip opening would you recommend and which tip opening would you recommend for your Low Rider bari mpc. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Steve West

Answer: I like the Black Mambo .105 for Buescher tenors, and the .120 nLow Rider

Question: Hi Steve, I play a 1940 10M with one of your necks. Trying to decide between your Florida or Blues Blaster with 0.090 and fibracell. Whats your advice.

Answer: I think the Blues Blaster works best with a 10M

Question: hi,steve i want to know is cannonball, jupital & amati. make some good saxophones. jas.

Answer: The Jupiter XO series is pretty good. I am not a big fan of Amati, and am don't think much of Cannonball.

Question: Hi Steve, I play sax for more than 40 years, and after playing on Buescher and Selmer instruments, I've switch to King Super 20's alto and tenor. I really love the tone and response of those horns, but after 2 years playing it, I'm sometime still strugelling with the pitch on certain notes (high C on tenor and medium G on alto are more "bendable"). Is it something that can be done to improve the eveness of the pitch? Thanks André

Answer: what type mouthpiece are you using?

Question: Hello steve, Thanks for your quick response. I've been playing mostly on a rubber Link 7*on tenor, and with a Brillhart Ebolin 5 on alto or a NY Meyer Bross 8 on alto(althought I try different set ups from time to time). I recently switched to Wilkerson Ultimate traditional on alto with good results. Do you think I should use large or small chambers with those Super 20 horns? Also is the tip opening affecting the pitch a lot? Thanks for your advices André

Answer: A larger chamber will allow you to take advantage of the Super 20's inherently rich sound.......the ti[p opening has almost nothing to do with pitch

Question: Hey Steve, will that copper tenor neck w/o the nodules work on my late model Super 20 tenor(695###)? Mine has a Mark vi style octave mechanism on the neck. I'm worried if the neck mechanism would go down far enough to make contact with the bodies octave key mechanism in order to open the vent on the neck. I see that the black rubber extension on your neck pic would probably do the trick but I'm not sure. Thanks!

Answer: Yes, it will. The mechanism is brass. The black material you see is a silencing material OVER the brass!

Question: Hi Steve - I have a Yamaha YTS-62 MK I. What is your opinion on the MK II G1 neck? Is it much of an improvement on the MK I neck? Also, the sax was knocked over by some careless dork and the octave mechanism has dented the neck - in your opinion is this sort of dent repairable or should the neck be replaced? Many thanks for your great service and very informative web site and videos. Paul

Answer: We make a neck that will play circles around the G1. Our neck has less resistance and a much more even timbre. I haven't actually seen the dent in question, so it is difficult to speculate about repairs. Any dent removal tends to work harden the brass, so you can expect a loss of response to your neck.

Question: Do you make baritone necks? I notice on your website that you offer several different necks for altos and tenors but none for the bari. Whats up with that?

Answer: We've got a few prototypes, but here's the problem: there is a TREMENDOUS variation in baritones, primarily due to the different pigtail configurations used. It looks to us like the tooling costs for making the many different models which would be necessary cannot be justified by the potential sales.

Question: my tech has a steve goodson orpheo tenor. black nickle with a high G. i'm thinking about buying it. what can you tell me about this horn?

Answer: Those were intermediate level horns made by Tenon Industrial in Viet Nam. They are really a great bargain for the money. They have many of the features of some of my other designs (double bell key arms, speaker key etc.) and two different necks. Production stopped in 2007. Watch out for rusting around the resonators, which proved to be a long term problem. They are QUITE different in bore, tone hole placement etc. from the Steve Goodson Model, which was manufactured at a different factory in a different country at the same time.

Question: My son has asked for a jazz mouth piece and I am wondering how do you determine the size to use. I found on your site that they come in three sizes. I would like to get him one for his birthday and need some help please.

Answer: It's really a matter of personal preference. If he is used to a somewhat closed (tenor) tip, order a .090, if he likes a more open tip, a .105, or a very open tip order a .120

Question: Steve, I am currently playing on a YAS 62, and love it. I am sing the standard g1 neck. I have a Rousseau nc5, with a robber dark, and blue box 2.5 reeds for traditional playing. Do you have any suggestions to alter this setup? Also, what setup would you use for jazz playing with this horn? Thanks!

Answer: Get our solid copper neck with nodal weights and a Saxgourmet Hard Rubber mouthpiece .080. Switch to V-16 reeds if you like Vandoren

Question: Hi Steve, I have recently aquired an Armstrong Tenor Sax with serial N170212. It bears no external marking except for "Armstrong, Elkhart - IND, USA" and the serial. Are you able to identify what model it is, and when it was made? Thanks

Answer: not from just the serial number. Send some clear detaiied pictures and I'll have a look and see what I can tell you.

Question: Dear Mr. Goodson: I'm an spanish saxplayer and a sincere admirer of Tom Scott. His solo on "Horse to the Water", from the Concert for George (2002), changed my sound conception. I think he was using your Saxgourmet model 6 during this concert, but do you know which mouthpiece was he using this time? It wasn't his current JodyJazz DV yet. Thank you very much, kind regards,

Answer: He was using a Guardala, but I am not sure of the model

Question: Will your case for a tenor sax fit my 1946 " The Martin " tenor. I have heard since the bell keys are on the opposite side from newer horns most cases won't fit.

Answer: yes

Question: good evening mr steve iam not rude like othersthat call you steve please i need an alto saxophone to play well like you thank you

Answer: Get a Voodoo Rex........that's what I am currently playing while I wait for my Category Five alto

Question: Hello Steve, I have been studying your different tenor mpcs. I was not able to see a video of the Super duckbill or the handmade yet. I am looking for a mpc that will be the easiest for the altissimo notes and easy to control. I am a big fan of Gato Barbieri's sound. Which one of your pieces do you suggest ? Thanks. EricM

Answer: If you are a Gato fan (so am I), get the Fat Boy

Question: I have a 1969 Martin Yanigasawa as880 would the solid copper alto neck fit my saxophone

Answer: yes

Question: What are your terms of sale(e.g. warranty information and so forth)for your Saxgourmet Super 400 alto saxophones? Do you have discount pricing for sales of multiple saxophones purchases (for example 5 or 10 Super 400 altos or tenors). Thanks

Answer: We do not ordinarily sell to dealers OTHER than our show demo horns (there's one on Saxquest right now that we used at NAMM and several other shows), and these are sold one at a time. All our horns, except the Category Five, have a one year parts and labor warranty to the original purchaser against defects in workmanship and material. The Category Five has a 25 year warranty. Terms of sale are cash via bank wire with order. If you are serious about buying in large quantity at one time, call me. You have the number.

Question: Steve -- I'm coming to JF10 for (about) my 11th or 12th JazzFest. It will be on a long layover from Las Vegas, for one only day, the 25th. Monday, the 26th I will be scroungng around NOLA proper for stuff and I want to visit your shop with my Venta Sopranino to get another mouthpiece and maybe some reeds. I would like to try the different ones you have. Sound good? You'll be open and you have a variety, right? tks, rob kunkel

Answer: Yes, we make sopranino mouthpieces. No, we don't sell sopranino reeds. We do see clients STRICTLY by prior appointment ONLY. Jazz Fest is far and away our busiest time of the year, so book your appointent early. We typically do 30% of our annual business during Jazz Fest, so we are incredibly busy!

Question: What is the best year for the Conn 10m The naked lady? I'm love tyhe sound of the old conn's and I'm looking for one. I was wonbdering what are the years to avoid? Tenor of course

Answer: Anything after 1947 and before 1954....they changed the tooling at those years

Question: Thanks for the answer about JF10-Mid-Monday (April 26th). So, can I make an appointment? How about 1:30pm? Bring you lunch from the Quarter? Big Favor...I know you guys are in the weeds during JF but can I bring my Keilwerth Soprano along? All it needs is a little screw that sticks out to play from low to lower? My plan would be to buy at least one sopranino sax mouthpiece (byo reedss) and maybe a Soprano mouthpiece, although I have three that I love. Okay?

Answer: Rob: The ONLY slot I have left on the Monday after the first weekend of the fest is between 4:30 and 5:30....I'm booked solid all the other times, including well into the evening.....appointments go on a first come/first served basis, so if you want this time, let me know via email to saxgourmet@cox.net ASAP before somebody else grabs tbat slot.....thanks for the offer to bring me lunch! Look forward to seeing you. Remember, let me know ASAP.....

Question: The .075 is about what opening in number?

Answer: 75/1000th of an inch between the tip rail and reed

Question: Hey Steve, I have a Tenor Selmer Mark 6, serial number 217667. It is in mint condition. I bought it brand new in 73' when I was playing in the band. I played the alto but for some reason I bought both saxes at the same time. I have played the tenor only about 20 or 30 times in all that time. When I say mint, I mean mint. I really like the alto much better, that is why I rarely play the tenor. What would you say the sax is worth? I am thinking about selling it. thanks for your help, Steve

Answer: I would think a perfect one would bring $10,000+ to the right buyer

Question: Hi Steve...it's me again. I just ordered your sopranino mouthpiece but I'm not sure about whether it is available in different facings. If so, I would like the closest thing to the gold one (see email photo) that I got for 50 bucks on Ebay. How could I resist? It turned out to be well worth the money because it gives me another dimension in playing. My workhorse is a Selmer (Super Action I think)a 2-1/2 reed and Van Doren ligature and for soft stuff I like that Super Session. But the China Gold gives me a sense of power, not unlike what I think you were referring to in your video. What do you think?

Answer: Done..........I know the people well who made the mouthpiece you are talking about. It's a good product.

Question: Hi Steve I have just purchased new one of your great Orpheo Black nickle alto saxaphones, it has the 2 necks but both are stamped No 1 as you know should be 1 & 2 one brass as the body and one rose brass for that darker sound. the dealer I purchased it from in plymouth did a promo night with Mr Nash and I purchased the only one he had, could there have been a mix up at your factory being two No 1 necks put into the case. how can I get a No 2 neck in exchance. your Number one fan Adrian Harvey

Answer: I have no explanation, since I wasn't there.........the Orpheo designed by Steve Goodson horns have not been manufactured since 2007. I could get you a neck on a special order basis. The actual manufacturer of the horns was Orpheus Music, so any warranty or exchange issues must go to them. My company manufactures ONLY the Saxgourmet series. We do not stock parts for or honor warranty for horns manufactured by others. That being said, I will be happy to help you, as I am in regular contact with the builder of that series.

Question: Dear Steve I occasionally play Baritone Sax, have arthritis in my left pinky & many of the charts are written very low expecting great facility lowA to E.Has anyone looked at putting extra keys below the low c on the right hand side,(say C# or B or both) or on the right thumb (say B or Bb or A) ,a little like bass clarinet to facilitate fast passages.I know you have the left pinky A & another brand has a right thumb low A but thought that having options for the left pinky stack keys would be a good idea

Answer: We're actually working on that VERY problem! I don't think the solution is to add keys on the right side, but rather to use the right thumb. This type mechanism will most likely appear on the Voodoo Rex baritone, which is being co-designed by me and Rheuben Allen. We're building prototypes NOW! I'll keep you posted as we figure this out.

Question: Hi Steve I am looking for info on a selmer 'sterling' alto. I can't seem to find any information on them anywhere. I am told it's from around the mid 1970's. Any idea where I might find a value for such a sax?? Cheers Edd

Answer: Those are very rare, with almost no reported sales to establish a realistic value. I would say that a PERFECT example is a $7000 horn. Deduct the full retail cost of any needed repairs to make it PERFECT to establish a value. Those horns, few as they are, don't seem to have much of a following or much demand for them.

Question: Steve, Is the LA Sax Big Lip one of your models? I'd like a good instrument but I'd like to keep a purchase under $1K. A friend of mine who has played sax since the 1930s tells me LA Sax is the best value for the money because of manufacturing techniques from a lot of really good brands has been incorporated in the LA Sax.

Answer: no, absolutely not!!!!!!!!! I was responsible for the 650/750/850 series.....these are easily identified because they have high G keys and a speaker key on the upper stack

Question: Hai steve when can we expect the nec enhancer for soprano, i hope in 2010

Answer: You guys always want more! We just (this week) introduced the bari neck enhancer, and yes we are working on a soprano version to complete the family. The soprano has some problems in that there are many different chamber sizes used on soprano saxes, and we're trying to find a size that works for most of them. It's not as easy as you think!

Question: I am going to buy a new Tenor sax and I am down a Yamaha 62ii or a Custom 82Z (which is the tone I want). How does the 62ii tone compare to the 82Z. I can buy a 62ii for 1990.00 and a 82Z for 2780.00. Is the Tone worth the difference in cost??

Answer: They are very different horns. The 62 is brighter sounding. Why aren't you considering a Super 400? It's a far better horn with MANY more features.

Question: Dear steve:I have been playing alto sax 3 years, yamaha 23 and looking to up grade but its confusing,I really like the yamaha whats the best sax you think i need I really like boney james steve cole sound.lately I have been looking at older yamaha 62s 23xx-88xx model.I play jazz,contemp christian.please help !!!thanks saxman64..

Answer: Take a look at our Voodoo Rex. There are lots of videos on this site.

Question: Steve: Is the Super 400 tenor available in any finish other than copper? Can I order one without the high G and high F# key? Could I add the altissimo key from the ?Category Five? Thanks in advance for your repy! Carl McMain

Answer: Carl, You can get it in copper or copper, whichever you prefer. We don't offer the option of deleting or adding keywork. We are very happy with the design as it is, and don't want any horns floating around that are not to my original design specifications. Sorry!

Question: When will the Voodoo Rex tenor and bari be ready? I start college in the fall and need to upgrade my equipment. Jeff

Answer: I am expecting the pre-production Voodoo Rex tenor next week. If it is as it should be, we'll have 50 of them in the early summer. The bari is still in the design phase. I am cooperating with my good friend Rheuben Allen on the design.

Question: I can't decide which tenor mouthpiece would work best for me even after watching the videos. Could you send me three to try so I can make up my mind? I promise to buy one and send the other two back.

Answer: Give me DAYTIME phone number and I'll call you and answer your questions. We don't send out product "on trial" or "on approval".

Question: I am thinking about buying the bari you sell the saxgourmet . How does it compare to the selmer super action two, yang.... and the yamaha thank you

Answer: The intonation and response are much better; it has many features (LH low A, F# helper, kagaroo leather pads etc.) that all other baris lack. It is fully engraved. The case is far superior. Did I mention that it is less expensive?

Question: Steve: I have a friend who owns a Unison Steve Goodson Model tenor. What are the main differences between his horn and the horns you make now? Carl Mc.

Answer: Carl: Nice to hear from you! It's been a while! I'd like to think that I've learned something in the over ten years it has been since the days of the Unison Steve Goodson Model. In their day, they were state of the art. We would have sold a lot more of them had the distributor not been a total idiot! There are many significant differences, really too many to enumerate here. I've learned a lot about the sound of different metals, about how to improve necks, and some of the dark secrets of bore design. The Unison company is still very much in business and is still owned by my good friend Mr. Lai. I am in regular contact with him, and they still build EXCELLENT saxophones!

Question: Steve, Just to confirm it, is it the same for the LA Sax Series 1 and 209 model? That is, you are not associated with them. I just wanted to eliminate them from consideration. thanks

Answer: The ONLY models I had anything to do with are the 650/750/850 series. The alto and tenor versions all have speaker keys on the upper stack and they all have a high G key. These horns were all built by Foo Pin, who did a great job on them. There was a one time only run of LA-USA horns which were built by Tenon (my favorite Asian factory) which are basically the same and very nice players. I don't think there were more than 150 of those made. The 209 was before my time, and I seem to recall those were built by Charlie Tai. Far from my favorites. I don't remember the linage of the Series I and Series II horns, I'll have to check my files. I recall that they were made in China (the rest of the horns were all Taiwanese) by Dyong. I remember them being pretty good players, but didn't keep one for myself so I must not have been too impressed at the time. Dyong was the first mainland Chinese factory I had dealings with that I thought did a pretty good job. They built the first run of Steve Goodson Model altos and tenors, but not subsequent runs. I moved production over to Tenon, who are great builders and understand the importance of staying on schedule! The horns (Dyong vs. Tenon) are virtually identical (it was my design) although the later models had a few minor tweaks. The keywork looks the same, but the parts are not interchangeable due to different rod sizes and revised tone hole placement. You learn as you go along. The Tenon made horns can be easily identified by the upper stack clothing guard. I've got examples from both makers in my stash of horns, and the Tenon ones play a bit better.

Question: dear steve, i have a 1923 York and Sons silver plated C melody and was wondering if it's a good sax any info would be greatly appreciated

Answer: One of the worst horns ever made.........they make excellent lamps

Question: dear steve, i have problems with the altissimo notes and was wondering if the problem is me or the horn

Answer: Nobody said altissimo was easy....I can't tell if there is a problem with the horn unless I see it and play it. That's not the sort of diagnosis you can do long distance!

Question: Dear Steve , i have a 1969 Martin Yanagisawa as880 and wanted to know if it was a fairly good horn

Answer: Those are pretty good horns, nothing fancy, but solid players.

Question: dear steve , would your hr mouthpiece be good for classical music

Answer: very much so........it has a low baffle and a big chamber

Question: Steve If I wanted to order a Blues Blaster in a tip opening of .130 would this be possible? TIA!

Answer: Anything is possible.....custom facings are available. The rate for this type work is $100 per hour, as long as it takes (usually a couple of hours), plus the purchase price of the mouthpiece. We do a couple of these a month.

Question: Dear Mr Goodson: I play a Keilwerth ST model Bari,and I own a Berg Larsen Duckbill 105/2 sms facing Bari Mouthpiece and was wondering how your .105 compares to mine. I'm pretty pleased with the Berg, but am on my way to a boxful of mouthpieces.(I already have a Berg 100/0 that is so disappointing on the low end, TOO MUCH BAFFLE!)So here goes: How does the chamber compare to the Berg I have? Is the facing most similar to an "M" facing or and "SMS"? Also, how would the Brass vs Stainless steel construction weigh in? Seems weird that I have a stainless mpc on a brass horn. I know that Berg is now casting Bronze mouthpiecs as well as steel and ebonite, but have yet to see one avail a a decent price. So, my newly found Bari Guru. that's a lot of questions, but when you have a few I would be interested in reading your response. Thanks, Cole in MO

Answer: Our chamber is bigger, our facing curve is longer (even longer than the M), both of which will help the low end. I don't have a Berg like yours here to weigh, so I can't compare the two. I played Bergs on my bari (and I'm a bari player by profession) for many years. You will find our mouthpiece to be a great improvement.

Question: Steve: Can you explain in 25 words or less (just kidding!) the difference that metal makes in necks? What is the advantage or difference in copper vs. silver vs. rose brass vs. gold brass? Carl Mc

Answer: 25 words or less I can't do....BUT, here's a quick overview of a very complicated topic: Copper necks tend to be darker and have more low overtones, giving a very rich and complex tone. Rose brass necks tend to be a little brighter than copper, but give the same results to a lesser degree Silver necks are brighter and are very responsive. They speak quickly, and although they tend to be brighter in sound, they don't sound thin. They have a complicated sound which can't be duplicated by any other material. Gold brass (or regular brass) necks are what is used on the vast majority of saxophones. It is the same material used on most saxophone bodies. You can mix and match the neck and body materials (a copper neck on a brass horn body, for example) and tailor your sound to your liking.

Question: Steve my dad played the sax before he passed away,I have a 1913 or 1914 C G Conn alto sax,Just wondering if these are of any value,Thanks John

Answer: generally, no......possibly, yes. Please send clear detailed pictures to me privately.

Question: Main horn is a M6 alto 1962. I played it with a G1 neck and it was brighter and more centered. Maybe skewed intonation a little. But I liked it. Someone sent me here. What do you reccomend for a neck replacement for the 6. I play in a swing "big band" and double on clarinet. Secondly I have a nickel sx90r and would like to give it as much soul as the M6 has. Thanks for your advice. Ben

Answer: Get our solid copper neck with nodal weights for the VI, and the silver plated neck with nodal weights for your Keilwerth. You will be simply amazed at the difference!

Question: Steve, What do you think of the Conn 6 m naked lady horn series 298xxxx think its around 1923 or so Thanks

Answer: They're OK if you buy them cheap and in excellent condition. The ergonomics are not too good, but they have a nice sound. There are PLENTY of them available, so only buy a nice original finish example and don't over pay!

Question: Looking for when a C.G. Conn. Ltd. "Naked Lady" Barisax serial #873839 was made and value of there of.

Answer: See www.saxgourmet.com for serial number lists and a value guide. BE SURE TO READ THE PREFACE TO THE VALUE GUIDE FIRST!

Question: Hi Steve, i recently inherited a C.G.Conn-ltd 10M serial number 291328. Its in very good condition. I personally do not know anything about saxophones, so what do i have here?

Answer: Maybe a very nice horn, those are among my favorites. Of course, condition is everything when determining value. You will find lots of information at www.saxgourmet.com

Question: Hi Steve, i recently inherited a C.G.Conn-ltd 10M serial number 291328. Its in very good condition. I personally do not know anything about saxophones, so what do i have here?

Answer: Potentially a VERY nice and valuable horn.....condition is everything, of course......those are among my very favorite vintage tenors

Question: Steve,I have a 1966 refurbished Bushcher 400 that play well except for the low notes from c on down.Would your mouthpiece help me to hit these bottom notes or do you think it could be the horn? I like a size 2 reed. Is that to light? Your thoughts.....Thanks..

Answer: assuming the horn has no leaks, try our Blues Blaster. It works GREAT on Bueschers!

Question: Steve Since you don't sell your horns through dealers it is difficult for most of us to try them out. Would you consider a "pass around" so different people could try them out and post reviews? John

Answer: I wish I could, but I can't. We're selling our horns at just about the full extent of our production capacity, and I really can't afford to tie up the inventory. If you want to try out horns, it's a great excuse to visit us in New Orleans.

Question: Dear Steve, what would be the best mouthpiece size for the fat boy alto mouthpiece if i currently play a selmer s80 c*,any info would be much appreciated

Answer: get a .070

Question: Dear Steve, I wanted to know how much a Jupiter JAS-767 would sell for. I'm currently trying to sell one of my altos to buy a voodoo rex,any help would be much appreciated

Answer: It's very difficult to say without seeing the horn, of course. The market for used student horns is erratic, because there are so many for sale. Prices are all over the place.

Question: Steve you recommended the copper neck for my 1962 M6 alto. With budget considerations, how well would the laquered neck work? It sells for 125 instead of 350.

Answer: The copper neck will give you a much more complex tone with a considerably broader spectrum of overtones. BTW, the sale on the lacquer neck ends May first!

Question: Hi Steve, Do you make a tenor saxophone mouthpiece that will approximate the tone of Michael Brecker? I think my tone is not focused/bright enough. I tried the Guardala model that Brecker endorsed but I did not like the tone it produced and it was also hard to control.

Answer: I think the Super Duck will get you pretty close. As you know, Michael was a friend and client of mine for many years, and I am a huge fan of his playing. He was also a real gentleman!

Question: I have a Dolnet Bel Air alto sax, SN #41569, that my parents bought me circa 1950. I've been playing it ever since and love the way it plays and I'm wondering how much it's worth?

Answer: Not too much. Condition is everything when it comes to used horn prices, and Dolnet's have not shown themselves to have much demand.

Question: Steve, I am getting back into playing a tenor, after having been away from it (Conn) for 40 years (Rock 'n roll). Just bought an almost new Keilwerth ST90, with standard mouthpiece. Am interested in a metal mouthpiece. There are more details available to me than there were in 1969. Regarding the tip opening on your Fat Boy (and others) of .90, .105, & .120; is the .90 the easiest of the 3 to play, and still maintain good quality sound? Also, I'm attempting to get my old band back together. Thanks for your help!! Bill

Answer: The smaller .090 tip opening will be easier to control, and is what I would suggest as you get your chops back together.

Question: Dear Steve, I'm a freshman in highschool and I am wondering if you know of any good schools for saxophone technicians,any information would be greatly appreciated

Answer: There are several. A directory is avaialable at www.napbirt.org, the repair organization.

Question: I see today you lowered the price of the copper alto neck to 150. WOW. I have the lacqured one on the way due to budget contraints. You strongly rec. the copper one. Can I pay the difference and send this one back for the copper? Question: Main horn is a M6 alto 1962. I played it with a G1 neck and it was brighter and more centered. Maybe skewed intonation a little. But I liked it. Someone sent me here. What do you reccomend for a neck replacement for the 6. I play in a swing "big band" and double on clarinet. Secondly I have a nickel sx90r and would like to give it as much soul as the M6 has. Thanks for your advice. Ben Answer: Get our solid copper neck with nodal weights for the VI, and the silver plated neck with nodal weights for your Keilwerth. You will be simply amazed at the difference!

Answer: the Copper neck was on sale through May 1, and has now returned to its regular price.

Question: Steve, I play bari in a horn rock band, needless to say it's loud and I have to cut three trumpets along with drums, bass and guitar; with that said, I'm looking for a bari mouthpiece that's directional as well as big (I currently honk on a Runyon and it's loud but I'm looking for something that can focus the sound in more of a directional way, if that makes any sense?). Does the Low Rider Baritone Mouthpiece you play have these attributes? I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks Joe.

Answer: I'm a bari player by profession, as you may know, and I feel your pain....I played a Runyon Quantum for years, and it just wasn't enough to compete with Marshall stacks and Stratocasters and not sound thin when pushed.....that's how our Low Rider came to be....I know you will like it. It combines a high cliff baffle with a big chamber, and focuses very well.

Question: Hey Steve.. Our school owns a Jupiter Bari sax with the low A key... Im a freshman and i am looking for something new.. I am thinking about buying one of Ur model saxophones but i am concerned about the price.. I like how it sounds like one horn through all octaves. I also need it to play in concert band and jazz band. Will it work.. thanks for taking your time to help us sax players in search for the perfect saxophone

Answer: We just posted a couple of new videos on the bari listing....check them out and I think your questions will be answered.........

Question: dear Steve, do you consider Selmer Paris a good saxophone brand, and do you think the super action 80 is a good sax

Answer: I played Selmers for many years. They build good horns.

Question: I need a neck for a Conn (mexiconn)Bari. How much it will cost? Do you think you can deliver it to Miami?Thanks

Answer: I've got THREE Conn 12M baritones in storage right now with no necks. None are available. You will have to get a neck custom made, which will be VERY expensive.

Question: Hello Steve, I have been looking for a Baritone Saxophone for some time now, and no matter where I go it always seems to lead me back to the nation of music site. I was looking at the Steve Goodson models for sometime, but was waiting for some money to come in. Then when I came back to nationofmusic.com there was only the Saxgourmet gold Baritone Saxophone. There is nothing wrong with this saxophone in my opinion, but I need something that'll stand out a little bit more in a Jazz Band, maybe in silver? Thanks again for taking some time out of your busy schedule to read this. Sincerely, Chandler

Answer: I'm sorry, but we do not offer the Saxgourmet bari in silver. It's a MUCH better horn than the discontinued Steve Goodson Model (none of those have been manufactured since early 2007), and you could always have it silver plated if you wish.

Question: Steve I have a C.G Conn 30m conquerer that my grandfather gave me and I was wondering what it was worth. It is in excellent shape and I also Have the original cases with it.

Answer: I would say that a PERFECT one (and I mean PERFECT, needing nothing whatsoever) is at least a $4000 horn. Condition is everything! Deduct the full retail price of anything and everything needed to bring your horn to perfection.

Question: dear Steve, do you take trade ins. if i traded my two altos' would it be able to take down the price at all or would it be better just to sell them to buy a super 400

Answer: Unfortunately, trade ins are not an option, as we are no longer in the used horn business

Question: Hi Steve.I am hoping to repad a Cousenon 1928 Soprano. It is in silver plate, I think it would look great with White pads and silver reso's Which keys would I fit the reso.s to. John

Answer: You should install resonators of the maximum size anywhere they will clear the tone holes. Most of the time, this will be on pads larger than 18mm in diameter. Remember, bigger is better!

Question: Hi Steve, I recently found a east star tenor saxophone. i have never heard of this brand and was wondering if you knew anything about it. the guy who is selling it said that east star was originally in china and moved to france and germany, he says this particular sax was made between the transition from china to france. so the metal is from china but was assembled in france. and it has a smooth black finish as well, but ive heard that this is sometimes used to cover up bad metal. if you could help me in any way it would be greatly appreciated.

Answer: I have never heard of that brand, and the story makes no sense whatsoever. I never heard of a finish being used to cover up "bad metal".........this makes no sense

Question: Steve: Is it possible to get some of your mouthpieces and necks circulating in a "pass around" so more of us could try them and review them? Charles Maske, Chicagoland

Answer: I think there are plenty of reviews posted on our forum, just have a look. I have no objections to a pass around if you guys want to do that. Go right ahead.

Question: Dear Mr. Goodson, You are my saxophone hero! I very much enjoy your websites and the videos you post. Thank you so much! I have been a clarinet player since I was a young man, and have played in college and amateur orchestras, and community groups... And countless "solo" performances in whichever room I could practice in! I've always LOVED jazz and the saxophone! After so many years of desire, and to the discontent of orchestra conductors and friends (I can't figure out why!) I began playing sax on my own... And I LOVE this instrument! Perhaps I was just plucked into some kind of harsh environment for saxophone love to grow... I am very accomplished musically on clarinet... But I seem to get "snubbed" by sax players because I do not own a Mark VI... (How I would love to try one of those!) I really would like to purchase one of your Saxgourmet altos and tenors in the future! I do however have a Beuscher true-tone alto and Martin Handcraft alto that I came by second-hand, and they sound great to me, especially the Martin. It seems nice and rich to me. Do you have any advice for those horns as far as necks, and / or mouthpieces go? What kind of horn might you recommend for me as I continue to play and progress? Thank you for your time!

Answer: First, thank you so much for your kind remarks! If you want to add cut and projection to those somewhat dark sounding horns, get a Voodoo Child mouthpiece. If you want sweetness, get the hard rubber. Both of those horns have pretty good necks. The solid copper with nodal weights would improve the Buescher.

Question: Hi Steve! I am interested in getting a Yamaha 62 tenor. I am wondering what is your overview of a 1st generation model 62 and the new Yamaha 62 mark II. Differences? Improvements? Thanks, Drew.

Answer: I think the only differences are the neck and the springs. I'll stand for correction if I am wrong. Why not a Super 400? It's a MUCH better horn.

Question: Hi Steve, I've recently decided to move on from my Selmer Series III Soprano so I'm hunting for its replacement while I have it for sale. I always felt like it was a lemon and very thin sounding so I had the body stripped and brushed finish and it freed up a lot of resonance but the low end response is still crappy even with everything in regulation. Anyhow, I'm kind of a hardware junky and the sound of the saxellos are pretty intoxicating and lots of wow factor visually. I'm debating about going with a vintage King Saxello or some of the modern ones (your design being the primary contender next to R&C). My other considerations would be a vintage curved Conn or Martin (gotta have high F)... I noticed you had that New Wonder on your list. Any input you could provide I appreciate! Thanks!

Answer: We got out of the vintage horn business eight years ago, and have NO vintage horns listed for sale anywhere..all the horns we have for sale are on this site..........vintage horns, PARTICULARLY sopranos, just lack the ergonomics and intonation necessary for good performance. They were good in their day, but technology has moved on.....

Question: Greetings again Steve! I have a Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone serial number 111xxx. It is a relacquer. I was wondering what quirks your Saxgourmet neck corrects on vintage Mark VI's. Thanks, Drew

Answer: It will decrease blowing resistance, greatly improve intonation, increase the dynamic range, make the altissimo easier, and even out the timbre difference between octaves. See the videos we put up for demonstrations.

Question: Greetings. I own a late Super20 Silversonic [1975] it has a silver-plated brass SML style neck-pipe. Is there a sterling pipe that can replace it. Cheers, Derek.

Answer: At present we do not manufacture such a neck, although we DO currently have one under development. I will keep you posted.

Question: I have 2 alto's a L.A.Sax and Conn, I bought an enhancer and I love it. I want to get one of your alto necks and I want to know If It will fix my horns? I really like the look of the silver plated neck but the copper one you were playing sounds great. What would you recommend Thanks, Gene

Answer: The copper neck with nodal weights will fit your horns, and will give far and away the richest, most complex tone.

Question: Hey Steve, Attended the Wilmington NC regional and met you there. Very interesting!. I have a Martin tenor Imperial missing it's neck......serial#314672. Any ideas? Jon, Thanks!

Answer: Yes, we have a neck that can be adapted. Email me a daytime phone number to saxgourmet@cox.net and I will call you so we can discuss this

Question: dear Steve, what is your opinion on the H. Couf superba 1 alto sax. is it a good horn or not worth buying

Answer: The Superba I is one of my all time favorite horns! I love them!

Question: Steve, you were right on the money in recommending the Blues Blaster .105 for my new Buffet Series 400 tenor. I've had it about a year now, and it is still astounding. However, now I need a recommendation for a jazz mpc for my alto,.. also a Buffet, but a more vintage Super Dynaction from 1973. Do you make one, or know of a mpc, where the math is as perfect a match as the Blues Blaster is with my tenor? I'm having to start from scratch with my alto, as I have played only classical on the alto. My current alto mpc is a hard rubber Selmer C*, which does OK for jazz, but not ideal,... seems to lack flexibility. Thanks in advance for your help and advice. HPR

Answer: If you like the Blues Blaster sound, get the Saxgourmet Hard Rubber. If you want even brighter, get a Voodoo Child

Question: Hello Steve. I saw an old post in the SOTW forum, you manufactured a "tone booster" that fits in the mouthpiece (in the mouthpiece, not in the neck). I think that its name was "Mach 6", right? You still makes it?

Answer: See the neck and neck accessories section of this site

Question: Hi Steve, I Love your site!!! I am a pro saxophonist from Pittsburgh. I recently came into possession of an old Conn Tenor someone was throwing away and wanted to know if you could help me with my research to identify it. First of all this horn sounds phenomenal, in fact it sounds better and is freer blowing than my Mark VI tenor. It is silver with brass coloring inside of the bell. The SN# is 89808 and has the marking Pat 1914 above the SN and a small letter T. On the bell it is nicely engraved and the lettering is C.G. Conn LTD Elkhart Ind. USA. My research points to this being a 1922 Conn New Wonder? Do you have any insights? Your opinions are most appreciated. Thanks Steve!!

Answer: That's what it is.........those horns have a following because they sound great.......the ergonomics lead something to be desired and the intonation can be sketchy

Question: Dear Steve, I was wondering in your opinion which alto would be better a 1956 Buffet Crampton Dynaction or an H. Couf Royalist any info would be appreciated i'm currently looking for a nice vintage alto that won't cost me an arm and a leg. Thanks Gage

Answer: No question about it: get the Buffet

Question: Question: RICO reed: Vintage Rico Reeds B Flat Tenor Type V ~? What does that say about these reeds type V~? I can get 16 for 21.85 from a fellow that bought out new old stock from music store. He checked to be sure none are cracked. your opinion. thank you. 10 RICO = 24.95 ($2.50 each) Most places so this would be a good price = $1.37 each,almost 50% off.

Answer: If they are older Ricos, ALL were "V" type, I have no idea why they used this arbitrary designation

Question: My wife and I are planning a trip to New Orleans and would like to visit with you so that I can say that I've been to the Mecca of Saxophone and lived to tell the tell. What works better for you, weekend or weekday? We are looking at June 25-29. Please let me know so my wife can her vacation days off. Thanks, Steve West

Answer: Sharon and I are ALWAYS pleased and honored to be able to meet our customers and fans. We see clients STRICTLY by prior appointment on weekdays only between 10AM and 3PM weekdays. Email me privately at saxgourmet@cox.net and we will set up a time for you. Let us know if we can help you make your visit to New Orleans more fun. Don't forget to bring your mouthpieces!

Question: Hi Steve..I own an early Mark 6 alto which I like a lot...I have thought of buying a late 200xxx silver mark 6 , thinking the sound might be a bit darker..I know there are a lot of generalizations about early versus late Sixes, and maybe only trying out the horns is the answer to what kind of sound I can get..I'd appreciate any opinions you have..Thanks, Rob

Answer: Actually playing the specific horns is the ONLY way to be sure. Saxophones, like people, have individual personalities! There were changes in the Mk VI series, particularly the altos, during the production run. There are several different bows found on the altos, for example. The horns improved over time, and the later examples are MUCH more in tune. The "five digit myth" is just that, a myth.

Question: Steve, I think I am in the market for a Fat Boy tenor mouthpiece, with a .90 tip opening. Am getting our old band back together, after 40 years; playing beach tunes and Mowtown. When I went to order a Fat Boy, nothing indicated how I would ensure a mouthpiece with a .90 tip opening. Do I put a note in the "special instructions to merchant"? Does this appear to be a good mouthpiece for me to get? Thanks, Bill

Answer: Bill: The Fat Boy will be perfect for Motown tunes! Just put a note in the special instructions or send me a private email. We have them in stock and ship the next day after we get your order.

Question: Dear Steve, i was wondering what is your opinion on LA sax's instruments, any info is greatly appreciated Thanks, Gage

Answer: The only ones I had any involvement with were the 650/750/850 series, which are really nice horns for the price, with upper stack speaker keys and keywork to high G. Before that, the horns were generally pretty poor quality. The current production horns I have seen are nothing special, just average quality Chinese horns with no unique features.

Question: Hey Steve. I'm also a bari player and I have a question about the "Steve Goodson" model baritone: what key is it tuned in. im only wonderin because im looking to switch to a goodson from a selmar 77a Eb baritone and my friend told me youre the best in the buisness

Answer: All baritone saxes are in Eb.....you can see our latest model on this site.

Question: Hi Steve, Always a loyal and a happy client to you, I am just wondering if you are looking into saxophone enhancers of your version. Maybe like the Bis key perhaps. Thanks again and have a great day

Answer: Actually, yes.....we have quite a few new products in development right now. We believe we are almost where we want to be with our saxophone, neck, and mouthpiece offerings, and will begin expanding our accessory line in the near future. I am spread pretty thin these days, and product design and development takes a lot of time. Some of the projects we have currently underway are really exciting, and I promise to keep you posted!

Question: After 40 years of playing the alto and tenor I realized I was missing out on all the fun. Seriously, I'd like to start on the bari. Not surprisingly, entry level Bari's are going for nearly as much as pro-level altos and tenors. Not being a pro, money is an object. What bari's should I be looking at (or not looking at). I am also concerned about resale value - just in case it was not meant to be. Thanks, Mark

Answer: Take a look at our Saxgourmet bari........we've got lots of video up so you can see and hear all the features........it's a bargain when compared to the price of the competition......we've sold lots of them!

Question: I currently use a D-7 Dukoff on my VI. I went that way to cut through loud electric guitars and such, but the tone is just a little too bright. Would the blues blaster with it's fatter tone still offer the same projection of the Dukoff? Don't want to get buried again.

Answer: Yes, but an even better choice would be a Super Duck or a Yellow Moon. You will never need to fear a guitar slinger with a Strat and Marshall stack again!

Question: Hey Steve, I bought my self a Selmer Ref 54 recently that was a second. I guess they gave up on it, cause it does not have a serial number. I fixed all the things that were not correct, which was a lot, but I can not seem to get my A in tune with all the others. I have checked for leaks with my light and can't find any. Do you have any idea how I could fix it? By the way, I bought your Florida mouth piece a couple weeks ago and I love it. It is the best mouthpiece I have ever had and I have been playing sax for as long as I can remember. I'm hoping to get another one from you soon or a new neck from ya whenever I can afford it. Wouldn't mind getting one of your saxes either cause they sound awesome. Keep cool, Tuck

Answer: In all probability, it has a bad neck. Try our solid copper Saxgourmet neck with nodal weights. All the Ref 54 owners who have bought one love it.

Question: I have a saxgourmet alto model 6 that i got of ebay. Had it adjusted at the local shop and they love it, said it is a wounderful insturment. They made one comment - they dont have any roo pads and recommend that I get some replacements to have on hand should I ever need the work done. I contacted music medic and they told me they dont have the specks on hand for the model 6 pad replacement. Could you help me by giveing them that info so that i could buy a set of roo pads. Thanks

Answer: Glad to do so.........

Question: Hello Mr. Goodson, My name is Ernesto and I have been the only a Bari Player for 2 years in Middle school and a saxophonist for 3 years so now in High school I am in the Jazz Band, and looking for a good metal mouthpiece. So, i would like to know what kind of differences the the tip opening and baffle size will do to my sound. Like what do people mean by a brighter or darker sound? and what type of sound would be good for a Jazz Band? I have been looking at a Berg Larsen 110/2 Metal Mouthpiece and also at your new Low Rider Bari Sax Mouthpiece. I would like to know what type of differences would there be in the sound of the mouthpieces? A Fellow Bari Saxophonist, Ernesto Rojas

Answer: Ernesto: Ou Low Rider had a higher baffle and a bigger chamber than the Berg Larsen you are considering, so it will give you greater projection and cut on the high end and a much fatter and richer sound on the low end of the horn. This will be perfect for our jazz band. It is also much easier to play. Brighter and darker refer to the mix of overtones. The more high overtones, the brighter. The more low overtones, the darker.

Question: I tried to order a key clamp using my debit card. The card was rejected by saying that PayPal couldn't use the card. Must I have PayPal to order from you? Do you have a phone # where I can call you to order items? Thanks. David Butler

Answer: We use PayPal to clear our credit cards. You DO NOT have to have a PayPal account. Email a daytime phone number to saxgourmet@cox.net....I'm rarely available to the phone and will call you when I'm free.

Question: Hi Steve, I recently came into possession of what i believe to be a Conn New Wonder Tenor. It is silver with a gold colored inner bell and rolled tone holes. The sound on this horn was very impressive when at first sight I thought it to be a student line marching band horn. My research shows the horn to have been made in 1922. My question is A) does the horn have any significant retail value? (Not sure I want to sell it though I like it a lot) B) what are your thoughts on the New Wonder - pre "Chu Berry" tenors. Thanks Steve!!!!

Answer: Those horns are money burners. Intonation is sketchy and ergonomics are terrible. Old does not necessarily mean valuable. They are very common, and really don't have much of a following among players.

Question: Greetings Steve. My question is, how do you choose the option of the either silver plate, gold plate, black nickle or gold lacquer for the Steve goodson model Eb Baritone sax?

Answer: It's going to be pretty hard to do since that is a discontinued model. NONE have been manufactured since early 2007. Take a look at our Saxgourmet baritone on this site. It's a MUCH better horn. Let me know your questions!

Question: Steve, What would you say is the life of a typical reed? Seems like I get ten hours of practice out of some and twenty-five out of others. What would your favorite reed be for the Florida tenor mp I bought from Saxgourmet? I realize you are not really in the reed business but your site is the best source on the net for reliable info. Thanks - A Happy Customer

Answer: I never saw a reed that I thought was truly museum quality. When I was playing gigs, I used a new reed for every set. If you're using cane reeds, try Gonzales reeds from Argentina. I am really impressed with them. If you like synthetic reeds, try our Hurri-Cane reed.

Question: I have gotten my son who is 15 a mid- level selmer sax not sure of model but it does have the high f, and he has gotten into jazz music and has asked for one of your mouthpieces the problem is that you offer 3 models how do I know which one to purchase? He is currently using a yanagisawa 5 borrowed from a sax teacher. Any help and insite would be greatly appreciated. Jim

Answer: If your son is playing an alto and likes jazz, get the Voodoo Child. It's our best seller for jazzers.

Question: Hi Steve. greetings from San Francisco, one of multiple birthplaces of jazz. I'm planning on getting a Steve goodson Bari but my question is: when you purchase a Steve goodson Bari does it come delivered with a case or is it sold separately from the horn?

Answer: The Saxgourmet baritone comes with the Saxgourmet contour case that we sell on this site.

Question: I recently purchased your alto cooper neck for my Conn and La Sax. I found the octave lever to be almost 1/2 in short of reaching my horns lever is this by design? I'm going to take it to my local sax shop and have it modified to work on my horn. Do you have any suggestions on what they should do?

Answer: All you have to do is extend the contact bar on the octave key with a small length of hollow brass tubing. Cover with shrink tubing to provide silencing. It's about a five minute operation.

Question: Hi Steve, I'm curious about the power pips that you have, I am already using your solid copper alto neck and I just want to know if those (neck) are already equipped with a power pip and if not do you suggest me getting one and would there be an improvement whatsoever. I love the neck so much already as it is but then again I was just curious. I am also planning to get a tenor neck from you in the future, I have a Kessler tenor, and I just want to ask if I can get the Saxgourmet tenor neck with nodal weights for selmer for that and just have it adjusted from my local repair guy here in NY, and again do you think I need the power pip for that? And lastly I love the thumbrest that you have, still haven't tried one but when I saw the picture and the video I am sold. Thanks again so much, and have a great day

Answer: Anthony: The pips in your Saxgourmet neck are quite similar, but are designed specifically for that neck. Since we could do it all at one time, the performance is even better than retrofitting an existing neck with new pips.

Question: Hi, I have been looking at your curved soprano which my old instructor has and he loves his. I'm in the Navy and am going to be moving a fair bit in the next couple of years and like he idea of a smaller horn. I saw the 20% off and it looked like it applies to this horn? Are there any other promotions that are going to be happening this summer. Thank you

Answer: Catlin: The 20% discount applies to EVERYTHING we sell except the Category Five tenor saxophones. If you are on active duty with the US Navy (or any other USA armed forces), contact me PRIVATELY at saxgourmet@cox.net for special military prices. Sharon and I are strong supporters of our military.

Question: hi Steve. I have a question. I recently cane into posession of an Antigua Model BS3220LQ Eb Baritone saxophone. my question is: did I pick a good horn?

Answer: The Antigua is one of the best student lines out there.

Question: Hi Steve, Why doesn't your Saxgourmet Alto Necks come with a built in Neck Enhancer?

Answer: Because there is too much variation among alto mouth[piece chamber sizes

Question: Steve, Are wall mount racks available/advised for musicians? My son has a bari,a tenor, two altos, a flute, an ewi and an amplifier all crammed into a small bedroom. It would be great to get the saxes out of the floor stands and onto the wall. I see wall stands in use in stores but not on the market for players. Rick

Answer: I am not aware of anyone who makes a wall mounted rack

Question: I HAVE A STEVE GOODSON UNISON SERIAL 00005. IS THAT I GOOD HORN. THE ONE THE BELL HAS STEVE GOODSON HAS INGRAVING ON IT AN UNISON ONE THE BOTH NECKS. PLAYS GREAT. WHAT PRICE? DOES VALUE. THANK YOU.

Answer: That's one of the very first ones. Please send clear detailed pictures to me privately.

Question: Hi Steve I have a nice Keilworth SX90R Nickle plate with gold laquered keywork..its about 2 1/2 years old...very nice horn. Unfortunatly arthritus has set into my hands and I can no longer play..so as you can imagine this ones been slightly played. I payed about 3800 for it new. Do you have a rough idea what this horn would bring in todays market? Thanks in advance for your time. DanO

Answer: Used instrument prices are in the tank due to current economic conditions, and Keilwerth prices are particularly bad since the company recently filed for bankruptcy, leaving a very uncertain future. They're nice horns, but I doubt you could get more than $1500 if you can even find a buyer.

Question: I have registered for your forum. Trying to log in, it says either the password doesn't match the username, or the application isn't complete. So I requested the password. It came, it's what I thought it was, it still gives the same message. I'd like to participate in your forum... :) Is there anything you or your webmaster can do? Thanks, Steve Keller forum username Steve_Keller

Answer: please send a DAYTIME phone number to saxgourmet@cox.net and we'll figure out the problem....I can't find a record of your registration....you might try to re-register....it doesn't look like your registration "took" for some reason....we would very much like to have you participate in our forum!

Question: I was interested in purchasing your neckstrap but shipping cost of $35.00 makes it an expensive proposition. Are there other options to get one here. The time taken for delivery is not a concern. Steve

Answer: I'll assume you are an international buyer. Wen use flat rate priority mail ONLY, since we get a tracking number, which is required by our payment system

Question: I bought a tenor Plastic mouthpiece with your name on it from ebay. There's no size on it but the box has a number 9 on it. It is great, up to now I played a meyer 5 but this is so much more open I thought it would be hard to play. It plays all registers easily and in tune. Do you have any stats on it and have you discontinued it? Thanks, vince

Answer: I suspect what you have is one of the Steve Goodson Model mouthpieces we sold when I was at Orpheus Music.....the last of those were made in 2006....we have replaced them with the mouthpieces you see on this site, which are much better. If it's a 9, it is .120 open

Question: Hi Steve- > > I have a King Zephyr Tenor Sax, SN 265409. Based on the SN range, I believe it is a 1940 - 1945 model. It would need an overhaul, was my Mom's and she is 70, so has been in the family quite some time. I am curious, what the value might be for this item if one was to sell it. I understand I would not get retail price, so if I was to sell it to someone in the business of fixing it up, putting on new pads and what every else they do to overhaul, what would a fair price pre-overhaulded for this instrument? It comes in the original case, which the case is in a bit of rough shape on the outside, worn on the inside but in good shape inside. > Thanks Craig

Answer: Vintage prices are in the tank. An old horn that is not up and playing is a very tough sale these days. If it is cosmetically perfect (look up the definition of "perfect" if you are in any way unsure), you might get $400 for it. If less than perfect cosmetically, considerably less.

Question: Hey Steve, Was wondering if you could help me with any info about this sax, when it was made, value and so on.... The details that are engraved on the sax are as follows: 1RE GRAND PRIX 1RE LA FACTURE INSRTIMEATLE MEDIALE D'OR 1900 ADOLPHE SAX 84.RUE MYRHA PARIS NO. 595 10203 Thank you Jenny

Answer: That was made by Adolphe Sax's SONS, not by the man himself, probably around 1907. There's really no significant demand or value for those horns.

Question: Conn 10M - 1953 I have been playing for 5 years-Yamaha tenor 875. I wanted to try the old Conns. So I got one. For my surprice, It hasnt been easy, I think my embochoure its too tight. No matter how much I try notes get stopped (reed closes). I know you played Conn for long time. What do you think? what should I do?

Answer: The Yamaha is one of the easiest playing horns out there. That being said, the Conn should not be too much work. Get the horn checked out by SOMEONE FAMILIAR WITH OLD CONNS, not a school band shop. If you want to decrease the blowing resistance and improve the intonation, get one of our Saxgourmet Conn necks. The solid copper one is my personal favorite.

Question: Dear Steve, I've been playing my baritone for a while but i've noticed the low A burbles a lot. I think it has to do with the 5C mouthpiece it came with and/or the Rico Royal strength 2 reeds i'm using. What mouthpiece should I get to fix this problem? and should I switch from Rico Royal to Vandoren ZZ reeds?

Answer: Get our Low Rider mouthpiece, and use LaVoz medium softs.....let me know if can help you ion any way

Question: Hello, What can you tell me about a Bundy Selmer alto saxophone with serial number 592995? I'm interested in where and when it was built. Also, is it a beginner/student saxophone? What is the approximate value? Thank you for your time

Answer: The Bundy's were built in Elkhart, Indiana for the beginner/student model. I don't have any serial number information available which would help me determine the date of manufacture.

Question: Mr. Goodson, I am thinking of maybe buying your Low Rider Baritone Sax Mouthpiece to replace my Berg Larsen but i would also like to know what Rovner ligs fit your Mouthpiece??? I was wanting to know if your Low Rider Mouthpiece is really worth the $165 because i got my Berg for only $80 so what could your Low Rider do that my Berg cannot? Thank you for your time. Sincerely A HUGE Steeve Goodson Fan and fellow Bari enthusiast, Ernesto Rojas

Answer: I am not fully familiar with the Rovner sizing system and can no specify their model. Our Low Rider comes with a very unique single screw ligature which works very well.Our Low Rider is much easier blowing, has quicker response, and more projection.

Question: Hello Steve I have been playing a Sugal Series IV Silver plated/black nickel Tenor sax sax 4 years. This has the High G mechanism. This is very cnnvenient and am trying to find an LA Sax in an animal print....not the Zebra print like Richard Elliot, but a different one. Haven't been able to find any web site that will help me with this. The Series 1 tenors have the high G key I believe and the double arms on the Bell notes. Thought I might ask you, since you are an authority in the sax industry. Really want to take my sax playing to a new level and be unique in doing it, for appearance and originality Thanks for you re insight Steve...I know you're a busy guy!! All the best Craig Savino London, England

Answer: None of those horns have been made since the 1990's.....I don't know of any for sale

Question: Good evening/morning Mr. Goodson, I recently bought a used Selmer Bundy 2 Alto Sax for $350, and one of my questions is if that is a reasonable price for a Bundy 2?? and I would like to buy some good accessories for my semi-new alto, And i would like to know what are some immediate accessories i should get?? and Which one of your products can be very helpful to it?? I was thinking about getting Your Fat Boy Alto Mouthpiece, A SaxGourmet Neck Brass Lacquered for alto, and Maybe even your SaxGourmet Alto Case (Are these products good choices)??... BUT on the case i also think Protec case because it is About Half the price, but what differences are there between the SaxGourmet Case and a Protec Pro Pac case?? If u could please answer these questions I'd STRONGLY appreciate that and it would really help. Thank you for your time and help. Your hopefully Potential Buyer Ernesto Rojas =]

Answer: That is a very good price for a Bundy II if it plays. Get our Saxgourmet neck and a Voodoo Child mouthpiece and it will really play great, with much better intonation and quicker response. Our case is much stronger than a ProTec and has an accessory compartment under the horn. It also gives much more protection on the upper end, where most of the damage occurs. Remember, Wayne Shorter used a Bundy II when he was playing with Miles Davis!

Question: I purchased a Selmer Hummingbird Alto Sax for my daughter 2 years ago. It has been played probably 2 times. I am looking to sell it but don't know where to start. Can you help me?

Answer: The used horn market is very depressed right now, and prices are pretty low and buyers are few. I would say eBay is your best bet, as it reaches a large number of potential buyers worldwide.

Question: Dear Steve what is a good way to clean up ones altissimo notes

Answer: Practice throat exercises and overtone exercises...

Question: Hi Steve,I have 2 Selmer Mark VII altos. Whenever I practice overtones, my Eb key vibrates and creates a gurgle in the tone when I play the 2nd Harmonic (Bb). I have had repair men look at it over the years, changing pads and springs with no luck. If I keep the key shut with a finger or cork no problem. Any thoughts? Thanks, Keith

Answer: The Eb key on a VII is held in place by two pivot screws, one at each end. Without having seen it, would suspect that one of the screws is not seating well in the key rod. Countersink the holes of both screws, check for improvement. If that doesn't do it, we'll have to come up with another scenario.

Question: Hi Steve, First, I love your site and the excellent videos. I have a couple questions. First, I've been playing a Mk VI tenor with a Berg-Larson metal mouthpiece (95 2M) for about 100 years. I've always loved the sound, but I'd like to try one of your mps for a different sound. I play both jazz (mainly jam session for fun) and R&R/Motown (for fun and profit). I'd like a fatter sound than I get with the B-L, but with enough projection so I don't get a brain anureism blowing against my Strat-playing guitar buddies. No problem if you have two different suggestions for the two different types of music. Thanks. Scott

Answer: Get a Blues Blaster for jazz and a Super Duck for R&B...it's not the Strats....it's the Marshall stacks they plug them into......

Question: Hi Steve: I just received a tenor sax mute from you which works great as far as my wife is concerned.Also I installed my new saxgourmet thumb rest and used it for a 2 hr.stand up show. It also worked well,but might suggest tapering the edges under the hook a bit more.The 3rd item I tried was the tenor neck enhancer.It worked pretty good on my selmer neck,just some very minute resistence but my friend tried it on his Yamaha 62 with a silver plated neck and he experienced a little more back pressure. I could only presume that his silver plated neck had chipped edges of silver on the end of the neck and wasn't planed flush 90 degrees to the mouthpiece like mine.Am I right in thinking these two conditions might hinder the enhancer from seating properly,and affect the performance? Need to know as he liked how it evened out the tone in his horn and might want to get one.Also it took some of the shrillness out of my high altissimo notes.I'm still convinced however that the enhancer would work better affixed to the neck,( so it can't slide at all and don't have to worry about a loose "O" ring).Like your saxgourmet neck with nodal weights.I'm very interested in either your silver plated,or solid copper model with nodal weights and built in enhancer. Do these 2 models have a rifled tenon like the plain solid copper neck? I assume this does the same thing as the selmer " booster" neck which is also rifled? Here's my situation. I'm primarily a hard hitting R&B player in 8 piece bands, and need a big sound to stand our over other electronic instruments and vocals.I'm probably what you call a semi- professional(20-30 big shows a year). My present set-up is a Selmer(paris) series III tenor (original neck),Guardala LT super-king MP.Rovner ligature(the good one) and Van Doren ZZ #3 reeds. This works quite well, but I want a bigger,richer,fuller sound with more harmonics and edginess in the horn,especially through the middle, cleaner low stomp bell notes, and screaming loud altisimo notes that don't sound tinny or shrill. Much like Richard Elliot,Sax Gordon and Ed Calle to name a few.Now, would the solid copper neck be too dark,or would the silver plated one be better ? They both look georgeous!Also I don't want it to choke when I really wail and lean into it. I trust your judgement explicitly -after all- you help some of the best players in the world.I also use a Guardala LT Michael Brecker MP for softer smooth jazz and quieter, unmiked gigs (small trios etc.).I hope you can figure out what my sound is like now and where I want to be.I research everything as best I can before I try it.I'm thinking of getting my sax mechanic here to put nodal resonators in my horn.(I have the regular metal ones now). His are just the regular silver colored ones.Will they help to put out a bigger sound? And or would the gold plated ones be significantly better? I also know now that the neck of a horn can change the sound and playability as much or more than a mouthpiece.Waiting for your advice,and am real anxious to try whatever you recomend.Do you have like a one week trial period where you just pay the return shipping if its not the sound I want? Also,it was a real pleasure to deal with Sharon on my recent purchases. She was very prompt and courteous with my orders.Sorry for the long e- mail,but we don't have anyone in Canada as respected and knowledgable as you to consult,and I'm very interested in sax gear,it's becoming a hobby.I'm all ears when it comes to improving the sound as new technology emerges. Thanks for listening Steve. God Bless...Bill Pendray

Answer: Bill: That's a lot of questions, and I'm happy to answer them all. Please send me a daytime phone number so I can call you. Send it to saxgourmet@cox.net

Question: There's a Steve Goodson tenor sax case for sale on ebay presently (Item # 130421750365). My question is: Do you have a tenor sax case that would be suitable for a Martin Tenor sax from the mid-1950's?

Answer: Yes....our Saxgourmet case will fit it well

Question: I have a c g conn conqueror cornet. It is in excellemt shape in original case with 2 mouth pieces , cleaning brush,and other original pieces. I was wondering what it is worth

Answer: I only deal with saxophones

Question: I have a 1938 or 1939 conn alto naked lady plays outstanding looking to sell it for a fair price sax need's nothing has a case jody jazz mouthpiece,reeds. Thanks Bill

Answer: Feel free to list it for sale on our forum

Question: Steve, I would like to order both a tenor and soprano mute. I tried using the cart but I don't see where to specify which size mute I want. My wife will be eternally grateful for your help in placing my order! Scott

Answer: just drop me an email.....I've already made a note of it

Question: I'm an advanced amateur woodwinds player, Clarinet and some sax since I was 10 (I'm 63), currently the Baritone Sax player for a local band. Have a Yamaha 52 Intermediate Bari that I started out renting 12 months ago and decided to keep though I was not satisfied with the thin upper range sound, has been fine on the low range, was using a Berg-Larsen hard rubber mouthpiece model 110/2 for a while which did not improve the depth of the upper ranges, moved to a Runyon Custom Spoiler 7 on a recommendation. It seems to be OK, keeping the spoiler in has improved the sound, adds brightness and loudness which helps when I need to be bigger for big band jazz situations. Gets me closer to the sound I like. But, I wonder how long that spoiler will last. I'm Looking for a permanent solution and bet you have mouthpiece, neck and/or other suggetions for improving the sound of this Bari. Appreciate any suggestions you might have. Thanks!

Answer: You'll find that our Low Rider bari mouthpiece will give you much better projection and intonation, and a far more complex sound with considerably richer lows. The design has a high baffle and very large chamber, and is available in .105 and .120 tips.

Question: Steve, I'm sure you're extremely busy and thank you for your prompt answer to my question about upper end thiness on my Yamaha Bari. Since I've most recently used Berg-Larsen 110/2 and Runyon 7 Custom Spoiler mouthpieces can you tell me if your .105 and .120 tips are equivalent to what tips sizes on these? Also, I can't seem to find info. on your site about your mouthpiece trial policy, not in FAQS, to possibly try both sizes of your Low Rider Bari piece. Thank you!

Answer: .105 and .120 ARE the tip sizes in 1/1000ths of an inch.... Here's our complete Terms of Service, which is on our www.nationofmusic.com site: Terms of Service Through the execution of your order through Nation of Music, you agree to the following terms and conditions as a condition of sale: All Sales are final. Any returns must be pre-authorized by us, and any refunds will be in the form of store credit only. Any allowed refunds will be less any fees and expenses incurred by us on the transaction. Any allowed returns must be received by us within five business days of delivery to you. We do not send out merchandise "on trial" or "on approval". Any and all merchandise returned with our prior approval will be charged a $30 cleaning and restocking fee in addition to all other expenses incurred by us on the transaction. Customs duties, taxes, and international shipping expenses are the responsibility of the buyer. We will not alter prices on invoices to facilitate lower customs duties. All warranty work is performed by us in our shop in New Orleans, nowhere else Warranty applies to the original purchaser only, and proof of purchase is required for any claims We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason We reserve the right to require payment via bank wire for any transaction exceeding $500 Any claims of shipping damage must be made immediately to the carrier by the purchaser, and the carriers full requirements for claims abided by. We make every reasonable effort to maintain all items in stock, but cannot be held responsible for delays caused by our vendors Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice Our preferred method of communication is email. We are rarely available to the telephone. Some merchandise, such as necks, may require fitting to your individual instrument by a local technician. All sales and warranties are made by Steve Goodson Woodwinds LLC or Nation of Music LLC, not by any individual or other company

Question: Hi Steve: My previous e-mail might have been a bit premature in some of my thinking. The ridge on the inside of my copper neck is probably the seam from when it was made right?(hand hammered and hand formed). Neither me or my sax tech have ever seen or felt inside a hand made neck. And it probably doesn't affect the air flow that much-or does it? When I first tried it out, I didn't have that great a reed on, which might of accounted for some of my preliminary observations.Also a new neck is like a new mouthpiece and you have to get used to blowing a little differently in different ranges.It's getting much better now.Some awesome sounds are coming out like never before. One thing I did notice was my super-king guardala and my brecker II mouthpieces when positioned on the cork and set to a tuner had only 5/8ths of an inch gripping the actual mouthpiece.(My stock selmer was 1 inch)Can an "o" ring be put in the neck enhancer groove which might support 3/4 rs of an inch? Or could it be re-corked(here at home) to almost the tip of the enhancer,which would be a full inch of support? Has this ever been done and would it affect anything? They fit fairly tight right now,but with wear I can see it might cause some unwanted flexability down the road.Need your expert opinion on this one? Thanks for your time,and look forward to your reply.Bye for now....Bill Pendray

Answer: Bill: Sure, you can add an O ring if you think it's necessary. That's why the groove is there. Once you get used to the neck, I think you will be amazed at the new great sounds coming out of your horn. Thanks for your business, and keep me posted.

Question: I am an older person who is beginning to pick up my sax again, now that I have retired from the regular workforce. In my younger days, I was into a nice, driving, gritty R&R sound,(utilized the growl technique while playing etc.) as well as a nasty,gritty blues sound. I developed a unique style by practicing and developing a number of the note distortions & styles Jimi Hendrix & Eric Clapton brought out on their guitars, with the ringing overtones/distortions etc. by developing various air passage/blowing/growling techniques, as well as I had an electric pick up installed into the horns neck, which allowed for plug in to Wah Wah pedals flangers & the like. I then combined & mixed that all in with some Jon Klemmer * I ws before him!!!) & Coltrane stylings & Tranes 12 tone usage etc, (think "My Favorite Things) for my style & sound development, although I wasn't a master by any stretch, but I was pretty good, if I do say so myself, definitely unique & different. I still have that particular sound in my mind, as well as for performing/practicing. I know it is where I want to go in this new stage of my development & performance aspirations, although I am not so sure of the electronic aspect of it. I know I want to use some electronic layered sounds live, like I used to be able to get on stage with the old Echo Rec units, transferred from my horns pick up directly into that unit. I will not be using an electronic pick up anymore. I have reviewed a number of your accessory videos & I was wondering if there is a particular mouthpiece, as well as neck combination, you would recommend for this type of sound. I am looking for something with great, quick response, as well as a clear, bright sound, with an ease of usage when sliding into the overtone series. I know my own development will be of paramount importance but thought there may be something to enhance this type of sound. I am currently using (I know-groan) a Selmar Bundy , student model, but will be upgrading when I know I am ready. I am kind of intrigued by the"bluesblaster" mouthpiece . as per your video introduction to this product & am wondering, also, if their is a neck combination for this type of sound which may enhance what I am developing. Perhaps, you may have another type of mouthpiece or neck combination which would be more in line for this type of sound/performance material. I am using an Otto Link, 7 Star, Super Tone Master w/Selmar Bundy neck, and the sound I am producing is full, clean & good sounding but it doesn't seem to have that "bite" I am looking for. Any ideas I may take a look at before I make a decision. thanks...Ross

Answer: Get our solid copper neck with nodal weights and either a Super Duck or Yellow Moon mouthpiece

Question: I've been wanting to play soprano saxophone for about two years now, I a small budget tho, do you by any chance know were I can find a good soprano saxophone for a good price?

Answer: Take a look at our curved soprano.

Question: i was looking at your saxgormet tenor sax case it is a monster however you didn'y mention and i couldn't tell if it could be locked for safekeeping i've spoken with you on the phone and bought a few things from you you are a super guy and felt it a priviledge you really know what's happening thank you you for your time and info vic

Answer: You can connect the zippers with a padlock to secure the interior. The two zippers have a hole for just this purpose.

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