The Eastman 52nd Street Alto Saxophone
The 52nd Street saxophone is a professional instrument and comes unlacquered for a truly vintage appearance. It is an exceptionally responsive horn in all registers and produces a big, fat sound with precise intonation. A larger bell and rolled-style tone holes contribute to the sound qualities of this instrument that many compare to some of the great vintage horns of the past.
The 52nd Street’s “S” Neck
This neck has a wider bore taper that enhances the tonal openness and freedom of response. The open design encourages fuller vibration of the reed, resulting in a free-blowing quality across the range of the instrument.
Aged, Unlacquered Brass Finish
This saxophone features an aged, unlacquered brass finish. Instruments that are unlacquered tend to vibrate more freely simply because there is no finish to dampen the vibrations. The material has complete freedom of movement, allowing for a full sound, especially in the low register.
Rolled-Style Tone Holes
One interesting feature of the 52nd Street is that it has rolled-style tone holes. The purpose of the rolled tone holes is to up the surface area of where the pads seat on the tone hole. The increased surface area allows the pads to seat more reliably. Combining that with the treated leather pads, this saxophone sports a clear, robust tone.
An Ergonomic Experience
The ergonomic key layout and the adjustable thumb rest are designed to fit well into the hands. With blue steel springs and a customized feel, the keywork has a crisp, fast response. The left-hand seesaw key has been designed to increase playability as well as provide a more comfortable feel.
Large Bell Flair
The larger bell flare of the 52nd street spreads the instrument’s projection and enhances the tonal openness. The bell is hand-hammered, improving the response and resonance of the lower tones.
Vintage Style
We also have abalone inlay on the key buttons and hand engraving on the bell and neck, adding a touch of class to this vintage-style saxophone.
