Sax on the Web Forum Archive / Baritone Saxophone / Martin Handcraft bari

danmcb User ID: 0791694

Sep 23rd 4:30 AM I tried one of these at a music fair this weekend. First time I ever blew a bari. I'm doing a little advance research - looking to pick up a bari next year. First thing I was surprised by was how easy it was. Lighter than expected, and no trouble at all blowing the full range. It had been recently overhauled (by a dealer who is new to me), I'd say that was a credit to his work. Beautiful rich tone too. What would have made me think twice about this horn would be absence of side C and front F keys - I imagine that that would be an annoyance as time wears on. The asking was 1585 euros. Any advice for the future?

sorelipric User ID: 0366544

Nov 8th 12:29 AM danmcb - seems like nobody likes to talk about these. I've got a 121,XXX from 1937, with the Searchlight engraving. Almost no lacquer left, the round curvy part the neck connects to{ok, so I don't remember what its called}is all dented and the necks got a patch on it. But it sure plays nice. My first bari, I've got a The Martin on the way from ebay, but I think the Handcraft will be able to hold its own. No front F or articulated G#{did i get that right?} but the left pinky table seems to flow nicely. I paid $622 on ebay and only had to get the Eb guard unbent, pads are still fine after a year with what was there when I got the ugly thing. I'd also appreciate any other impressions out there.