P. Mauriat saxophone experiences? [Archive]

Chris S

12-21-2004, 09:00 AM

As promised, here's my review:

Here's what I could get as far as background info. They're a Series II copy, made in Taiwan with French Brass. That's about all I know.

So I played one of the altos today, a PMSA67. I'm sold. Here's why:

The low end resonates better than any horn I've ever played. Blowing a low C is as easy as blowing a middle C. It really resonates well, with no stuffiness, no gurgling, nothing, just the note that Adolph intended.

The high end (specifically the palm keys) aren't thin like most other horns. They really have a great fat sound to them. Even into the alt range.

The intonation on these horns is dead-on. The lower RH stack is a little flat, but not bad, easy to lip up. The mid C-C#-D is REALLY well in tune. I was amazed while watching the tuner, I'm used to working a lot harder.

They respond (and overall play) as well as, if not better, than any other horn that I've ever played. And at the price that they're being offered, they're a steal, I feel like I should be paying twice as much for the horn as I am. They also come with a pretty nice BAM-style flight case.

I'll be getting my alto in mid-Jan. Tim over at Sax Alley has sold about 40 of these this year, their first year of production. Roger Greenberg (recently retired from UNC) switched to these horns, and that man is a serious player.

I'm really considering going all Mauriat with my horns. I've owned two Keilwerth SX90R's, a low-digit Mark VII, a Buescher 'Big B' Aristocrat, and a Conn Chu Berry. This horn blew them all away. It's suitable for both classical and jazz playing. This (as well as the above statements) are what make this horn different from the Cannonballs. Those are manufactured the same way ('cept they use Taiwanese brass), but I've always felt that the Cannonballs aren't really made for a classical setting. These things have the subtley for any classical playing, but I slapped my jazz piece on, and it wailed. I could probably tear down walls and small third world countries with this horn.

I'm making the switch, and like I said, I've played a lot of the big names out there, if that means anything to you.

If any of you have a chance to play these horns, GO FOR IT, you won't regret it.

As far as I know, Tim at Sax Alley and some place in Denver are the only places that carry the horns in the US. Tim's prices (as usual) are significantly lower than the place in Denver, and S&H is included in his cost. If you're interested, you might want to pick one up, the prices are going up after the 1st of the year, right now he's selling the alto for (I think) $1590. Check out his site www.saxalley.com

P. Mauriat horns are fine quality, and cost effiecient. What more could you want in a horn?

Chris S

xuanvu

12-21-2004, 05:01 PM

Sounds very interesting, I'm in Denver but heaven't fried this horn. I'll look around to see if I can try one of them.

Kenny.

tonyg

01-04-2005, 11:39 PM

So are you saying these are similar in action and tone to series II selmers? Whats the difference between French brass and Taiwanese brass.

Morry

01-05-2005, 01:12 AM

-- self edited --

Ol' Mpc Doc

01-05-2005, 03:10 AM

Whats the difference between French brass and Taiwanese brass.

Advertising hype! It's the most common alloying "additive" being used in brass musical instruments, sort of like the "Belgian Bell Metal" now claimed as being used in some "new model" mpcs.....':roll:'

tonyg

01-07-2005, 03:14 AM

Kenny, I would like to get your take on these, if you get to try one anytime soon.

Tony

xuanvu

01-07-2005, 03:41 AM

tonyg,
I'll go to SaxAlley in the next day or two to search for a mpc for my new soprano and will definately check the P. Mauriat sax.

Kenny.

cmlow

01-14-2005, 06:17 AM

i tried the p.mauriat during the Thailand international saxophone conference....and it souns fantastic. In fact i was asking Roger greenberg and hear him played the horns on a solo concerto.

I think the intonation is fine, and it sounds nice, big!!! and of course, the price is something that able to move everybody heart to get one of this horns. but the only thing i worried is, whether the mechanicsm can last long or not. As most of the taiwan make saxophone played pretty well in the first few years, but can it last long and become a legendary instrument after some year???

Chris S

01-14-2005, 06:53 AM

Well, that's to be found out, as I understand, they're only in their second (I think) year of production, so.... I'll try and remember to repost on this thread in a few years, lol.

Chris S

xuanvu

01-14-2005, 05:13 PM

I've went to Tim's place the other day but didn't have time to try any of the saxes!!! I will be back there on Jan. 27 for him to check my soprano and he said it would be about 2 hours, so in that 2 hours, I'm sure will have lots of fun with the P. Mauriat saxes :)

Will post back here soon.

Kenny.

Chris S

01-15-2005, 03:29 AM

I went to Tim's today to pick mine out. Come to find out, they're pretty consistent. One plays more or less like every other one.

I'll be getting mine hopefully next week (if I have it shipped, then I don't pay sales tax). I'll keep everyone posted on how it does.

Kenny, you might mention to Tim that you're going to want to be playing some, he got three altos in at the beginning of last week, and two of them have already sold. These things are flying out of there.

Chris S

Sigmund451

01-15-2005, 11:06 PM

Dave at Junkdued is carrying them now. The tenor (lots of pics at junkdude.com) lead me to believe its a Reference 54 copy. Its a dead ringer down to every key detail. As for the neck and bore I cant say.

BigDaddyJ

01-16-2005, 02:31 AM

Sigmund, I think this Taiwan horn smokes the Ref 54 tenor. I was just at Sax Alley yesterday played this wonderful horn. The P. Mauriat's got the dark, powerful sound of my Martin with modern ergonomics. I'm sold. This is the next sax I'm buying. I think this horn competes with ANY horn on the market.

later

Joel

DanY

01-16-2005, 03:02 AM

Has anyone tried the baritone sax?

License to Blow

01-16-2005, 06:50 AM

I visited Saxalley for the first time. Great people!
I played the P. Muriats 66 and 67 models.
Key tables do have a series II feel.
The neck tip openings are large, over .515 on altos and the tenors are larger
Characteristically, CBalls came to mind. The horns are indeed dark and loud with a slightly less blattyness than the CBalls. Incidentally Saxalley had a Ref 54 tenor and 36. Played both. The 54 really surprised me. Very warm and resonant with great response and flexiability. Altissimo a breeze with superb scale. Spring tension about 30% less than typical. The bow on this 54 was bigger in radius like the 36. Not impressed with the Ref 36 though.
Sorry about losing focus on thread.

Sonics on the Muriat was simple and clear with a medium focus. Very free blowing horns that require more effort to shape and control each note.

When I glanced over P. Muriat's web site and noticed albest musical, I thought I might have clue who makes them. In my directory - www.albestsax.com.tw. The link is now dead. I do recall reading last year that they OEM for CBall and Dixon and Jupiter on the albest.com.tw site
Conatct I have for albest is Galtosax6@ms75.hinet.net
I did a search on the email.
http://www.sosaxy.com.tw/main.htm

Sigmund451

01-16-2005, 06:58 AM

From what it sounds I guess the looks are where the similarities stop. I play a Martin as well as a 54. I wouldnt really compare the two...Kind of like apples and oranges....meat and cheese...something like that. Dave at Junkdude said that people are trying the Cballs and other big sounding horns and comming back and buying these horns.

xuanvu

01-22-2005, 06:24 AM

I brought my R1 Jazz curved soprano today for Tim to adjust, it took him 2 hours so I got a chance to play some P. Mauriat soprano sax... One word, "WOW!!!" If I have money at the moment, I would take it right away without any hesitates... It's absolutely beatiful: control, reponses, & tone... The action is fast, I mean REALLY FAST. It reponses so fast that the moment I finger a note, I immediately feel the response, the vibration and the note just speaks... and it is much easier than my R1 Jazz (after the adjustment from Tim, my sop. is very close but still, not equal to the reponse of the P. Mauriats) The tone is what I'm looking for. I always look for a spreading kind of tone, and this is it. It can fill the whole room easily, without the harsh. I will save some money now and my next purchase, for sure gonna be a P. Mauriat straight sop. sax.

Kenny.

Sigmund451

01-22-2005, 07:21 AM

Better stop spreading news. They will do like Jupiter Artist and up the price over 30% in one fell swoop!

Chris S

01-22-2005, 07:35 AM

Sig,

Two things: 1) They're not a 54 copy, definitely a Serie II.

2) They're already starting to up the prices. I got last year's price from Tim simply because he didn't have any in stock for me to buy until after the first.

As a side note, I went and picked mine out last week. I played three of them, and the thing that I noticed was that they're VERY consistent. I picked mine because it seemed to respond slightly better than the other two, but not that much. If I didn't know better, I would have thought that Tim handed me the same horn three times.

It should be here any day now.

Chris S

sweetsax

01-27-2005, 08:18 PM

Just thought I'd add my $0.02 about the Mauriats. I was up at Tim's a couple weeks ago for an adjustment to my ref 54 alto. Tim let me try several tenors while he worked on my alto (Kenny - I was the guy that was there when you were checking out soprano mouthpeices).

Anyway - the Mauriat tenor was a very pleasant suprize. It is very much a series II clone except the tone is a little warmer and spread. Think of it as a series II that is slightly less punchy and powerfull. The tone isn't nearly as dark as the Ref 54 or 36 tenors, but the Mauriat was waaaayyy easier for me to blow than those Reference horns.

I think these horns are a real contender, especially if you consider the price. The thing I always fear when looking at saxes in that price range is that they will sound like a student horn with a thin and weak tone quality. But that wasn't the case at all. There is really a core to the sound that will project just fine. It does have the full, sultry, enveloping sound that puts it in the professional sax category. It's the real deal.

I do wish they had other finish options available though. I'm not big fan of the matte finishes or the fake vintage patina......

xuanvu

01-27-2005, 09:08 PM

Hey sweetsax, didn't know that you was the guy there :) I will bring my Ref. 54 alto to him for an adjustment job too, Tim did a wonderful job on my Sop... Like you said, the thing I like the best about P. Mauriat sax is that they just blow so freely and easily, the notes just pop out and you can feel the vibration the moment you blow...

Kenny.

sweetsax

01-28-2005, 09:05 PM

Hey Kenny,
Yep that was me. I hope you are enjoying that R1 Jazz curved sop. I knew what it was when I saw the case and it made me jealous, man.

Do you have tenor sax? I want to get one soon, but since it's not my main horn, I want to keep it as cheap as possible. I was thinking of either going vintage or getting a Yamaha, but playing those Mauriats made me think twice. They are over 20% cheaper than the Yamaha Z, and they seem to play real nice. hhhhmmmmm, decisions, decisions.....

Chris S

02-04-2005, 10:16 AM

I went and picked up my alto today and played for about an hour.

I'm still sold on it. I had a few probelms with the low register, but I'm going to (temporarily) attribute that to it being a new horn.

This thing sings, and it projects VERY well.

There were some concerns regarding the durability of these horns, and after playing it for an hour, I think (just the feel of the horn) that they're very sturdy. A friend of mine picked it up and I asked him if he thought it was sturdy, and he seemed to think so.

So anyway, I'm going to be practicing a lot this weekend, I love this horn.

Best,
Chris S

sweetsax

02-04-2005, 09:15 PM

Hey Chris,
Keep us posted on how the horn holds up and settles in after the honeymoon.

I have been saving my pennies for a new tenor and I wanted to keep the cost as low as possible without sacraficing too much in the way of quality and sound (so yamaha custom is the obvious choice).

But these new Mauriats present a new and interesting option. The one I tested played great, and the cost is even lower than a yamaha custom.
I just don't want to buy the mauriate and find myself yearning for "better" horn later. I already went through that never-ending quest with my alto, and I can't do that again for tenor. I just want one that I'll be happy with forever.

but then again, we saxophonist never seem to be satisfied. It's all part of the sickness........

BigDaddyJ

02-10-2005, 10:14 PM

I got a message from Tim yesterday informing me of 3 brand spanking new tenors that came in yesterday. I had the afternoon free, so I drove up to Sax Alley today to check them out. Along for the ride came my trusty The Martin Tenor. I used a Zagar Cool School and a Ponzol Super for testing. When I arrived, I was somewhat disappointed that the tenors were still in the boxes, and that Tim hadn't had the time to check them out first. Oh well.....Tim is WAY busy with over 2 weeks worth of work to do. On to the reviews.

Tenor #1
WOW! This played better than I remembered from the last one I tried 1 month ago, and this horn hasn't even been set-up. :shock: Big, thick, dark resonant sound without sounding veiled at all. The horn just vibrated in my hands, kind of like my old '36 10M. Ergonomics were great, and it was very free-blowing. Intonation was just fine. Great first impression.

Tenor #2
Same core sound, just a little brighter. More focused sound. Feels exactly the same.

Tenor #3
Somewhere in between #1 and #2 in trms of sound. A little more resistance, but that could be due to needing adjustment. At this point I was just going on pure sound.

Reality check time: I tooled around on my Martin again to get a comparison in terms of sound, volume, and tone. Good so far. So back to #1. Tim had 4 extra necks that he had ordered, so I got to try them out on #1.

Neck #1
More focused sound. A little smaller of a sound.

Neck #2
Even more focused sound. Brightened up the sound more than I liked.

Neck #3
Very close to the original neck. Just not as FAT sounding in the lower half of the horn. A little louder than the original neck.

Neck #4
Sounds like neck #1.

I put the orginal neck back on and voila.......Big, fat, lush sound. It was cool to try the four other necks though to see what a big difference they made to the over all impression of tenor #1. At this point, I was still up in the air about increasing the debt I had for so long worn down to not much. I slapped my set-up on my Martin one last time and.......the sound WAS smaller than tenor #1. A note about my Martin. I have played this horn against most horns on the market, and it always came out the tenor on top. What can I say, I'll be picking up my new tenor in a few weeks after Tim gives it the new horn set-up.

later

Joel

sweetsax

02-15-2005, 08:41 PM

Yo BigDaddyJ,

Congrats on the new purchase! My theory is: who cares about having good credit tomorrow when you can buy a new axe TODAY!

So were the four different necks you tried all the same finish? Were they all just extra necks Tim has in stock for replacements, or are there now different necks being offered as accessories like silver, copper, plated, etc?

I going to go back up to Tim's in a couple weeks and give those Mauriat tenors a more extensive and thorough play test. Last time I was there, I spent most of my time with some of the vintage horns he had. This time, I'm gonna try the Mauriats against the two Reference tenors that Tim has. I played a Reference 36 at Flesher-Hinton last week that was incredible. It was the only well wet-up 36 I've ever tried, and it played like a dream. If I would have had the money, I would have bought it right then. But those horns are crazy expensive!!!

When I go to Tim's, I'm really going focus on the Reference tenors and the Mauriat. I'm really hoping the Mauriat holds it's own against the selmers because of the huge price difference....

BigDaddyJ

02-16-2005, 12:58 AM

Yo sweetsax,

The 4 other necks looked exactly like the stock neck. As far as I know, they were the same brass. I've played that Ref 36 at Flesher-Hinton. Good horn. They also had a lacquer 82Z that I thought played better though. Too bad the 82Z was brighter than I liked.

Tim sold that REf 54. If you dig the Selmer sound, I'm not so sure the P. Mauriat is the way to go for you. I've been going down the Road to the Darkside for a while now, and that's why I love these P. Mauriats. I guess you never know until you try 'em though. Try to play more than 1 if Tim has them. As noted in my review, one of the tenors had a more focused sound than the one I am buying.

later

Joel

P.S. We should have a Denver Sax Summit. Hang out, play different horns, and just talk sax.

sweetsax

02-17-2005, 05:07 PM

Hey BigDaddyJ

I do dig the Selmer sound, but mostly for alto. I really don't have a frame of reference for the tenor though. In my limited testing experience, I've had a more favorable reaction to tenors that I thought had a BIG, smooth, and lush sound. Something that I could whisper out a nice ballad with, but also push hard when I have a solo in big band. Some of the Conns and Bueschers that Tim had gave me that reaction - like as soon as I blew into the horn it just rumbled in my hands and filled the room with that big, bold tenor sax sound. I remember the Mauriat being similar to that, but I was mainly interested in testing all the vintage altos and tenors he had, so I didn't spend enough time with the Mauriat tenor.

I went to Music Arts in Westminster and played the unlaq Z, a custom EX, and a Ref 54 tenor. I didn't like either of the Yamahas. I thought they were VERY bright and completely lacking tonal character. The 54 sounded much better, but it was out of adjustment and had a very stuffy middle D, D#, and E. Going chromatically from middle B to F, the horn was just all over the place.

On a funny side note - the kid working at Music Arts (who said he was a sax player) told me that both the Z and the 54 were unlacquered horns, but that the Z was polished and the 54 was not. "That's why the 54 already has that worn and tarnished look." I told him the 54 has a matte style laq and is treated to give it a dull and inconsistent patina. He looked at me like I was insane.

Anyway, I hope to get up to Tim’s place again real soon, before he sells that 36. I want to spend more time with those Mauriats and compare those two extensively.

I think a Denver sax summit would be a good idea. I'm not sure how many members are from our area. At least a few in this thread.

BigDaddyJ

02-18-2005, 01:52 AM

sweetsax,

"BIG, smoot, and lush sound"......That's what I like to hear! We ARE on the same page. That's the reason I sold a great Selmer Mark VI and bought a '39 Conn 10M for. I eventually moved onto Martins, and I have been playing Martins for over 10 years. The P. Mauriat is the first modern sax I've played that gives me the same thrill from hearing the sound of a tenor as my Martin. B&S tenors are up there too. By the way, Tim has the BEST Martin I've every played at Sax Alley right now. He's got this Martin Magna tenor that is AWESOME! You have got to try it. I agree about the sound of Yamahas being to bright. Huge sound but just to piercing. I'll throw something up in the Get Together section about a general sax meet for the Denver area.

later

Joel

sweetsax

02-18-2005, 06:54 PM

Hey Joel,
A big, smooth, lush sound, but also a sound that projects well. Last year I got rid of my YAS 61 because the sound was not projecting enough for what I needed. With that old Yamaha, it was like there was a certain point with that sax where it could not take any more air without backing up on me. I tried all sorts of mouthpieces with ridiculously huge tip openings and still, that Yamaha 61 would just not open up for me.

So I went on a quest for a new alto. I have no brand loyalty at all, and I have not fallen for the Selmer mystique. That being said, I bought a new Ref 54 alto after trying everything out there. With the 54, there is no limit to how much air it will take, and the tone just has a beautiful complexity to it. Even at quite volumes, there is still a richness to the sound. The Yamaha only had one good volume – medium loud. Too soft, and the sound just died. Too loud and the sound became shrill and edgy.

I want a similar concept for tenor, which is why the 36 appealed to me so much. But I am hoping the Mauriat can give me what I want for under half the cost. Hopefully, I’ll get up to Tim’s real soon and give those Mauriats a more serious blow….

PS – I responded to the Denver summit. Hopefully we can solicit some more members, including Tim….

Keith Ridenhour

03-12-2005, 05:04 PM

I have a P Mauriat on order from Tim and hope it will be my horn search ending?? I played a The Martin for a few years and really like the ergonomics and ease of playing along with the fat alt but there was a "tubbyness" in the tone that reminded me of big band 50s sound that I didn't like so I went on the search. I am always drawn to the selmer tone (read Brecker and Picket) but want it fatter and with more punch so I can be heard . ( I did buy a Mk 6 last year and it played stuffy and slow so I resold it for the 3 K I had into it). I picked up a YTS 62 II a few months ago and liked the better core to the tone than The Martin but I have to admit I am missing the fatter higher register and alt that the Martin had and the tone and inability of this horn to stay in adjustment is getting me pissed. I recently went to Las Vegas and tryed out Medusas, the new Yani, and a ref 54 and really liked the tone on the Ref and how easy it was to play. So, I talked to Tim and he told me that this Mauriat sounds better than the ref, has a fatter tone and is less than half the price so I said okay, for the 100 dollar gamble . (shipping both ways) I'll check it out. If anyone has Mp3s of what they sound like on the P along with their previous horns I'd love to hear them. I know that my results might be different but you can hear tendencies from such a comparison. thanks K

BigDaddyJ

03-13-2005, 05:35 AM

Yo Keith,

I'll be picking up my Mauriat tenor with rolled tone holes pretty damn soon. I've been playing on Martins for almost 10 years, and this is the only modern tenor that I'm willing to replace my The Martin tenor with. The tone of these Mauriat tenors RULE! Big, dark, throaty, FAT........The sound of the horn I picked out is some where between my Martin tenor and a vintage Keilwerth. Man, just talking about it makes my fingers itch to play it.

later

Joel

sweetsax

03-14-2005, 04:30 PM

Hey BigDaddyJ
I noticed that new model on Tim's web site with the rolled-tone holes. I emailed him a few times to inquire about it (I haven't made it up there to do any more play testing, and in the meantime I ordered myself a Keilwerth tenor).

Anyway, one thing Tim wasn't sure of is how the rolled tone hole is built. Is it a soldered-on peice like the Keilwerth, or is it part of the chimney that is folded over like the old Conns? Were you able to tell this by looking at the horn at all? Also - Tim's website says it has a "bigger bell flare, like a Keilwerth." Is the bell just flared more, or did you notice if it has the bigger, longer bow with a bigger volume bell?

Sorry to ask all these questions. I would ask Tim to email me pictures, but I've had him send me tons of pictures lately of saxes I didn't intend to buy but I was just curious about. I know Tim is a busy guy so I don't want to keep doing that unless I'm serious about buying.

I take delivery of my new Keilwerth on Wednesday and I can't WAIT! Part of my excitement comes from the good price I got for it. I only paid a couple hundred more than the price of one of those new Mauriats. I could easily afford to own both if decide I still want a Mauriat.

I'm with you Keith - I played a couple of Ref tenors recently that blew me away, but sticker shock man!! I've already paid off the debt I accumulated getting my Ref Alto, and I just can't justify doing that again for a tenor (especially when it's not my main horn).

Anyway - I hope you guys enjoy your new (AFFORDABLE) horns!!!!

BigDaddyJ

03-14-2005, 05:44 PM

Yo sweetsax,

they look like true rolled tone holes (ala conn), but I'm assuming they are soldered on like modern Keilwerths. With the vintage lacquer look, it's impossible to tell. I don't think the bell is Keilwerth big, but I didn't put it next to a KW. I think the flare is just a little more than the normal Mauriat. The sound IS bigger than the straight tone hole model I had previously picked out, but that could be variances other than the bell or toneholes. I was blown away at how big a difference the different necks made. All I know is that prototype rolled tone hole model did it for me. There's a good chance my horn will be done this week. Since your in the Denver area, we can meet somewhere, and you can give it a blow and see how it compares to your Keilwerth.

Yo Keith,

what kind of mouthpiece are you using? What mpc's have you tried? 10 years ago I was going for the Picket sound. I had a great late model Mark VI, but the various Berg's I tried just didn't work for me.

later

Joel

Morry

03-16-2005, 05:01 AM

I played one of the RTH models (66R I think) at my dealers today. Such a dark, lush, smokey sound. I had him put it aside for me, and I've got to work out the finances. I was VERY impressed that a horn in that price range would blow my skirt up like that.

It might be a little dark for big band kind of work (not sure how it would cut), but for my personal enjoyment or mic'd work, it would be hard to beat. Of course, I was playing my Barone metal Jazz piece, which is a dark sounding piece, so that might have something to do with it. I just really loved the combination. I finally like my tenor sound a bit.

I felt like the horn was built well, and it was MUCH lighter than my SX90R. A 3 or 4 hour rehearsal with the Keilwerth around your neck is tiring, but this tenor is very comfortable. I couldn't recommend one more.

BTW, my dealer friend will make some very good deals on them, if anyone else is interested.

The only downside is the crappy case. Very plastic feeling. I will immediately move mine into a Protec.

GHawk

03-22-2005, 04:13 AM

Morry,

Where did you find one? I'm interested in the alto with rolled toneholes. The prices are unbelievable and I've read lots of good reviews, but I really want to get my hands on one and play it.

Greg

Morry

03-22-2005, 10:11 PM

Mr. Prewett is handling them. He'll make you a REALLY good deal on them. I think that he has an alto coming any day now. If it's anything like the tenor, you'll be amazed.

Leon

03-28-2005, 05:26 PM

Thanks for the information on the Mauriat - I'm hooked - maury, is it? (Sorry if I mispelled your name). I'm interested in the distributor you mention, especially if you are in the Southeast, (alabama) area as you seem to be. Who is this person, and how do we contact?

Thanks,
Leon

Randall

04-04-2005, 09:15 AM

MORRY, how soon til delivery day? :razz:

Morry

04-05-2005, 04:20 AM

Well, I'm kind of in a cash crunch right now, but I think that I'm just going to float the Mauriat on a credit line account and go ahead and pick it up this week. I just can't get that lush sound out of my head.

saxmanglen

04-05-2005, 06:05 AM

You know the GAS is bad when you start using the rationale................not how much, how much a month? :rolleyes:

Randall

04-05-2005, 08:59 AM

Morry, lookin' forward to hearing more and seeing some pix too. :p

"gonna get it...with your good credit!...."

Morry

04-05-2005, 10:08 AM

Trouble is, you keep buying and then the credit ain't so good. lol

BTW, our band added Credit to our repertoire a week or so ago. That's a fun tune to play.

Randall

04-05-2005, 02:08 PM

BTW Morry, I contacted that band about arrangements, but got no response whatsoever. Can you give me an email addy and a name to contact. I really would like to get some of those tunes for my funk band.
Thanks!

BigDaddyJ

04-12-2005, 02:51 AM

So I pulled out all my good tenor pieces to try on the Mauriat. Damn! All of them sounded good on th horn. I haven't played on my old Morgan 8M in about 10 years, and it sounded AWESOME. Very RnB-ish. What can I say, the P. Mauriat is very mpc friendly. In comparison, The Martin Tenor only sounded good with about half my mpc's. My favorites are still my Zagar Cool School and my Ponzol Super, but I'm definitely going to play around more with that 8M. I know I'm gushing, but if you're in the market for a new tenor, you have to try these horns.

later

Joel

Morry

04-12-2005, 03:48 AM

BigDaddyJ

04-14-2005, 09:34 AM

Morry,

no Barones in my shoe box, but I keep my eyes open for a deal on a Jazz model. When I want lush, my Zagar CS gives me that in spades. Have you brought your 66R home yet?

later

Joel

Morry

04-15-2005, 07:57 PM

I finally picked my P. Mauriat 66R tenor up today during lunch. I'll post my impressions later this evening after getting ot play awhile.

Morry

04-15-2005, 07:59 PM

Randall

04-15-2005, 09:46 PM

Congrads on finally getting it Morry...Looking forward to hearing more!

TeckGecko

04-18-2005, 03:51 AM

Does anyone know whether the 67R requires a special case, like a Keilwerth, due to its larger bell?

Morry

04-20-2005, 04:16 PM

Ok, I've lived with the new tenor now for a week, and I can tell you that I love this horn. It won't replace my Keilwerth, but I do like it very much. For my own playing pleasure, this horn is more enjoyable to play that anything I've had in quite a while. True, the SX90R is more powerful and in-your-face than the P. Mauriat, but the 66R's sound is full, nice and complex, and has an airy quality to it that I like. For live, amplified work, the JK is tough to beat, but I suspect that this new tenor would be excellent for recording, or live small combo kind of stuff, where the nuance of the tone is easier to hear.

My first impression was that the sound was much like a Ref 54, and I still think that is true. The bottom end is much better, though, and Bb1 floats right out at pp volume. The intonation is dead on with the Barone Jazz piece, something that is not true with my Keilwerth. The JK doesn't like big, round chambered pieces, intonation-wise, but this horn works great with the Barone. I'm glad of that, because that is my all-time favorite mouthpiece.

The build quality of the horn is really exceptional, considering the price, as exemplified by things like the heavy neck receiver and solid key feel. There's no slop at all in the keys or octave mechanism, and running through some faster passages was easier than on the JK. The finish is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of thing. I have no problem with the look, and I like that it doesn't show fingerprints at all. I'd say that if you like the look of the original Ref 54s, then you'll like this one too.

The Mauriat case really sucks, though. I wouldn't recommend taking the horn out anywhere before replacing it. Fortunately, I have a spare Protec sitting in the closet, so I'll utilize that.

All in all, considering the very good deal I got on the horn, I consider this to be the best saxophone value on the planet right now. Be sure to give one a try if you get the opportunity. So far, I think that everyone on the board that's tried one has bought it, and I can see why.

Fred

04-20-2005, 05:56 PM

Morry (and others), what was your assessment of the RTH vs. non-RTH tenor models? Can anyone comment on the alto? The tenor seems to be the more popular of the two.

Morry

04-20-2005, 06:53 PM

I've only seen and played the RTH tenor model, so I can't comment on the others. I heard that the RTH models also incorporated a larger bell and bow design, but I'm not sure. Maybe others that have been by Tim's place can comment.

BigDaddyJ

04-20-2005, 07:02 PM

Fred,

Over at Sax Alley, I had the pleasure of trying out 4 Mauriats (no RTH's) before buying the RTH model. The non-RTH model tenors are great horns also. Read my initial review earlier in this thread about the differences I noticed (especially in the different necks). I had posted some thoughts about the difference in sound with the 66R, but it seems to have been lost in the translation to the current forum. I'm not sure if it's actually the RTH's that makes the difference, but my 66R just roars even in comparison to the other Mauriats I've tried. My old Martin could fill rooms without a mic, and I think my Mauriat has an even bigger sound. Volume without sacrificing the tone....this horn RULES!! I got to try the 67R (RTH alto). It's a great alto, but it doesn't quite have the meaty sound of my Recording King alto (Martin stencil). If I buy a modern alto it will be a Mauriat 67R.

Morry, good review. I too am absolutely smitten with this horn. I am of the opinion that this horn smokes the hand full of Ref 54's and Ref 36's I've tried. For that matter, it smokes every modern horn I've tried period (haven't tried a Borganni or a R&C yet). Unless this horn falls apart on me, I can't see myself ever getting another tenor.

later

Joel

Morry

04-20-2005, 08:11 PM

Plus, you didn't have to mortgage the farm to get it. Seeing that my dealer friend will sell them for below $2000, I don't know any horn that can touch it.

sweetsax

04-20-2005, 11:57 PM

By the way, I reached inside the bell and felt the tone hold chimneys, and I don't feel a ridge like you'd expect from a soldered on tone hole ring. That leads me to believe that they are drawn and rolled, although that's not what I would have expected in this price range horn.

Really Morry!! So can you feel the ridge on your Keilwerth horns with rolled tone holes? I would really be impressed if the P. Mauriat designers went to that level of detail on an affordable horn. I've asked the Mauriat dealer in my area if he could find out how the rolled tone hole is built, but I haven't contacted him to see what he found out about it. I really need to get back to his shop and give these horns a more extensive play test.

Not sure what your feelings are on the pros and cons of soldering the ring on as Keilwerth does. I've heard the rings can warp or not be put on very straight with the soldering method. When I bought by Keilwerth tenor I went with straight tone holes just because it was so much cheaper, and I've never done a side-by-side with rolled and non-rolled.

Anyway, congradulations. It's always fun to get a new horn.

Morry

04-21-2005, 12:42 AM

To be honest, I've never tried to feel inside the rings on the JK, since I knew that they were soldered on. It seems to me that, from a manufacturing standpoint, you would solder the rim of the chimney to the center of the tone hole ring. If that's true, there should be an equal ridge on both the inside and outside of the chimney.

I'll try and do a side-by-side comparison.

Keith Ridenhour

04-23-2005, 05:55 AM

Tim sent me my P from Sax Alley and I have to put in a big plug for him. Set up was awesome!!! Bubblewraped inside the case, keys corked, Response is great. As he said over the phone it has a fatter low end and top end compared to my current set up (year old YTS 62 Mk 2) . Intonation is excellent. Palm keys take some looking for since I'm used to the flanged out Yamaha Keys. Alt is stonger on the P than my Yamaha. I like the flight case I got with it. All in all I think I'm gonna keep it. I recorded myself switching horns staying in the low end, then the midrange, then up in the palms and with my recording set up I didn't really hear as much difference recorded as I hear live, behind the horn. The P has a more spread tone and responds quicker so I could probably move up a notch in reed strength to get a fatter tone. Bottom line is that this horn is easier to play than my YTS and a half pound lighter which makes a differnce come third set. It has plenty of guts and the most intreging aspect I found is there is a spark of a core that I want to add to my tone that I think I can pull out of the P once I voice it and do the long tones for a couple of weeks. It does remind me of my The Martin but with a more modern core to the tone. I am debating putting that tone sample on my website. I think at the full volume I play at with the band both horns sound pretty close but at a medium or soft volume there is a darker tone to the P. I'll let a couple of more days go by before I tell Tim to take me on the Mastercard ride, but I'm 90% sure. K

Morry

04-23-2005, 06:31 AM

Keith, I agree that it's in the non-amplified situations that these horns will really shine. I've never gotten a fatter, more lush subtone that I get on this horn. I like the way that I seem to be "in" the sound, instead of behind it. I think you'll like the "P" more and more as you get used to it.

I guess you've coined the new nickname for the horns. :-)

Chris S

04-23-2005, 08:36 AM

Keith, glad to hear we have yet another "P" convert around here.

I think Morry's right, the more you play it, the more you'll like it. I've had my alto for about three months now, and I'm still in a honeymoon stage with it.

Best,
Chris S

Keith Ridenhour

04-23-2005, 02:57 PM

The funny thing is that I'm at a stage now where the changes are subtle from horn to horn for improvement. My main axe to grind with the Yamaha 62 2 (which is a fine horn, don't get me wrong) is the thin alt and it seems to be harder than other horns for me to keep in adjustment?? I've had a leaky low D for awhile that I can blow through but am getting tired of having to deal with. (We're talking many tech visits here). I do notice that the postioning of the neck hook makes the P want to turn more off to the left than the Yamaha and I'll have to adjust to that. I do really like the look of the P. Kind of a different color in different lighting effect , like tone quality in different rooms. I plan to play it alot over the weekend. But it would be nice to feel "connected" to a horn and even though I liked the tone on the YTS over my The martin when I bought it I never felt connected . Still felt like I was blowing something and trying to get a result. You know when it's right?? K

saxgirl9

04-23-2005, 03:15 PM

Hey everyone - there is this site that has great reviews on saxes. P. Mauriat saxes included. If you are interested in checking it out - it's www.saxreviews.com - it can answer some of your questions.

Also, the site is looking for more reviewers, so you can sign up to write reviews on saxes, sax gear, etc.

Fred

04-23-2005, 03:40 PM

Shannon, now you're gonna get everyone excited about that nickel silver tenor that doesn't exist yet. Release date should be known by the end of May. But how good can it be . . . it doesn't even have a high F# key! ;) :D

Morry

04-23-2005, 03:40 PM

That sax review site should really employ a proof reader. I've always found it painful to read copy that is sprinkled heavily with grammatical and spelling errors.

The content, however, seems good.

jamesvargas

04-23-2005, 05:09 PM

Hi,
I tried all the P. Mauriat saxophones at the NAAM show in Anaheim,a few months ago.I found the low register to be fat and full,and the high notes rang beautifully.The tone was full and warm throughout the entire range of the instruments on offer but the pro model with the rolled tone holes was the best i tried at the show.The action felt really smooth on all their saxes.
I tried every European and American horn at the show,except for the Cannonballs which i was already very impressed with.I also tried most of the Asian horns and despite some howlers,was generally surprised by the quality of these very cheap saxes.However P. Mauriat saxes should not be classed in the same league as most Asian instruments.They are vastly superior.For the price,they beat most horns on the market today,regardless of where they are made.I feel very comfortable in recommending them.

Fred

04-23-2005, 08:10 PM

James, you commented about preferring the RTH models - did you find that preference throughout the line? I am aware that some prefer RTH on alto and maybe something different on tenor. What did you try?

saxgirl9

04-23-2005, 09:56 PM

Morry -
I'll pass on the grammar and spelling error comment... You can always write reviews that are grammatically correct with correctly spelled words.

Morry

04-24-2005, 12:47 AM

Shannon,

I don't want to seem like I'm raining on your parade, but the site mentions the reviewer having played the Keilwerth Shadow soprano and bari. To my knowledge, no such horns exist. Maybe someone can clarify that for me. I may have missed their introduction.

Keith Ridenhour

04-24-2005, 04:27 AM

One thing I noticed today was that a change in my normal reeds makes a huge dif on this horn. I've been using Med Lavozs or Hemke 3s with the YTS 62 and Rovner Deep V piece but since the response is so quick with the P I put on a rico Jazz select 3 S unfiled and it has the rounded tone that I want with edge if I want to push it. Also, I'll have to do some major adjusting on the palms to voice them. The alt is soooo much better than my 62. I put on a Rico plasticover 3 last night and had the strong F# 4 I used to on my The Martin. I am digging deeper into this horn. I am going to try harder to find a better mic position so I can record this onto my website. What is really nice is that once I hear myself setttle into the tone I want (hear) my mind goes right into phrasing and singing lines on the horn. Kind of like taking a cast off your leg and saying to your friends , "see, I can run. You just didn't know it." Looking forward to bonding with this horn. UNfortunately I'm too honest on this forum and really can't advertise the Yamaha in the for sale section. I guess I've detailed the faults too much. Oh well, the YTS was a good horn and this is a next step. Maybe a long next step. All this and my alto is really sounding good with the Kessler custom piece. Ironically we aren't gigging much at all so I will have time to really get into this new epuipment. Glad I got all the info about this from you guys. That whats this forum is all about. K

deblcooper

04-26-2005, 08:54 AM

I just received a confirmation from Roger Greenberg that the RTH are indeed drawn and rolled!

Also about fitting the larger bell in a bag, both the 67R fits nicely in ProTec's chocolate leather case (LB124CT).

Saxydude

04-26-2005, 02:42 PM

Being as the Mauriat is a supposed reverse-engineered copy of the Series II, can anyone out there who has played both a Series II and Mauriat comment on any similarities and differences? I'm referring mainly to the altos. I've heard some comparisons to Martins and Keilwerths, and those horns are at the opposite ends of the tonal spectrum with a Selmer (IMHO). Any thoughts?

Fred

04-26-2005, 04:07 PM

Saxydude, that's part of my concern/confusion as well. If you are looking for an alto or tenor that has a focused/centered sound, is the P. Mauriat NOT for you? Did they aim at Selmer and miss?

sweetsax

04-26-2005, 05:02 PM

Saxydude,
When I was at saxalley, I played a series II and series III along side the Mauriat (and a bunch of vintage horns). In fact, the used series II that Tim had was from somebody who traded it in to him for one of the Mauriats!!!

You are right, the series II and III are not at all similar to the Mauriat. Tim told me that he suspected the brushed finishing has some effect on how the horn resonates. Also - the horn is advertised as having French brass, but it may not be the exact same alloy that the series II is made from. The series III and the Reference horns all have varying levels of copper in them, and the Mauriat could very well be a different blend all together.

It might just be the key work and ribbed construction that is a direct copy of the series II. Somebody correct me if I am wrong here because I don't remember exactly what Tim said, but I think the bore might be a little larger than the selmers. I think I remembered Tim saying that the neck, and the tenon was bigger than the selmer.

Sound-wise (to my ears that day) I think the Mauriat compared more closely to the old Buesher True Tone tenor that I played. Both had the dark, lush, and smooth sound, but the Mauriat played way easier and with more volume.

Morry

04-26-2005, 05:29 PM

The Mauriat 66R definitely has a bigger sound, especially in the low end, as compared to a Ref 54. I would attribute this to the larger bow and bell, but who knows. There are so many variables that come into play when building a saxophone, I can't say for sure what the cause-and-effect might be. All I know is that this tenor has a very unique, and extremely pleasing sound to it. I like my sound better on this tenor than on any I've owned.

That must be a common feeling because everyone that I hear has tried one has bought it.

Russ

04-26-2005, 06:35 PM

BigDaddyJ

04-28-2005, 05:37 AM

Yo Russ,

I have been playing Martin saxes as my reference horns for over 10 years, and the P. Mauriat has been the only modern horn to make me put my Martin tenors down. If there is a dealer in your area that will special order these horns, I can't recommend enough that you encourage your dealer to at least give the Mauriat a try. I would add to Morry's post to try a few if you can; even though they are as consistent as most horns on the market, there are some differences in the sound of the horns. I personally think it has to do with the slight variances in the necks. My Mauriat tenor (67R) sounds bigger in all areas compared to my 2 Martin tenors without loosing what I love about the SOUND of my Marint tenors.

later

Joel

deblcooper

04-28-2005, 06:53 AM

Adding to SweetSax's message...
The brass used in the P.Mauriat saxophones, yes, is imported from France, but I am not sure if the imported brass material is the same as Selmer or not. I would guess Selmer has a long standing contract with their supplier. P. Mauriat assures that only the best brass material is ordered to build a quality saxophone.

2. Comparing the bores of Pmauriat and Selmer:
The alto is same as Series II, and tenor is almost same as Selmer series III.

deb

Morry

05-01-2005, 02:22 AM

Well, after playing the Mauriat tenor for a while, I only have one minor issue. Comared to my Keilwerth, the springs in the palm keys are much less stiff. It's easier to brush one by accident and open it a little than it is on the JK. That's such a minor thing though. Familiarity with the horn will overcome that with no problem.

Keith Ridenhour

05-01-2005, 05:45 PM

My YTS sold yesterday on Ebay so I'm back to two tenors. The P and my The Martin which a student has. The P is so responsive I've gone up a reed strength to a RJS 3M filed and been really lightening up in the emb pressure. If I get the voicing stuff together I can get a "sweet" core to my tone like Breckers on the beginning of Say It. I have to be careful though. The P is extremely response to whatever I do and with a Rico plasticover 3 and my old way of playing I can peel paint up to F#4. All in all I'm happier than I've been in a few years. Now I can work on memorising standards, learning new scales, and not so much energy on intonation (P is right on) and "fixing " my tone to what I want to hear. There is probably a better horn out there but I haven't stumbled across it. K

BigDaddyJ

05-02-2005, 04:21 AM

Yo Keith, you asked me a million years ago for a sound clip on my Mauriat. Well I finally got my mic back so I sent a clip to your email. I'm not actually sure it made it, though.

later

Joel

Keith Ridenhour

05-02-2005, 05:10 AM

Made it , Joel. You sound great. Lots of character in your tone. Also I'm surprised you get so much sound out of the "cool school" piece. I thought they were on the quite sound and couldn't be used in a loud setting. K

BigDaddyJ

05-02-2005, 05:27 AM

Thanks K. I gotta admit I felt very nervous about sending you the clip, as it's been a while since I've played in public.

I don't really think of the Zagar CS as a dark piece, but I have a naturally bright sound. When I play in big places without a mic, I use a slightly modified Ponzol Super. Enjoy your P, and spread the gospel of the Mauriat.

later

Joel

Keith Ridenhour

05-04-2005, 02:28 AM

I got bored practicing the changes to All of me so to spice it up I recorded myself playing the new P Mauriet. I think I sound alot like my The Martin but I know this horn is tighter and more in tune. As you can hear from the last part if I get right on mike it picks up the warmth better. K

Super 20 Player

05-04-2005, 03:08 AM

Click here to listen to Keith play his P. Mauriat (http://kride.netfirms.com/music/changestoallofme.mp3)

Great sound, man, as usual. :headbang:

Saxydude

05-04-2005, 09:11 PM

Keith- Sounds great, man. The warmth in the last 10 seconds of the clip makes me think about selling my 101xxx Mk VI tenor. I'm going to check out a 67R alto when Dave at Junkdude gets them in stock. I'm a little nervous about trying the tenor, as I hate the idea of selling my Mk VI to buy something other than another VI. The only question now is whether these Mauriats will hold up down the line. . . .

Bill Mecca

05-04-2005, 09:21 PM

Keith,

I think you've got it!

sounds great as usual, but better ;)

Keith Ridenhour

05-05-2005, 12:52 AM

Heres something I could have sight read in college but that was years ago. After about an hour of practice here is the first couple of pages of it could happen to you out of the Sonny Stitt Transcribed solo book. Sonny's stuff is nice. I feel like I'm playing a written big band chart and not a made up on the spot solo. Well, I think I'm almost out of senior high level sax playing and ready to move up to a freshman college level player. Watch out??? Heres the link. http://www.kride.net/music/sonnysoloitcouldhappen.mp3

tonyg

05-05-2005, 02:04 AM

Thats real nice stuff Keith! What mouthpiece are you using and did you get the tenor with the rolled tone holes?

Tony

Keith Ridenhour

05-05-2005, 02:10 AM

Rovner Deep V 8 (40 baffle) with FL lig and RJS 3 Med filed reeds. I ordered some RJS 3M unfiled today from discount reed. I want a notch darker and more core . ( who doesn't ??) Plus , if I push the tone it can get bright fast so I'm fighting that. Its the plain one , no rolled tone holes. Loud has never been a problem for me. good core, thats an issue. I also have that Steve Goodson Neck enhancer thingy in my mouthpiece. Cash gave it to me when I saw him in Las Vegas and I can't get the damn thing out??? When we put it in initally it seemed to add core to the tone and make the piece more responsive???But I can't remove it so I can't A/B it. Thanks Tony. K

Bones

05-05-2005, 05:10 AM

Keith, Use a chamois or other strong swab to pull the neck enhancer out of your mouthpiece. Your piece is probably a little smaller than the piece the O-ring was designed to fit.

BigDaddyJ

05-07-2005, 04:49 AM

Yo K,

I just sent you another sample I just recoreded on the Mauriat few minutes ago. It's a much softer, breathier sound. Still with the Zagar, but a darker Rico Select Jazz reed.

later

Joel

Keith Ridenhour

05-07-2005, 06:50 AM

I'm in as close to love with a horn as I can remember. Something Cash said to me years ago rings true with this horn. You can hear yourself now and know that there is more to "pull out" of the horn as I mature and basically get used to it. It is dark and takes out that overtone that drives me crazy on most horns but it has a hint of selmer and not the 50s "dead" center of my The Martin Tone. All in all I'm really happy. I was copying a smooth jazz guy today who has Nelson Rangell nailed on alto and a good smooth , Richard Elliot tone on tenor and I'm closer to that than I've ever been. Also, I just did a loud rehearsel and I can push the tone to a Sanborn overblow tone on tenor or do a softer , jazzier, tone for a ballad like Summertime. All the guys complimented me on my tone and I said it's the horn. I knew I could do it , just didn't have the car to get in the race. Now, I have a whole slew of scales to get down and tunes to memorise and just general catching up to do. Those monster players I've always admired have worked their a%%s off to get to where they are and I respect that more and more as I see just how much time and effort is needed to upgrade my reading skills and improve level. Anyway, I can stop wasting my time in the marketplace section and Ebay. I've said it before so I won't say never but I want to teach and really play. Maybe I'll get decent before I'm 55 . K

Saxydude

05-25-2005, 01:30 AM

Soooo......Any other thoughts? Can anyone out there offer a description of what a 67R alto plays like? I'm going to pick one up for a trail from Tim (saxalley) as soon as he gets a fresh batch in and just wondered if anyone had some experience with them. What do they compare to? Are they as good as the tenors? Thanks!

Chris S

05-25-2005, 03:34 AM

The altos are very good also, I have one (though I got one before they came out with the ones with the rolled tone holes, but I don't need those, they're a luxury as far as I'm concerned), I use it for classical playing as well as playing lead in a big band and have had no problems so far.

Best,
Chris S

Morry

05-25-2005, 04:15 AM

I think the R models also have a slightly bigger bell and bow, if I remember right.

saxboy

05-31-2005, 09:05 AM

That's right Morry. They feel less clunky than the Keilwerth rolled and the tone on the rolled is darker, fuller and pretty exciting.

SAXBOY
www.saxreviews.com

Morry

05-31-2005, 01:32 PM

Yeah, unfortunately finances are going to keep me from hanging on to my 66R tenor. Hopefully, I'll be able to pick another one up near the end of the year.

Randall

05-31-2005, 06:04 PM

She'll be in good hands Morry! ;)
BTW, finally got my Ref 54 tenor pearls done....it is looking very, how shall I put it...regal.
Pix to come on the Yahoo group.

Morry

05-31-2005, 07:38 PM

A friend at a local music store is scrounging me up a tenor box, but he was off for the long weekend. I should get it out in the next couple of days.

dexter_fan

05-31-2005, 08:44 PM

I was interested in this sax too, however what is turning me off is that everytime I check on Saxalley I seem to find a different (higher) price. Now the tenor 66 goes for no less that 1990$ and 66R for 2190$.

Anyways, I wanted to drive your attention to this quote from Kessler, asked about a comparison of his Custom Kessler line to the P.Mauriat :

"No we have not done a side by side comparison but are not really interested to be honest. The Mauriat horns we played breifly at NAMM and were not impressed for their price. They are a good playing horn but we felt that they were not better then what we were getting [...] "
This quotation comes from a thread under "Advises for buying and selling a sax".

What are your thoughts? His Custom tenor goes for less than half the price of a P. Mauriat....

Morry

06-01-2005, 12:07 AM

I think that I can get you a 66R tenor for about $1850 through my dealer friend, if you are interested.

dexter_fan

06-01-2005, 12:24 AM

If they take credit card payments yes, that sounds interesting. Paypal no because I have much lower limit on my account.

Morry

06-01-2005, 01:50 AM

I'm sure that would be a cash price at $1850, but it could probably get delivered for that, for a few bucks more. I'd have to check with my dealer buddy.

sonnymobleytrane

06-21-2005, 02:45 AM

rolled tone hole or not what is the difference I need to know.

Morry

06-21-2005, 02:48 PM

My understanding is that the rolled tone hole model also has a bigger bell and bow, making it more different that just the what the "R" would suggest.

mountainman

06-22-2005, 03:20 PM

Jbroad572

06-28-2005, 12:02 PM

Great posts BigDaddy1 and others on the P Mauriat Tenor! Having just purchased a Shadow I am not currently in the market, but maybe someone can compare the P Mauriat soprano to a JK and a Rampone R1 ? I definately need to upgrade there!
I'd be interested in hearing that one, especially since I had decided on a Shadow, but this Mauriat is bringing up a lot of talk.

mountainman

06-29-2005, 05:42 PM

retread

06-29-2005, 06:53 PM

It probably is for real. But be aware this forum has a history of group love affairs with new saxes. This line is the latest enthusiasm. Let's see...there was the Steve Goodson Unison and the Antigua soprano, and probably others that have slipped my mind. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with these saxes. I'm just reviewing the forum's history. We can be an enthusiastic bunch.:|

newking70

06-30-2005, 03:11 PM

She'll be in good hands Morry! ;)
BTW, finally got my Ref 54 tenor pearls done....it is looking very, how shall I put it...regal.
Pix to come on the Yahoo group.
i think i come up with a new idea for a tv program........"pimp my sax" :D

newking70

06-30-2005, 03:14 PM

Let's see...there was the Steve Goodson Unison |
there's a big difference, this one is real...people have the saxes in their mitts, their available at many dealers to ;) i think the sg unison was just a still born pipe dream

Randall

06-30-2005, 03:57 PM

Dolomite gets his pimpcane ready! :D

newking70

06-30-2005, 04:30 PM

Dolomite gets his pimpcane ready! :D
randall's got the magic stick ;)

Randall

07-01-2005, 12:11 AM

This little turn of tricks makes me want to re-think the name of my Yahoo Group.....
" SaxPimpin' " ? :D :shock: :?

Randall

07-01-2005, 12:18 AM

Just to get back on thread....

In August I expect to recieve Morry's P.M. tenor (soon to receive the J. Dumars Super deluxe, Pimp-o-rama).

I will be putting it up against:

A totally pimped-out Ref 54
A solid silver B&S Medusa (Pimped-out beyond your wildest imagination)
A Buescher 400 TH&C (AKA: Pimpus Maximus)
A Uber-Pimped Straight JK SX90R
A J.Dumars Pimped-out Selmer BA.

Well see how Mr. Mauriat fairs....

I can't wait! :)

newking70

07-01-2005, 12:22 AM

what about the "bling bling room" ;)

Morry

07-01-2005, 05:49 AM

Randall

07-01-2005, 06:28 AM

Yer makin' me feel like a bad man Morry.... 8-)

Have you tried the alto in the same finish yet?

BTW, The store just got a Ref 54 alto in in the antiqued finish and from all reports it has a rather different sound from the vint. laq. one.

Any ideas?

Joe Jazz

07-02-2005, 09:31 PM

Aww, don't feel bad Morry. I had sent back my SX90 tenor to WW&BW and then later ordered another one after figuring out it was the best bang for the buck. See you in bankrupcy court! ;)

Morry

07-03-2005, 04:00 AM

I haven't tried the "P" altos yet. I like my SX90R alto very much, except that the palm keys require a little baffle for me to make them speak really well. I'm still wanting to try a Ref 54 alto. Maybe I can sell a kidney...

newking70

07-03-2005, 04:07 AM

perhaps you can buy a "charlie parker" signature model that they have at kessler music....i really would like to see what they look like

Randall

07-03-2005, 07:14 AM

Morry,
Have you ever tried a sterling silver neck on your JK alto?
I was thinking of giving a diamond Series neck a shot....

Morry

07-05-2005, 03:56 AM

I've thought about it, but haven't had a chance. I can't afford to try one that can't be returned, and I can't find a place with a return policy on necks.

saxaddic132

07-16-2005, 06:28 AM

Hi, I am new to this forum...I currently use saxquest.com.

Anyways, I was reading up on this P. Mauriat discussion and I was wondering if the P. Mauriat alto saxophone actually is THE BEST HORN on the market in all of the price ranges. I know that these horns go for around $2000, but do they compare to $4500-5000 horns?

In other words, do these horns even compare to the Reference 54 altos that have a retail price of around $4500? Do they compare to the awesome Mark VIs of the 50s and 60s? Do they even compare to Selmer Series II and IIIs that cost around $3500? I know you shouldn't choose a horn based on price, but I still believe you get what you pay for.

I don't want to seem upset at these horns since I am interested in buying one, but I have not tried one for myself and I am looking to get the best horn I can find.

Basically, are the P. Mauriat alto saxes the best if the price of the horns were not even considered.

Thanks,

-Josh

Morry

07-16-2005, 07:42 AM

I haven't looked at the alto, but did own a tenor. Unfortunately, finances forced me to sell it, but I'll own another one as soon as I can manage it.

First of all, it's an excellent horn. These horns could be played by the most discriminating players I know without complaint. Are they the "best" horns available. That depends on what "best" means.

Is the Ref 54 a better finished horn? Yes.
Does the Keilwerth have more complex engineering? Yes.
Do either of them have a more pleasing sound? NO.

saxaddic132

07-16-2005, 04:43 PM

Is the Ref 54 a better finished horn? Yes.
Does the Keilwerth have more complex engineering? Yes.
Do either of them have a more pleasing sound? NO.

So Morry, does that mean that the cost of Selmers and Keilwerths are greater than the "P" horns simply because they are more complex and overall better quality? But, the sound is not compromised right? I hope that the P. Mauriats really do have a great sound, I have great expectations for them!(I have to travel 2 hours away just to try one :( )...Thanks for the imput. :)

One last thing...for all the members in this discussion....

IF MONEY WAS NOT THE ISSUE AND IT SIMPLY DID NOT EXIST, WOULD EACH OF YOU STILL CHOOSE THE P. MAURIAT HORNS OVER ANY OTHER VINTAGE HORN AND MODERN HORN ON THE MARKET?

Just wondering,
-Josh

Jbroad572

07-16-2005, 04:46 PM

saxaddic132

07-16-2005, 07:19 PM

Morry, I have tried an EX-90 Keilwerth in Black Lacquer and I felt that it was no better than my Yamaha YAS-23 student model. I haven't however, tried the SX-90 or SX-90R alto saxophones. Are these models a big step up from the EX-90?

Anyways, do you think that the p. Mauriat horn you owned was better than your Keilwerth or better than all of the other horns you have tried. If there are any horns that you think are better than the P. Mauriat horns, please tell me. Right now, I am just looking for THE BEST horn I can find...w/o involving money.

-Josh

Fred

07-16-2005, 07:40 PM

I'm interested in the P. Mauriat also, but it's the tenor that has caught most people's attention. The alto has its following, but the tenor folks rave about their tenors. I don't hear the same expanse of praise about the alto.

saxaddic132

07-16-2005, 07:44 PM

Then if I am looking for an alto, then maybe the P. Mauriat is not the right horn for me. I am also looking into the Reference 54 and the Mark VIs...does the P. Mauriat alto even come close to comparing with them?

newking70

07-16-2005, 08:27 PM

different strokes for different folks, YOU need get out and try these horns.....just cause it works for one person, dosent mean it'll work for you.......

saxaddic132

07-16-2005, 08:54 PM

That's a Good Idea...

So far I have tried,

2 Selmer SA 80 Series II (one having Black Lacquer)

2 SA 80 Series III

2 Reference 54 altos

1 EX-90 Keilwerth

2 or 3 Yamaha Custom Zs

1 YAS-475

1 SBA

1 Yanigisawa

5 Mark VI altos..ranging from 124xxx to 240xxx

But I'm still looking!

P.S. I would love anyone to give me a few more horns I should try...currently, I'm really liking the older Mark VIs and the Reference 54s!! They are really nice!

Morry

07-17-2005, 07:01 AM

So do you prefer the P. Mauriat over your Keilwerth?

It's a different kind of sound than my Keilwerth. I'm playing in a Tower of Power style funk band right now, and I like my JK for that work. If I was playing is a smaller group without amplification, I'd certainly choose the Mauriat. I love the complex quality of the sound.

The first time I played a Ref 54 tenor, I was struck with the sound, but didn't care for the "feel" of it as I blew it. Maybe a resistance thing, I don't know. It just didn't speak well for me. I really loved the sound though. When I tried the Mauriat, it was that same sound that I loved, but the horn really sang up and down the scale. The low end was much more effortless than the Reference.

My other horns are Keilwerths, and since I've finally grown accustomed to the key layout, I don't think I'd make the Mauriat my main tenor. However, I will say that it's the one I liked to leave out to pick up and play during the day.

Unfortunately, it has a new home now, so I'll have to wait to have another.

mountainman

07-17-2005, 09:06 PM

It's a different kind of sound than my Keilwerth. I'm playing in a Tower of Power style funk band right now, and I like my JK for that work. If I was playing is a smaller group without amplification, I'd certainly choose the Mauriat. I love the complex quality of the sound.

The first time I played a Ref 54 tenor, I was struck with the sound, but didn't care for the "feel" of it as I blew it. Maybe a resistance thing, I don't know. It just didn't speak well for me. I really loved the sound though. When I tried the Mauriat, it was that same sound that I loved, but the horn really sang up and down the scale. The low end was much more effortless than the Reference.

My other horns are Keilwerths, and since I've finally grown accustomed to the key layout, I don't think I'd make the Mauriat my main tenor. However, I will say that it's the one I liked to leave out to pick up and play during the day.

Unfortunately, it has a new home now, so I'll have to wait to have another.
Can you describe the sound of the JK Shadow against your 90R Tenor and the P Mauriat? I think the P. sounds like an interesting option for a second horn.

Also looking for a conparison of the P soprano to any of the top horns especially JK and Rampone. I"m planning a trip west next year to climb and will include Sax Alley in the trip. I don't think I can stand my WW Soprano that long though!!

saxaddic132

07-18-2005, 12:20 AM

Morry

07-18-2005, 06:20 AM

Can you describe the sound of the JK Shadow against your 90R Tenor and the P Mauriat? I think the P. sounds like an interesting option for a second horn.

Also looking for a conparison of the P soprano to any of the top horns especially JK and Rampone. I"m planning a trip west next year to climb and will include Sax Alley in the trip. I don't think I can stand my WW Soprano that long though!!

Sorry, I haven't tried a Shadow yet. I'd like to though.

I haven't tried the P soprano, but my dealer friend is going to order one I think, so I'll get to try it then. I can't imagine liking anything better than my SX90II. Best soprano I've ever played. However, I do miss having a curvy.

Morry

07-18-2005, 06:24 AM

Do you think that a P. horn can be used as someone's "1st" and premier horn..in other words, their first pick for gigs and concerts and things like that.

Also, if you pay for $1890 for that horn...does that mean its goin to be worth that price?

I see no reason that the P can't be a player's main axe. The keywork and sound are both good enough to satisfy any player. I guess the only thing we don't know yet is how they hold up over time. We'll just have to wait and see on that one.

I don't understand your question about the price. Do you mean, will it be worth that on resale? If that's what you mean, then I'd have to say that you can't expect it to hold it's value like one of the big 4 makers, although I see VERY discounted prices on big 4 saxes in the used market all the time too.

If you just mean, is the horn worth $1900, I'd have to say that I thought it had the same core sound as a Ref 54 tenor, but played much better for half the money. So, yeah, I'd say it's worth the money.

Chris S

07-18-2005, 07:53 PM

Do you think that a P. horn can be used as someone's "1st" and premier horn..in other words, their first pick for gigs and concerts and things like that.

I do. This summer has been slow, but in a given calendar year I probably perform somewhere in the neighboorhood of 25-30 times (classical and jazz), and put in an average of 2.5-3 hours a day on my horn in practice time. I've had my P alto for a little over 6 months and it's still holding up just fine. I had to take it in once to get the low C-Eb mechanism worked on (there wasn't anythign wrong with it, I just didn't like the way it was working), and I think I'm going to have to reseat a few pads in the lower stack soon, but other than that, it plays as well as the day I bought it.

Chris S

Chris S

saxaddic132

07-21-2005, 08:22 PM

Has anyone tried a p. Mauriat tenor or alto over:

-an early Mark VI

-a ref. 54

-series II or III

-any yamaha custom z

thanx,
josh

Saxydude

07-22-2005, 03:31 AM

Josh- You can check out my full review of the Mauriat 67R alto in another thread, but here are some quick thoughts.

Mauriat vs. an early Mk VI: This is a tricky one because Mk VI's vary SO greatly. Of all the horns listed, this is truly the one where it REALLY depends on the VI you're playing. If you find a good Mk VI, no other horn will beat it. If you find a so-so Mk VI I would pick up a Mauriat instead and buy some seriously nice mouthpieces with the dough I saved. I owned a later (167xxx) Mk VI alto for a while and I found that the Mauriat plays darker and a bit bigger overall. Although, the set-up of that VI was quite bright (Roo pads and metal resonators on an already bright VI). As I said, try the Mk VI before you get it. It's the ultimate rule of thumb regarding any vintage (or new!) Selmer.

Mauriat vs. Ref. 54: I think I might be the only person on the planet who is a big fan of vintage Selmers but DIDN'T like the Ref. 54. I just don't get it. I don't think the Ref. 54 really resembles any Mk VI alto that I've ever played. IMHO, the Ref. 54 is a glorified Series III with a different neck (for a darker sound), "vintage" dark lacquer, and slightly different keywork. I would pick up a Mauriat 67R alto over any Reference 54 alto I've played (and I've played 5 or 6 that were properly set-up). YOU MAY HAVE A DIFFERENT OPINION, THESE ARE ONLY MY THOUGHTS!! Again, save some money and buy the girlfriend (or wife) something with the dough you saved by getting the Mauriat.

Mauriat vs. Series II and III: Firstly, the Mauriat is bigger and warmer sounding than either Series. To my ears it most closely resembles a Series II in matte finish. I personally didn't care for the tone of the III at all (too bright) and I've played a couple KILLER Series II's that would be hard to choose between. The Mauriat has a bit more personality to it's sound than the Series II but it's an incredibly tough call to choose one over the other. If I were going to own another modern alto it would definately be a Series II in matte finish. And, a used Series II in nice shape will go for about as much money as a new Mauriat. This is a prime example of "if you like the Selmer sound, go with the Selmer" phrase. The Series II has the Selmer core tone that the Mauriat doesn't. It depends on what you like.

Mauriat vs. Yamaha Custom Z: Again, the Mauriat is bigger and warmer than the Custom Z. I owned an unlacquered Z alto for about a year (I should've never let it go!) and I found it to be a great little horn. Yamaha's have excellent quality control, great keywork, and a very solid build. I would say that I preferred the Z's keywork to the Mauriat's. This really boils down to the type of sound you're shooting for. If you're looking for a bright sound go with the Z (lacquered). If you're looking for a bright but not terribly bright sound go with the Z (unlacquered). If you're looking for something that's at the warmer end of the spectrum go with the Mauriat. Did I just say above that if I were to own another modern alto it would be a Series II??...maybe it would be another unlacquered Z.

Ultimately, the decision is yours and only by playing all these horns are you going to finally rid yourself of that "I wonder if that horn is better than what I'm playing..." thought that crowds all of our minds. I've played and owned a lot of modern altos and they've been sold for one reason or another but I've finally settled on this Mauriat as a keeper (for a while anyway). There's no one on this board that's going to be able to say "The Mauriat is the best horn ever for everyone. Everything else sucks compared to it" and be honest. But that's why we come to this board, isn't it? Hoping someone will be able to make the decision for us, or at least sway us a little. Let me tell you, for every person on this board there is a different opinion. Only by playing all the horns you mentioned are you going to be able to make up YOUR mind and buy the horn that YOU like best. It's a long, expensive process. Let us know what you find out on your journey to find the perfect sax for you. Best wishes!

Chris S

07-22-2005, 09:49 AM

I agree with just about everything that Saxydude said.

I've only tried a few Ref 54's, none set up very well, and I didn't like them. Don't think I'd like any of them if they were setup well, mostly on an economic basis. Too much money for an (IMHO!) average horn.

I'd play my P over just about anything, save maybe for a good playing VI in near mint.

Chris S

Shockls

08-04-2005, 05:20 PM

After giving up on modern horns, I am on the verge of ordering the 66R. I have owned a couple Cannonball tenors and the thing I didn't like about them was their lack of a solid center. They were very free blowing and open, but didn't have the meaty core sound of my vintage saxes. They sounded rather anonomous. In your descriptions of the Mauriat sound, the words "spred", and "airy" bring to mind the large bore Cannonballs. With the P. being a Taiwanese sax and possibly from the same factory as the CBs, I was wondering if the Mauriat has the core and complexity lacking in the CBs?

Morry

08-04-2005, 11:23 PM

Shockls...I think the 66R has a very nice core sound that is full of character. I don't think "core" and "airy" are necessarily mutually exclusive.

Shockls

08-08-2005, 01:32 AM

Thanks Morry. I went ahead and ordered a tenor from Mr. Prewitt in Alabama. I will post my impressions when I get the horn.

Morry

08-08-2005, 03:23 AM

Thanks Morry. I went ahead and ordered a tenor from Mr. Prewitt in Alabama. I will post my impressions when I get the horn.

That's great. He's a great old guy who has wonderful stories from the old days. He has the most beautiful natural subtone sound you've ever heard.

Shockls

08-09-2005, 04:46 AM

Yeah, he is super nice guy. He said his cost for the Mauriat's just went up $100. Roger Greenberg(the distributer)told him that the demand for these horns has really surged and he can't get them from the factory fast enough.

I just found out that another top notch Colorado tenor player, Brad Eastin, is now playing a Mauriat tenor. He is a former US Airforce Academy Band, Falconeers member, and Southern Colorado University sax professor.

Shockls

09-18-2005, 04:52 AM

My computer crashed a couple weeks ago so I haven’t been able to post lately.

I’ve had the 66r for a few weeks now and here is what I think.

I have owned just about every respectable vintage tenor except a Selmer 6.
I’ve owned a Super 20, Zephyr, The Martin, a Couple Buescher Aristocrats, Chu Berry, Dolnet Royal Jazz, Kielwerth's, Buffet SA and SDA, SML Rev D and various stencils.

I’ve briefly owned a few modern saxes; Yani 901, B&S Codera, 2001, and a couple Cannonballs. I have played the Series II and IIIs, Yani 991, and a SX90R.

I never really warmed up to any of the modern horns. None that I have played had the warmth and character of the vintage horns I was used to.

Being a modern axe, the Mauriat totally caught me by surprise. I was expecting a sound like the modern horns that I’ve played only with more character.

When I played the Mauriat for the first time, I immediately thought of the killer Rev D that I owned. It almost sounds like a cross between an SML and a good Buescher Crat.

It has that warm enveloping core sound of the Buescher and a big dense low end very similar to the Rev D. It doesn’t sound like any new sax that I’ve tried. There is none of that clear metallic sound I hear in modern horns. On the Mauriat, it’s all sound and no metal.

It has lots character and warmth. If I didn’t know better I would swear I was playing a vintage sax. The Mauriat is really what I have been looking for. It combines the sound of a great vintage sax with the playability of a modern horn. It has great intonation and easy altissimo. If I could only own one tenor, this would be it.

Morry

09-18-2005, 08:01 AM

Glad your transaction with Mr. Prewitt went well. I knew he'd give you the best deal around. I need to figure out how to afford another one myself.

newking70

09-25-2005, 06:57 AM

Daktion

10-08-2005, 11:14 PM

Just checked the price of the 67R on Tim's site and it's $1990. I know they have upped the prices lately but the "bargain" that many of you keep talking about doesnt seem that good. Obviously, most of you bought them when they were cheaper but given this new price would you still buy this sax knowing that for the same price you could get a yamaha 62II, or add in a couple hundy more and get the custom Z, the EX, or the yani A991. The test of time is a factor I want you to think about too as I would like to get a sax that would last me hopefully for a very long time (playing time is about 1-2hrs a day 4-5 days a wk).

Also, I just found out there isnt any dealers here in Toronto, Canada that carries the P. Mauriat saxes. So is the layout the same with most saxes? as in if I go to my local guy (who is pretty reputable) for a checkup or quick touchup, he should be ok with it? Any suprises I should know about? :twisted:

Thanks

Morry

10-09-2005, 03:18 AM

Saxydude

10-09-2005, 03:27 PM

Obviously, most of you bought them when they were cheaper but given this new price would you still buy this sax knowing that for the same price you could get a yamaha 62II, or add in a couple hundy more and get the custom Z, the EX, or the yani A991.

I played all the horns you mentioned above and yes, I would definately still go with a 67R alto. Morry hit the nail on the head when he said that there is no difference to other horns---just the sound. These horns are amazing and I still think they're a bargain at $1990. I also just travelled to Germany (and back) with my 67R stored in a Hiscox (took it as a carry on) and the horn held up remarkably well. It played just as well when I landed in Germany as it did when I took off. These horns are great. And if you don't believe Morry and I (and countless others) just take the ultimate test and TRY IT! You won't be disappointed and then you'll see what a real deal these are.

BigZ

10-09-2005, 04:23 PM

You guys say there is no difference between these and the Y's other than the sound, but do they come set up as nicely out of the box?

BigDaddyJ

10-09-2005, 05:26 PM

Yo BigZ,

even Yamahas need to be set-up just out of the boxes. In fact, the last Yamaha I tried was an UL 82Z tenor "just out of the box". Man, I couldn't go below Low F and over second octave G. It was leaking all over the place, and the octave mechanism was whacked out. I have had my last 3 tenors set up by Tim over at Sax Alley and have never been happier with my tenors.

later

Joel

BigZ

10-09-2005, 05:39 PM

Big Daddy, Thanks for your input. I bought a Keilwerth from Tim and it played beautifully also. I also have a 62 yamaha that somehow made it to me "out of the box" without need of a setup. Lucky I guess. The only issue now was the extra $ right now for Tims setup price. Peace

jazaddict

10-09-2005, 06:38 PM

I put up a new thread w/ my experiences HERE (http://www.saxontheweb.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=217757#post217757)

Keith Ridenhour

10-09-2005, 07:35 PM

Jaz has three times my facility on the horn and a tighter/jazzy tone than I do but here is what I'm getting out of my P with a New York Link and homemade baffle. (you wouldn't want to see it, looks very amaturish). If you want to skip all my explanations of what I'm doing go to around 47 secs on the recording. K
http://kride.net/music/toneofPon1005.mp3

Keith Ridenhour

10-09-2005, 08:45 PM

Also, this is way past Tims inital adjustment. Tim did magic on the horn and it played effortlessly. My techs are good but not quite as good. K

Daktion

10-09-2005, 09:57 PM

I played all the horns you mentioned above and yes, I would definately still go with a 67R alto. Morry hit the nail on the head when he said that there is no difference to other horns---just the sound. These horns are amazing and I still think they're a bargain at $1990. I also just travelled to Germany (and back) with my 67R stored in a Hiscox (took it as a carry on) and the horn held up remarkably well. It played just as well when I landed in Germany as it did when I took off. These horns are great. And if you don't believe Morry and I (and countless others) just take the ultimate test and TRY IT! You won't be disappointed and then you'll see what a real deal these are.

Think you can play a short piece and post it up here as well? While listening to a 66R is nice... I really want to hear a 67R in action :D

And yes, I wish I could test try it....... The closest dealer is in another country and about 8 hrs drive .... road trip anyone? :D

Also, has anyone dealt with Tim via shipping? seems like most of you actually live somewhat close so that you can physically go pick them up. If i do get him to ship it over.... would the awesome setup job he do be screwed via transporting?

Thanks