LA's not selling..?

[CashSax]

I had 2 on Ebay for 2 weeks, priced right..NADA..NO bids :? :? :? These are the best horns for the $$$ on the planet..go figure.Nothing wrong with 'em..I'm just playing my selmer's full-time these days, the LA's have become closet horns...:( :( :x

[Grumps]

Bad timing perhaps, as they're coming out with new models... or so I've heard. Anyone wanting an LA Sax now is probably going to hold out for the new line. Plus, you really don't see a strong second hand market for Taiwanese/Chinese horns on Ebay. Perhaps Cannonballs might be an exception, as they seem to sell better, but it's hard to shake that disposable sax rap that horns from that part of the world have. And for many, it's well deserved.

[goodsax]

Another thought, Cash, is that many who might otherwise buy something like an LA Sax model could be put off by the non-traditional look of the tenor's burnished green color, especially if they might be shopping for their child. Plus, both these horns were being offered by Gerry, the one with a spin-off company from Orpheus Music, for signficantly less not too long ago.

I don't necessarily agree about the Taiwanese resale stigma expressed by Grumps, because we're talking about a different buy/sell scale than the big four and other pricier brands. I did okay buying an LA Sax alto at a bargain price and selling it within a month for a bit more. I've done the same with Antigua altos and one sop. But, that only works if you get a good deal in the first place.

Too bad the timing wasn't right for that buyer to come along when you had them up on eBay. Someone once said, for everything there is to sell, there's at least one buyer out there somewhere.

[GAS_Wyo]

How much for the Green Tenor? I saw it on ebay but was searching for the ultimate "dark horn". I've found that, but now I also want something a little brighter. Problem is, I'm low on funds right now. I have 6 horns and my first in college. Something's got to go! (so I can buy an LASax!)

[gary]

Bad timing perhaps...My thought also but not because LA Sax is coming out with new models but because it's right after Christmas. Many may just be a little scrapped with cash at the moment or just a little burned out from shopping.

For me personally, if it was a backup horn, the colour wouldn't be a negative factor at all. I've got some legit venues I would rather not bring a lizard-looking horn to but, boy, I play in some other places where it would go over great!

[goodsax]

...I've got some legit venues I would rather not bring a lizard-looking horn to but, boy, I play in some other places where it would go over great!Good point, Gary. LA Sax also has a tenor they refer to as the "Patriotic" option which is red, white & blue with stars on the bell, etc., and I'm sure it goes over great in country-western "establishments." You're absolutely right, there are places here and abroad where the "green lizard" would be quite an attraction. I hadn't thought of that.

[gary]

Actually, I've always been real partial to the Chameleon colour. If I had some mad money, I'd've gotten one of those. I chuckled about the partiotic finished sax you mentioned. Yup, it'd be right at home in Bob's Country Bunker...but I don't think I'd take it with me on my next tour of France :yikes!:

[Mark5047]

I agree with the timing issue, being so close after the holiday as a factor and your price is in the ballpark. If you check WWBW they still list the LA Sax's for $ 1325 for an alto, which is really odd to me since they have the Chicago Jazz alto listed for $1349, and although I love my LA Sax, for another 25 bucks I think I would go for the Chicago Jazz. But getting back to the topic at hand, I would think your starting price might be just a little on the high side for a 'previously owned' albeit basically new instrument. I saw a burnished tenor go for $ 660 recently. You might want to start them a little lower and see where they go - throw a reserve on to protect yourself from a bad EBay day but ultimately I belive you are in the ballpark. Heck, I have to admit that green monster sure looks cool!
On another note, I have been trying to get to the LA Sax website and it has not been up in a while (www.lasax.com) Granted, it was last updated like in 1988 or something (I know, AL Gore had not invented the Internet yet in 1988 but it was a JOKE) anyway, I wonder if this is related to the new lineup coming out?
Best of luck selling these Cash!!! If / when I am in Las Vegas next time I owe you a beer for pointing me towards the LA Sax in the first place. Great value for the money.

[CashSax]

Thanks fellas, for your good input..all valid points. Hadn't thought of some of it...(happy holidaze:x )Well I've lowered the prices twice. I think they'll go this time..Wish one of us SOTWer's would get the Leapin' Lizard tenor..I've never seen one like it..would be nice to keep track of it. I've got cute stories from that horn. AS far as "used", well probably better than store demos..I baby my horns and these 2 really are dead mint. I have dialed them in too, the green gator had a few minor issues in the beginning. The new owner should have no problems for a long time. The Alto seems perfect straight from the box..got a day to go on the auction..we'll see:( :? 8-)

[gary]

Cash - you might want to post the link on this thread...just in case.

[Mark5047]

Cash, I think you misunderstood me. Your price is fair, its just that the EBay mentality sometimes can be 'well thats a lot for that item' even though in a bidding frenzy it would get that and more. Psychologically if it starts lower (with a reserve) and you get some activity, it might be better. In other words, nobody wants it when nobody wants it - and everybody wants it when someone else wants it.

[fballatore]

Cash - you might want to post the link on this thread...just in case.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7382174734&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1

Cash -

Man, I'd love that horn, but with all the saxes and paraphernalia I've bought over the past few months, my wife would divorce me, and then I'd have to come out and live with you...

Too bad my Noblet tenor isn't worth more, I'd trade you.

Good luck with the auction.

Can't wait to come out to Vegas again...

Frank :D

[CashSax]

I hope Harri is cool with the link.display.. I got booted off the for sale thread... (I forgot I wasn't supposed to refresh it when I re-listed the 2nd time)..PS hey Frank nice to hear from you, looking forward to your visit.

[BigZ]

Cash, I recently bought 3 altos and 1 tenor from Gerry that Goodsax speaks of. I also bought a used alto from a private owner. The used alto was in good shape, but had a bent case that was hard to close. The new altos were lacquer. The tenor was burnished brass. All 5 saxes required a setup for 50.00 each. However, I think I got the last of them from Gerry. I agree that they are GREAT saxes for that money. Check your PM.

[CashSax]

They're $sold..thanks again for the feedback you guys

[gary]

Congratulations man.

[goodsax]

Way to go! Right place, right time. Congratulations!

[Racingnut]

I'd love a green tenor for the christmas concerts but Im not sure I need another tenor much less a sax..ive already got 2 tenors an alto a C-melody and a soprano, not to mention a trumpet i never use.


My most recent purchase was a 1939 Conn 10m Naked Lady..rolled tone holes and everything. I'm anxious to see how that plays once its restored

[Daktion]

glad you sold them cashsax. I was going to say.... your sax has tons of competition.... check out this baby http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Holton-Saxophone-to-Restore-NR_W0QQitemZ7381747959QQcategoryZ119030QQrdZ1QQcmd ZViewItem

super cheap too.

[Morry]

Cash, you still playing the King alto you got from my friend?

[mvspur]

Historical Fact #234.3.2.2

For those of you that are up to speed on the goings on with this brand of saxophone, no need to read further. It's intended for the folks who's only recollection or experience with the company was before Orpheus Music took it over.

A few years ago, the whole world according to LA Sax was turned upside down. New leadership from the top down, new endorsements, and more importantly NEW horns. If you have not experienced the new LA Sax, you owe it to yourself. Needless to say, things changed for the better, and I'm sure glad they did.

I'm not here to tell you that these are the best horns you'll ever play. Those of you that don't have an endless supply of cash will be hard pressed to find a better horn for the money. I really enjoy my LA-650 Burnished Brass Soprano. Very SWEET sounding horn, Also plays very well in tune. I really like the Burnished Brass Alto and Tenor as well. If it weren't for my love affair with my Guardalas, I'd play the LA Sax Alto and Tenor on a regular basis like I do the Soprano. The company is shying away from the crazy finishes that you may be used to seeing, but you can still get them if you wish.

I don't know much about the Goodson model, but I know people that do and they say the horn is for real. We'll see soon enough.

Mike

[goodsax]

I agree with Mike, as can be seen from my equipment list. There isn't one of these saxes that isn't a joy to play. I play the tenor in concert and swing band settings and all it takes is changing mpc and reed to get the tone I want for each. Excellent instruments, and good looking, too.

[Morry]

I had 2 on Ebay for 2 weeks, priced right..NADA..NO bids :? :? :? These are the best horns for the $$$ on the planet..go figure.Nothing wrong with 'em..I'm just playing my selmer's full-time these days, the LA's have become closet horns...:( :( :x

I think LA Sax still has some P.R. problems it has to overcome before being accepted by many professionals. First, and foremost, is that they initially made pretty bad horns in pretty cool colors. Their focus on finishes made them something of a novelty horn.

Now, you're a much better player than I'll ever be, so if you say they play great, I take your word for it. I'm affraid it will take some time to overcome that history.

[mvspur]

I have said quite a bit about these horns in other posts so I won't beat a dead horse. I agree with the historical albatross reasoning as that is actually the way they (Orpheus) feel. It is very difficult to shed that, but they are doing the best they can. In this industry, you only get one chance to impress someone.

One of the original endorsements came from Richard Elliott. He still playes LA Sax today, but he is not formally and contractually affiliated with the name anymore. They used to have a website that had a respectable list of endorsements, but it's not up anymore. Jay Beckenstein (Spyro Gyra) is their current flagship endorsement. I've seen/heard Jay on that Burnished Brass Tenor and I gotta tell you, it's magic. But let's be honest, he could make a garden hose sound good. The list goes on...Jeff Kashiwa, Kim Waters, Tom Scott (really the Chicago Jazz Series made by B&S)...yada yada.

I'm spoiled by the access that I have to these horns. Every saxophone I own came from Orpheus and Jerry let me play as many horns as I wanted before making my selection. There was no rush. As for PR, the best place to catch them is at NAMM. If you want a new horn, pick up the phone and give them a call. If your experience is half as good as mine was, you'll be pleased. I will guarantee that. If your experiences have not been so good, there is a reason for it. I know these people personally and they jump through hoops to make you happy.

As I've said in previous posts, I don't get paid to come on this forum and hype these horns. This is just honest word of mouth experience and referral. Nothing more, nothing less. If you knew me personally, you would know the degree at which I mean what I say and how much I stand behind it.

As with anything, it takes playing the horns and spreading the good news. Nothing irritates me more than someone buying a specific brand horn "just because" without even giving anything else a chance. How many people do you know that drool over VI's when they've never even held anything else in their hands, much less played it?

Like the old cliche' goes: Don't knock it 'till you've tried it.

I thank all of you for your input and look forward to future posts.

Mike

[goodsax]

I bought my alto LA-750 and tenor LA-850 from Jerry and Mike is right on target. I couldn't have asked for better treatment. And the horns are super. I got the bari from a NJ college student and the sop LA-660 curvy from Scimonetti's where other LA Saxes seem to be available at good prices, but not as good as Jerry's "demo's."

[Mark5047]

Those burnished brass demos I got from Jerry are AWESOME!! I could not be more pleased and you just cannot find any flaws in them - essentially new horns for less than half price. I would LOVE to add a burnished sop but right now is not a good time. I have a Tenon made soprano that seems to be in the same vein as the LA saxes so it will have to do for now.
I agree, Jerry is a top notch guy to deal with and he supplies a quality product at a reasonable cost.

[CashSax]

Yeah Morry, I sold and and made a little dough on my collection and had a blast doing it. Selmers,Conn's, Martins, Buescher's, King's and some others too..After playing them all. I've returned to where I started..I didn't find a Tenor I liked more than my trusty ol' MKVI, a better Alto than my VII, or my series II & III Bari & Sop.....I did however keep my SilverSonic's..They're my back-ups for my VI & VII. Oh yeah, kept my LA curvy Sop..

[Mark5047]

Cash, you know you are going to miss the green monster! That was one unique looking instrument.

[CashSax]

The Green machine is on it's way to a player in HOLLAND....:D