how long ago did jupiter create a decent rep for their name?

[bia500]

ive read that years ago, jupiter had a bad reputation for making horns that were of poor quality. I was wondering if anyone could tell me how long ago it was that they created a decent reputation for themselves and what models to watch out for. I am asking because i have an opportunity to buy a soprano for $100 and for a beginner soprano, if it is a more modern one, i dont think i could find a better deal. I still need to find out what the model is and everything, but right now i just know that it is black lacquered with gold colored keys...i dont know if it one piece or 2 pieces or anything else yet, but i wll find out.. Thank you for your responses.

[pepesax]

I had a one piece body, black laquered and gold keys Jupiter soprano. It was a JPS 547 model with 436*** serial number which I bought as a second hand.
I don't know in what year it was made, but supposedly it was not one of the very recent models. I'm not an expert, yet I found out that keyworks and setup were quite poor. Sound was Ok, but when my teacher saw it, his comments on playability were not very good as he agreed that mechanics and setup were faulty in some parts. As a result, I sold it for a same level better playing soprano. Hope this helps.
Regards,
pepesax

[bia500]

i couldnt seem to find a whole lot of information on the quality of lower level jupiter sopranos on the internet, so anything helps. Thank you very much for your experience with the instrument. i think i will just try the horn out and if i do not like it, i figure i wont take a big loss on it if i do not like it. What kind of soprano do you play on now? thank you

[pepesax]

I'm an amateur and mostly play tenor. Soprano is my second alternative - although a very stimulating alternative - then there is alto. I couldn't afford to swap to a pro soprano, so I decided I should risk and try one of the unknown brand names on eBay, but after a deep analysis on feedbacks. Well, I spent exactly the money I got from my previous sop and I now have a much better horn. It is a Fremont (UK brand name), satin gold/tangerine body and gold/tangerine keys.
Keyworks are quite solid with good mechanics. Sound is smooth and warm, I'd say a modern and easy blowing sax, and well in tune. I think it was a very good purchase and I'm satisfied with it.
Good luck with your play tests,
pepesax

[bia500]

thanks for the additional info. Hopefully my experience with the jupiter is better than yours, but if not, its not a big deal.