Japanese Martin

[jp3]

Saw a Martin sax on eBay recently. One of the photos showed the back of the horn and an imprint that read "Japan" This is probably a 1960's vintage horn. Would this horn have been made by Yanagisawa? If so, what model Yani would it be most like?

Anyone know if these were good or bad horns?

[Randall]

It is most definitely a Yanagisawa. I am not sure of the model...but likely a B5.
These horns are usually only used as wall decorations in Japan now. My friend has one on the wall of his bar. However, I have heard good things about them too, I just have never gotten to play one.

[Fred]

A 60's vintage Yanagisawa could be a 4, 5, or 6 series. These horns are very good players - Yani was copying the Mk VI and doing a decent job of it. An alto or tenor in these series typically bring $500-$600 on ebay.

[Sigmund451]

The only thing I would suggest is that you would be looking (actually hearing) an atypical Martin tone. I believe that most of the horn became non-martin when the acquisition occured. It may well be a fine horn...perhaps a quite good horn, but a horn of a different breed.

[garyinla]

I have one of these Yanagisawa saxes branded as Martin. THe one i have is a curved soprano from about 1980. It is a pretty good horn, but it doenst have a high alternate front F key.

These Japanese horns with Martin name on them have no connection in design to the earlier American made Martins. There is no attempt to try to copy the old Martin designs in any respect.