LeBlanc Soprano--Thoughts?

[clay7926]

Hi all--

I'm a long time Alto player (14 years) looking to purchase a soprano. A local music store here in town has a LeBlanc soprano available for $595.

What's the overall opinion on the LeBlanc sopranos? Are they recommended, or would I be better off buying another model?

Thanks in advance!

[M Exner]

Welcome to the Web-

To be honest, I don't know much about this Leblanc soprano. At first glance, I would say maybe not the best choice, but then it may be just the right one for you. I think (judging from it's price) it may be the cousin to the student line "Vito". That may be good in that is connected with (Leblanc) Yanagisawa, a well know quality sax.

There are many factors that go into play when choosing a new sax. Budget, use, tonal concept, ergonomics, looks, and quality of construction are just some of the facets that help fit the player to the sax. We don't know any of these criteria of you. Since you have been playing the sax for 14 years, you should have a good handle on what you like.

I would say play several soprano's (even those outside your budget) to get a perspective of what's out there, before you make your evaluation and choice. Good luck! Mike

[pknight]

Does anyone know who manufactures the current LeBlanc/Vito sopranos? It is not safe to assume that they are made by Yani. LeBlanc is the DISTRUBUTOR for Yanigasawa in the U.S., but Yani is not owned by LeBlanc, nor vice versa. They are separate companies.

However, I think that some of the Vito saxes may have been/are made by Yani. On the other hand, I KNOW that some of the Vito alto and tenor saxes have been/are made by Yamaha. Then, of course, there are older Vitos that were made in France.

It is all very confusing. It is important, though, not to be led to the common conclusion that Vito and Yani are just different names on the same instruments.

[Fred]

You may be dealing with an older style keywork (LH especially) if you go with the Leblanc - even if it was made by Yani back when. That may - or may not - be a factor for you. I don't hear Leblanc sopranos talked about - this is the first I've encountered - so it's not a well known favorite. Still, the price isn't too bad. You can balance that against about the same total outlay for an Antigua Winds A582 from Kessler Music which is a known performer, new, and not in need of service or pads anytime soon.

If the choice were mine, I'd go with the Antigua. YMMV