Late-model S20s = thinner brass, poorer craftsmanship??

[hornimus]

Or so I've been told, but is it true? Those of you with both the Eastlake and earlier examples of S20s or Zephs should know for sure.

[Mike W]

I play a 488xxx Eastlake all brass S20 tenor, probably 1972ish. I really like it. It is heavier than my 1943 Buescher aristrocrat and folks tell me I sound identical on both. It is about the same overall weight as my 1957 Conn 16M although I suspect the Conn has a bit heavier brass than the S20. Since buying the S20, I have trialed 15 plus pro tenors here and there and the only other one that even comes close for me is the 1943 Buescher aristrocrat that I already own. I guess it just boils down to what you like.