Mark VI sop vs Buescher TT sop

smoothjazztenor · 11-02-2009, 04:51 PM

for someone who has been playing mark vi sops for many yrs......how does it feel....if he switches to a buescher tt ? Are the ergonomics similar? Do the buescher sops have easier intonation? Tone wise...what can i expect? A darker sound for the buescher as compared to a VI?

Grumps · 11-02-2009, 06:40 PM

I've had both such sopranos in my arsenal for over twenty years. The keywork is completely different, but for me, it only takes a couple minutes of playing to get used to each horn. My curved TT is only keyed to Eb3 and although I can get above that, when I have more technical playing to do, I choose the VI. Otherwise, for sound, I prefer the TT. To me, both horns are better than anything currently out there, and I include the Yanagasawas and new Selmers. I also don't have any out of the ordinary intonation problems with either horn. Their sound is full and real, with the edge in darkness going to the TT.

**Yofis** · 11-02-2009, 06:57 PM

As an addendum to Grumps' reply...I have the perspective of someone who has stood next to him playing both horns for the last 20+ years. I have also played his Mark VI several times and my TT soprano many times.

From a listener's perspective...the Mark VI has more of that nasal sound (a bit more oboe-ish)that so many soprano players seem to enjoy. Not a lot mind you, but when played next to the TT, it really is quite different.

The TT has a sweeter, more singing sound (sorry for the subjective nomenclatures), and I don't know if I would say darker...maybe a little more...metallic. Of course, the difference in finishes could have a big effect

I don't recall that the change in ergos was significant, but it has been a year or so since I played the VI.

I think they are both great.