[ppamhk]

I have heard good deeds about these 2 models. Luckily I have tried Big B alto which I think is a very fine jazz alto - melodic and warm tone. Haven't tried TH&C.

Any sharing? Thanks.

 

[John S.]

Like all these comparisons, it depends on the individual horn and what fits best for you as an individual player. In general, both of these are great horns with the TH&C usually given the edge as the top of the vintage Buescher line. You might find it useful to look at Steve Goodson's website (saxgourmet.com), particularly at the vintage horn value guide. For alto, he lists the TH&C as worth about $500 more than the Aristocrat Big B. That again though is a generalization and you need to try out the horns. Value is not as important as how the horn works/sounds for you. I have a TH&C and have tried the Big B. For me, intonation was better on the TH&C, but that's very anecdotal. They're both exceptional horns.

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John

 

[ppamhk]

Hi John S.:

Apart from intonation, did you recognize any difference between the two models in terms of tone color, response and projection etc.? I know this is subjective but would appreciate your sharing. Reasons being there is no secondary market for vintage saxes here for test playing.

Thanks.

 

[Dave Dolson]

I own both - and play them regularly. They are different from each other - not better or worse, just different. The differences are what I've come to expect from two different saxophones. I'm sure that if you had TWO 400's, each would be different from the other.

You would most likely need to play 100's of them side-by-side before reaching any conclusions about intonation, response, and projection. Both of mine are superb altos. DAVE

 

[John S.]

ppamhk - For myself, the TH&C is a better fit in all those categories. But I agree entirely with Dave -- they are great, but different, horns. I don't think you can go wrong with either, if the individual horn is a good match with you as a player.

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John

 

[ppamhk]

Could you advise a normal price range for a decent TH&C alto please?

 

[saintsday]

Depends on your luck and how decent you want. Figure anywhere from about 1500 and up in the US market.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Buescher-400-To...ryZ16232QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

or http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280167892444