[Jon Turner]

My sop sax (like most I've seen) has two necks, one curved and one straight. I've only been at it about a year so I'm probably not experienced enough (although I've been a flautist for over 40 years, bassoonist over 30 and bagpiper over 20) to notice a huge difference but can any one tell me, in layman's terms, what the different end-result is between the two?
Thanks
Jon

 

[Carl H.]

The curved neck allows use of a neck strap for extended playing periods, but many prefer the sound of the straight neck.
Personally I use the bent neck for comfort in playing position and being able to use a neck strap.

 

[Dave Dolson]

I hear a real difference when switching between the two designs. I much prefer straight necks for their fuller tone and power. I even went so far as to buy a fixed-neck Yana S901 recently. I like it better than the dual-neck models I own. The comfort and neck-strap issues do not affect me - I don't use a strap on any soprano. DAVE

 

[Jon Turner]

Thanks for the info, all.
Jon