[ZAlto]

I've played the Alto for about a year and a half now, and I like where my tone is. I still want to improve on it, but I like where it is now. But now to the point.
I got my YAS-23 used, and its finish is not in very good condition. As said before, the sound is fine, but the finish is "bleh". Now to my question: I've read that getting it refinished makes the sound quality go down. Is this true? And if so, is it just buffing or does "chemical stripping" mess it up as well?
I either want to get a new finish, or a new horn altogether.

 

[Carl H.]

Get a new horn. The process involved with stripping will cost more than you could ever get for a used YAS-23.

 

[Dave Dolson]

ZAlto: Welcome to SOTW.

I don't believe the finish claims that some people make - in my view, it doesn't matter what is on (or off) the horn (lacquer, no lacquer, silver plate, gold plate, etc.). Having it refinished will only approve its looks - to some people. Others like the old worn look.

I agree with Carl though, the cost outweighs the end result. If it plays okay, leave it alone. DAVE

 

[ZAlto]

I'm going to either keep this one as is, or buy an intermediate horn (Probably a YAS-475)

 

[catseyeweb]

I'm going to either keep this one as is, or buy an intermediate horn (Probably a YAS-475)

Keep the 23. If you buy a nice horn, you will want a backup or gig horn that you don't mind getting banged up. For what you will get out of the horn used, if the condition is as you say, you'll be better off keeping it. Keep playing it until you can get something better than an "intermediate" horn.

my .02

 

[Little Sax]

Keep the 23. If you buy a nice horn, you will want a backup or gig horn that you don't mind getting banged up. For what you will get out of the horn used, if the condition is as you say, you'll be better off keeping it. Keep playing it until you can get something better than an "intermediate" horn.

my .02

Ditto, plus you'll probably be marching at some point here in your musical development. Your 23 will be great for that "bleh" finish and all.

 

[catseyeweb]

Also, do NOT underestimate the quality of a 23. They are very good instruments,. I use a 23 on gigs, and it's great. Go try out mouthpieces and see what happens.

My point is that you need to go well beyond an "intermediate" horn to significantly improve on a 23 (IMO). If you have doubts, just take a look at this thread:

http://forum.saxontheweb.net/showthread.php?t=52136