[Matt1]

Hi all, looking to buy this saxophone. It looks in good condition. Can anyone tell me about it before I buy. I know it’s possibly made by Yamaha. Any advice on what to check when testing it out tomorrow?
Any help very much appreciated!
Matt

 

[JohnInDenver]

It certainly looks like a Yamaha-made Vito. From the pictures, the instrument and the case seem to be in good condition.

Do you play? If so, you should be able to play the entire range of notes without having to put too much pressure on the keys to close them. If not, perhaps examine the condition of the pads, see how smoothly everything seems to be moving, and look for dents, etc. Perhaps in that case the seller can play it for you.

 

[atclv]

Certainly made by Yamaha. According to the lacquer condition, this was barely played and might be in perfect condition, if the pads seal well.

 

[FisherSax]

100% a Yamaha stencil.

If you know how to play, it will either work or not. Check the neck for pull down damage, any kind of creasing on the under side of the neck tube at the bend is bad news.

Other than that watch out for cracked pads especially any that sit closed (palm keys, low Eb, G#)

 

[Matt1]

Thanks everyone. Really good to know all
of this. Some slight lacquer damage where the ligature sits and a tiny ding. I haven’t touched a Sax in over 15 years but I’ll try it out and check as you have all helpfully recommended! I wonder what Yamaha model it is and when it was made. Interesting!

 

[saxoclese]

It's the same as a YAS-23. There are still lots of them around and you can generally pick one up for less than the ones that say "Yamaha" on the bell.

 

[swperry1]

Looks nice. Hopefully the price is right and maybe all it needs is a little tune up for optimal playing condition.

 

[Ixthusdan]

I owned one of those in the late 70s. Great horn.

 

[Matt1]

Thanks again all. Very helpful. Hopefully buying for £350 if it seems right. Does that sound right?
Thanks again
Matt

 

[datsaxman]

Definitely a YAS-23. Good at 350 if all is well. Even if it needs a Little fine tuning.