Gorgest Goi, that's very kind, thanks! I'm fairly new to the platform and just starting to grow a subscriber base. I'm doing weekly vids in 2020, hope to see it grow. But, you're here at the start. I consider you a founding member of the Saxophone Academy. Thanks for your patronage!
this is actually my axe ... and I came from a 62-II. I love this horn, its versatile its pretty comfortable to play for me and I can more easily get the sound that I want compared to other horns. If you go to the Navy Saxophone Symposium and Eastman has a booth you'll get this horn on one hell of a deal. (Speaking from experience)
That's great, and I'm not surprised! The couple of people at Eastman I've chatted with were all incredibly nice. I hear their new line is pretty fantastic - looking forward to checking those out as well! Happy Friday, Sam.
I recently bought an Eastman 52nd Street soprano and I love it! I'm very new to soprano, but found it easy to play and sounds beautiful. The stock case is very similarly set up to the one in this review, yet obviously smaller because... well... soprano.
The sax player in my band has literally the best tone I've ever heard (for my tastes), and he does it on this exact instrument. I like that the case is rectangular so it tessellates with other gear in the trailer well. He likes the action on his, but because of the road life, his instruments are constantly in the shop. He gets a thick, smoky tone. Can't beat it.
I’ve had a 52nd St alto for a little over a year now, I play mostly tenor. I picked up a 52nd St tenor 3 years back and love how it plays. I sold my Mark Vi and bought a 52nd St Bari and Alto and a few mouthpieces. The alto has more back pressure as you noted and it plays nicely with my main mouthpiece. I’m fine with the finish, most of my horns have been vintage and ugly so the finish really isn’t a big deal for me. After getting this alto (my old king was ready for the junk pile) I’ve been playing it more in the groups I play with and have really come to enjoy it. Also, I bought mine new for under $2K, it did need some adjustments, overall I’m very happy with this sax.
I own 2 Mark VI's and was blown away by the Eastman, very lush..no need to spend $8K for a Supreme these days, Yamaha, Yani's, P Mauriat and Eastman's will all do the trick.
I tried their tenors a few years ago and I agree they are some of the better new modern horns out there, if you are into a darker larger bore vintage feel. The funny thing is I did prefer their intermediate line over the 52. Without the rolled tone holes and the double braced keys the ETS series felt like a much lighter and livelier horn while keeping the same tonal quality. Overtones series on the necks were particularly good giving very easy altissimo response. On the low side, spring tensions out of the box were not the most uniform....
I own and play one. I love it. Got a great deal on it since the store owner was selling off his instruments. I enjoy it for doubling since I find it very responsive. Also blends well.
It's a great horn and a good value. The one I played wasn't quite as responsive as I'd like - and that's to be expected. The heavier, more resistant feel is part of what allows for that incredibly warm, full sound. Everything is a tradeoff, and the Eastman sound is certainly worth my minor gripes.
The Eastman 52nd Street is an ideal entry-level professional saxophone. It plays like a dream, with precise intonation and robust projection that gets an assist from the horn’s oversized bell and rolled tone holes. If you’re an advancing saxophone player looking to bounce up to your first pro-level horn, the Eastman 52nd Street is an incredible value that deserves serious consideration.
I have a 52nd street and it’s probably the best alto I’ve ever played in my opinion. It has a really PHAT sound when I play. For my mouthpiece setup I use a JodyJazz HR 5M hard rubber mouthpiece and Vandoren Java Red reeds. I love the unlaquered look to it. It gives a different look than standard gold saxes. It is a great horn and the case was decent. For me I didn’t really like it because how much the actual body of the horn moved. There was a ton of wiggle room for me and the Velcro thing didn’t really work so when I carried the case the thing always just knocked on my hand. I now have a Protec countered case and even though the 52nd street has a enlarged bell, it fits very snug in the normal protec case. It definitely has that lead alto sound to it when I play it. That being said I really recommend the horn to anyone wanting a really good horn for jazz and a decent classical horn.
Good to know, thanks for the info. My time with the case was limited to a few days, so I’ll certainly take your word on the issue. It’s a good horn, to be sure. Happy practicing!
I legit have the same exact Reed and mouthpiece setup(6M instead of 5) and I’m on the verge of buying this horn. I want to play test a selmer I’ve been wanting to try for awhile but after giving this a shot in a store, I was so sold on it.
I test-drove the tenor version (as played by Bob Mintzer) and was blown away by its immediate responsiveness. I have a Selmer Mk VI and was very tempted to swap (as BM has). The difference is that a new Taiwanese or Chinese sax will note remotely hold its value, whereas my vintage Selmer will appreciate. I then tried the Eastman alto, but wasn’t nearly as struck with it. Nothing specific, but it felt overly chunky to me. That said, no sax I’ve tried gives me that Paul Desmond (alto) or Stan Getz (tenor) sound that I love and YOU have. Funny that!
I can guarantee you that the mouthpiece makes a lot of difference. On a sax with a dark sound it is best if you put a mouthpiece with opening 8 on it. Bob mintzer plays with the rafael navarro bebop opening 8. he has an extraordinary sound on the eastman.
Happy New Year esteemed members of the academy! I've got a ton of fun content planned for 2020, let me know any products you're interested in learning more about! As for the Eastman, anyone owned one?
I never tried an Eastman horn. My only horns I played are an Ida Maria Grassi (studio model) and a Yamaha Studio Yas 25 made in Japan produced in ‘92 or ‘93. Now I would like to buy a professional horn and before they put in the market the Supreme, I wanted to buy a Reference 54 that was inspired on the great Mark VI.... All the tests I heard about Supreme make me think it is so good for classic and less for jazz, most of all in the high notes. I definitively prefer the sound you made on 52nd Street Eastman. Maybe I’m totally wrong but I think the high notes on Supreme are not so brilliant from middle C sharp up to F sharp. I can hear only a classical sound (meaning classic music) on those notes. I know that they are two very different products, maybe not comparable on web.....it could compromise credibility 😂😂😂 even only for the difference of prize....but that’s why I would like to hear a comparison by the same player, with the same mouthpiece, reed and the same piece of music. Thank you so much. See you soon on your magic channel !
Very well informative and appreciate this Dr. Wally. You are really a fantastic teacher and thank you for these great videos. I owe you cups of good coffee at lease!
@@drwallysax ok. Then I will put it into my savings jar for a better saxophone I need. After seeing a bunch of your videos I really want Yamaha 75 EX ..
Saxophone Academy Update; after 2 weeks, I really love it! I was a dyed in the wool Selmer guy, due to my first two teachers back in the 70’s. Still have my 220 series MK VI tenor (original owner) Have played Yamaha’s, Keilworth, have a ‘59 Buffet SDA tenor. My old Selmer Super sax 13,000 alto needs a total rebuild. Don’t play out much anymore so couldn’t justify the cost of a new Selmer. Have a student with a Yamaha 62 they wanted to sell. Thought I’d give the Eastman a try first based on yours and other RUclips reviews. I bought a Meyer 6 G series. For me, it’s the alto sound I’ve been waiting for.
I have a 52nd St Alto and love it I even prefer it to my Yamaha 875EX Alto (which is truly stunning to look at, a work of art in my book)though I also have a Yamaha 62 III Tenor which I also love. I don't know why but when playing the 52nd st it just makes me feel old school whereas my 62 III is simply faultless and without question manufactured to a higher standard than the 52nd st, both fit perfectly in my hands. No matter what mouthpiece I use with the 52nd st (I have 7 different makes) I still sound like me :)
I bought this horn after trying someone’s and loving it. I sold my back up to get it. A Yamaha custom black lacquer. I never loved the sound of it and wanted to sell it. I play this Eastman more than my mark 6.
I know Im randomly asking but does anybody know of a trick to log back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost the password. I love any help you can offer me!
@Shane Alec I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im trying it out now. Seems to take a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I think the 52nd Street is a very good alto. I heard a video demo of their new Baritone that I liked better than the 62 Baritone. With this alto, in as much as it is a good horn, my preference leans more towards a P Mauriat 76. Of the big bell altos, it sounds the best to me and carries edge, while keeping that center core feel to it while playing. I use to play a Yamaha 52. It did great with my Selmer C*, but with my Rousseau Studio Jazz 7 I was unable to get any resonance. It was like wanting an apple, and getting a grapefruit instead. I had many soldering issues with that alto. Mine was made in Japan, where the 62 is made. I loved the way the keys felt in my hand. At times I had wanted to upgrade to a 62, but had trouble reaching that price point, and liked the way the 62 played better. I am more and more disappointed with the 62 every time a new version is released. The original case was a case. I don't like these fabric zipper cases. With my fabric zipper case, a case that has never left the house, one day one of the zipper handles broke off, and I observed that it was made out of plastic, along with the hooks for the backpack straps, and I don't feel it provides nearly enough protection for an instrument. If I were to spend crazy money for a new alto, for that kind of money, I would want a good lacquer job on it. If I wanted un-lacquered and old looking, I would look for an old vintage horn without any lacquer. Back to the 62. When the 2nd version came out, they did away with the real mother of pearl key touches. The neck on that version was not enjoyable. Then I started noticing they changed the finish from what was a nice beautiful copper rose finish to a standard clear finish that was on my old 52. That was a turn off. Now they are giving you a cheaper cloth zipper case. To me, they don't feel as heavy as the original version, and the price is out of line. 40 years ago I got the 52 brand new for 627 dollars. At the time, they had the 62 for 950 dollars. I don't think the new horn prices for the intermediate and pro horns is far out of line, probably about 1,000 too much for the 62, Yani 01, etc. And to list a Yamaha or Selmer USA Taiwanese Horn for 2,500 is outrageous. I just wouldn't spend that kind of money to get less than I use to for a lot less money. If I went pro, I would look around for a used Yani in nice condition. Just my honesty. I can go to Sax.UK and save a lot of money on a horn, compared to US prices. This is why the cheap throw away disposable horns are selling so well. The prices are scaring a lot of us away. I have a Martin Indiana Alto that still has a great deal of it's original finish and a horn I bought from the Wal-Mart website for 169 dollars. I fixed the issues with the lower end not playing. It is 2 and a half years old and nothing has broken or fallen off it it yet. The case is terrible, but it never leaves the house. When the name brands start offering more reasonable and fair prices again, I will come back to the name brands.
Always like the sounds I've heard from the 52nd Street...using which ever mouthpiece played by whomever...Priced somewhat competitively...with the only one possible factor that might stop someone from buying one...it's another Taiwanese made/assembled horn. If that doesn't matter to the buyer...then it's a good choice. Question is...how will it hold up after 5 years of "frequent" play? How will the parts hold up? How often would it need a tune-up? Good horn for a casual player. Who isn't into vintage horns or performing. And just wants a horn to "toot" for the fun alone or for small crowds (friends or family) at parties.
At the same price of a Yamaha, I don't think it's an incredible bargain. I'm testing a "house brand" Taiwanese horn that I think will be a great value. I've been impressed. I've played some great instruments coming out of Taiwan. And pulled some fresh Selmers out of the plastic that had MAJOR issues. I'm becoming less inclined to paint an entire country with such a broad brush.
@@drwallysax Till Taiwan has established themselves in the horns manufacturing world as the Japanese, Germans , French and Italians. Even if there are a few great companies making horns...the many that are questionable will continue to cast doubt. Make a buyer think twice.Just as they would a car. And you did sound like you were biased against Taiwanese/China made horns in your Yamaha 875 review...which was fine. Your opinion. Your channel. I for one.....given the choice...would buy a Yamaha 62 for the same money. Or pay a little more for an 82Z, Keilwrth MKX... if I were in the market ...
How will it stand up to 5 years of hammering, you ask. Well, Bob Mintzer’s still hammering his tenor with the Yellowjackets years after abandoning his Selmer Mk VI, so I would guess they’re pretty robust horns.
I've had my 52nd St. alto for almost exactly 5 years. I've played it almost every day, and play it on an average of 3-4 gigs per week. It's held up really well - just routine maintenance, like any other pro horn.
I’m very wondered for the sound of this horn. Would you mind to play the same thing with the same mouthpiece on Selmer Supreme, for comparing both of them....I’m trying to choose my new Alto and sincerely the few things I’ve heard played on Supreme didn’t impressed me as like as this 52nd....talking about the sound, maybe mechanically they are two different worlds. Thank you so much in advance and Happy Easter from Italy !
Hi Andrea! It would be a cool comparison, to be sure! If you can talk my wife into letting me buy a Selmer Supreme, I'll happily do a video. BUT, I'm not sure I can spend $7,000 on a modern saxophone! (Selmer is not likely to send me one for review).
Speaking of un-lacquered horns: is there any kind of process done to prevent oxidation of the bare brass? I have two Mark VII's (alto and tenor) and the alto is much more red than it used to be.
Nope, the brass will patina and eventually you'll see oxidation and green stuff. If I had to do it over, I'd have left the lacquer on my Yamaha. Good question, Cass.
I gave much thought to the Eastman 52nd street, but ultimately went with the P. Mauriat System 76, based on a combination of both sound and vintage look/dark lacquer, which will protect it against the patina - just in case I ever decide to sell it.
Smart move! I like the Taiwanese horns quite a bit (like P. Mauriat), the only big downside is the resale value takes a big hit. But as you mention, being lacquered will help mitigate that I think!
@@drwallysax can you elaborate a bit more because I primarily play tenor. YTS-875 with the original M1 neck will get a V1 u lacquered and I play a P. MAURIAT PMXT 66RUL. I love them both two different beast. For Alto I have the YAS 52 which does what I want N more but I want an alto that will put me in the zone between my 875 and 66 on the alto side. Thoughts?
Dear Dr. S.A. , why do the high tones on so many good horn players sound forced and to bright , almost sharp? Is it in the recording equipment ? Thanks
Hey Rocknroy, In my experience the Yamaha 62 (and student models) are FAR more free blowing than their Chinese counterparts. JeanPaul is a rather inexpensive horn, correct? Could it be damaged in shipping? Perhaps a leak adding to the resistance?
Ty, for your time and well done presentation! Question, i just brought a alto sax from a pawn shop and was trying to find it true value w/o success. I was hoping that just maybe someone out here could help me find where to look for my "Soul Instrument with the series # 4631?
Hi MrCwchass, I've never heard of the brand (and I'm a huge saxophone nerd). So it's not going to be inherently valuable. A quick google search shows a curved soprano for sale, but it's quite cheap: reverb.com/item/14221769-soul-instruments-soprano-curved-saxophone-2000-s-black My best guess, it's probably worth a few hundred USD if it's in REALLY good condition. Sorry I can't be more help!
I don't think the Meyer works very well on tenor. I'm really only reviewing things I generally recommend, or things students frequently asking about. Afraid that would be a video that very few people would be interested in. BUT, I've got a very cool new piece to review very soon. New company, very cool concept on a vintage design. I'm looking forward to it.
@@drwallysax niceeee, I have a Meyer for the tenor, I noticed it responds completely different depending on the reeds you use, I use vandoren blue box Reed's because they seem to be giving me what I want, but I have a v16 ebonite mouthpiece on the way
I second that it's not the best for tenor. I have one. I think the Otto Link Tone Edge is a good place to start or perhaps a Vandoren V16. Be careful with D'Addario Select Jazz mouthpieces as they have a small chamber and can be pitch sensitive.
Your explanation method is indeed wonderful. Am very much impressed with the way you have explained about creating a vibrato . I would like to learn from you. Do you take up ON LINE Classes ?
Hey Wood Wind, currently homeschooling 2 kiddos during the pandemic. Hopefully have some on line classes up and running soon. Thanks for your interest!
I wonder what‘s about the Schagerl Saxophones! Expecially the ‚Pro‘ Series, the Model 66, that should be a Mark 6 Copy, or at least inspiered by it... they come in Versions with or without high f sharp..it costs about 2400€ in a standard Gold laquer finish and about 2900€ in Silver-plated, what would be my favorite finish! It is manufactured in Taiwan under the supervision of the Austrian Schagerl Specialists, so Quality should be quite high, because Schagerl has a Name in Austria, and a reputation for quality instruments! Do you know something about those horns? I am really courious! Is ist truely a professional horn? Then it would be cheaper!
"$3500... right on the mark to the Yamaha 62" Öööhm, what? Is the YAS-62 that expensive in USA? Here in central Europe the YAS 62-04 costs about CHF 2200 (in a wind instrument online store, not Amazon or so), that equals about 2370 US$. That's about 30% difference to the prize of the Eastman. And it's getting even more extreme: If I'd order an Eastman Sax to ship to switzerland, ($3,5k is CHF 3250, plus shipping costs, VAT, insurance and other costs) I'd probably pay around CHF 3600 for that horn - and that is pretty much the prize of the cheapest version of the YAS-82 ....which I certainly would prefer, If I was a pro and looking for a pro horn. (But I'm not. I bravely practice my student's Sax day by day. And I love it.)
YAS62 is around 3,200. Eastman used to be at the exact same price at my retail partner, but the trade war between US and China drove the Eastman up about $500 recently. Before the tariffs, they were nearly identical in price.
Eastman is a big instrument company, they also own the Eastman guitar company whose instruments are made in Beijing (although the wind instruments are made in Taiwan), and a strings business. Quite possibly Andreas Eastman is a made-up name.
Hmm has anyone done a head to head comparison of the original run of the 52nd street and the revision? I hear they changed some stuff like key work and the bore possibly ... I'm just curious if there is a noticeable difference and if so did they get better or, well, not so much?
@@drwallysax I ordered one on ebay, hope it will play) But Yes, I would buy such a mouthpiece, I also like how they sound on the tenor saxophone, it's gorgeous, just what you need!
@@drwallysax Today I tried a Brilhart ebolin carsbad 0,74. I like the sound of it more than other ebony mouthpieces. Why do all manufacturers make a copy of Mayer? This is a tragedy! I hope to be producing Brilhart again!
Who is this Andreas Eastman? A nom de plume of sorts. From the manufacturer website's Home > Our > Vision page: "Qian Ni, an accomplished flutist from Beijing, founded Eastman Strings in 1992 after graduating from the Boston University School of Music." www.eastmanwinds.com
The lead development guy from Eastern messaged me, apparently Qian Ni's nickname was "Man from the East" and his son was named Andre. So they came up with the rather western name "Andreas Eastman."
You’re content is amazing I have no idea why you’re only getting 305 views!!!
Gorgest Goi, that's very kind, thanks! I'm fairly new to the platform and just starting to grow a subscriber base. I'm doing weekly vids in 2020, hope to see it grow. But, you're here at the start. I consider you a founding member of the Saxophone Academy. Thanks for your patronage!
this is actually my axe ... and I came from a 62-II. I love this horn, its versatile its pretty comfortable to play for me and I can more easily get the sound that I want compared to other horns. If you go to the Navy Saxophone Symposium and Eastman has a booth you'll get this horn on one hell of a deal. (Speaking from experience)
That's great, and I'm not surprised! The couple of people at Eastman I've chatted with were all incredibly nice. I hear their new line is pretty fantastic - looking forward to checking those out as well! Happy Friday, Sam.
I recently bought an Eastman 52nd Street soprano and I love it! I'm very new to soprano, but found it easy to play and sounds beautiful. The stock case is very similarly set up to the one in this review, yet obviously smaller because... well... soprano.
I need to try the soprano, I've heard good things!
The sax player in my band has literally the best tone I've ever heard (for my tastes), and he does it on this exact instrument. I like that the case is rectangular so it tessellates with other gear in the trailer well.
He likes the action on his, but because of the road life, his instruments are constantly in the shop. He gets a thick, smoky tone. Can't beat it.
I’ve had a 52nd St alto for a little over a year now, I play mostly tenor. I picked up a 52nd St tenor 3 years back and love how it plays. I sold my Mark Vi and bought a 52nd St Bari and Alto and a few mouthpieces. The alto has more back pressure as you noted and it plays nicely with my main mouthpiece. I’m fine with the finish, most of my horns have been vintage and ugly so the finish really isn’t a big deal for me. After getting this alto (my old king was ready for the junk pile) I’ve been playing it more in the groups I play with and have really come to enjoy it. Also, I bought mine new for under $2K, it did need some adjustments, overall I’m very happy with this sax.
Glad it's worked out for you! Most Eastman owners I know are VERY happy campers!
I think I'd still go for the Yamaha, just for its obvious reputation for quality.
But, it looks beautiful !!
I kind of agree. Eastman has a ton of fun lil' features, but I KNOW the Yamaha will last for decades.
Happy New Year, Willis!
I own 2 Mark VI's and was blown away by the Eastman, very lush..no need to spend $8K for a Supreme these days, Yamaha, Yani's, P Mauriat and Eastman's will all do the trick.
I tried their tenors a few years ago and I agree they are some of the better new modern horns out there, if you are into a darker larger bore vintage feel. The funny thing is I did prefer their intermediate line over the 52. Without the rolled tone holes and the double braced keys the ETS series felt like a much lighter and livelier horn while keeping the same tonal quality. Overtones series on the necks were particularly good giving very easy altissimo response. On the low side, spring tensions out of the box were not the most uniform....
I own and play one. I love it. Got a great deal on it since the store owner was selling off his instruments. I enjoy it for doubling since I find it very responsive. Also blends well.
It's a great horn and a good value. The one I played wasn't quite as responsive as I'd like - and that's to be expected. The heavier, more resistant feel is part of what allows for that incredibly warm, full sound. Everything is a tradeoff, and the Eastman sound is certainly worth my minor gripes.
@@drwallysax Well, I'm an oboe player, so I'm used to resistance lol. Also, I got it for $1500 new so I can't really complain for what I paid.
@@sr14225The oboe is so ridiculously resistant.
The Eastman 52nd Street is an ideal entry-level professional saxophone. It plays like a dream, with precise intonation and robust projection that gets an assist from the horn’s oversized bell and rolled tone holes.
If you’re an advancing saxophone player looking to bounce up to your first pro-level horn, the Eastman 52nd Street is an incredible value that deserves serious consideration.
GREAT video! Love this review of the 52nd Street. You sound great on this instrument.
Thanks D-Rice, happy new year!
@@drwallysax Thanks! And Happy New Year to you as well!
I have a 52nd street and it’s probably the best alto I’ve ever played in my opinion. It has a really PHAT sound when I play. For my mouthpiece setup I use a JodyJazz HR 5M hard rubber mouthpiece and Vandoren Java Red reeds. I love the unlaquered look to it. It gives a different look than standard gold saxes. It is a great horn and the case was decent. For me I didn’t really like it because how much the actual body of the horn moved. There was a ton of wiggle room for me and the Velcro thing didn’t really work so when I carried the case the thing always just knocked on my hand. I now have a Protec countered case and even though the 52nd street has a enlarged bell, it fits very snug in the normal protec case. It definitely has that lead alto sound to it when I play it. That being said I really recommend the horn to anyone wanting a really good horn for jazz and a decent classical horn.
Good to know, thanks for the info. My time with the case was limited to a few days, so I’ll certainly take your word on the issue. It’s a good horn, to be sure. Happy practicing!
Saxophone Academy Thanks!
I legit have the same exact Reed and mouthpiece setup(6M instead of 5) and I’m on the verge of buying this horn. I want to play test a selmer I’ve been wanting to try for awhile but after giving this a shot in a store, I was so sold on it.
Please keep up the regular upload!! Love your content.
Thanks! Will do!
I test-drove the tenor version (as played by Bob Mintzer) and was blown away by its immediate responsiveness. I have a Selmer Mk VI and was very tempted to swap (as BM has). The difference is that a new Taiwanese or Chinese sax will note remotely hold its value, whereas my vintage Selmer will appreciate. I then tried the Eastman alto, but wasn’t nearly as struck with it. Nothing specific, but it felt overly chunky to me. That said, no sax I’ve tried gives me that Paul Desmond (alto) or Stan Getz (tenor) sound that I love and YOU have. Funny that!
I hear ya paul! I've never spent any large amount of time on a Mark iV, but I should (for comparison reasons). have a great weekend man!
I can guarantee you that the mouthpiece makes a lot of difference. On a sax with a dark sound it is best if you put a mouthpiece with opening 8 on it. Bob mintzer plays with the rafael navarro bebop opening 8. he has an extraordinary sound on the eastman.
Happy New Year esteemed members of the academy! I've got a ton of fun content planned for 2020, let me know any products you're interested in learning more about! As for the Eastman, anyone owned one?
I never tried an Eastman horn. My only horns I played are an Ida Maria Grassi (studio model) and a Yamaha Studio Yas 25 made in Japan produced in ‘92 or ‘93. Now I would like to buy a professional horn and before they put in the market the Supreme, I wanted to buy a Reference 54 that was inspired on the great Mark VI.... All the tests I heard about Supreme make me think it is so good for classic and less for jazz, most of all in the high notes. I definitively prefer the sound you made on 52nd Street Eastman. Maybe I’m totally wrong but I think the high notes on Supreme are not so brilliant from middle C sharp up to F sharp. I can hear only a classical sound (meaning classic music) on those notes. I know that they are two very different products, maybe not comparable on web.....it could compromise credibility 😂😂😂 even only for the difference of prize....but that’s why I would like to hear a comparison by the same player, with the same mouthpiece, reed and the same piece of music. Thank you so much. See you soon on your magic channel !
Wonderful review as always. I play a Yanagisawa TW01 tenor and at some point will get a nice alto. It’s nice to see good reviews on horns.
Vladimir Lopez thank you my friend! I’ll have a few more pro horn reviews coming up, hopefully have a good recommendation for you. Happy new year!
Very well informative and appreciate this Dr. Wally. You are really a fantastic teacher and thank you for these great videos. I owe you cups of good coffee at lease!
That's very kind, no coffee necessary, but thank you!
@@drwallysax ok. Then I will put it into my savings jar for a better saxophone I need. After seeing a bunch of your videos I really want Yamaha 75 EX ..
Mine came via FedEx on Monday. I played for 4 hrs and I love it!
Glad you love it, happy practicing Craig!
Saxophone Academy Update; after 2 weeks, I really love it! I was a dyed in the wool Selmer guy, due to my first two teachers back in the 70’s. Still have my 220 series MK VI tenor (original owner) Have played Yamaha’s, Keilworth, have a ‘59 Buffet SDA tenor. My old Selmer Super sax 13,000 alto needs a total rebuild. Don’t play out much anymore so couldn’t justify the cost of a new Selmer. Have a student with a Yamaha 62 they wanted to sell. Thought I’d give the Eastman a try first based on yours and other RUclips reviews. I bought a Meyer 6 G series. For me, it’s the alto sound I’ve been waiting for.
Great sound with a little sharpness in the upper stack-Parkeresque-resistance is usually not present in Asian horns but it really makes a difference
I have played one of these horns and I agree with everything you said
melody & TRUTH Great minds think alike!
I have a 52nd St Alto and love it I even prefer it to my Yamaha 875EX Alto (which is truly stunning to look at, a work of art in my book)though I also have a Yamaha 62 III Tenor which I also love. I don't know why but when playing the 52nd st it just makes me feel old school whereas my 62 III is simply faultless and without question manufactured to a higher standard than the 52nd st, both fit perfectly in my hands.
No matter what mouthpiece I use with the 52nd st (I have 7 different makes) I still sound like me :)
As an Italian, I died (in the good sense) at the “molto bene”
Francis S., how far off was my pronunciation?!
Saxophone Academy Not really that far off, it’s all in the attitude! Good work 👍🏻
Francis S. Thanks! I’ll add hand gestures next time.
@@drwallysax >>>I’ll add hand gestures next time.>>> LOL. Well played!
I bought this horn after trying someone’s and loving it. I sold my back up to get it. A Yamaha custom black lacquer. I never loved the sound of it and wanted to sell it. I play this Eastman more than my mark 6.
I know Im randomly asking but does anybody know of a trick to log back into an instagram account??
I was stupid lost the password. I love any help you can offer me!
@Luke Alaric instablaster ;)
@Shane Alec I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im trying it out now.
Seems to take a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Shane Alec It did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy:D
Thank you so much you really help me out :D
@Luke Alaric Glad I could help xD
I’ve had inexpensive saxophones and expensive ones as well. Yamaha is one of my favorites. Although least expensive are just as good. Play well.
also he may have insinuated this but, it has BACKPACK STRAPS, which are dope, and comfy
Forgot to mention that, good point. Yeah, I really liked the case.
I would’ve enjoyed hearing a little excerpt from the 2nd movement of the Creston Sonata as part of your play test. :)
Creston? No more academic saxophone for Wally ;)
I think the 52nd Street is a very good alto. I heard a video demo of their new Baritone that I liked better than the 62 Baritone. With this alto, in as much as it is a good horn, my preference leans more towards a P Mauriat 76. Of the big bell altos, it sounds the best to me and carries edge, while keeping that center core feel to it while playing. I use to play a Yamaha 52. It did great with my Selmer C*, but with my Rousseau Studio Jazz 7 I was unable to get any resonance. It was like wanting an apple, and getting a grapefruit instead. I had many soldering issues with that alto. Mine was made in Japan, where the 62 is made. I loved the way the keys felt in my hand. At times I had wanted to upgrade to a 62, but had trouble reaching that price point, and liked the way the 62 played better. I am more and more disappointed with the 62 every time a new version is released. The original case was a case. I don't like these fabric zipper cases. With my fabric zipper case, a case that has never left the house, one day one of the zipper handles broke off, and I observed that it was made out of plastic, along with the hooks for the backpack straps, and I don't feel it provides nearly enough protection for an instrument. If I were to spend crazy money for a new alto, for that kind of money, I would want a good lacquer job on it. If I wanted un-lacquered and old looking, I would look for an old vintage horn without any lacquer. Back to the 62. When the 2nd version came out, they did away with the real mother of pearl key touches. The neck on that version was not enjoyable. Then I started noticing they changed the finish from what was a nice beautiful copper rose finish to a standard clear finish that was on my old 52. That was a turn off. Now they are giving you a cheaper cloth zipper case. To me, they don't feel as heavy as the original version, and the price is out of line. 40 years ago I got the 52 brand new for 627 dollars. At the time, they had the 62 for 950 dollars. I don't think the new horn prices for the intermediate and pro horns is far out of line, probably about 1,000 too much for the 62, Yani 01, etc. And to list a Yamaha or Selmer USA Taiwanese Horn for 2,500 is outrageous. I just wouldn't spend that kind of money to get less than I use to for a lot less money. If I went pro, I would look around for a used Yani in nice condition. Just my honesty. I can go to Sax.UK and save a lot of money on a horn, compared to US prices. This is why the cheap throw away disposable horns are selling so well. The prices are scaring a lot of us away. I have a Martin Indiana Alto that still has a great deal of it's original finish and a horn I bought from the Wal-Mart website for 169 dollars. I fixed the issues with the lower end not playing. It is 2 and a half years old and nothing has broken or fallen off it it yet. The case is terrible, but it never leaves the house. When the name brands start offering more reasonable and fair prices again, I will come back to the name brands.
Always like the sounds I've heard from the 52nd Street...using which ever mouthpiece played by whomever...Priced somewhat competitively...with the only one possible factor that might stop someone from buying one...it's another Taiwanese made/assembled horn. If that doesn't matter to the buyer...then it's a good choice.
Question is...how will it hold up after 5 years of "frequent" play? How will the parts hold up? How often would it need a tune-up?
Good horn for a casual player. Who isn't into vintage horns or performing. And just wants a horn to "toot" for the fun alone or for small crowds (friends or family) at parties.
At the same price of a Yamaha, I don't think it's an incredible bargain. I'm testing a "house brand" Taiwanese horn that I think will be a great value. I've been impressed. I've played some great instruments coming out of Taiwan. And pulled some fresh Selmers out of the plastic that had MAJOR issues. I'm becoming less inclined to paint an entire country with such a broad brush.
@@drwallysax Till Taiwan has established themselves in the horns manufacturing world as the Japanese, Germans , French and Italians. Even if there are a few great companies making horns...the many that are questionable will continue to cast doubt. Make a buyer think twice.Just as they would a car. And you did sound like you were biased against Taiwanese/China made horns in your Yamaha 875 review...which was fine. Your opinion. Your channel. I for one.....given the choice...would buy a Yamaha 62 for the same money. Or pay a little more for an 82Z, Keilwrth MKX... if I were in the market ...
How will it stand up to 5 years of hammering, you ask. Well, Bob Mintzer’s still hammering his tenor with the Yellowjackets years after abandoning his Selmer Mk VI, so I would guess they’re pretty robust horns.
I've had my 52nd St. alto for almost exactly 5 years. I've played it almost every day, and play it on an average of 3-4 gigs per week. It's held up really well - just routine maintenance, like any other pro horn.
I love my Eastman the only problem I ran into is that my hands turn blue because of the raw brass. Besides that I love it
Never heard of that! I've got an unlacquered Yamaha, and hands are still....well, hand colored?
I’m very wondered for the sound of this horn. Would you mind to play the same thing with the same mouthpiece on Selmer Supreme, for comparing both of them....I’m trying to choose my new Alto and sincerely the few things I’ve heard played on Supreme didn’t impressed me as like as this 52nd....talking about the sound, maybe mechanically they are two different worlds. Thank you so much in advance and Happy Easter from Italy !
Hi Andrea! It would be a cool comparison, to be sure! If you can talk my wife into letting me buy a Selmer Supreme, I'll happily do a video. BUT, I'm not sure I can spend $7,000 on a modern saxophone! (Selmer is not likely to send me one for review).
@@drwallysax 😂😂😂 Your wife is right ! Especially during these hard times !!!
Love Rolled tone holes
Thank you for the review doctor. How about Ishimori saxophones, are they a good value for money.
You’ll have a Beautiful Tone on Bundy Beginner Sax.
Speaking of un-lacquered horns: is there any kind of process done to prevent oxidation of the bare brass? I have two Mark VII's (alto and tenor) and the alto is much more red than it used to be.
Nope, the brass will patina and eventually you'll see oxidation and green stuff. If I had to do it over, I'd have left the lacquer on my Yamaha. Good question, Cass.
I gave much thought to the Eastman 52nd street, but ultimately went with the P. Mauriat System 76, based on a combination of both sound and vintage look/dark lacquer, which will protect it against the patina - just in case I ever decide to sell it.
Smart move! I like the Taiwanese horns quite a bit (like P. Mauriat), the only big downside is the resale value takes a big hit. But as you mention, being lacquered will help mitigate that I think!
I just bought a yahama 26 (my first sax), what you think about it ? is it a fine option for beginners ?
excellent horn. If I had to use it as a backup, I'd be fine with it.
Hi Dr. Have you tested the tenor sax?? By the way...your alto playing is gorgeous. My best regards.
Thanks for the kind words, Carlos! I haven't tried the tenor, but they see to be quite popular. Have you played one?
@@drwallysax I own
a Yamaha 62 tenor sax.But....I'm
not a good player yet.....
@@menilmontant100 62 is my favorite tenor (I've owned mine since 1999). It's simply fantastic.
1:20 So where do you get that kinda thing done at? Want to delaquer my bari as long as it doesn’t cost that much.
I had my done by Music Medic in Wilimington, NC. It added a couple of hundred dollars to the cost of my Overhaul. Not sure what most would charge?
@@drwallysax aww love the folks over at music medic. Maybe I could take a trip down there to see what they can do. Thank you!
@@lucassstache8069 Absolutely! I got my horn "uberhauled" like 7 or 8 years ago, it's held up VERY well.
What’s your opinion on the comparable P. Mauriat? I’m saving up for a good horn.
It's strikes me as very similar (quality wise) just different. Really just a matter of preference.
@@drwallysax can you elaborate a bit more because I primarily play tenor. YTS-875 with the original M1 neck will get a V1 u lacquered and I play a P. MAURIAT PMXT 66RUL. I love them both two different beast. For Alto I have the YAS 52 which does what I want N more but I want an alto that will put me in the zone between my 875 and 66 on the alto side. Thoughts?
@@gradyparks5249 Have you tried the 82Z? It's a great horn, and closer to the mauriat than an 875?
@@drwallysax I though about the Z but wanted something different for my last alto unlacquered. I will add it to my list. Thanks
I've heard some good things about these instruments. I play a Yamaha, but I'm very curious!
Dear Dr. S.A. , why do the high tones on so many good horn players sound forced and to bright , almost sharp? Is it in the recording equipment ? Thanks
It's part of the jazz idiom. When I was a classical player (exclusively) I didn't care for it. It can grow on you.
Which alto sax has the least resistance? I've only been playing again for 4 months. My new JeanPaul feels like pushing my truck up a hill.
Hey Rocknroy, In my experience the Yamaha 62 (and student models) are FAR more free blowing than their Chinese counterparts. JeanPaul is a rather inexpensive horn, correct? Could it be damaged in shipping? Perhaps a leak adding to the resistance?
personally my jean paul is pretty free blowing, you might want to inspect for damages
Ty, for your time and well done presentation! Question, i just brought a alto sax from a pawn shop and was trying to find it true value w/o success. I was hoping that just maybe someone out here could help me find where to look for my "Soul Instrument with the series # 4631?
Hi MrCwchass, I've never heard of the brand (and I'm a huge saxophone nerd). So it's not going to be inherently valuable. A quick google search shows a curved soprano for sale, but it's quite cheap: reverb.com/item/14221769-soul-instruments-soprano-curved-saxophone-2000-s-black
My best guess, it's probably worth a few hundred USD if it's in REALLY good condition. Sorry I can't be more help!
Can you do a review of the Meyer 7m medium chamber for the tenor sax?
I don't think the Meyer works very well on tenor. I'm really only reviewing things I generally recommend, or things students frequently asking about. Afraid that would be a video that very few people would be interested in. BUT, I've got a very cool new piece to review very soon. New company, very cool concept on a vintage design. I'm looking forward to it.
@@drwallysax niceeee, I have a Meyer for the tenor, I noticed it responds completely different depending on the reeds you use, I use vandoren blue box Reed's because they seem to be giving me what I want, but I have a v16 ebonite mouthpiece on the way
I second that it's not the best for tenor. I have one. I think the Otto Link Tone Edge is a good place to start or perhaps a Vandoren V16. Be careful with D'Addario Select Jazz mouthpieces as they have a small chamber and can be pitch sensitive.
@@ianwhatmough150 I thought the djs had a medium chamber
@@Professor_WAAHH is is considered small and is pitchy on most horns. I also have one in a 8
Your explanation method is indeed wonderful. Am very much impressed with the way you have explained about creating a vibrato . I would like to learn from you. Do you take up ON LINE Classes ?
Hey Wood Wind, currently homeschooling 2 kiddos during the pandemic. Hopefully have some on line classes up and running soon. Thanks for your interest!
@@drwallysax Do let me know when you take up your next Online classes
I wonder what‘s about the Schagerl Saxophones! Expecially the ‚Pro‘ Series, the Model 66, that should be a Mark 6 Copy, or at least inspiered by it... they come in Versions with or without high f sharp..it costs about 2400€ in a standard Gold laquer finish and about 2900€ in Silver-plated, what would be my favorite finish! It is manufactured in Taiwan under the supervision of the Austrian Schagerl Specialists, so Quality should be quite high, because Schagerl has a Name in Austria, and a reputation for quality instruments! Do you know something about those horns? I am really courious! Is ist truely a professional horn? Then it would be cheaper!
What mic are you using? I'm looking for one (nothing professional and pricy).
Sergej Stokuca it’s a SE Voodoo 1. It’s a ribbon microphone, so it needs a decent amount of preamp power (I’m using a cloud lifter too boost).
@@drwallysax thank you!
What ligature?
How about getting a yanagisawa pro model with that price
Would love to if I can get my hands on one.
You sound great especially on the ballad. Think I’ll stick with my old 62 though.
Gordon Bowie thanks, and I agree. I’d take the Yamaha as well.
Happy New Year!
"$3500... right on the mark to the Yamaha 62"
Öööhm, what? Is the YAS-62 that expensive in USA?
Here in central Europe the YAS 62-04 costs about CHF 2200 (in a wind instrument online store, not Amazon or so), that equals about 2370 US$. That's about 30% difference to the prize of the Eastman.
And it's getting even more extreme: If I'd order an Eastman Sax to ship to switzerland, ($3,5k is CHF 3250, plus shipping costs, VAT, insurance and other costs) I'd probably pay around CHF 3600 for that horn - and that is pretty much the prize of the cheapest version of the YAS-82 ....which I certainly would prefer, If I was a pro and looking for a pro horn.
(But I'm not. I bravely practice my student's Sax day by day. And I love it.)
YAS62 is around 3,200. Eastman used to be at the exact same price at my retail partner, but the trade war between US and China drove the Eastman up about $500 recently. Before the tariffs, they were nearly identical in price.
Eastman is a big instrument company, they also own the Eastman guitar company whose instruments are made in Beijing (although the wind instruments are made in Taiwan), and a strings business. Quite possibly Andreas Eastman is a made-up name.
Great review, pops, but I'm worried about your left index finger. Don't you know a doctor?
I agree.
@@chadeby-saxophonist8521 - thanks, bro.
Got in a fight with a desk drawer. It closed, but at what cost? Mrs. Dr. Wallace said, huh, suck it up and wait for the nail to fall off.
Hmm has anyone done a head to head comparison of the original run of the 52nd street and the revision? I hear they changed some stuff like key work and the bore possibly ... I'm just curious if there is a noticeable difference and if so did they get better or, well, not so much?
Unexpected Pokemon, big surprise! lol
Most days I use it to store Jelly Beans and stickers.
What mouthpiece?)
Brilhart Tonalin!
@@drwallysax Tell me, why are these mouthpieces not produced now, or is there a manufacturer? I think they sound better than Meyer and others...
@@AlexVolkhin13 They're out of production. But a little birdie told me they *might* be re-booting the Brilhart mouthpiece :)
@@drwallysax I ordered one on ebay, hope it will play) But Yes, I would buy such a mouthpiece, I also like how they sound on the tenor saxophone, it's gorgeous, just what you need!
@@drwallysax Today I tried a Brilhart ebolin carsbad 0,74. I like the sound of it more than other ebony mouthpieces. Why do all manufacturers make a copy of Mayer? This is a tragedy! I hope to be producing Brilhart again!
“Where you can keep your pokeeman cards”
Sometimes I keep my gummy worms in there too.
Who is this Andreas Eastman? A nom de plume of sorts. From the manufacturer website's Home > Our > Vision page:
"Qian Ni, an accomplished flutist from Beijing, founded Eastman Strings in 1992 after graduating from the Boston University School of Music."
www.eastmanwinds.com
The lead development guy from Eastern messaged me, apparently Qian Ni's nickname was "Man from the East" and his son was named Andre. So they came up with the rather western name "Andreas Eastman."
if I had bought a 57 Chevy.. Id prefer it wasn't a 56 (just being pedantic Dr W) ..
Ha! (stupid mislabeled royalty-free stock photos...)
Zips are for dodgy Chinese horn cases. I want buckles!
My high-end Bam case is Zip - I loves it!
Never Maine $$$$
Not sure I follow? But happy new year!
The engraving looks like a childs scribble
You mean the "e a" curvy logo? I don't love it. I think the other "engraving" is actually a stamp (the 52nd Street scene).