I bought an alto pro 8 and took a drive up to Yorkshire to buy it some years ago. Since then I have played in Europe and the UK and have been pleased with it ever since. The tenor is on the cards
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool I would pay them a visit. I was there 3 hours and tried about 8 saxophones. And he put on a new neck cork for free as my mouthpiece was too loose.
I bought my first Hanson Tenor about 15 years ago, after a few years I upgraded it to a professional model, Alistair gave me such a great deal, I picked up a pro sop too. Then bought a second sop, and a few years later a LX alto. I now actually own 5 sax's only one is not a Hanson. I have tried several other sax makes, Yanis, Yams, Selmer, when Manchester Royal College of Music had their sax days. Although they are all different and brilliant, I love my Hansons, also the first class service I get from them. I even travel over the border from Lancashire to Yorkshire to visit them.
To me listening through monitor headphones, this is one of the best you have tested. It seemed to work well in all the styles you played and it sounds very versatile and didn't sound like its better suited to certain styles like some of the others you have tested.
Its a nice sax . I got a black Hanson LX tenor last year as a part exchange - the ergonomics are good and it does what I need it to. Best all- rounder I've had in 20 or so years of playing.
Hi Nigel I started on a sax from Hansons 15 years ago and since than I^ve had 4 Alto's from them and currently they making an LX Alto for me, they make great instruments, Alistair and his team are really helpful friendly people but what I like most of all is , if you want to upgrade your Hanson sax a level they give you a part exchange to the full value of what you paid for your previous Hanson off your next plus you always get a 5 year warranty parts and labour. For quality and price I wouldn't go anywhere else.
I may be being rash, but this is the best all around sax you've played, so far! And you seem to fit it like a glove, exuberant, crisp response and also subtle. Maybe when I die and go to heaven, they'll issue me with one of these! Please?
I bought the Hanson LX tenor about 5 years ago - and I LOVE it. I actually swapped the one I bought (new) for one that had been owned by Kim. Great value for money. I live in Ireland and even went to Alastair's workshop for a service a few years ago. I wish I'd known you lived close by, as I would have welcomed a chance to say hello Nigel. BTW, Stunning virtuoso playing on Flight of the Bumble Bee!
Hey Nigel, gotta say, of the horns you've tested so far, this is the winner to my ear. You get a really satisfying, rich sound from it, very warm when you're not pushing it, and still warm with a nice focus and harmonic complexity to the sound when you dig in. It seems like you're comfortable with it too. Nice!
Had a LX tenor and soprano in the past. Just got a Black nickel LX tenor from them. Lovely it is. Loved my second visit to meet Alistair again and test 5 tenors. Picking the black LX.
This horn sounds better in my ear than the other horns is this video series. Great discussion on intonation... I feel that horns I love always take a quick minute to adjust to intonation.
I love these tenor reviews, a really well balanced, sensible and informative comparison, and a refreshing change to so many of the bombastic reviews and claims flying around.
I would also like to know the conclusion to this. He appears to still be using his Dave Guardala. - 10 months since his comment saying he had ordered a custom sax.
As much as I loved the Yamaha Custom Z, this is the best review yet. I agree with previous comments that you and this saxophone fit each other perfectly, as Gary Reid said "you and that horn were like one spirit". Beautiful sound, beautiful horn, and beautiful playing!
I'm playing Hanson V, the student model, and i'm very happy with it. It is also worth mentioning that Hanson saxes come with a 5-year free service🙂 Great review Nigel!
I have to say, none of the other saxes you have tried sounded any better than this. I'm surprised and impressed. I'm really looking forward to hearing your decision!
One seriously good horn! Suits you, sir. Seems very versatile - excellent demo and playing. In my opinion the best so far. Incidentally four years ago in a big band I played in the lead Alto bought one. That had a great sound too.
Great performance and great saxophone! Nigel, you and that horn were like one spirit. This Hanson LX saxophone is the best that I have ever heard on your channel. It covers all the bases. I guess I can say that your search is over. And the company is not far from where you live is another big plus. I will have to check out their website(if they have one). Get this horn!
You make this hard for us because you sound so good on all the horns you’ve played. I really like the tone of the Hanson and love the look of that vintage and silver. I think this is my favourite for all venues and the value very good ( may be a bit biased now knowing it’s played by a fellow Canuck) . I’m trying to image that Sam Butera with your Theo Wanne Shiva driving that Hanson. Have to note, your body language on this review seems to express the most excitement of any of your testings.
Cheers Gary. I actually am pretty excited about this one. Glad you liked it and excellent suggestion about trying some Theo Wanne muscle with the Shiva. I think the Hanson would respond really well to a mouthpiece like that.
I play the LX raw brass tenor. A superb saxophone with a team at Hansons that are so helpful, including Alistair Hanson himself. It's pretty rare to have a sax that, when you phone through to the seller/manufacturer, you get to speak to the man who actually created the instrument. Bloody nice bloke too. Mine does have some minor intonation quirks ( e2 being a tad sharp) but nothing that can't be worked around without a little lip adjustment.
I went back and listened to the other trials to compare, and without a doubt this is the biggest brashest horn you've played. It almost sounds like a Conn.
Hello Nigel, did not realized that England still produced reed instruments. This saxophone sounds great, like all the saxophones that you tried. Nigel, you are a professional musician and you probably sound good on a cheap Chinese sax. Of all the ones you tried, I was impressed with the Selmer and the Trevor James, but again, the difference between all of them is minimal. I think you 're going to end up with the Selmer or the Yanagisawa! I really enjoyed all the videos on the saxophones you tried, I have learned a lot by listening and watching. The prices between them was also very interesting to know. That series was excellent, congratulations for the quality of your work.
Alastair Hanson made his name by making Clarinets and even won an award from Prince Charles for one of them (using sustainable woods). Even though I have the LX, I agree that who plays it makes the real difference to the sound.
@@skelligringphotographyandw7012 Great discovery for me. My first clarinet that I bought in 1959 was a Boosey & Hawkes, very well made. In Canada, we really don't know the music industry in England, I think that it is for us to discover.
For my opinion it sounded best of all tested so far and you seem to be very comfortable eith it. Big thumbs up! The sound is wonderfull, crispy and I love the low notes especially.
All the sounds from this series of video are wonderful; to the unchained ears of mine, I cannot really tell which horn is the best, but like many have said, this horn has a very vibrant sound and it seems to play well across different platforms too (but that could be due to your skills - I would sound awful no matter which horn you give me).
Nigel, again your impressive playing comes through yet again. It is great seeing a master in action. The deeper, richer sound does come through nicely. I am biased toward a darker sounding tenor and this one comes through wonderfully. As you noted, even though it does have that darker rich tone than the Yami or Yani, you are more than capable of using this setup to easily cover the other genres. That covers what we are hearing. From what I am seeing, you appeared to enjoyed playing it. I think it is even more important for one to be drawn to their setup like a siren draws one in but you are not sure exactly why. On those days when the desire to practice may be waning, your setup calls you over and you get lost in time exploring all its nuances. For me, having the manufacturer just down the road would be another major plus - nothing beats going to the one who created the horn to have it serviced. Given that and the fact that the price is competitive with the other horns that also have a very comfortable feel under the fingers, it would be hard not to rank this one at or near the very top! Do you have any more horns up your sleeve? Thanks, Paul
To be honest Nigel, you sound great on all and to the listener...sorry to say...there's not much difference between them (especially on RUclips)! This is a lovely horn and I like the local credentials, but you know me...I'd go Yanagisawa personally! It's been a fun journey for us all to follow. Can't wait to see what you decide!
Ye there's no comparison between a Something like a Yanni and a Chinese Hanson. Alister needs to tell the truth about where these horns are manufactured. China not in Yorkshire.I mean you need a massive factory to produce Saxophones always better to tell the Truth (A). Alister
I got one of these top of the range about 10-12 years ago. I love it. I will be joining you on a free be then full membership after I have moved house which should be happening vary soon.
Just by coincidence my tenor is with my tech for a regulation. He mentioned that he had also in a Hanson and a Trevor James Custom Raw XS, both unlaquered. He's play tested all three and said my P Mauriat 66URL was the best of the 3 👍
Hi Nigel, as you know I bought one following your review in Saxophone Life. I love it and don’t see me changing, just wish I could play it half as well as you. Definitely the best you’ve tried
Sounds like the most flexible horn to date Nigel! And it´s pretty obvious that you are enjoying playing it! I think this is the one for you. I would really want try one, and it is great that it is locally made.
I'm really enjoying this series of reviews. Generally I can't tell that much between the sound of the Tennors you test, but I agree with others this Hanson seams to have something across the board. Thanks Nigel.
The Hanson LX sounds great. Very versatile. One of the best you have reviewed so far I think. Are you going to review the P. Mauriat's Nigel? I've heard so many great things about them. Kirk Whalum has just started playing with one. It would be great to get your opinion on the P. Mauriat 66R and System 76 models
Hey Nigel. Didn't know you were in West Yorks. Nice to know. Me too. Inbetween Leeds and Hudds, without being too precise. Maybe one day we'll meet and you can appreciate just how bad I am at Sax.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool. I'll be looking at the vegatables and thinking about doing a Dave Pollack to see if I can get a better sound with a carrot. Forgot to mention, the Custom Raw is my favourite tenor so far. Don't know why specifically but it's got something i like, and not just the price.
Have you ever played a Tenor Madness Custom. They are assembled by Randy Jones in Waterloo, Iowa. I've played one f or 3 years and love it.. I tried all the top brands and like this best. Several finishes and neck combination aee available. I was amazed at the impact the different finishes and necks made on the sound.
Very impressive sounding saxophone. As consistent, well made and a host of players playing Yamaha Z or EX 875 these days my personal experience with Yamaha is they play almost flawlessly but don't have a special personality, color...kinda a blank canvas which many players change up with different neck and usually loud mouthpiece. As my tech said when I had a Z I mentioned probably the best design and engineered horn made but left me feeling like that special spark I want wasn't there.....He said "Mark Yamaha has spent more money and time on R&D than probably any other horn maker. They engineered the soul out of this Z. It's as close to perfect....great for other equipment in life but we want some nuances when we play our instruments...we want it to be a part of us. What mouthpiece are you playing on this Nigel, very versatile, great sound, tone and range on all the styles you demonstrated there? If I get in the market for a new horn...the Hanson LX would certainly be a consideration.
I don't know. It does sound like a great all-around saxophone, but nothing really stood out in character, IMHO. I didn't find it any better than the others. So far, for me, the best all-around sax you played was the Trevor James Custom Raw. The best modern Jazz and Rock 'n' Roll sax you've played so far was the Yamaha Custom 82Z. But for some reason, I'm always swayed to the sound of the Reference 36. Just can't justify the price when compared to the others. Can't wait to hear you sound on a Keilwerth (which Ernie Watts and Kirk Whalum play) and the Eastman 52nd St. One brand I do recommend you try is Sax Dakota. I playtested them at my local music store against a P. Mauriat PMXT-66R and a Selmer SA80 II. The Sax Dakota really resonated to me. The one that really surprised me was the SDT-XG-505. Unfortunately, I didn't have the extra cash to get a new Tenor, although I wanted one.
Hi Nigel, great video, I was in Hanson,s shop last week and up until then I was going to buy a Tenor Yanagisawa TWO2U saxophone, and now after watching your video on the Hanson LX I really cannot decide. I am turning more now to the Hanson it sound more bluesy, but yet to play it, I would really be interested in your choice and why please.
Nice horn, but for me personally I don’t like it as much as the OW Lineage. That one had a different character and a broader tone. This one for my ear was just a tad too in your face sounding. Certainly not bad at all, but just didn’t have the same sweetness as some of the others.
I think the Hanson is my favorite. It seemed to allow more dynamic range, particularly in the quieter zone, and the breaks and rough edges around the harmonics of certain note combos or extented techniques seemed super musical. You really seemed to milk the phrasing more than the other horns . . .(cuz this is the last one you did so your nuanced chops are hotter?.) Anyways, thanks for doing that.
Cheers for noticing - I agree, this sax is super versatile so it is easy to get a more convincing sound in the different styles. Glad you liked it too!
Nice sounding and great looking saxophone, what's the quality of build like compared to both the Yamaha and the Yanagisawa who both have an excellent build quality reputation?
Nice sounding horn. In my opinion virtually all of the saxes you have play tested would be an improvement on your present tenor, but which one feels and sounds best to you (along with how much you want to invest) is the important question.
I have twice tried to buy Saxophones from them and very strangely, they won't take my money. You may think this is strange but I've played my Hanson Soprano in Concert at St Paul's Cathedral and would like to buy another but they won't sell me one. Crazy
Lovely sound, rich, velvety and a bit vintage. However, i still think your sax is OW Lineage. I wonder how come you did not try P. Mauriat Any of R series. Those are lovely instruments and I would like to see how they will perform in your virtuous hands.
Great question. I did really love the Hanson. Covid caused lots of production delays for them after this video came out so for now I’m still on the Guardala. However I think Hanson will be producing more of their pro tenors again soon.
Hey Nigel - Marsden is on my door step too - just over the hill from Oldham we’re I live - been following you for a long time love your channel - I know I’ve mentioned it before but love to see what you think of the Pro P Mauriat Tenor I play on the 66RX Influence dark finish - I’ve tried loads of pro Saxes these P Mauriat Pro Saxes really are outstanding - musical regards #saxocoustic_channel
Cheers- we are local! Yes I have had so many requests to test the Mauriat saxes - I just haven’t had a chance yet. Need to put it on my list for sure. Thanks for watching!
Great demo, the Hanson did seem to have that vintage sound but worked very well on the commercial music as well. Knowing that Hanson makes saxes in the UK it makes me wonder why the US can't make saxes as well. Powell tried a few years ago with an Alto but had to quit. No one wanted a 10k USD Alto. Material and tooling costs seem to be the same globally so the difference is labor and other overhead costs in the UK and the US vs. Asia. Any thoughts on that?
Great question Frank. Manufacturing must be a tricky game. I’m just glad Hanson are making it work. Btw Powell made great flutes - I didn’t know they made Saxes too.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Several years ago Powell attempted a US made Alto. It was called the Eagle. I think they may have sold a few but at a price of $10k USD there wasn't a market, Powell then shutdown production.
Took my Bundy II to the shop which is actually bueascher Big B with a modern pinky table Blew all them Chinese Hanson saxes away. I'm going to do You Tube Video Shortly comparing USA vs CHINA
Good question - actually it felt very similar to my Dave Guardala - a little heavier than a Selmer Reference but lighter than the Trevor James Signature Custom Raw (which is a great sax to play).
Not the present models. Since 2012 the Hanson’s are exclusively Hanson! but.... there is something there; our early model SA5 and ST5 (made between 2003 and 2012) and the Buffets shared almost all components. The Hanson had a better warranty and was around half the price as it was sold direct. Thanks for asking.
"Made by a company down the road" from your house is kind of a reach isn't it? Maybe they're assembled in the UK but I'm sure the body tube, keywork, neck all come from Asia somewhere.
Hi Jason.The lower end saxes are assembled from parts sourced elsewhere but as I mention in this video, I understand that with the new pro level Hanson saxes everything except the keys are made entirely in the UK, the keys are assembled here too. Thanks for watching.
No, he doesn't run sweatshops in China. If you'd met him you wouldn't make that libelous assumption. A nicer and more professional man you'll never meet. Also, given that he's over 6 feet tall, built like a brick shed and played rugby at a high level you'll probably never ask him that either.
Hi Dan, Thanks for watching the review. It's sweatier in our UK workshop I can tell you! :) I've worked as a consultant in China for a little over 25 years and am proud to have been instrumental in building really great facilities for not only the instruments and factory owners but the staff too: underfloor heating for the winter, air conditioning in summer, recreation facilities, social clubs... pretty much based on the models of a small number of philanthropic mill owners in the woollen trade in our area of Yorkshire a hundred years ago (but not the factory conditions!). The Chinese factory bosses have sometimes been sceptical to be honest but all have seen the benefits after installation! Their investment in machinery has been matched by investment is staff and is pretty awesome. This has benefitted Chinese production used on a lot of old established top brands who also have ethics high on their list of priorities. Thanks for your comment about the sound - glad you enjoyed it. I particularly like Nigel's playing of I Got it Bad.... he got it good! :)
The Hanson student saxes are made in China but the pro Sax bodies are made in the UK and they are assembled here too (just down the road from me actually). Look forward to your comparison video though.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Not True..I know for a fact they are all made in China.I don't know why your not being truthful. It doesn't look good theyre all made in China.Ye like theres a saxophone factory in the UK.Your Having a Bubble Bath The student one are but the pro ones aren't.CHINA and remember the Truth goes a long. Go maybe say to Alister to stop making a fool out of you if your claiming they're made in the UK
I bought an alto pro 8 and took a drive up to Yorkshire to buy it some years ago. Since then I have played in Europe and the UK and have been pleased with it ever since. The tenor is on the cards
I live in huddersfield and bought a Hanson LX, it's a lovely saxophone, and the owner is so helpful. I can't recommend it enough.
Cool. Great to hear that Simon.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool I would pay them a visit. I was there 3 hours and tried about 8 saxophones. And he put on a new neck cork for free as my mouthpiece was too loose.
I bought my first Hanson Tenor about 15 years ago, after a few years I upgraded it to a professional model, Alistair gave me such a great deal, I picked up a pro sop too. Then bought a second sop, and a few years later a LX alto. I now actually own 5 sax's only one is not a Hanson. I have tried several other sax makes, Yanis, Yams, Selmer, when Manchester Royal College of Music had their sax days. Although they are all different and brilliant, I love my Hansons, also the first class service I get from them. I even travel over the border from Lancashire to Yorkshire to visit them.
To me listening through monitor headphones, this is one of the best you have tested. It seemed to work well in all the styles you played and it sounds very versatile and didn't sound like its better suited to certain styles like some of the others you have tested.
Thanks Dave. Great to hear that.
Its a nice sax . I got a black Hanson LX tenor last year as a part exchange - the ergonomics are good and it does what I need it to. Best all- rounder I've had in 20 or so years of playing.
Hi Nigel I started on a sax from Hansons 15 years ago and since than I^ve had 4 Alto's from them and currently they making an LX Alto for me, they make great instruments, Alistair and his team are really helpful friendly people but what I like most of all is , if you want to upgrade your Hanson sax a level they give you a part exchange to the full value of what you paid for your previous Hanson off your next plus you always get a 5 year warranty parts and labour.
For quality and price I wouldn't go anywhere else.
Brilliant to hear that John. Alastair runs a nice friendly business for sure and they seem to look after the musicians around here which is nice.
I may be being rash, but this is the best all around sax you've played, so far! And you seem to fit it like a glove, exuberant, crisp response and also subtle. Maybe when I die and go to heaven, they'll issue me with one of these! Please?
They have them in Yorkshire, but I don't think it's Heaven; (I'm a Lancashire Lad by birth). ;)
Ha! Glad you liked it!
@@skelligringphotographyandw7012
Ooops!
Erm, the Saxophone is called the Devil's Horn so best not to count your chickens.
I bought the Hanson LX tenor about 5 years ago - and I LOVE it. I actually swapped the one I bought (new) for one that had been owned by Kim. Great value for money. I live in Ireland and even went to Alastair's workshop for a service a few years ago. I wish I'd known you lived close by, as I would have welcomed a chance to say hello Nigel. BTW, Stunning virtuoso playing on Flight of the Bumble Bee!
Hey Nigel, gotta say, of the horns you've tested so far, this is the winner to my ear. You get a really satisfying, rich sound from it, very warm when you're not pushing it, and still warm with a nice focus and harmonic complexity to the sound when you dig in. It seems like you're comfortable with it too. Nice!
Thanks Bobby, I’m glad you like the sound too. This is a surprising horn for sure.
Had a LX tenor and soprano in the past. Just got a Black nickel LX tenor from them. Lovely it is. Loved my second visit to meet Alistair again and test 5 tenors. Picking the black LX.
This horn sounds better in my ear than the other horns is this video series. Great discussion on intonation... I feel that horns I love always take a quick minute to adjust to intonation.
Cheers Robert. I agree-I think that’s just part of the character of the instrument. Glad you liked this one.
I love these tenor reviews, a really well balanced, sensible and informative comparison, and a refreshing change to so many of the bombastic reviews and claims flying around.
Thanks Bruce.
What was the conclusion of this search for the best Tenor? Which was the best for you in the end Nigel? You make them all sound great of course.
I would also like to know the conclusion to this. He appears to still be using his Dave Guardala. - 10 months since his comment saying he had ordered a custom sax.
As much as I loved the Yamaha Custom Z, this is the best review yet. I agree with previous comments that you and this saxophone fit each other perfectly, as Gary Reid said "you and that horn were like one spirit". Beautiful sound, beautiful horn, and beautiful playing!
Amazing sax for a really good price. You seem to enjoy this one the most. Out of all the saxes this one sounds special!
I'm playing Hanson V, the student model, and i'm very happy with it. It is also worth mentioning that Hanson saxes come with a 5-year free service🙂 Great review Nigel!
Cool great to hear that Bogdan and great tip about the 5 year warranty!
I have to say, none of the other saxes you have tried sounded any better than this. I'm surprised and impressed. I'm really looking forward to hearing your decision!
One seriously good horn! Suits you, sir. Seems very versatile - excellent demo and playing. In my opinion the best so far. Incidentally four years ago in a big band I played in the lead Alto bought one. That had a great sound too.
Great performance and great saxophone! Nigel, you and that horn were like one spirit. This Hanson LX saxophone is the best that I have ever heard on your channel. It covers all the bases. I guess I can say that your search is over. And the company is not far from where you live is another big plus. I will have to check out their website(if they have one).
Get this horn!
Ha! Thanks for your vote on this one Gary!
You make this hard for us because you sound so good on all the horns you’ve played. I really like the tone of the Hanson and love the look of that vintage and silver. I think this is my favourite for all venues and the value very good ( may be a bit biased now knowing it’s played by a fellow Canuck) . I’m trying to image that Sam Butera with your Theo Wanne Shiva driving that Hanson.
Have to note, your body language on this review seems to express the most excitement of any of your testings.
Cheers Gary. I actually am pretty excited about this one. Glad you liked it and excellent suggestion about trying some Theo Wanne muscle with the Shiva. I think the Hanson would respond really well to a mouthpiece like that.
Lol
I play the LX raw brass tenor. A superb saxophone with a team at Hansons that are so helpful, including Alistair Hanson himself. It's pretty rare to have a sax that, when you phone through to the seller/manufacturer, you get to speak to the man who actually created the instrument. Bloody nice bloke too. Mine does have some minor intonation quirks ( e2 being a tad sharp) but nothing that can't be worked around without a little lip adjustment.
Great to hear that, I agree Alastair is a nice chap.
I went back and listened to the other trials to compare, and without a doubt this is the biggest brashest horn you've played. It almost sounds like a Conn.
Hello Nigel, did not realized that England still produced reed instruments. This saxophone sounds great, like all the saxophones that you tried. Nigel, you are a professional musician and you probably sound good on a cheap Chinese sax. Of all the ones you tried, I was impressed with the Selmer and the Trevor James, but again, the difference between all of them is minimal. I think you 're going to end up with the Selmer or the Yanagisawa! I really enjoyed all the videos on the saxophones you tried, I have learned a lot by listening and watching. The prices between them was also very interesting to know. That series was excellent, congratulations for the quality of your work.
Alastair Hanson made his name by making Clarinets and even won an award from Prince Charles for one of them (using sustainable woods). Even though I have the LX, I agree that who plays it makes the real difference to the sound.
@@skelligringphotographyandw7012 Great discovery for me. My first clarinet that I bought in 1959 was a Boosey & Hawkes, very well made. In Canada, we really don't know the music industry in England, I think that it is for us to discover.
Thanks for your comments and glad you enjoyed this series. It’s been fun to make.
I have a Bb Hanson SE clarinet. It’s gorgeous. I so want a Hanson Sax, too
One day...
For my opinion it sounded best of all tested so far and you seem to be very comfortable eith it. Big thumbs up! The sound is wonderfull, crispy and I love the low notes especially.
Cheers Markus!
I'm a bit late to this party - but of all the tenors you have tested, this sounded the best! Which is a bit of a suprise!
Cheers Paul! I liked this one too!
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool But which Tenor did you get in the end??
All the sounds from this series of video are wonderful; to the unchained ears of mine, I cannot really tell which horn is the best, but like many have said, this horn has a very vibrant sound and it seems to play well across different platforms too (but that could be due to your skills - I would sound awful no matter which horn you give me).
Sounds great in all the pieces you played. I love the rich sound it has.
Cheers Stephen.
Lovely versatile sound. You seem made for each other! And made in UK too, a real plus.
Cheers Helen. Yes the “Made in UK” is pretty cool.
What was the conclusion to this series? - Also have you ever tried a Rampone & Cazzani tenor, I'd like to know what your thoughts were.
I have a Hanson Series V alto and a series VIII Sop and they are both really great instruments - perform well above their price range
Awesome. I haven’t tried the Hanson sopranos.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool I have 3. Pretty good really.
Nigel, again your impressive playing comes through yet again. It is great seeing a master in action. The deeper, richer sound does come through nicely. I am biased toward a darker sounding tenor and this one comes through wonderfully. As you noted, even though it does have that darker rich tone than the Yami or Yani, you are more than capable of using this setup to easily cover the other genres. That covers what we are hearing. From what I am seeing, you appeared to enjoyed playing it. I think it is even more important for one to be drawn to their setup like a siren draws one in but you are not sure exactly why. On those days when the desire to practice may be waning, your setup calls you over and you get lost in time exploring all its nuances. For me, having the manufacturer just down the road would be another major plus - nothing beats going to the one who created the horn to have it serviced. Given that and the fact that the price is competitive with the other horns that also have a very comfortable feel under the fingers, it would be hard not to rank this one at or near the very top! Do you have any more horns up your sleeve? Thanks, Paul
Cheers Paul. Glad you liked the sound too. It’s a lovely sax to play. No more saxes up my sleeve for now but you never know...
Super comparison! Which one you gonna chose ? Can wait 4 your answer 😂. Tks
To be honest Nigel, you sound great on all and to the listener...sorry to say...there's not much difference between them (especially on RUclips)! This is a lovely horn and I like the local credentials, but you know me...I'd go Yanagisawa personally! It's been a fun journey for us all to follow. Can't wait to see what you decide!
Cheers Martin. You are definitely a “Yanagisawa Guy” - it has been fun. I’ll need to make a decision soon!
Ye there's no comparison between a Something like a Yanni and a Chinese Hanson. Alister needs to tell the truth about where these horns are manufactured. China not in Yorkshire.I mean you need a massive factory to produce Saxophones always better to tell the Truth (A). Alister
Great sounding sax, and it looks fantastic, but base price is £4200 - if you add the solid silver bell and neck you're looking at nearly £7K
Yeah, not cheap but sounds good hey?
I got one of these top of the range about 10-12 years ago. I love it. I will be joining you on a free be then full membership after I have moved house which should be happening vary soon.
Look forward to seeing you in Sax School Ian.
Great sax, and playing, but I'd stretch the budget and get the OW Lineage Tenor.
Just by coincidence my tenor is with my tech for a regulation. He mentioned that he had also in a Hanson and a Trevor James Custom Raw XS, both unlaquered. He's play tested all three and said my P Mauriat 66URL was the best of the 3 👍
Cheers David. That’s interesting. Sounds like your P.Mauriat is a great sax.
Hi Nigel, as you know I bought one following your review in Saxophone Life. I love it and don’t see me changing, just wish I could play it half as well as you. Definitely the best you’ve tried
Great to hear you like your Watson. I really enjoyed this test for sure.
Sounds like the most flexible horn to date Nigel! And it´s pretty obvious that you are enjoying
playing it! I think this is the one for you. I would really want try one, and it is great that it is locally made.
Cheers Bob!
I'm really enjoying this series of reviews. Generally I can't tell that much between the sound of the Tennors you test, but I agree with others this Hanson seams to have something across the board. Thanks Nigel.
Glad you enjoyed it Jonathan.
Sure sounded sweet buddy , your tone is on point !
Great sound. Good price. I think I would shop locally.
Thank you. That's a great performance...🎷🎷🎷🎷
Cheers.
Hey Nigel, I hope all is well.
You find such unique horns
The Hanson LX sounds great. Very versatile. One of the best you have reviewed so far I think. Are you going to review the P. Mauriat's Nigel? I've heard so many great things about them. Kirk Whalum has just started playing with one. It would be great to get your opinion on the P. Mauriat 66R and System 76 models
Thanks Phil, yes I heard about Kirk Whalum joining the Mauriat bus too. I’ll definitely have to try them.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool He's playing a PMXT-66R. I think it's the same model that Roxy Coss, plays just with a different finish
Nice Horn Nigel
Hey Nigel. Didn't know you were in West Yorks. Nice to know. Me too. Inbetween Leeds and Hudds, without being too precise. Maybe one day we'll meet and you can appreciate just how bad I am at Sax.
Ha! I’ll probably bump into you at Sainsbury’s Tony!
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool. I'll be looking at the vegatables and thinking about doing a Dave Pollack to see if I can get a better sound with a carrot. Forgot to mention, the Custom Raw is my favourite tenor so far. Don't know why specifically but it's got something i like, and not just the price.
Have you ever played a Tenor Madness Custom. They are assembled by Randy Jones in Waterloo, Iowa. I've played one f or 3 years and love it.. I tried all the top brands and like this best. Several finishes and neck combination aee available. I was amazed at the impact the different finishes and necks made on the sound.
Great suggestion LD. I have heard good things about them.
It sounded great Nigel whether I could ever afford one now that's another matter I love it though
Cheers George! Glad you liked it.
Very nice sax nigel,i have custom raw,love the sound also great playing by you.
Cheers David.
Very impressive sounding saxophone. As consistent, well made and a host of players playing Yamaha Z or EX 875 these days my personal experience with Yamaha is they play almost flawlessly but don't have a special personality, color...kinda a blank canvas which many players change up with different neck and usually loud mouthpiece. As my tech said when I had a Z I mentioned probably the best design and engineered horn made but left me feeling like that special spark I want wasn't there.....He said "Mark Yamaha has spent more money and time on R&D than probably any other horn maker. They engineered the soul out of this Z. It's as close to perfect....great for other equipment in life but we want some nuances when we play our instruments...we want it to be a part of us. What mouthpiece are you playing on this Nigel, very versatile, great sound, tone and range on all the styles you demonstrated there? If I get in the market for a new horn...the Hanson LX would certainly be a consideration.
Cheers for your comments here Mark. I do agree with you and your tech regarding the Yamaha.
I don't know. It does sound like a great all-around saxophone, but nothing really stood out in character, IMHO. I didn't find it any better than the others. So far, for me, the best all-around sax you played was the Trevor James Custom Raw. The best modern Jazz and Rock 'n' Roll sax you've played so far was the Yamaha Custom 82Z. But for some reason, I'm always swayed to the sound of the Reference 36. Just can't justify the price when compared to the others. Can't wait to hear you sound on a Keilwerth (which Ernie Watts and Kirk Whalum play) and the Eastman 52nd St.
One brand I do recommend you try is Sax Dakota. I playtested them at my local music store against a P. Mauriat PMXT-66R and a Selmer SA80 II. The Sax Dakota really resonated to me. The one that really surprised me was the SDT-XG-505. Unfortunately, I didn't have the extra cash to get a new Tenor, although I wanted one.
Cheers for that - I have heard about the Sax Dakota but not tried one yet.
Hi Nigel, great video, I was in Hanson,s shop last week and up until then I was going to buy a Tenor Yanagisawa TWO2U saxophone, and now after watching your video on the Hanson LX I really cannot decide. I am turning more now to the Hanson it sound more bluesy, but yet to play it, I would really be interested in your choice and why please.
I love street life, and it sounded great and the saxophone is made in UK as well which is a big bonus, are there other makers who make them in the UK?
Wow! I like my YTS62, but..........WOW!!
Ha! Yes this sax gives the 62 a run for it’s money.
Small world, I played the alto sax in high school and 50 years later have taken it up again. No big deal, but my last name is Marsden.
Lineage is still my favourite, but if the cash is coming out of my pocket then the Trevor James Signature Custom Raw.
Ha! I like your reasoning there Al. No doubt the Trevor James is brilliant value and quality.
Stephen Howard did some reviews of this horn.
Nice horn, but for me personally I don’t like it as much as the OW Lineage. That one had a different character and a broader tone. This one for my ear was just a tad too in your face sounding. Certainly not bad at all, but just didn’t have the same sweetness as some of the others.
Can you edit a video to compare the sound of all the tenors you have tested?
Great idea.
I think the Hanson is my favorite. It seemed to allow more dynamic range, particularly in the quieter zone, and the breaks and rough edges around the harmonics of certain note combos or extented techniques seemed super musical. You really seemed to milk the phrasing more than the other horns . . .(cuz this is the last one you did so your nuanced chops are hotter?.)
Anyways, thanks for doing that.
Cheers for noticing - I agree, this sax is super versatile so it is easy to get a more convincing sound in the different styles. Glad you liked it too!
Nice sounding and great looking saxophone, what's the quality of build like compared to both the Yamaha and the Yanagisawa who both have an excellent build quality reputation?
Nice sounding horn. In my opinion virtually all of the saxes you have play tested would be an improvement on your present tenor, but which one feels and sounds best to you (along with how much you want to invest) is the important question.
Great question Rob.
Hi Nigel - what model out of all the ones tested did you end up going with?
Hi Aaron. Great question. I actually settled on a custom model from Hanson, but there are still some production / covid delays.
How about the series II and III jubilees and the Italians.
I'm only about 2 miles from Trevor James. You sound great on all of them though
Have you thought about trying the P.Mauriat 66R and the System 76 tenors?
I have twice tried to buy Saxophones from them and very strangely, they won't take my money.
You may think this is strange but I've played my Hanson Soprano in Concert at St Paul's Cathedral and would like to buy another but they won't sell me one. Crazy
Lovely sound, rich, velvety and a bit vintage. However, i still think your sax is OW Lineage. I wonder how come you did not try P. Mauriat Any of R series. Those are lovely instruments and I would like to see how they will perform in your virtuous hands.
Thanks Mladen. I’ve had so many requests for a P Mauriat test but I just haven’t managed to get my hands on any yet.
3 years later and I am really curious if you ended up sticking with the Guardala, or you went for this Hanson? Would love to know :)
Great question. I did really love the Hanson. Covid caused lots of production delays for them after this video came out so for now I’m still on the Guardala. However I think Hanson will be producing more of their pro tenors again soon.
Awesome thanks for the reply. I'd spent way too long trying to find the answer myself by watching so many of your videos. 😂
Hey Nigel - Marsden is on my door step too - just over the hill from Oldham we’re I live - been following you for a long time love your channel - I know I’ve mentioned it before but love to see what you think of the Pro P Mauriat Tenor I play on the 66RX Influence dark finish - I’ve tried loads of pro Saxes these P Mauriat Pro Saxes really are outstanding - musical regards #saxocoustic_channel
Cheers- we are local! Yes I have had so many requests to test the Mauriat saxes - I just haven’t had a chance yet. Need to put it on my list for sure.
Cheers- we are local! Yes I have had so many requests to test the Mauriat saxes - I just haven’t had a chance yet. Need to put it on my list for sure. Thanks for watching!
McGill Music Sax School your doing a top job reviewing tenor sax - speak to Chris at Bradford Woodwind Exchange Hell lend you one 👍🎷
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Nigel Love to see Mauriat Review regards Paul - Your Neighbour From Saddleworth Oldham
I play a Hanson soprano, it's the best I've ever owned, but they are a strange firm.
Great demo, the Hanson did seem to have that vintage sound but worked very well on the commercial music as well. Knowing that Hanson makes saxes in the UK it makes me wonder why the US can't make saxes as well. Powell tried a few years ago with an Alto but had to quit. No one wanted a 10k USD Alto. Material and tooling costs seem to be the same globally so the difference is labor and other overhead costs in the UK and the US vs. Asia. Any thoughts on that?
Great question Frank. Manufacturing must be a tricky game. I’m just glad Hanson are making it work. Btw Powell made great flutes - I didn’t know they made Saxes too.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Several years ago Powell attempted a US made Alto. It was called the Eagle. I think they may have sold a few but at a price of $10k USD there wasn't a market, Powell then shutdown production.
I've looked on the Hanson website and nothing like this appears to be available - is this just an old instrument for comparison purposes?
Hi Nigel, did you choose a new tenor sax in the end? Kind regards, Richard
Great question Richard. I did actually make a decision but haven’t announced it yet - will have more info soon.
Did you decide on a new tenor saxophone or are you sticking with the one you have??
What sax did you end up buying ?
I thought you were in Australia. Hello from Dublin.
Hello!
Took my Bundy II to the shop which is actually bueascher Big B with a modern pinky table Blew all them Chinese Hanson saxes away. I'm going to do You Tube Video Shortly comparing USA vs CHINA
Where can I get this saxophone
Great question. Right now they are only available directly from Hanson in the UK: hansonsaxophones.com
Suited every style, sounded okay..certainly not the best, but you look like you enjoyed it.
Cheers Geoffrey. Which sax was your favourite?
I think the OW Lineage was the best, from the SBA, the Ref 36, then the Sig Custom. The Japanese saxes lack character to me.
Any idea the weight of this horn??? Thanks
Good question - actually it felt very similar to my Dave Guardala - a little heavier than a Selmer Reference but lighter than the Trevor James Signature Custom Raw (which is a great sax to play).
I read that the Hansen was the same as a Buffet 400? Any truth to this statement.
No.
Not the present models. Since 2012 the Hanson’s are exclusively Hanson! but.... there is something there; our early model SA5 and ST5 (made between 2003 and 2012) and the Buffets shared almost all components. The Hanson had a better warranty and was around half the price as it was sold direct. Thanks for asking.
"Made by a company down the road" from your house is kind of a reach isn't it? Maybe they're assembled in the UK but I'm sure the body tube, keywork, neck all come from Asia somewhere.
Hi Jason.The lower end saxes are assembled from parts sourced elsewhere but as I mention in this video, I understand that with the new pro level Hanson saxes everything except the keys are made entirely in the UK, the keys are assembled here too. Thanks for watching.
C'mon no detail pictures for the. sax... Only the face of Mr McGill....
So this Hanson guy runs sweatshops in China? Beautiful sound by the way. Really noticeable, either that or you changed your mike this week.
No, he doesn't run sweatshops in China. If you'd met him you wouldn't make that libelous assumption. A nicer and more professional man you'll never meet. Also, given that he's over 6 feet tall, built like a brick shed and played rugby at a high level you'll probably never ask him that either.
Hi Dan, Thanks for watching the review. It's sweatier in our UK workshop I can tell you! :) I've worked as a consultant in China for a little over 25 years and am proud to have been instrumental in building really great facilities for not only the instruments and factory owners but the staff too: underfloor heating for the winter, air conditioning in summer, recreation facilities, social clubs... pretty much based on the models of a small number of philanthropic mill owners in the woollen trade in our area of Yorkshire a hundred years ago (but not the factory conditions!). The Chinese factory bosses have sometimes been sceptical to be honest but all have seen the benefits after installation! Their investment in machinery has been matched by investment is staff and is pretty awesome. This has benefitted Chinese production used on a lot of old established top brands who also have ethics high on their list of priorities. Thanks for your comment about the sound - glad you enjoyed it. I particularly like Nigel's playing of I Got it Bad.... he got it good! :)
The best tenor is Paris Selmer Reference 54 Ever and everybody now that!
And again it’s made in Taiwan. And that’s great but why are they shady about it though?
MADE In CHINA
The Hanson student saxes are made in China but the pro Sax bodies are made in the UK and they are assembled here too (just down the road from me actually). Look forward to your comparison video though.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Not True..I know for a fact they are all made in China.I don't know why your not being truthful. It doesn't look good theyre all made in China.Ye like theres a saxophone factory in the UK.Your Having a Bubble Bath The student one are but the pro ones aren't.CHINA and remember the Truth goes a long. Go maybe say to Alister to stop making a fool out of you if your claiming they're made in the UK