Jupiter

[husky1125]

I want to start playing the sax, and I am looking around and some different brands, and found Jupiter. But I dont know what model to get. I was thinking about the Deluxe 767, but I dont know if this is the right choice. I dont know if I will continue with this, or if I will become really good and need a better one. From reading this forum, people have said really good stuff about Jupiter, but most of it was for the Artist Series. So finnaly what are your opinions on getting the 767? Good?, Bad,? Find another brand? Get the Artist series? Thanks in Advance!

[Kareeser]

Personally, I'd recommend getting a student-line saxophone to start learning.

Moreso because it's less expensive, and it's still good.

People here say it's bad because they are comparing it to the latest saxophones using the latest technology, or a vintage sax with a really deep sound, but if you want to learn, why have frills, eh?

I play a Jupiter Alto Saxophone in school (I think). It's easily the best saxophone I've ever played in my life, out of two saxophones. (The other being a King, I believe...).

It is a student line saxophone. Before I came to this forum, I didn't care about how "rich" my sound was. I was more concerned about rhythm and notation. As a beginner saxophonist (or a returning saxophonist), it may help to utilise the same attitude, :)

Then again, what do I know... I've only played 2 saxes, :|

Oh, and welcome to the forum!! :D

[bradshawm]

husky1125,

If you shop on e-bay, they have a ton of YAS 23's relatively cheap and in good condition. The nice thing is that, after a year or two, you should be able to get most of your money back out of it, and by then you will know more what you are looking for in an instrument. If I were starting over, that is what I would do. It has a great reputation for being one of the best student horns out there.

Marshall

[Dave Dolson]

Husky: Rather than buy a horn, you may want to consider renting one first to see if the whole idea will fly. However, stay away from the rent-to-buy schemes. Just rent a horn for three months, then consider the purchase of an upgraded horn. DAVE

[Kareeser]

Rent-to-buy scheme... The clerk at L&M wanted me to buy my rented sax... I refused, but that's besides the point.

Why is it a bad idea? (Besides it being a bad saxophone...)

[Bill08690]

H-
Rent to buy contracts should be analyzed to determine the total price of the horn. These contracts usually are based on list price with heavy interest included. You may be better off investing in a popular horn that can be resold if you loose interest. An example of such a horn is he Yamaha Y*S-23. These horns are traded frequently and a good used horn can be resold with little if any depreciation.

The Jupiter brand has a good following as well and the latest models are said to be well constructed. I would suggest looking at Ebay for a cherry horn and save some money. Again you will be able to resell this horn at little or no loss.

Finally, compare the price of the used horn from your dealer with completed items on Ebay to get an idea of the value. I would not buy an off brand horn as they are difficult to resell. However, be sure to get a horn that is in good mechanical condition so you can concentrate on learning to play.

Good luck....

[goodsax]

There are two Jupiter Artist tenor saxes on eBay now (I wasn't sure whether you were looking for alto or tenor.):

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3715617 520&rd=1

and

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3716348 119&rd=1

Both look like excellent horns from relatively reputable sellers. The first is at $699 with 2 days to go and the second at $275 with 5 days to go.