Couesnon Monopole Baritone - Players Thoughts Please

[Xqusme]

I'm considering obtaining a Couesnon Monopole baritone sax that I found for sale. I haven't seen the horn yet but I'm wondering if anyone out there has some opinions on these particular horns that they could share?

8)

[I. Fallon]

This is my first post in this format, so I may get something wrong. Here goes.

I have a Couesnon Monopole bari (as well as tenor and alto). I think that they are great, and generally undervalued, horns. Carefully check the octave changing linkage (fairly complex and good luck getting another one) and damage to the rolled tone holes.

It has a big classical french sound like the Dolnet and the Selmer. Very good intonation. I love mine.

The left thumb position is a little unique to this instrument and make sure you can get used to it before purchase. I have no problem, but some people do.

[GaryLee]

I have a Couesnon bari. I didn't notice it during the play test but I find the left thumb position very uncomfortable for extended playing. It has a sweet sound and was a bargain as far as baris go. If I was a serious bari player I would probably want a different horn for ergonomic reasons.

[I. Fallon]

Someone just paid dearly to join the Couesnon Monopole bari club!

Check out closed eBay auction 2521023543. This pup is really ratty and went for $700. I hope that all the pivots are free and is plays up a storm.

Good luck to someone.

[tkushin]

The same guy who just bought that bari on ebay also bought a Dolnet Tenor with a high F# key.

Check it out:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=2504769 314

(He also bought a repair manual and a leak light!)

[I. Fallon]

I can't fault his taste.

[BeverlyI]

He left positive feedback on the sale too!