Roughly $1000 to $1200 to spend

[marvin3784]

I been wanting a nicer tenor for a while now and with my brother quitting band, he won't need his horn any more. I figure that between my current tenor and his alto I'll have roughly between $1000 and $1200. I definately want a vintage horn. I've always like the sound and feel of them with CONN typically being my brand of choice. I am of course open to other suggestions. Realistically, what are my options in this price range? Thanks.

[Stencilman]

My favorite vintage tenor is "The Martin Tenor". Awesome sound, good feel. Very flexible. Can be very sweet and yet monsterous with the right setup. These shed like crazy so most either look like crap (who cares) or have been relaq'd. They seem to go from $700 to $1500 on Ebay although I just saw one go for $750 with no neck (someone wanted it bad or didn't realize it was missing the neck). As with any vintage horn, it is hard to find one ready to play. See www.saxpics.com for pictures.

I'm raising money for "The Martin Tenor" but may settle for a Martin Committee I or II instead. I play late 1920's alto and soprano Martins and may try a tenor from that time as well. I'm not a Conn or Buescher fan - played many of these but always prefered Martins.

[marvin3784]

Vintagesax.com has a Martin stencil that I may look into. I may also check out the Buescher True Tone she has.

[shmuelyosef]

I have a nice playing Conn New Wonder for sale for $750. Restored 6-8 months ago...have used it on maybe a dozen R&B gigs, but I've gone back to playing my King...

You can see it at:

http://www.mindspring.com/~rondarosner/Saxophone/