Which should I buy 400 or Aristocrat?

[DanF]

With all the info on vintage Bueschers on here, I'm a little confused. I want to buy a good playing alto. Cost not being a factor (it really is) which is the better playing horn Aristocrat or the 400? Where does the "Big B" come in? Thanks!

[Hurling Frootmig]

If you like a wide spread jazz sound the 400 is probably the horn for you (or a model 141 aristocrat which probably will have a 400 style bell). If you want something more centered in sound then you should check out the earlier aristocrats (pre 340k).

[paulwl]

Clarification can be had here:
http://saxgourmet.com/VINTAGE_SAXOPHONE_VALUE_GUIDE.htm

Steve sorts out the various models and number ranges (approximate), along with price estimates for mint examples (even more approximate).

[morgan]

For me, the 400 tends more toward "bright and powerful" and the Aristocrat more towards "complex sound".

[DanF]

OK, thanks guys. Guess Steve Goodson helped me make up my mind with his article.

[paulwl]

For me, the 400 tends more toward "bright and powerful" and the Aristocrat more towards "complex sound".

I'll give a qualified yes to that - qualification being that they're both very versatile in tone quality across the registers.

For me, my '38 Aristocrat is a little less happy playing bright (especially below F1), whereas my '54 Top Hat alto is just a bit balky playing dark (especially in that second octave vent range). They'll do it, but it's a stretch for them and for me.

[Bootman]

Aristocrat was my choice, more complex and they handle all styles with consumate ease, loud and soft. Tone colour is what it is about, complex interesting sound.

Let us kno wwhat you chose!

[King Bee]

If you wanna brighter Buescher, put a Guardala Studio, KR&B or Super King on one end. My '37 Aristo and late '40s Big Bs play well with Guardalas of all types.