Phil Barone tenor saxophone

[Al Stevens]

I received yesterday a Phil Barone gold-plated tenor saxophone, which is affectionately nicknamed, the "Maurone." This is my review of the horn.

The nicname is because Phil tells us that this horn is the same as a P. Mauriat, made at the same factory from the same materials using the same assembly line. Another member at sotw suggested the name. The only difference we are told is that this horn comes with a Barone gold-plated neck.

The finish is beautiful. Gold is gold, and there is no prettier finish in my view. Being new, the horn is, of course, spotless. Engraving is sparse, Phil's logo (shown below) on the right side of the bell, and a simple floral pattern on the front.

The price from Phil is $1150 plus shipping. This price includes a Barone neck and HR mouthpiece. I chose to save a few bucks and take it without the mouthpiece option. I already have a Barone Jazz 8 and don't need anymore mouthpieces. Even so, Phil sent me the plastic (I guess) piece that comes from the factory (I guess) along with its shiny gold-colored ligature and black plastic cap. The mouthpiece is unmarked, but it kind of plays like any solid student piece. It goes into the mouthpiece drawer.

The horn also came with a pretty little engraved apertif class. That glass goes in my wife's china closet. After I drink a toast to Phil, that is.

Phil told me the horn came to him direct from the factory and might need some setup by a local tech to check for leaks, adjustments, etc. I'll do that, eventually, but I gave it my own leak light test this morning and found no leaks. Everything seems to work and there are no intonation problems.

The best way to compare this horn is to put is side by side with another contemporary tenor sax. I have a Selmer Reference 54 Limited Edition, also pristine. The current price for this horn from saxforte is $5,139.

Side by side, both horns look great. But gold is gold, and the PB's gold finish is more pleasing to my eye than the 54's rose-gold lacquer finish.

But how do they stack up when when played?

First, they feel almost the same. The layouts are almost identical. The 54's front F key is a round, MOP button, whereas the PB's is an oval brass button. The PB's low Bb LH spatula button is a bit larger with a raised curved lip at the bottom, which the 54 does not have, but something I don't really notice when I play. Someone with a larger hand might tell a difference.

Both horns have high F# keys in the same location and the same shape, but the PB's key is split into two keys, high F# and high G.

One thing I prefer about the 54's keywork is that its octave key is flush with the LH thumb button, which is more comfortable to my hand than the PB's which rides a bit higher. I'll see if my tech can adjust it.

Playing? Both horns are monsters. Intonation up and down are excellent. The tones are similar. A player with a more refined ear (as in no hearing loss) might find the Ref a shade darker. Sometimes it seems that way to me and other times not. The two horns are so close, that, except for that octave key, I don't know whether I could tell you blindfolded which one I'm playing. Both horns project well and have solid core sounds. They both handle low note subtones very nicely.

I cannot speak about long term durability or how each horn will hold its value in the marketplace. I can't even guess. Both horns are way too new to achieve any mystique or aura of collectibility just now.

But if you are thinking about buying a new tenor saxophone and the Reference 54 has caught your fancy, I know where you can save about $4000.

[gary]

Thanks for taking the time, Al. Nice report. Just a few questions:

The PM cases have gotten a bad rap - how's yours?
What kind of warranty comes with it?
Just for the heck of it, can you exchange necks on your Maurone and Ref and, if so, what are the results?
I think that might be interesting to know - the effect of the Barone neck.
Oh yeah, and - does it come with white gloves?

[LampLight]

. . . The price from Phil is $1150 plus shipping. . . .
Holy Bargain Batman!

Considering the finish and the fact that it stands up even close to a Ref 54, it sounds like you got a steal. Thanks for the detailed review, and congrats.

[Joe Jazz]

Thank God! Finally, someone other than Phil to give us a heads up on these saxes! Congrats and enjoy!

[Al Stevens]

Thanks for taking the time, Al. Nice report. Just a few questions:

The PM cases have gotten a bad rap - how's yours?
What kind of warranty comes with it?
Just for the heck of it, can you exchange necks on your Maurone and Ref and, if so, what are the results?
I think that might be interesting to know - the effect of the Barone neck.
Oh yeah, and - does it come with white gloves?

The case is a black rectangular felt-lined padded zippered case. It doesn't look like high-quality luggage to me but it's suitable for shipping inside a larger box. The case will go in the closet along with other empty instrument cases, and maybe I'll use it for shipping if I ever sell a tenor sax.

I did not ask about a warranty. Actually, I never gave it a thought until you asked about it. I bought this sax from Phil over the telephone. I figured that if it was not as described or damaged, he'd take it back. Probably foolish of me, but I tend to be trusting when dealing with someone with a good reputation and with whom I've dealt in the past. Phil understands my requirements in a horn because we discussed it at length when I bought a neck for my Mark VI and a mouthpiece. He had play-tested this horn and knew its characteristics. I think he would have told me if he thought the horn would not be right for me. He did tell me it might have leaks because his son had some problems playing it, although Phil did not. I have no trouble playing it and can find no leaks. But I'll have it looked over.

The necks between the Ref and the PB are not interchangeable. The PB has a larger diameter tenon and the Ref neck just rattles around in there.

No white gloves. But I'm off to Wal-Mart to buy some. This thing is so pristine and beautiful I feel like I should be wearing a clean-room smock and booties when I play it.

Imagine what Jason Dumars could do with this horn if he was still in the engraving business. But it's gold. He'd have to return the shavings. :D

[LampLight]

. . . Imagine what Jason Dumars could do with this horn if he was still in the engraving business. . . . :D

He is! But at a slower pace. See http://forum.saxontheweb.net/showthread.php?t=65969

[Al Stevens]

Considering the finish and the fact that it stands up even close to a Ref 54, it sounds like you got a steal. Thanks for the detailed review, and congrats.
Let me be clear about this. Today, the Maurone is as good as the Reference 54. Not just close. Every bit as good.

If I keep the 54, perhaps I'll revisit this opinion in ten years after they've both seen some time and wear. If I last ten years, that is. :) I know I won't see either horn stand the test of time my mark VI has stood. It's 51 years old.

[Al Stevens]

He is! I wish you hadn't told me that. :cry:

[Al Stevens]

Everybody comes to Florida at one time or another. I'm near the Space Center and an hour from Disney. Anyone who wants to drop by and try this thing, let me know. Bring your own white gloves, though.

[Sigmund451]

...anybody wanna buy a Selmer :?

That price is cheap for even an average horn.

[Grumpie]

Al, a shop here in Holland has a Taiwanese horn as their 'house' brand. They happen to call it 'System '54" (what's in a name). This one also has the split high F# / G key. My guess is it looks a lot like your Maurone.

Can't upload a single pic from the website, but here is the link for the UL version, click to enlarge the pic.

http://www.saxcompany.nl/saxshop/system-54-unlacquered-series-p-612.html

[LampLight]

. . . Considering the finish and the fact that it stands up even close to a Ref 54, it sounds like you got a steal. . .
Al,

I hear you. Today the Maurone is as good as the Ref 54. I hope I didn't sound negative. You said the tones were similar and you weren't sure whether you could tell the difference blindfolded. OTOH, it's real easy to tell the difference between $5,000+ and $1,150. I was observing the fact that the Maurone wouldn't need to be as good as the Ref 54 to be a real sweet deal.

[Joe Jazz]

Oh no, now I have to hope the bari sucks when he gets it! ;)

[Joe Jazz]

The PB engraving actually looks pretty good too.....but does in come in silver!;)

[Phil Barone]

The PB engraving actually looks pretty good too.....but does in come in silver!;)

I can get it any way you like. Still have the soprano. Phil

[Joe Jazz]

Please let us know what you think of the bari when it arrives, Phil. And yes, we really do care:) .

[gary]

Hey Al - please, puleeeeze don't take this as anything more than an innocent question to put things in perspective. I know you've been a pro for many years, play trumpet and very tasty piano. What I don't know is your saxophone background. Can you give just some generalities? Thanks.

Oh - and have you played a Mauriat and if so do you think yours and it are the same horns? I ask because what I've read about the Mauriats does not put them, tone-concept wise, in the same camp as the Ref 54s.

[Phil Barone]

Please let us know what you think of the bari when it arrives, Phil. And yes, we really do care:) .

Of course I will. What finish do you think should get? Phil

[Joe Jazz]

Well, use your own judgement, I suppose. If I order one it will have to be in silver plate. Can you order some extra engraving?

[gary]

What finish do you think (you) should get?
LOL! That's sneaky Phil.

... I think he should get one of each! :D

[Al Stevens]

What I don't know is your saxophone background. Can you give just some generalities?
Oh, good, I get to talk about me. :D

I started playing saxophone about five years ago when I came across a deal on a Vito tenor that a guy couldn't learn to play. I taught myself how to play the range of the horn and started taking lessons from a local teacher with an emphasis on jazz playing, tone development and learning my way around the horn. Since then I get in from two to four hours a day with structured and unstructured practice. I do about a half hour of tone practicing, a half hour of scales, intervals and licks, and the rest of the time playing tunes. I have four tenors, an alto, a bari, a sop,and a C-mel. Virtually all my formal practice is on tenor. I play tunes on the bari daily outside my practice regimen. I rarely play the alto, sop, and C-mel. Some days I spend all day and into the evening just playing. I have a private building as a studio and do not disturb anyone.

Since taking up the sax, I've made one commercial CD on which I played tenor (and which I'd move heaven and earth to do over again, burning all the existing copies) and played many gigs. On some of the gigs I am a multi-horn jazz player with a house band, some are ordinary commercial society quartet gigs, and I've done a few reading gigs in a small dance band in which I play trumpet and tenor.

I cut back on the reading part of performing and practicing when I lost most of my near vision earlier this year. Gradually that's coming back in one eye, and I am hopeful.

I went through all the usual angst finding the right horn, mouthpiece, reeds, ligatures, that most newcomers suffer. I'm over that now. My mark vi is my beater tenor and the ref is for what my Pennsylvania Dutch mother-in-law called, "for nice." Until now, that is. The Maurone might just replace the ref on the tuxedo gigs.

I consider myself a journeyman sax player. I know most standard tunes and can play reasonably well on ballads and at fast tempos, although you're not going to mistake me for Jug or Brecker. I can handle myself in a jam session without getting embarrassed and have no problem playing in "chick singer" keys.

If I didn't spend so much time on sotw, I'd practice even more. :D It's okay; I type fast, too.

Oh - and have you played a Mauriat
No.

[Joe Jazz]

LOL! That's sneaky Phil.

... I think he should get one of each! :D

You notice though that I kind of side stepped that one?;)

[gary]

Interesting, thanks.
(Al's sax bio, not your side-shuffling, Joe :twisted:)

[fballatore]

Sounds like a great price for an excellent horn. Good luck with it Al and Phil.

I just have one question. How do you pronounce Maurone? ;)

[Jonathan C.]

Sounds like a great price for an excellent horn. Good luck with it Al and Phil.

I just have one question. How do you pronounce Maurone? ;)
Isn't that a Color?;)

[Joe Jazz]

Haven't you ever danced the maca-maurone?;)

[Phil Barone]

LOL! That's sneaky Phil.

... I think he should get one of each! :D

Ya know, Gary's right. It only makes sense to get as many finishes as you can afford to go with different outfits and since the finish has such a profound effect on the tone. Phil

[LampLight]

. . . I just have one question. How do you pronounce Maurone? ;)

We don't refer to them as Maurones anymore. We say "developmentally disabled."
[from forum.saxontheweb.net/showthread.php?t=65844&page=2&highlight=darn]

We are an irreverent bunch.

[gary]

I just have one question. How do you pronounce Maurone? ;)
Why just like Boney Maurone my chillin`!!!

[Phil Barone]

We are an irreverent bunch.

Yeah, I know what you mean. Phil

[Al Stevens]

Mah-roan'

[Al Stevens]

I noticed yesterday that the Maurone has a serial number. W67xxx. I wonder if the factory puts numbers on all its saxes and whether you can derive anything meaningful across the many stencils from their serial numbers.

For example, could you determine the origins of saxes whose origins are intentionally kept under wraps by a serial number trace?

Or would brass DNA be more reliable?

[Martinman]

Or would brass DNA be more reliable?


Maybe you can find out if it is French?

[Phil Barone]

I noticed yesterday that the Maurone has a serial number. W67xxx. I wonder if the factory puts numbers on all its saxes and whether you can derive anything meaningful across the many stencils from their serial numbers.

For example, could you determine the origins of saxes whose origins are intentionally kept under wraps by a serial number trace?

Or would brass DNA be more reliable?

I'm wondering that myself. Phil

[Yellowhorn]

Phil,

Congratulations on this new line of fine horns.

With all due respect, however, I would suggest that you consider changing the name "Maurone" to something else. The reason is that it can be mispronounced as "Moron"!

This happens all the time. Recently, I met a Singaporean whose name is Goh Lik Kok. Now, try to pronounce that!

I hope this helps.

[-88-]

With all due respect, however, I would suggest that you consider changing the name "Maurone" to something else. The reason is that it can be mispronounced as "Moron"!
I hope this helps.

Some wags here nicknamed it that by combining Mauriat with Barone. I think they had no poetic ear -- bad sign for a musician. Phil would never call it that. The horn says Phil Barone on it (see Al's photo). Great name, and evidently great horn. We had P.Mauriats, now we have P.Barone's at a fraction of the price -- and they're gold plated too.

Reading Al's first impression review, I think Phil is doing the righteous thing. Go Phil.

[Joe Jazz]

Phil,

Congratulations on this new line of fine horns.

With all due respect, however, I would suggest that you consider changing the name "Maurone" to something else. The reason is that it can be mispronounced as "Moron"!

This happens all the time. Recently, I met a Singaporean whose name is Goh Lik Kok. Now, try to pronounce that!

I hope this helps.

Wasn't he in Star Wars?;)

[Yellowhorn]

88-

I am glad you explained it.

Joe -

Have you got that straight tenor from Randall? How does it play?

Cheers,

[Joe Jazz]

Not here yet, but is on its way........it's a long way from Japan by covered wagon.:D

[TenTenTooter]

Put me on the bari list too, had to sell my last one for surgery costs.

[Joe Jazz]

Goody! You can buy the gold plated one, and I'll get a silver plated one, with a silver plated Maurone neck....I mean Barone neck! Hmmm, should I maybe go with satin silver plate?:?

[Phil Barone]

What finish would everone like?

Phil

[Reedsplinter]

Gold plate, please.

If you put a Barone neck on a Maurone axe, do you get a Baronie Mauronie?

[I know, Gary did this joke already, kinda sorta]

[Joe Jazz]

Well, if the review and price are both good, I'll be ordering either a regular silver plate or satin silver plate with maybe a little extra engraving.....now, you will tell us if the bari that you get in is crap, right Phil?;)

[Phil Barone]

Well, if the review and price are both good, I'll be ordering either a regular silver plate or satin silver plate with maybe a little extra engraving.....now, you will tell us if the bari that you get in is crap, right Phil?;)

Okay, I'll order a silver plated bari and natirally as always I won't sell it if it stinks. As usual. Phil

[Joe Jazz]

Phil, any ideas on a bari price yet? Let me know when you find out, please. Thanks!

[Jonathan C.]

Can you imagine how cool a Black Bari would look?

[Joe Jazz]

Black nickel yes, black lacquer, no....

[Jonathan C.]

Yeah, sorry ment Black Nickel. Any sax in Black nickel would look cool.

[Phil Barone]

Phil, any ideas on a bari price yet? Let me know when you find out, please. Thanks!

Maybe I missed something but I still need to know what finish you want. Phil

[Jonathan C.]

Come on Phil, its Joe. He obviously wants Silver.

[Phil Barone]

Come on Phil, its Joe. He obviously wants Silver.

I'm sorry, my brain is spinning with emails. I'll order a silver bari. Phil

[Jonathan C.]

;)

[Phil Barone]

Come on Phil, its Joe. He obviously wants Silver.

Oh, so he wants copper plated. I'll order it. Phil

[Joe Jazz]

You guys are starting to make Dr. Jekyl nervous! You should probably order whatever you think will be easiest to sell, Phil. It is not like I NEED a bari, Mr. Hyde just wants one. All this talk of ordering a silver one because he likes silver is making Dr. Jekyl feel a little rushed and obligated, to be Frank...where is Frank when we need him? :shaking2:

[Joe Jazz]

BTW, Al said he didn't ask about a warranty. I'm sure everyone would like to know if there is a written one.......

[Phil Barone]

You guys are starting to make Dr. Jekyl nervous! You should probably order whatever you think will be easiest to sell, Phil. It is not like I NEED a bari, Mr. Hyde just wants one. All this talk of ordering a silver one because he likes silver is making Dr. Jekyl feel a little rushed and obligated, to be Frank...where is Frank when we need him? :shaking2:

What I'm doing is ordering stuff I can sell. Does that make sense? If someone wants something weird, they have to pay up front and no returns. Phillerup

[gary]

What I'm doing is ordering stuff I can sell. Does that make sense? If someone wants something weird, they have to pay up front and no returns. Phillerup
Phil, I wish you all the luck in the world selling your saxes, and if these saxes are as good as you say, I want you to sell them, to see them in the hands of sax players, and for you to reap the profits. So here is a friendly observation. Please give some more thought to your competition. With a no return, no insurance on shipping and no guarantees you are really going to have a hard time competing. Also please be wary of SOTW frenzy. I've seen it happen before here. Folks start posting, jumping on a bandwagon, and getting all worked up in a frenzy and it seems like the whole world is hot to buy, and then they practically all bail, leaving, in this case, you trying to hold onto water in your hands. This can be a fickle board.

Please consider the purchase security that your competition offers, as well as looking out for the bandwagon effect here that often leads to nowhere. This is not criticism, it's friendly concern and I wish you well. :)


(Oh yes - and BTW I have been revisiting the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path ;))

[Grumps]

This can be a fickle board.
That's why I'd have a no return policy...

But seriously, the trade off for no returns is the pricing. Can't always have it both ways.

[Phil Barone]

Phil, I wish you all the luck in the world selling your saxes, and if these saxes are as good as you say, I want you to sell them, to see them in the hands of sax players, and for you to reap the profits. So here is a friendly observation. Please give some more thought to your competition. With a no return, no insurance on shipping and no guarantees you are really going to have a hard time competing. Also please be wary of SOTW frenzy. I've seen it happen before here. Folks start posting, jumping on a bandwagon, and getting all worked up in a frenzy and it seems like the whole world is hot to buy, and then they practically all bail, leaving, in this case, you trying to hold onto water in your hands. This can be a fickle board.

Please consider the purchase security that your competition offers, as well as looking out for the bandwagon effect here that often leads to nowhere. This is not criticism, it's friendly concern and I wish you well. :)


(Oh yes - and BTW I have been revisiting the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path ;))

Thank you Gary. You have to understand something, I'm selling the horns at about half the price as other people so something has to be cut from the transaction. I do offer a money back guarantee and insurance but I can't absorb shipping costs. I'm making very little money and I'm confident that everyone is going to love the horns. I'm not easy to sell and I love these horns. I'm not stocking very much so I don't have much to lose and I think that the worst case scenario is that I'll have to put them up on eBay a few times before they sell. I think that guys will go for them especially considering that I'm charging more than $1,000.00 less then other sellers.

The four and 8, now that's what's really important. I'm going to see John of God in October and the Dalahi Lama for three days. I can't wait. Phil

[gary]

That's why I'd have a no return policy...
:sign5:
Point taken. Regarding special orders, though, I would also put them in a special category.


But seriously, the trade off for no returns is the pricing. Can't always have it both ways.

Sure you can. Taking Phil's mouthpieces and his competition as an example, others have these consumer-friendly policies and they're bringing home the bacon. But it's not my intent to debate Phil's business practices. It just ocurred to me as I was re-reading through this thread to share my thoughts as a consumer for Phil to use or ignore as he feels is in his best interest.

[Phil Barone]

Well, if the review and price are both good, I'll be ordering either a regular silver plate or satin silver plate with maybe a little extra engraving.....now, you will tell us if the bari that you get in is crap, right Phil?;)

I don't sell anything that doesn't meet my standard. I think everyone knows that. Why sell garbage when I have good stuff? Phil

[Phil Barone]

Phil, any ideas on a bari price yet? Let me know when you find out, please. Thanks!

Silver plated? $2,450.00. I can also get Roo pads for another $170.00. It sounds like a lot to me though. Phil

[Phil Barone]

:sign5:
Point taken. Regarding special orders, though, I would also put them in a special category.



Sure you can. Taking Phil's mouthpieces and his competition as an example, others have these consumer-friendly policies and they're bringing home the bacon.

I don't know anyone that's cleaning up. How could we know? We would have to be privy to all their expenses etc. Anyway, when a price is so low on something the seller has to put in a minimum of effort or it doesn't make sense to sell it. In NY there's lots of stores that blow stuff out but there's no returns. I will however accept returns minus shipping. Phil

[fballatore]

You guys are starting to make Dr. Jekyl nervous! You should probably order whatever you think will be easiest to sell, Phil. It is not like I NEED a bari, Mr. Hyde just wants one. All this talk of ordering a silver one because he likes silver is making Dr. Jekyl feel a little rushed and obligated, to be Frank...where is Frank when we need him? :shaking2:
You rang? I'm confused. Did you want a silver or a copper one?

[Joe Jazz]

You're a big help! And how come you're looking a little like Kenny G these days, bad hair and all?:shock:

[Grumps]

What I love about this is that Phil isn't using this opportunity to claim he's reinvented the sax, and admits that the only factory specs he has input on is the finish... and roo pads... which makes it all very interesting.

[Mark5047]

AND he is starting out at a reasonable price instead of charging Ref 54 money for it. Get some horns in players hands, use your reputation in the industry, wait for the reviews to roll in THEN the actual street price can be determined.
Good job Phil! Thank you for NOT being, uh, - like the other guys in the biz.

[gary]

What I love about this is that Phil isn't using this opportunity to claim he's reinvented the sax, and admits that the only factory specs he has input on is the finish... and roo pads... which makes it all very interesting.

Don't forget the Barone neck. I think that's significant.

[Joe Jazz]

I forget, is he throwing in a Barone mpc too?

[Martinman]

I forget, is he throwing in a Barone mpc too?


He said he was for the other horns, but I too am curious about the bari. I can't buy one for a few years, but still...

[Joe Jazz]

I still need to figure out how my new tenor(hasn't arrived yet)is going to fit into my life, but once the dust settles I am going to seriously consider a Maurone bari!

[rleitch]

Hey!!

I missed this thread while I was away, so i'll just belatedly add my voice to the chorus of congratulations to Phil on getting this much talked about tenor to market. Sounds like a beauty--congratulations!

Rory

ps. Hey Phil, this is a little off-topic, and I've noticed that you don't talk about this aspect of your sax-related expertise much on SotW, but as a player, what tenor saxes have you particularly enjoyed playing and what are the qualities about it (or any tenor) you think are most important? Are you a MarkVI guy, vintage American, modern?

[Phil Barone]

AND he is starting out at a reasonable price instead of charging Ref 54 money for it. Get some horns in players hands, use your reputation in the industry, wait for the reviews to roll in THEN the actual street price can be determined.
Good job Phil! Thank you for NOT being, uh, - like the other guys in the biz.

Thanks, I was always a terrible business man. The problem I'm starting to see is that I'm putting a lot of time into answering questions. I don't mind but it cuts into the small profit I may make. There's no BS about them though. They're really great horns. Phil

[Ike Webkins]

hi Phil..good news as I can see...:) congratulations!


What about a silver plated curved sop (high G ?)

[Phil Barone]

hi Phil..good news as I can see...:) congratulations!


What about a silver plated curved sop (high G ?)

Curved, they look so weird but I'll find out. I have a saxello with 2 necks with a high G. Phil

[Ike Webkins]

Curved, they look so weird but I'll find out. I have a saxello with 2 necks with a high G. Phil

if they look weird to you, how do they sound?

[Al Stevens]

Phil told me the horn came to him direct from the factory and might need some setup by a local tech to check for leaks, adjustments, etc. I'll do that, eventually, but I gave it my own leak light test this morning and found no leaks.
I need to update that observation. After playing the horn for a while, I learned that I was blowing my chops out and having difficulty playing the low notes. This problem is the subject of another thread. A trip to the tech reveals that Phil's advice is sound. It does indeed have leaks and the action needs adjustments.

FWIW, my tech, who is a pro alto player by night, processes a lot of new horns through his shop. He told me that only one brand of new sax never needs corrections when it arrives from the factory. That brand is Antigua Winds. They ship them ready to play. All others, all stencils, the big four, whatever, need attention out of the box. In his experience.

[Bill Mecca]

Phil,

a suggestion, compile the questions and your answers into a FAQ and post a link to it. (would save you time, not have to answer the same questions over and over, and will answer those questions)

[newjazz]

hey, phil barone what I need to ask, is this horn truely the same bore dimensions as a mark 6 or reference 54? if so, shouldn't the necks be interchangable? at the moment I need a horn that comes as close to the sound of a mark6 tenor as possible, since mine needs at least $1200 of work I thought I would be better to grab something that can be sort of a work horse while I take my time to bring back the old 6. I really like the look of a system 76 tenor so, if I can get a nice looking that looks as good for not too much bread then I would seriously consider!!!

[Phil Barone]

Phil,

a suggestion, compile the questions and your answers into a FAQ and post a link to it. (would save you time, not have to answer the same questions over and over, and will answer those questions)

Thanks Bill. Right now I just don't have the time but I'll do it sometime down the road. Phil

[Phil Barone]

I forget, is he throwing in a Barone mpc too?

Yes, any hard rubber piece. I however don't make a HR bari piece. Phil

[Phil Barone]

Hey!!

ps. Hey Phil, this is a little off-topic, and I've noticed that you don't talk about this aspect of your sax-related expertise much on SotW, but as a player, what tenor saxes have you particularly enjoyed playing and what are the qualities about it (or any tenor) you think are most important? Are you a MarkVI guy, vintage American, modern?

I was always a Mark VI guy and my bari is probably the best one there is. Everyone that plays it wants to buy it. The tenors I'm selling are better than and Mark VI I've ever played so maybe I'll snatch one up for myself when they come. Phil

[Martinman]

Yes, any hard rubber piece. I however don't make a HR bari piece. Phil


You could offer your customer a rubber Link customization (they supply the Link of their choice) for a bari piece. Either add it to the cost or don't depending on what you want. Just a suggestion.

[Phil Barone]

You could offer your customer a rubber Link customization (they supply the Link of their choice) for a bari piece. Either add it to the cost or don't depending on what you want. Just a suggestion.

It's a good idea but I take hours and hours when I do a Link bari piece. I'm trying to do less of that kind of work with the backorders I have and my bloody back. Phil

[Martinman]

It's a good idea but I take hours and hours when I do a Link bari piece. I'm trying to do less of that kind of work with the backorders I have and my bloody back. Phil


I understand. If the customer asks, you could pick out a bari Link for them, or even just buy them in bulk from Babbit, and include one of the customer's choice. I don't know if that would be economical or not though.

[Ike Webkins]

Phil

I sent you a PM...did you get it ?

[Phil Barone]

Phil

I sent you a PM...did you get it ?

I don't think so. -P-

[Ike Webkins]

I'll resend a copy

[Al Stevens]

I got the Barone tenor back from the tech this morning. All the problems are fixed. There was a crushed post somewhere near the C mechanism, wherever that is, and some minor adjustments needed. I think they call that "setup." Forty bucks well spent.

I've been playing the horn all morning. It is playing well now. I am very happy with it.

[MPowered]

quickly scanned over the thread but dind't find my answer.

price for for a PB Alto?

[Joe Jazz]

Spend a few extra bucks and go for the PB&J alto!:D

[MPowered]

Spend a few extra bucks and go for the PB&J alto!:D
:toothy10:

[Phil Barone]

Someone asked for the price of an alto. That would depend on the finish, pisoni pads or Roo pads, and normal amounts of engraving or extra engraving. And they ain't kidding. Phil

[Carl H.]

How about the bare bones sax with Roo pads?

[MPowered]

Someone asked for the price of an alto. That would depend on the finish, pisoni pads or Roo pads, and normal amounts of engraving or extra engraving. And they ain't kidding. Phil


finish: would rose gold be possible? if not, gold plate works too.
pads: doesn't matter to me, whichever is less expensive. they're both good pads.
engraving: little or none - i'll have custom work done.

if we could get that under the $1150 that the tenor cost, you've got yourself a customer.

[Al Stevens]

I took the new Barone tenor to a jam session last night. I am very happy with how it played on its first public outing. It's not quite as easy to play as my VI in the lower register, but that's just a matter of what I'm used to. The vi is too forgiving of lazy chops.

The Barone sax got lots of comments for its beautiful finish. This is going to be like having a brand new car. I found myself wiping it down every time I saw a drop of spit. I'll be glad when that honeymoon is over.

My wife's comment is the best. She says I can't play it if she's in the house. No way will she be seen with me when I have more gold around my neck than she does.

[oldsaxer]

When do you anticipate the availability of altos for sale?

THX

[Phil Barone]

When do you anticipate the availability of altos for sale?

THX

I should have a couple of gold-plated altos in a week or two.

Uncle Phil

[Al Stevens]

Here's an anecdote related to the Barone tenor.

A friend was here a couple of days ago, and he tried out the Barone. He plays a Selmer SA80 Serie I. He's a big band player, community band director, and retired director of the music program at the local college.

He commented that he'd never before played a tenor where D1 was sharper than D2 and so on. Usually, he says, it's the other way around. I suggested that maybe he was used to subconsciously compensating and asked him to try playing it with no lip adjustments for pitch correction. He did, and was impressed. The Barone needs, in his opinion, virtually no pitch correction up and down the horn.

That's the kind of horn I need. :) Now if only they could make a trumpet that way.

[oldsaxer]

<<I should have a couple of gold-plated altos in a week or two.>>

Great! Will these have generic mpc and necks? Will love to see them and posted pics/info when you get them.

thanks

[Phil Barone]

<<I should have a couple of gold-plated altos in a week or two.>>

Great! Will these have generic mpc and necks? Will love to see them and posted pics/info when you get them.

thanks

All my horns are coming with one of my necks and HR mouthpiece in your facing choice. Let's see someone beat that!

Uncle Phil

[oldsaxer]

All my horns are coming with one of my necks and HR mouthpiece in your facing choice. Let's see someone beat that!

Uncle Phil

I don't think they can... Put me on the list and sign me up... :-)

[Phil Barone]

I don't think they can... Put me on the list and sign me up... :-)

Oldsaxer, I need your name and phone number. My email is philbarone@philbarone.com

Uncle Phil

[wogeax]

Are your Altos the Professional model or the Intermediate model of P.Ma.?

(I noticed they sell a pro and intermediate model on the web site)

some pro models have double arms on lower keys and others do not.

hope it all comes together

[Phil Barone]

Are your Altos the Professional model or the Intermediate model of P.Ma.?

(I noticed they sell a pro and intermediate model on the web site)

some pro models have double arms on lower keys and others do not.

hope it all comes together

The double arms are $30.00 more. Uncle Phil

[MPowered]

I should have a couple of gold-plated altos in a week or two.

Uncle Phil


Price?

[Phil Barone]

Price?

$1,025.00 Just for my nephew! Uncle Phil

[Al Stevens]

Time for yet another update. I've had the Barone tenor for a month and a half. Part of that time it was in the shop getting set up. Since getting it back I also sent my Ref 54 LE into the shop to have it completely tweaked. During all this time I've been regularly playing both horns.

At first I couldn't hear any of difference. Now I can. I suppose that comes with time and experience trying various mouthpiece/reed combinations and mainly just from having the horn hanging round my neck and in my mouth and hands for extended periods of time, taking it on gigs, shedding tunes and exercises. These comments reflect personal observations and might say as much about me as a player as they do about the two horns.

First some comparisons:


The Ref is a bit darker.
The Barone has a slightly lighter touch.
The Barone is a tad heavier.
The Ref responds in the lower register more readily. That is to say, I don't have to think about "here comes a low B, I better prepare myself," like I do with the Barone.
The Barone responds better for me in the upper range.
Both horns have good intonation. The Barone seems a bit better in that respect.
Steady, substantial air support is essential with the Barone. Get lazy, and it will honk or scratch out a note when you least expect it. The Ref is more forgiving.
Both have high F#. The Barone has high G. I seldom use either one.


From these comparisons, I draw the following conclusions.


I thought one of these horns would be my backup tenor and I'd sell the other, probably the Ref just because I'd get more money for it. Unfortunately, I can't part with either one. Not just now.
If I were advising a student, and money was not an object, I'd say get the Barone. Because it demands more from the player, it will probably make you a better player. Both horns deliver excellent results. The Barone requires you to pay more attention to the fundamentals.
The Barone is prettier. The Ref is a Selmer. Both are great horns. Who do you want to impress?

[saxphil]

You AL.

[saxphil]

Al, I am curious as to why the Barone honks if played with a lazy airstream?
Could there possibly still be leaks?
Could the low notes still not speak properly as a result of the damage done to the post by the C hole, as you had previously mentioned?

[Al Stevens]

It doesn't always happen, just every now and then. The tech says he got all the leaks. Don't know about that post issue. I plan to take it to a master tech over in Orlando when I get time just to have it looked at by a top guy.

[saxphil]

Al, was the post damaged in shipping?

[Al Stevens]

We assume it was. That's what the tech thought. It was well-packed in its case, which was well-packed in a heavy-duty cadrboard shipping container. No telling how far the UPS guys threw it around, though. You can't tell by looking at it that it was ever bent. There are no dents or scars.

[wogeax]

Going to have any pics of the altos and tenors anytime soon for a look-see? And perhaps a rundown on prices and options?

Thanks

[zivley]

Darn, Phill! Where were you when I needed you? couldn't you just make your horns available 16 months ago???
I've bought a not so bad taiwanese horn for some 1200 bucks back then!
my horn sounds great, but still, no gold finnish, no PB neck, and no customized HR giveaway mpc...
I'm sure that by the time I decide to buy a better horn, yours will be much more expensive, after the success in market they'll have, and I'm positive about that!

[Phantom's Revenge]

How do you buy Phil Barone's? There's nothing on their website about them, do you call? Are they still 1,150, or was that just for the gold plated one?

[Joe Jazz]

You just put the money under your pillow before going to sleep, and when you awaken the next morning you'll find a gold-plated Uncle Phil sax under there!;)

[Phil Barone]

Well, I'm placing another order if anybody wants to get in on this one. Hope everyone had some good food Thursday. Phil

[defortb]

Here are some impressions of one of Phil's tenor saxes. I received mine recently and am really enjoying getting to know it. I volunteered to Phil that I would put some feedback on SOTW if I liked the horn and said I would need to say if there were issues and Phil said I should I post them as well.
Horn arrived in good condition. Nice compact case. Beautiful finish. It reminded me somewhat of some other Taiwanese horns I have seen recently as far as general design ( some say super action 80 copies) I like the snappy action of the PB keys throughout the horn. The most obvious difference from some other less expensive horns was the excellent intonation and range of the PB. Sure, it doesn’t “lock in” like a Yamaha but just using the ear all adjustments were easy to make and the fat body of tone on the bottom and excellent full tone throughout especially altissimo are very impressive. So it has “flexibility” in pitch and tone but is “in tune” The harmonics lock right in.The altissimo is easily accessed and held. The intonation through the altissimo is very good and I can use same altissmo fingerings on this horn as I use on my Mark6.To my senses it doesn't sound so much like a Mark 6 but has a more Keilwerth, Conn sound to it. Phil had warned me about the need to check the horn out before playing. I had to fix (heat pad cups and re-seat) significant leaks in a number of pads. Eventually I would probably re pad some day with shellac instead of that hot melt glue which I don’t care for. The low C tone hole is quite rough/sharp, in places and will require smoothing which I will do When I removed the Eb low C rod, I found the hollow hinge tubing to be somewhat roughly finished and the rod not as easy to remove or replace as I would like ( of course I did not spend $3,000 on the horn either).Even with these repairs ( which I do myself) I am having some much fun playing this horn I don't want to send it back but I think , based on my impressions and others about these more inexpensive horns you should factor in a set up cost into this horn ( pads, spring tensions,etc).I would guess that this is true of most new horns these days. All being said, and based on my short time on the horn, I think this is a good deal for a fine horn ( I got the horn in the first run and Phil held good to his word on advertised low price)Phil's communication and follow throughout this`deal were excellent .Once he received the horn delivery was very fast. I enjoyed playing on his Vintage mpc also.I am not familiar with the some of the other Taiwanese horns around other than reading posts on SOTW and checking out their websites but many of the positive posts about them seem to match my impressions of the horn. Big sound, resonant, flexible, great bottom,very good intonation, nice,fast keywork.

[defortb]

Here are some impressions of one of Phil's tenor saxes. I received mine recently and am really enjoying getting to know it. I volunteered to Phil that I would put some feedback on SOTW if I liked the horn and said I would need to say if there were issues and Phil said I should I post them as well.
Horn arrived in good condition. Nice compact case. Beautiful finish. It reminded me somewhat of some other Taiwanese horns I have seen recently as far as general design ( some say super action 80 copies) I like the snappy action of the PB keys throughout the horn. The most obvious difference from some other less expensive horns was the excellent intonation and range of the PB. Sure, it doesn’t “lock in” like a Yamaha but just using the ear all adjustments were easy to make and the fat body of tone on the bottom and excellent full tone throughout especially altissimo are very impressive. So it has “flexibility” in pitch and tone but is “in tune” The harmonics lock right in.The altissimo is easily accessed and held. The intonation through the altissimo is very good and I can use same altissmo fingerings on this horn as I use on my Mark6.To my senses it doesn't sound so much like a Mark 6 but has a more Keilwerth, Conn sound to it. Phil had warned me about the need to check the horn out before playing. I had to fix (heat pad cups and re-seat) significant leaks in a number of pads. Eventually I would probably re pad some day with shellac instead of that hot melt glue which I don’t care for. The low C tone hole is quite rough/sharp, in places and will require smoothing which I will do When I removed the Eb low C rod, I found the hollow hinge tubing to be somewhat roughly finished and the rod not as easy to remove or replace as I would like ( of course I did not spend $3,000 on the horn either).Even with these repairs ( which I do myself) I am having some much fun playing this horn I don't want to send it back but I think , based on my impressions and others about these more inexpensive horns you should factor in a set up cost into this horn ( pads, spring tensions,etc).I would guess that this is true of most new horns these days. All being said, and based on my short time on the horn, I think this is a good deal for a fine horn ( I got the horn in the first run and Phil held good to his word on advertised low price)Phil's communication and follow throughout this`deal were excellent .Once he received the horn delivery was very fast. I enjoyed playing on his Vintage mpc also.I am not familiar with the some of the other Taiwanese horns around other than reading posts on SOTW and checking out their websites but many of the positive posts about them seem to match my impressions of the horn. Big sound, resonant, flexible, great bottom,very good intonation, nice,fast keywork.

[Al Stevens]

I have been referring to this horn as a "gold-plated" tenor. My tech tells me that it is not gold-plated but "gold-lacquered" instead. Just thought I should clear that up.

[Phil Barone]

I have been referring to this horn as a "gold-plated" tenor. My tech tells me that it is not gold-plated but "gold-lacquered" instead. Just thought I should clear that up.

I just saw your other post on the alto. It IS gold-plated then lacquered. My gold-lacquered horrns are not that gold but I'm bugging them about it. Phil

[Al Stevens]

That clears it up. The tech doesn't know what he's talking about. He'll be glad to hear it. :D

[Phil Barone]

That clears it up. The tech doesn't know what he's talking about. He'll be glad to hear it. :D

Tell him I said he's a knucklehead and if you call me I'll add to the list. I hate that! Phil

[saxphil]

Tell him I said he's a knucklehead and if you call me I'll add to the list. I hate that! Phil

Al's got a closet full of knuckleheads watchin' over his horns. :)

[LampLight]

Al's got a closet full of knuckleheads watchin' over his horns. :)
I'll bet he wishes that was his most aggravating problem. :rolleyes:

[hakukani]

Al's got a closet full of knuckleheads watchin' over his horns. :)



I believe 'Knucklehead' is the one on the right(stage left).

[gary]

I believe 'Knucklehead' is the one on the right(stage left).
Better them than a closet full of their cousins.

[saxphil]

I believe 'Knucklehead' is the one on the right(stage left).


You are correct, sir :D

[Phil Barone]

I believe 'Knucklehead' is the one on the right(stage left).

I do believe I'm turning into a cornball.....

[saxphil]

I do believe I'm turning into a cornball.....

You use the word knucklehead often Phil and whenever you do,I laugh.
It is perfectly descriptive.Besides my father,deceased, used it often as well,
usually in reference to me.
Cornball,knucklehead,,, how about corker?
She's a corker.

Your an old soul Phil.

[Joe Jazz]

I do believe I'm turning into a cornball.....

Better be careful or you will end up in someone's gas tank, uncle ethanol!

[Phil Barone]

You use the word knucklehead often Phil and whenever you do,I laugh.
It is perfectly descriptive.Besides my father,deceased, used it often as well,
usually in reference to me.
Cornball,knucklehead,,, how about corker?
She's a corker.

Your an old soul Phil.

Thanks Philly. How bout chucklehead? That's what Philly Jo Jones used to call people. Phil

[saxphil]

Thanks Philly. How bout chucklehead? That's what Philly Jo Jones used to call people. Phil

I'm Irish heritage and when my father told me stories 'bout the oldtimers, everyone had a nickname, none flattering.
No one was called by their given names.

[Grumps]

Hey Al, was there a stamp and/or sticker on your horn anywhere stating where it was made?

[Joe Jazz]

Didn't he mention earlier that there was a stamp on the back above the thumbrest saying Acme Music Company - Paris, New York, London, Berlin?

[saxphil]

Hey Al, was there a stamp and/or sticker on your horn anywhere stating where it was made?


No stamp,no sticker anywhere that I can see.
The only place it said MIT was in the shipping details on the plain cardboard box that it came in.

[Joe Jazz]

Does that mean it's like the "mystery meat" served at Aunt Lula's house?:shock: Oh no, that's the PM's.......:D

[defortb]

I wrote a post earlier after I had just received my new Phil Barone Tenor Sax.
I worried that my post came off as too critical and gave the wrong impression of this horn, so I wanted to post this to give impressions after playing horn for a while. I think this horn is just great! The intonation throughout all registers might be the best of any horn I have played. The tonal qualities are rich and full througout ranges of horn. The horn is beautiful looking and the workmanship is very, very, good. I am very pleased and look forward to getting another of Phil's horns ( soprano)at these awesome prices when I amass some more shekels.Phil has been honest and helpful through all. I apologize to Phil if earlier post sounded too critical or gave the impression that this was not an excellent horn.

defortb

[Al Stevens]

Hey Al, was there a stamp and/or sticker on your horn anywhere stating where it was made?
I don't see one.

[gary]

Hey Al, was there a stamp and/or sticker on your horn anywhere stating where it was made?
Grumps, you're like a pit bull, man.
Once you bite into something, you just don't let go, do you? :twisted:

[Phil Barone]

I don't see one.
I took them all off :)

[dynamisoz]

where can you buy PB saxophones.....
I like to see some pictures...
I wasnt able to find any saxophones at PB's website.

[Carl H.]

where can you buy PB saxophones.....


Kmart, Walmart, Sams Club, Costco, Target - nope. Only from uncle Phil.

[Phil Barone]

where can you buy PB saxophones.....
I like to see some pictures...
I wasnt able to find any saxophones at PB's website.

Send me your email address and I'll send you some pictures. Phil

[Al Stevens]

I finally got the tenor back from its second trip to the tech. He said it looked like he'd never worked on it. I think he never really did much with it because it had low note issues as soon as I got it back the first time. I think he's confusing it with my Ref 54, which he did a nice setup on.

Anyway the Barone is back after I paid twice for the same setup. Now, everything works fine. I just played on it for about a half hour, and it is a dream to play. It really likes the Barone Jazz 8 piece I have and the current model Otto Link STM 7* that's been laying in the mpc box.

[saxphil]

Too bad you had to pay twice for the fix Al.
I thought it wierd that you were still having problems after its first supposed fix.You sure sounded good on your clips.

[Al Stevens]

After all the talk about how the Barone tenor compares with the Ref 54, I decided to record two clips and let you decide for yourselves.

http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForBarone.mp3
http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForSelmer.mp3

All things were equal. I recorded the clips one right after the other taking only time to change horns, put the mpc on, and tune up.

The mpc is a Jody Jazz 7* ESP with the baffle removed. Rico Jazz Select 2M.

Comments welcome.

[Joe Jazz]

To me the edge in sound goes to the Selmer, but for the money, The PB sounds purty darn good.........

[zivley]

After all the talk about how the Barone tenor compares with the Ref 54, I decided to record two clips and let you decide for yourselves.

http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForBarone.mp3
http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForSelmer.mp3

All things were equal. I recorded the clips one right after the other taking only time to change horns, put the mpc on, and tune up.

The mpc is a Jody Jazz 7* ESP with the baffle removed. Rico Jazz Select 2M.

Comments welcome.

I can only say that you sound great on both of them!
But I think you rather shouldn't tell us which one is the PB and which one the Selmer, making it more challenging for those "fine ears" experts, and let them decide what they think, as in a blind test.
Anyway, as I said, they both sound great.
Kudos to you Al for your playing! I guess you could make my taiwanese horn sound so great too!

[Al Stevens]

I can only say that you sound great on both of them!
But I think you rather shouldn't tell us which one is the PB and which one the Selmer, making it more challenging for those "fine ears" experts, and let them decide what they think, as in a blind test.
Anyway, as I said, they both sound great.
Kudos to you Al for your playing! I guess you could make my taiwanese horn sound so great too!
Thanks for the comments and the compliments. I thought about making it a blind test. Then I realized that there is a 50% chance of guessing correctly. I didn't want any false conclusions to fall out of a lucky guess.

[zivley]

You could borrow my horn and record on it too, so it would be 33% instead of 50%... ;)

[saxphil]

Swingin',very lyrical Al.
Your playing style reminds me of Scott Hamilton.
You sound great on both horns,as usual.
Wonderful song choice.

[Twombles62]

I've got to give it to the Selmer as well.
Brighter, more focused sound. That's just my personal opinion as an alto player though.

[gary]

Again, nice to hear you play, Al.
BTW, is that you on piano, as well? Always a pleasure.

Regarding the horns, the Barone sounds good but for my money the Selmer has a warmer sound.

[milandro]

I have the exact same view which Gary has, both on your playing (piano and sax alike) and the fact that you seem to sound slightly warmer in some passages with the Selmer...but warmth isn't everything is the playing of a horn and you can work wonders with another mouthpiece (ooooppppssss!) on the PB to tweak its sound to a warmer result.

[Ruediger Kramer]

After all the talk about how the Barone tenor compares with the Ref 54, I decided to record two clips and let you decide for yourselves.

http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForBarone.mp3
http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForSelmer.mp3

All things were equal. I recorded the clips one right after the other taking only time to change horns, put the mpc on, and tune up.

The mpc is a Jody Jazz 7* ESP with the baffle removed. Rico Jazz Select 2M.

Comments welcome.


great recordings, maybe the S. sounds better (but are there a few little squeaks?)


-

[DavidW]

It might be interesting to take the 54, Barone, and possibly another pro level sax, record the same clip on each, labelled 1, 2, 3 and make a poll to see which people think sounds the best.

[Grumps]

The Selmer struck me as the more seasoned sound.
Whatever that means...

[whaler]

Selmer sounded better. My only comment is that when you play the melody you sound full, but when you start soloing you back off.

[Joe Jazz]

The Selmer struck me as the more seasoned sound.
Whatever that means...

Perhaps Uncle Phil could start including salt and pepper shakers with the saxes?;)

[Grumps]

Well, I do miss his recipes.

[zivley]

The Selmer struck me as the more seasoned sound.
Whatever that means...

In your opinion, which one has the most larruping sound?

[Al Stevens]

BTW, is that you on piano, as well? Always a pleasure.
Yes. Thank you.

[markwigginton]

i did notice a couple squeaks with the 54.

they both sounded great though.. i am a PB owner myself and for the money.. i am not sure if there is a better horn.

[Al Stevens]

i did notice a couple squeaks with the 54.Don't blame the horn. It happens every now and then on any of my tenors. Usually a reed tweak fixes it. I just didn't take the time to fix it and re-record the track.

[playitfunky]

Al I was digging your playing. I also think the Selmer had a more centered, focused, warm sound then the Barone. I do think you would sound better if you pushed a little more air but you sound real good.

[saxguy007]

After all the talk about how the Barone tenor compares with the Ref 54, I decided to record two clips and let you decide for yourselves.

http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForBarone.mp3
http://www.alstevens.com/tunes/mp3s/shootout/OnlyHaveEyesForSelmer.mp3

All things were equal. I recorded the clips one right after the other taking only time to change horns, put the mpc on, and tune up.

The mpc is a Jody Jazz 7* ESP with the baffle removed. Rico Jazz Select 2M.

Comments welcome.

Al, that was an extremely helpful comparison (since I play an ESP 6 on my tenor- with spoiler). Both clips sounded very polished to me, with spot-on intonation to my ear. That must be a nice recording setup you have.

Honestly, I concur with other posters that the Selmer sounded warmer and smoother and a smidge more pleasing to my ear... but did it sound $4k better?

There was something very vintage about the Barone sound. Maybe I was hallucinating, but when I was listening to the Barone clip while doing some other web browsing, my brain plugged in that I was listening to one of the players from long ago-- can't for the life of me recall his name...

I wonder if the bore size is a little different, maybe the PB would l smooth and warm up a little with a different mouthpiece setup.

[gary]

There was something very vintage about the Barone sound. Maybe I was hallucinating, but when I was listening to the Barone clip...my brain plugged in that I was listening to one of the players from long ago.
That was Al.
And he is one of those players from long ago. :D


(sorry Al. It was just too easy.)

[zivley]

There was something very vintage about the Barone sound. Maybe I was hallucinating, but when I was listening to the Barone clip while doing some other web browsing, my brain plugged in that I was listening to one of the players from long ago-- can't for the life of me recall his name...

You mean Lester Young?

[Joe Jazz]

Perhaps Lester Old?;)

[saxguy007]

You mean Lester Young?

Bingo.

(Loved Gary's zinger, tho-- LOL)

[Joe Jazz]

Gone gator hunting.....

[wogeax]

Yeah, Received my PB 18K Gold Plate Alto today...

And yes, It looks better than a P. Mauriat! :-) (jus kiddin since it looks identical) although these come with a PB neck and mpc.
Will try and post some pics for all of those curious.

[wogeax]

1 week shy of 3 months- but worth it... phew! Nearly identical to my bros tk Ipanema (PM system 76-)

[/IMG]

[/IMG]

[Leon]

I ordered a Barone tenor to have on hand as a backup and got a lot more than I bargained for. . It surprised me. I really didn’t expect it to be this good. I figured (from earlier reports) that it would play in tune (it does) and that like most new horns it would be ergonomically comfortable (it is) but this tenor is very strong, very powerful.
It played right out of the box, subtoning down to a low B flat. I didn’t find the low end to be at all stuffy or resistant. It’s free blowing and responsive and undemanding - that is, it lets you blow it with your own voice, your own approach.

I have a Yani 991 that I compared it to. The Yani is a very good tenor but the Barone has more of what I need and want. I play out mostly in acoustic settings without a mike and deal with a lot of crowd noise and this horn has a lot of volume, a lot of power. (PM me if you are interested in purchasing the Yani). I found the build quality to be equal to the Yani, the Barone is equally heavy and the keys feel strong, built with a professional in mind, not a student.

It’s hard to verbally describe with any accuracy the sound of a horn but the Barone tenor I have is masuline, dark and weighted. The sound is big. The midrange is resonant and the entire range of the horn is lively. There is a nice ring to the high end, in fact a nice ring to sound generally. The altissimo end is user friendly, that is, easy to reach and not abrupt, a nice continuation of the horn. It’s malleable - you can play a split G or play it straight. Some others have written of the Barone tenor as being a blend of Conn and Selmer, but I felt like the sound is more reminicent of a Reference 36 tenor. Anyway, it’s a big sound with facility and good intonation.
I’m really surprised and pleased with this horn. It’s going to be more than a backup horn to have on hand “just in case”. For me, this tenor could really work as a primary one. I really enjoy it and am confident in it. The price is nice and sweetens the deal, but I’d like it even if it wasn’t such a bargain.
I’ll be out of town for awhile and mostly off line. When I get back I’ll try to post some sound clips.

[Phil Barone]

I ordered a Barone tenor to have on hand as a backup and got a lot more than I bargained for. . It surprised me. I really didn’t expect it to be this good. I figured (from earlier reports) that it would play in tune (it does) and that like most new horns it would be ergonomically comfortable (it is) but this tenor is very strong, very powerful.
It played right out of the box, subtoning down to a low B flat. I didn’t find the low end to be at all stuffy or resistant. It’s free blowing and responsive and undemanding - that is, it lets you blow it with your own voice, your own approach.

I have a Yani 991 that I compared it to. The Yani is a very good tenor but the Barone has more of what I need and want. I play out mostly in acoustic settings without a mike and deal with a lot of crowd noise and this horn has a lot of volume, a lot of power. (PM me if you are interested in purchasing the Yani). I found the build quality to be equal to the Yani, the Barone is equally heavy and the keys feel strong, built with a professional in mind, not a student.

It’s hard to verbally describe with any accuracy the sound of a horn but the Barone tenor I have is masuline, dark and weighted. The sound is big. The midrange is resonant and the entire range of the horn is lively. There is a nice ring to the high end, in fact a nice ring to sound generally. The altissimo end is user friendly, that is, easy to reach and not abrupt, a nice continuation of the horn. It’s malleable - you can play a split G or play it straight. Some others have written of the Barone tenor as being a blend of Conn and Selmer, but I felt like the sound is more reminicent of a Reference 36 tenor. Anyway, it’s a big sound with facility and good intonation.
I’m really surprised and pleased with this horn. It’s going to be more than a backup horn to have on hand “just in case”. For me, this tenor could really work as a primary one. I really enjoy it and am confident in it. The price is nice and sweetens the deal, but I’d like it even if it wasn’t such a bargain.
I’ll be out of town for awhile and mostly off line. When I get back I’ll try to post some sound clips.

Now that's what I'm talking about. Phil

[Grumps]

The tenor pictured above is different from Al's, and I can see the Mauriat similarities with the one above.

[Phil Barone]

Probably because it's an alto. The horns are all the same. Phil

[Grumps]

My bad Phil, I just went by the title above the picture when posting. But what I meant, is that Al's tenor didn't have the similarities that the horn pictured above has to the Mauriats. The alto does appear to be a copy.

[Reedsplinter]

A copy, or a stencil?

[SearjeantSax]

the alto has double rods on the bell keys and the low c key, the tenor appears not to......

[Twombles62]

Hmm, that is interesting. I'd like to hear from some people who've bought Altos.

Are the altos and the tenors the same? I think that only Phil can answer this one.

[Subbie]

Hmm, that is interesting. I'd like to hear from some people who've bought Altos.

Are the altos and the tenors the same? I think that only Phil can answer this one.

No, some are altos, and some are tenors:twisted:
Sorry, couldn't resist;)

So what if they have some different keywork? It seems like they play just fine..

[HenryN]

the alto has double rods on the bell keys and the low c key, the tenor appears not to......
I could be wrong but I think Phil mentioned somewhere that the double arms are an option on both alto and tenor.

[wogeax]

Yes, the double arms are merely an option. (same as PM system 76 config)
I have also played the standard pm alto...sounds the same.
Buy a Barone and save 1000.00.

[bluebird]

Hi everybody,
I am a newbie here, just receive a silver tenor from Phil, very beautiful & solid finishing. I am going to "test drive" it tonight. But I am sure it is a monster.......