In many cases, musicians can save a significant amount of money purchasing a used saxophone instead of a new one. If a person knows what to look for, he will not have to sacrifice quality in the process. A good used saxophone should have no dents in the horn, no discoloration, no signs of refurbishment, a good sound, and a fair price. If the instrument meets these criteria, it’s likely to be a good one.
A horn with no significant dents is an important feature to look for in a used saxophone. Small dings and scratches aren’t usually a problem, but large dents on the horn are a red flag and should be avoided. Tilting the saxophone on its side and looking at the horn under adequate lighting is a simple way to check for dents. If there are obvious dents on the instrument, it’s best to look for something else.
Checking for discoloration is another way to tell if a used saxophone is worth buying. Keep an eye out for any green coloring, as this indicates that the instrument is likely damaged and in poor condition. The finish on a good saxophone should be smooth brass with no contrasting colors.
Another thing to stay away from is a refurbished used saxophone. Significant changes usually indicate that the instrument has been damaged previously, and the quality is likely to suffer as a result. An excessively shiny appearance and contrasting appearances on different sections can be signs of refurbishment. To avoid purchasing a stolen product, the potential buyer should check for a serial number. If the serial number appears to have been scratched off on purpose, this is a red flag that the product has been stolen.
Obviously, when making a decision, a good sound is critical. Musicians should always run a potential purchase through its paces to ensure that it sounds good. There should be no cracks in the pads that cover the holes. When pressed, the keys should have plenty of resistance and not feel loose. It’s also important to make sure the saxophone is light and comfortable to play.
Furthermore, the cost should be reasonable. Because prices can vary greatly, it’s a good idea to take your time and look at a few saxophones before making a decision. The overall cost is influenced the instrument’s brand, age, and condition. Looking at product listings and comparisons on the internet is usually a good indicator of what is a reasonable price.