As a utility wind player in multiple groups I go through years where the emphasis for the current year is different from previous years. For instance, the past few years have focused more on alto sax, contra bassoon and a little bit of tenor sax but this year the focus has shifted to bari sax, bassoon and a bit more tenor sax in big band and orchestral settings. A few years ago I upgraded to a Yamaha 62 alto sax and really noticed the difference over my previous altos. In an orchestral setting in which I play alto and tenor sax a couple of times a year I noticed how my tenor just didn't feel as solid or play quite as well as my, now better, alto. I still don't play enough tenor to warrant a new Yamaha 62, or better, sax but I know some people who play the older 52 and, after looking over their instruments, started looking for one as it looked like it had much the same look, feel, and features as the 62. I have enjoyed adjusting to the Yamaha 52 and it seems to be going well. I have a shorter than normal little finger and often have to make adjustments to the position of the left little finger cluster; on this instrument that was much easier to do given the fine adjustment screws. All-in-all I'm quite pleased with the Yamaha 52.Read full review
I played a Selmer Mark VI (serial # 99,XXX) for years (mainly straight-ahead jazz and big band, including a stint at North Texas), then sold it and stopped playing for a few years. I recently bought an old purple label Yamaha YTS-52 tenor from the early 1980s and unless my memory serves me wrong, or unless my Mark VI was flawed in some way that I was not aware of, this is a better horn. Extreme responsiveness, penetrating tone, and in tune. I just can't believe it. I didn't expect this. It gets soft, booming subtones in the lower register, and the open C# is as clear and in tune as any horn I've ever played. It projects so well that I'm going to have to supplement the soundproofing my practice room. I've got it paired with a Ponzol 105 hard rubber mouthpiece, and boy, does it sound great. And for under $1000, used. Of course, this horn has been well taken care of. I don't see any reason to upgrade any further. Out-freakin-standing.Read full review