What should I look for when buying a second-hand saxophone?
Are you looking for a saxophone with a more affordable price tag? A second-hand model is always an option to consider. A used saxophone often offers great value for money, and there are usually plenty available. The materials and craftsmanship of older saxophones are typically fantastic, provided they have been well-maintained. Vintage saxophones also often have more embellishments and engravings than a modern model. They are more likely to be silver-plated, gold-plated, or nickel-plated rather than lacquered, and the brass is older, making it harder and thus giving it a different, often better, sound.
In addition to the advantages, there are, of course, always some disadvantages. Used saxophones are no longer in mint condition and may have defects. At Adams, all instruments are thoroughly checked by our repair department, and even overhauled if necessary. This means they are in good technical condition. We always recommend testing the instrument in one of our stores before purchasing. For more on testing an instrument, you can refer to our article on buying a new saxophone.
Assessing Condition
How do I assess the condition of a saxophone?
You've found a second-hand saxophone you're interested in. Hopefully, you recognize the basic parts and common issues that saxophones face, such as the pads. But this is just the beginning. Just like with a car, it’s wise to “look under the hood” to find out what repairs, maintenance, and care the instrument has received or may still need. These factors can be subtle but have a significant impact on both the price and the quality.
Selling your saxophone?
We also trade in saxophones. Let us know which saxophone you want to trade in.
General condition of the saxophone
As soon as you open the case, you'll get a first impression of the saxophone and the life the instrument has had. Does the instrument shine? Then it’s either hardly played or very well cared for. If you open the case and the instrument has green spots and a bad smell, it might be best to pass on it.
Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, so don’t let an unpleasant smell stop you from asking further questions about the saxophone. Later, we’ll discuss the questions you can ask the owner to assess the quality. A word of caution: if the owner says, “this instrument was owned by...,” be critical unless the owner has proof. In most cases, instruments owned by truly famous players stay within the family or are given to a close friend or musical partner. These instruments usually remain within the professional circuit.
There are questions that a private seller should be able to answer. If the owner doesn’t know this information, there’s a good chance the person is a sales specialist or hasn’t had the saxophone for very long. If the person can’t answer any of these questions and seems nervous, the saxophone might be stolen. In that case, ask for the serial number and check it against the many stolen instrument databases, such as the musicalchairs database. If the instrument is reported as stolen, contact the police.
Questions?
IS THE INSTRUMENT IN GOOD TECHNICAL CONDITION?
The most important thing is that you can play your saxophone. A beautiful instrument with keys that don’t close properly is unfortunately often only useful as a decorative object.
WHAT IS THE EXACT SERIAL NUMBER?
Knowing the serial number and brand allows you to look up the instrument in our serial number database to see how old it is. You can also check whether the instrument is stolen on other websites. Often, you can also find out from the manufacturer what type it is.
WHAT IS THE MODEL NAME OR NUMBER?
Some models are considered nearly legendary, like the Selmer Mark VI. The model matters, but the most important thing is that it plays well for you. Buy an instrument that you find comfortable to play.
WHEN WAS THE LAST FULL MAINTENANCE SERVICE?
This will tell you how well the instrument has been cared for. A saxophone should have been to a repairer at least once every 3-5 years. Also, ask who performed the maintenance. Look up the workshop and see what customers say about their work.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED THE SAXOPHONE?
This question is important to understand how much the current owner knows about the saxophone. If they have owned the instrument for many years, they will know much more about its history than a seller who just wants to make a quick sale.
DOES THE INSTRUMENT STILL HAVE ITS ORIGINAL FACTORY FINISH, OR HAS IT BEEN RELACQUERED?
The original finish tells a lot about how the instrument has been treated. A new lacquer layer can also indicate repaired damage.
WHO OWNED THE INSTRUMENT BEFORE YOU?
Just like with a used car, the previous owner can tell you a lot about a saxophone. Players might treat their instrument with great care or push it to its limits.
DOES THE SAXOPHONE PLAY IN TUNE ACROSS ALL REGISTERS?
HAS THE SAXOPHONE EVER BEEN SERIOUSLY DAMAGED?
HAVE DENTS EVER BEEN REMOVED FROM THE SAXOPHONE?
DOES THE SAXOPHONE CURRENTLY HAVE DENTS?
These four questions help uncover hidden defects. In such cases, have the saxophone checked by a specialist.
DO YOU REGULARLY PLAY THIS INSTRUMENT OR HAS IT BEEN SITTING IDLE FOR A WHILE?
An idle instrument might need a small maintenance service to get it back in shape, so keep this in mind when negotiating the price.
WHY ARE YOU SELLING THIS SAXOPHONE?
HOW DID YOU DETERMINE THE VALUE OF THE SAXOPHONE?