Buescher True Tone Series IV Alto Saxophone – Serviced – Complete Snap-Ins
A wonderfully characterful Buescher True Tone Series IV alto saxophone which is very much a case of don’t judge a book by its cover.
Cosmetically, this saxophone has had a long and eventful life. It has been relacquered more than once, the lacquer varies considerably in colour, there are areas of oxidation and plenty of evidence of previous use and repair.
It is certainly not a pristine collector’s example.
What surprised me enormously, however, is just how well it plays.
After servicing and regulating the instrument, it has turned out to be one of the nicest-playing True Tones I have had through my hands. The action is particularly good, the horn responds beautifully throughout the range and it has that wonderfully open, characterful Buescher sound.
I can only describe the appearance as a bit of a rat rod — mechanically sorted, full of character and wearing its history proudly.
Service work
When I acquired the saxophone it had clearly been neglected for some time.
The keywork was removed and the instrument received a thorough mechanical service, including:
A couple of the rods were exceptionally stubborn and required repeated penetrating treatment and controlled heat before they could be safely removed.
This has left some additional colour variation in the surrounding lacquer, which rather suits the instrument’s already very individual appearance!
Pads and Buescher Snap-Ins
The existing pads cleaned up surprisingly well and are currently sealing effectively.
Importantly, ALL of the original Buescher Snap-In resonators are present.
This is particularly worth mentioning on an older Buescher, as complete original Snap-In hardware is increasingly difficult to find.
The saxophone has not received a complete new pad set, but following cleaning, adjustment and regulation it is currently playing extremely well throughout the range.
Please watch the playing demonstration to hear the instrument in its present condition.
Forked Eb trill
The spring on the forked Eb trill has been reversed so that the vent remains closed.
This is a completely reversible modification often made to early saxophones because the permanently open forked Eb vent can cause intonation problems and the trill itself is rarely used by modern players.
If the buyer would prefer it returned to its original operation, I am happy to do this before collection or postage. Alternatively, I can fit a removable cork arrangement so the vent can easily be switched between the two setups.
Condition
This saxophone has been relacquered several times during its life, apparently using finishes of slightly different colours.
Depending on the light and viewing angle it can therefore appear anything from traditional gold lacquer through darker bronze and brown shades.
There are also several areas of oxidation and plenty of cosmetic evidence of its long history.
I briefly considered stripping the remaining lacquer completely, but ultimately decided against it. The saxophone is so distinctive as it stands — and plays so well — that I felt it was better to preserve its wonderfully individual appearance.
If you are looking for a pristine display-piece True Tone, this probably isn't the one.
If you like vintage instruments with character, history and an almost hot-rod aesthetic, it is extremely appealing.
Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Playing character
This is where the saxophone really shines.
It plays strongly throughout the range and has genuinely surprised me with how enjoyable it is. Of the True Tones that have passed through my hands, this is certainly one of the best players.
It is very much a serious player's saxophone hiding underneath a battle-scarred exterior.
Case
The saxophone comes with the vintage hard case shown in the photographs.
It is not an original Buescher case and has seen considerably better days. It is adequate for storage and shipping, but I would recommend replacing it with a better case if the instrument is going to be transported regularly.
Play-testing before purchase is also very welcome and encouraged.
This particular True Tone may not win any prizes for immaculate cosmetics, but underneath the wonderfully eclectic finish is an exceptionally enjoyable Buescher with all of its Snap-In resonators present and a superb playing response.
Listing is for saxophone, crook and case only. Mouthpiece, stand and harness not included.
Collection, inspection and play-testing welcome.
Leak-tested and played in before listing.
On all restoration work carried out here.
UK and worldwide, or collect in person.