This is a fabulous example of a Martin Handcraft alto sax. These horns are not only under appreciated they are also undervalued. Play one like this and you’ll see what I mean.

All of the Martin horns have a sweet sound, and a very lush lower end. It's been said that their horns from 1933 (Handcraft Committee) through the early 60’s (the Magna) can hold their own with anything ever made.

This is one of their much sought-after earlier models in lacquer (most were silver-plated). Its' serial number - 56883 - dates it to 1926, so it precedes the 'Typewriter', 'Committee', 'Music Man' & 'Magna' models. It has a very distinguished bell key configuration with the B key on the left of the bell and the C, C# and Bb on the right.

It feels handmade because it is handmade.Each tone hole is individually cut, profiled and soldered to the body giving it a very solid feel and a great even response. The level of craftsmanship remains evident and even after all these years the mechanism is free and responsive. The key layout is very good, especially considering it's build date and the tuning is also very accurate.

Pitch wise there's nothing to fear as this is one of the series II models stamped 'Low Pitch' and plays very happily in a modern setting at A=442.

It is supplied in a Tom & Will gig bag, with a sling and a Meyer 6 mouthpiece which suits it very well.