SAXOPHONES

Advanced design and innovation

Resplendent in gleaming sterling silver and gold, the Yanagisawa A-WO37 Silver Sonic Elite alto sax exhibits the felicitous blend of advanced design and proprietary innovations that sets Yanagisawa’s saxophones apart from the pack. As with all Yanagisawa horns, outstanding build quality is baked in, with precision keywork, immediate responsiveness, and consistent intonation across all registers. This scrupulous attention to detail produces an exceptional instrument that faithfully conveys every nuance of expression in your performances, whether you’re finessing an adagio passage or chasin’ the Trane.

Ergonomic and sonic perfection

Professional saxophones should emphasize the individuality of the player, enhancing the myriad of playing techniques, from embouchure to fingering, that collectively produce your inimitable sound and define who you are as an artist. Yanagisawa WO37 series instruments represent the apotheosis of modern saxophone design. As accessible as it is exceptional, the Yanagisawa A-WO37 Silver Sonic is an ideal professional alto saxophone. In your hands, you will find the A-WO37 feels just right. Whether you’re finessing an adagio line or firing off a volley of notes, you’ll appreciate the fluid, synergistic response of this superb horn as your fingertips savor the luxurious feel of its elegant genuine mother-of-pearl key touches. Sonically, you’ll be rewarded with a commanding tone and strong projection, making this horn ideal for jazz, classical, and any other genre.

The benefits of ribbed body construction

Yanagisawa’s Elite models feature fully ribbed construction. Integrating the multiple key posts into a single plate — as opposed to soldering them directly to the body of the saxophone — ribbed construction gives the tube higher mass (and hence, more rigidity and durability), requiring somewhat more effort from the player. While added mass implies a slightly heavier instrument, it pays back dividends in the form of increased tonal depth and richness. Ribbed construction makes the horn blow with moderate resistance while delivering a solid fundamental with rich tonal color. For experienced intermediate and pro saxophonists with a more developed embouchure and sound concept, it’s a definite advantage. Although ribbed construction typically presents a slightly increased initial resistance, it effectively gives you another level of resonance — an extra “gear,” if you will — to blow through for additional dynamic range and expression. Simply put, you can push your Yanagisawa A-WO37 further, and it will go exactly where you want it to go.

Well-designed mechanisms working together harmoniously

With a complex instrument like a saxophone, many mechanisms have to work together harmoniously to deliver superior tone, ergonomics, and versatility. To that end, the A-WO37 incorporates exclusive Yanagisawa innovations such as a fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker, which eliminates extraneous motion with rounded rocker ends and a fluororesin coating on the receiving sleeves they contact. This high-tech, non-stick coating delivers reliable action without the excessive stickiness buildup that can plague standard octave key mechanisms. As soon as your fingers alight on the keys, another thing you’ll notice is the innovative seesaw linkage between the C# and Bb table keys, which incorporates a proprietary slider mechanism to enable faster, smoother fingering technique.

Enhanced performance, precision, and reliability

Even under the hood, the A-WO37 Silver Sonic Elite alto is packed with Yanagisawa innovations that enhance performance and long-term durability. A hidden advantage of the A-WO37 is its pointed pivot screws, which increase precision and reliability by ensuring an accurate fit for the center arms and hinge rods. The A-WO37’s sealed, waterproof pads provide a leak-free, airtight fit while facilitating balanced action and extended service life. Metal resonators (“tone boosters”) are fitted for a big, bright, and assertive tone that brings your notes to life. For faster action and better control over challenging passages, Yanagisawa uses blue-steel needle springs — the professional standard for durable, perfectly tensioned keywork. This punctilious attention to detail results in a masterful instrument that will go the distance in your career and advance your ongoing development as an artist.

A design as beautiful as it is masterful

Aside from its delicately hand-engraved bell, other readily apparent high-end features of the Yanagisawa A-WO37 Silver Sonic Elite alto include its key touches, which are concavely shaped for a more natural finger fit. They’re surfaced with genuine mother-of-pearl, which looks amazing and wicks away moisture more effectively than commonly used plastic — something you’ll definitely appreciate toward the end of a long set under hot stage lights. More utilitarian, but nevertheless performance critical, are the metal thumb hook and the brass thumb rest, which are designed to make minimal point contact with the body to enhance resonance while allowing for smoother response and optimized tonal balance.

Handcrafted in Japan

Based in Tokyo, the Yanagisawa Wind Instrument Company is a boutique shop specializing in one product: handmade professional saxophones designed to exceed the expectations of the most demanding players. Combining old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge design and performance features, Yanagisawa instruments are among the highest-quality professional saxophones available today, and Sweetwater is proud to offer you their distinguished line of fine musical instruments. If you’re a saxophonist looking to upgrade to a world-class professional instrument, you can feel confident in your step up to Yanagisawa quality.

Yanagisawa A-WO37 Silver Sonic Elite Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• Sterling silver neck, body, bow, and bell
• Upper and lower rib-mounted stack posts
• Ergonomically optimized keywork
• High F# key
• Contoured independent palm keys
• Metal thumb hook and brass thumb rest
• Fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker
• Seesaw C#–Bb table key linkages with proprietary slider mechanism
• F auxiliary and low C# mechanism
• Adjustable vibration-damping bar
• Blue-steel needle springs
• Pointed pivot screws
• Sealed, waterproof pads with metal tone boosters
• Indented mother-of-pearl key touches
• Dual-arm low B and C prevent larger key cups from flexing
• Tri-point bell-bow brace
• Elegant hand engraving
• Ebonite mouthpiece, cap, ligature, and case included
• Handcrafted in Japan

Redefining the modern saxophone

Saxophones are marvels of complexity, and a successful design resides comfortably at the nexus of the acoustic, the mechanical, and the aesthetic — the end result of thousands of decisions. Surely, a considerable amount of information to distill into a design brief for a new horn; but Selmer Paris, drawing on their century of expertise, met the challenge by leveraging the advantages of advanced technology integrated with traditional hand craftsmanship. In the development of the 92 Supreme, performing high-tech R&D such as 3D modeling in-house enabled Selmer to push the physical limitations of the relationship between tuning, timbre, and response. During manufacturing of the finished design, automated control over machining tools was used and 3D scanning was employed at various points in the process to eliminate inconsistencies from instrument to instrument. The results are nothing less than sumptuous: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92 is a best-of-the-classics flagship instrument that redefines the modern professional alto saxophone.

A century of saxophone design expertise

The 92 Supreme represents a pivotal moment in saxophone evolution. Its stunning finish and timeless ornamentation hearkens back to Selmer’s mid-century classics — and so does its richly opulent sound. Remaining true to their iconic designs while isolating and combining the best-loved characteristics of those coveted horns, Selmer Paris set out to re-engineer the physics, ergonomics, and aesthetics of their new instrument. The Supreme’s newly tooled bell shape optimizes intonation and the production of low notes, while a new neck bore taper improves timbre, the intonation of octaves, and overall response. A major keywork design overhaul ensures confident, accurate fingering for enhanced performance of challenging passages. To that end, the key heights have been optimized for light, fluid action and economy of motion, and the shapes and placements of the side keys have been redesigned to facilitate smooth movement from one to the other. The treated leather pads are fitted with rivetless metal resonators, adding the perfect amount of brightness to your every note.

The alto saxophone, remastered

In the Supreme 92, Selmer modified the diameters and locations of tone holes (including reducing the diameter of the low Bb and B sound holes) for improved intonation. They tweaked regulation by the inclusion of a direct arm between the right-hand F and F# keys. They have also incorporated the C# correction system from the Series III, which stays open to allow the C# to ring true in the middle octave, while closing to keep the top C# from going sharp, so you no longer have to adjust your embouchure to keep these notes in tune. A shorter-action octave key mechanism uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation. A hinged toggle on left-hand pinky table keys gives you greater ease of movement from one key to another. The neck receiver socket is fitted with an adjustable, 3-point concentric clamping ring, providing a robust, user-friendly neck-body connection. All these enhancements, and more, make the Supreme a saxophone that is remarkably natural and easy to play. Everything falls intuitively under the fingers in a free-blowing design that faithfully voices your musical intent with rich expressiveness.

Supreme aesthetics, handcrafted in France

One cannot gaze upon the sleek lines, softened angles, and elegant mother-of-pearl key touches of the 92 Supreme and not be enthralled by its jaw-dropping visuals. From its luxurious finish to the exclusive, delicately detailed engraving that runs from the bell all the way up to the neck join, there is, quite literally, nothing like the Supreme. The engraving design evokes the genesis of its sound in a lyrical dance of the traditional floral with cubes representing the structure of the metal molecules, swirling together in an explosion symbolizing the projection of air, motion, and speed. The planetary disc in the background suggests the concept of infinite space. The Supreme is certainly a fitting instrument to mark a century of Selmer saxophone design. It possesses all the beloved qualities of the cherished models that preceded it, satisfying the desires of contemporary professional saxophonists. It transcends musical genres with its superbly balanced accuracy, infinite range of tonal colors, and poised ease of response. Its timbral roundness and wide range of projection make it an instrument that is at once undeniably classic and decisively modern. Bottom line: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92 is an exquisitely designed professional alto saxophone that will nurture and advance your continuing development as an artist.

The Selmer legacy of quality and innovation

As all modern saxophone designs are based on the Selmer platform, it’s instructive to take a look at the company’s history to understand its considerable influence on the instrument as we know it today. Conservatory-trained clarinetist Henri Selmer founded Henri Selmer Paris in 1885. Fashioning reeds and mouthpieces in his small workshop, he soon took on instrument repair and modifications, which eventually let to the design and manufacture of clarinets. In 1900, Selmer opened a retail shop in New York (the beginnings of Selmer USA). In 1922, Selmer introduced its first saxophone: the Model 22. In the ensuing decades, Selmer released industry-leading designs such as the Balanced Action, Super Action, Mark VI, and Reference 54, which have set the standard for what a modern saxophone should be. Listen to any iconic jazz recording by John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Paul Desmond, (late period) Cannonball Adderley, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis, or Joshua Redman, and you will hear one of these legendary horns in action. Delivering exceptional value at every level, from student to professional, Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris offer a full line of woodwind and brass instruments. Sweetwater is proud to bring you Selmer’s rich legacy of quality and innovation.

Selmer Paris 92 Supreme Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• Octave key system uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation
• Neck receiver with adjustable 3-point concentric clamping socket
• Adjustable nickel silver socket clamping ring
• Direct arm between the right-hand F# and F keys
• Redesigned shapes and placements of the side keys
• Range: low Bb to High F#
• Correction mechanism for the middle and high C#
• Leather pads with rivetless metal resonators
• Metal thumb rests
• Left-hand pinky table keys with hinged toggle
• Right-hand F#/F direct adjustment arm
• Mother-of-pearl key touches
• Exclusive Supreme engraving
• Concept alto mouthpiece included
• Exclusively designed alto Supreme case
• Handcrafted in France

Redefining the modern saxophone

Saxophones are marvels of complexity, and a successful design resides comfortably at the nexus of the acoustic, the mechanical, and the aesthetic — the end result of thousands of decisions. Surely, a considerable amount of information to distill into a design brief for a new horn; but Selmer Paris, drawing on their century of expertise, met the challenge by leveraging the advantages of advanced technology integrated with traditional hand craftsmanship. In the development of the 92 Supreme, performing high-tech R&D such as 3D modeling in-house enabled Selmer to push the physical limitations of the relationship between tuning, timbre, and response. During manufacturing of the finished design, automated control over machining tools was used and 3D scanning was employed at various points in the process to eliminate inconsistencies from instrument to instrument. The results are nothing less than sumptuous: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92DL is a best-of-the-classics flagship instrument that redefines the modern professional alto saxophone.

A century of saxophone design expertise

The 92 Supreme represents a pivotal moment in saxophone evolution. Its deep gold lacquer finish hearkens back to Selmer’s mid-century classics — and so does its richly opulent sound. Remaining true to their iconic designs while isolating and combining the best-loved characteristics of those coveted horns, Selmer Paris set out to re-engineer the physics, ergonomics, and aesthetics of their new instrument. The Supreme’s newly tooled bell shape optimizes intonation and the production of low notes, while a new neck bore taper improves timbre, the intonation of octaves, and overall response. A major keywork design overhaul ensures confident, accurate fingering for enhanced performance of challenging passages. To that end, the key heights have been optimized for light, fluid action and economy of motion, and the shapes and placements of the side keys have been redesigned to facilitate smooth movement from one to the other. The treated leather pads are fitted with rivetless metal resonators, adding the perfect amount of brightness to your every note.

The alto saxophone, remastered

In the Supreme 92DL, Selmer modified the diameters and locations of tone holes (including reducing the diameter of the low Bb and B sound holes) for improved intonation. They tweaked regulation by the inclusion of a direct arm between the right-hand F and F# keys. They have also incorporated the C# correction system from the Series III, which stays open to allow the C# to ring true in the middle octave, while closing to keep the top C# from going sharp, so you no longer have to adjust your embouchure to keep these notes in tune. A shorter-action octave key mechanism uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation. A hinged toggle on left-hand pinky table keys gives you greater ease of movement from one key to another. The neck receiver socket is fitted with an adjustable, 3-point concentric clamping ring, providing a robust, user-friendly neck-body connection. All these enhancements, and more, make the Supreme a saxophone that is remarkably natural and easy to play. Everything falls intuitively under the fingers in a free-blowing design that faithfully voices your musical intent with rich expressiveness.

Supreme aesthetics, handcrafted in France

One cannot gaze upon the sleek lines, softened angles, and elegant mother-of-pearl key touches of the 92 Supreme and not be enthralled by its jaw-dropping visuals. From its luxurious dark gold lacquer finish to the exclusive, delicately detailed engraving that runs from the bell all the way up to the neck join, there is, quite literally, nothing like the Supreme. The engraving design evokes the genesis of its sound in a lyrical dance of the traditional floral with cubes representing the structure of the metal molecules, swirling together in an explosion symbolizing the projection of air, motion, and speed. The planetary disc in the background suggests the concept of infinite space. The Supreme is certainly a fitting instrument to mark a century of Selmer saxophone design. It possesses all the beloved qualities of the cherished models that preceded it, satisfying the desires of contemporary professional saxophonists. It transcends musical genres with its superbly balanced accuracy, infinite range of tonal colors, and poised ease of response. Its timbral roundness and wide range of projection make it an instrument that is at once undeniably classic and decisively modern. Bottom line: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92DL is an exquisitely designed professional alto saxophone that will nurture and advance your continuing development as an artist.

The Selmer legacy of quality and innovation

As all modern saxophone designs are based on the Selmer platform, it’s instructive to take a look at the company’s history to understand its considerable influence on the instrument as we know it today. Conservatory-trained clarinetist Henri Selmer founded Henri Selmer Paris in 1885. Fashioning reeds and mouthpieces in his small workshop, he soon took on instrument repair and modifications, which eventually let to the design and manufacture of clarinets. In 1900, Selmer opened a retail shop in New York (the beginnings of Selmer USA). In 1922, Selmer introduced its first saxophone: the Model 22. In the ensuing decades, Selmer released industry-leading designs such as the Balanced Action, Super Action, Mark VI, and Reference 54, which have set the standard for what a modern saxophone should be. Listen to any iconic jazz recording by John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Paul Desmond, (late period) Cannonball Adderley, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis, or Joshua Redman, and you will hear one of these legendary horns in action. Delivering exceptional value at every level, from student to professional, Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris offer a full line of woodwind and brass instruments. Sweetwater is proud to bring you Selmer’s rich legacy of quality and innovation.

Selmer Paris 92 Supreme Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• Octave key system uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation
• Neck receiver with adjustable 3-point concentric clamping socket
• Adjustable nickel silver socket clamping ring
• Direct arm between the right-hand F# and F keys
• Redesigned shapes and placements of the side keys
• Range: low Bb to High F#
• Correction mechanism for the middle and high C#
• Leather pads with rivetless metal resonators
• Metal thumb rests
• Left-hand pinky table keys with hinged toggle
• Right-hand F#/F direct adjustment arm
• Mother-of-pearl key touches
• Exclusive Supreme engraving
• Concept alto mouthpiece included
• Exclusively designed alto Supreme case
• Handcrafted in France

Tech Specs

• Key:Eb
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Antique Lacquer
• Auxillary Keys:High F#
• Bell Decoration:Engraved
• Pads:Leather with Metal Resonators
• Mouthpiece:Selmer Concept
• Thumb Rest:Metal
• Case/Gig Bag:Included
• Manufacturer Part Number:92F

Redefining the modern saxophone

Saxophones are marvels of complexity, and a successful design resides comfortably at the nexus of the acoustic, the mechanical, and the aesthetic — the end result of thousands of decisions. Surely, a considerable amount of information to distill into a design brief for a new horn; but Selmer Paris, drawing on their century of expertise, met the challenge by leveraging the advantages of advanced technology integrated with traditional hand craftsmanship. In the development of the 92 Supreme, performing high-tech R&D such as 3D modeling in-house enabled Selmer to push the physical limitations of the relationship between tuning, timbre, and response. During manufacturing of the finished design, automated control over machining tools was used and 3D scanning was employed at various points in the process to eliminate inconsistencies from instrument to instrument. The results are nothing less than sumptuous: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92 is a best-of-the-classics flagship instrument that redefines the modern professional alto saxophone.

A century of saxophone design expertise

The 92 Supreme represents a pivotal moment in saxophone evolution. Its stunning finish and timeless ornamentation hearkens back to Selmer’s mid-century classics — and so does its richly opulent sound. Remaining true to their iconic designs while isolating and combining the best-loved characteristics of those coveted horns, Selmer Paris set out to re-engineer the physics, ergonomics, and aesthetics of their new instrument. The Supreme’s newly tooled bell shape optimizes intonation and the production of low notes, while a new neck bore taper improves timbre, the intonation of octaves, and overall response. A major keywork design overhaul ensures confident, accurate fingering for enhanced performance of challenging passages. To that end, the key heights have been optimized for light, fluid action and economy of motion, and the shapes and placements of the side keys have been redesigned to facilitate smooth movement from one to the other. The treated leather pads are fitted with rivetless metal resonators, adding the perfect amount of brightness to your every note.

The alto saxophone, remastered

In the Supreme 92, Selmer modified the diameters and locations of tone holes (including reducing the diameter of the low Bb and B sound holes) for improved intonation. They tweaked regulation by the inclusion of a direct arm between the right-hand F and F# keys. They have also incorporated the C# correction system from the Series III, which stays open to allow the C# to ring true in the middle octave, while closing to keep the top C# from going sharp, so you no longer have to adjust your embouchure to keep these notes in tune. A shorter-action octave key mechanism uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation. A hinged toggle on left-hand pinky table keys gives you greater ease of movement from one key to another. The neck receiver socket is fitted with an adjustable, 3-point concentric clamping ring, providing a robust, user-friendly neck-body connection. All these enhancements, and more, make the Supreme a saxophone that is remarkably natural and easy to play. Everything falls intuitively under the fingers in a free-blowing design that faithfully voices your musical intent with rich expressiveness.

Supreme aesthetics, handcrafted in France

One cannot gaze upon the sleek lines, softened angles, and elegant mother-of-pearl key touches of the 92 Supreme and not be enthralled by its jaw-dropping visuals. From its luxurious finish to the exclusive, delicately detailed engraving that runs from the bell all the way up to the neck join, there is, quite literally, nothing like the Supreme. The engraving design evokes the genesis of its sound in a lyrical dance of the traditional floral with cubes representing the structure of the metal molecules, swirling together in an explosion symbolizing the projection of air, motion, and speed. The planetary disc in the background suggests the concept of infinite space. The Supreme is certainly a fitting instrument to mark a century of Selmer saxophone design. It possesses all the beloved qualities of the cherished models that preceded it, satisfying the desires of contemporary professional saxophonists. It transcends musical genres with its superbly balanced accuracy, infinite range of tonal colors, and poised ease of response. Its timbral roundness and wide range of projection make it an instrument that is at once undeniably classic and decisively modern. Bottom line: the Selmer Paris Supreme 92 is an exquisitely designed professional alto saxophone that will nurture and advance your continuing development as an artist.

The Selmer legacy of quality and innovation

As all modern saxophone designs are based on the Selmer platform, it’s instructive to take a look at the company’s history to understand its considerable influence on the instrument as we know it today. Conservatory-trained clarinetist Henri Selmer founded Henri Selmer Paris in 1885. Fashioning reeds and mouthpieces in his small workshop, he soon took on instrument repair and modifications, which eventually let to the design and manufacture of clarinets. In 1900, Selmer opened a retail shop in New York (the beginnings of Selmer USA). In 1922, Selmer introduced its first saxophone: the Model 22. In the ensuing decades, Selmer released industry-leading designs such as the Balanced Action, Super Action, Mark VI, and Reference 54, which have set the standard for what a modern saxophone should be. Listen to any iconic jazz recording by John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Paul Desmond, (late period) Cannonball Adderley, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis, or Joshua Redman, and you will hear one of these legendary horns in action. Delivering exceptional value at every level, from student to professional, Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris offer a full line of woodwind and brass instruments. Sweetwater is proud to bring you Selmer’s rich legacy of quality and innovation.

Selmer Paris 92 Supreme Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• Octave key system uses Teflon in the sockets for smooth actuation
• Neck receiver with adjustable 3-point concentric clamping socket
• Adjustable nickel silver socket clamping ring
• Direct arm between the right-hand F# and F keys
• Redesigned shapes and placements of the side keys
• Range: low Bb to High F#
• Correction mechanism for the middle and high C#
• Leather pads with rivetless metal resonators
• Metal thumb rests
• Left-hand pinky table keys with hinged toggle
• Right-hand F#/F direct adjustment arm
• Mother-of-pearl key touches
• Exclusive Supreme engraving
• Concept alto mouthpiece included
• Exclusively designed alto Supreme case
• Handcrafted in France

Tech Specs

• Key:Eb
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Black Lacquer
• Auxillary Keys:High F#, Front F
• Neck Type:Detachable
• Bell Decoration:Engraved
• Key Buttons:Gold Lacquer
• Pads:Leather with Rivetless Metal Resonators
• Mouthpiece:Concept Alto Mouthpiece
• Thumb Rest:Metal
• Case/Gig Bag:Hardshell Case
• Manufacturer Part Number:92BL

The power of alchemy

Yanagisawa is known for leveraging the unique sonic qualities of different metals in its saxophone designs. Many Yanagisawa players have graduated from brass to the mellower sound of bronze. Fewer, however, have experienced playing one of the company’s top-of-the-line horns made of solid silver. Just below the flagship all-solid-silver A-WO37 Silver Sonic in the alto lineup are the A-WO33 and the A-WO30. These two sister horns differ only in their allocation of metals. The A-WO33 employs solid sterling silver for its main resonance tubing (neck and bell), while the body and the bow are crafted from yellow bell brass. This particular alchemy imparts a certain grit to the sound while retaining silver’s quick response and lively resonance. It also creates an overall tonality that gravitates more toward jazz, pop, rock, and funk than classical. Of course, this is not to say you can’t play classical music on your WO33, as it is — like all Yanagisawa instruments — an impressively versatile saxophone. But for players who lean in that direction, we’d recommend you consider the A-WO30, which, due to its unique alchemy, delivers a purity of tone ideally suited to classical music.

Ergonomic and sonic perfection

Professional saxophones should emphasize the individuality of the player, enhancing the myriad of playing techniques, from embouchure to fingering, that collectively produce your inimitable sound and define who you are as an artist. Yanagisawa Elite series instruments represent the apotheosis of modern saxophone design. As accessible as it is exceptional, the Yanagisawa A-WO33 is an ideal professional alto saxophone. In your hands, you will find the A-WO33 feels just right. Whether you’re finessing an adagio line or firing off a volley of notes, you’ll appreciate the fluid, synergistic response of this superb horn as your fingertips savor the luxurious feel of its elegant genuine mother-of-pearl key touches. Sonically, you’ll be rewarded with a commanding tone and strong projection.

The benefits of ribbed body construction

Yanagisawa’s Elite models feature fully ribbed construction. Integrating the multiple key posts into a single plate — as opposed to soldering them directly to the body of the saxophone — ribbed construction gives the tube higher mass (and hence, more rigidity and durability), requiring somewhat more effort from the player. While added mass implies a slightly heavier instrument, it pays back dividends in the form of increased tonal depth and richness. Ribbed construction makes the horn blow with moderate resistance while delivering a solid fundamental with rich tonal color. For experienced intermediate and pro saxophonists with a more developed embouchure and sound concept, it’s a definite advantage. Although ribbed construction typically presents a slightly increased initial resistance, it effectively gives you another level of resonance — an extra “gear,” if you will — to blow through for additional dynamic range and expression. Simply put, you can push your Yanagisawa A-WO33 further, and it will go exactly where you want it to go.

Well-designed mechanisms working together harmoniously

With a complex instrument like a saxophone, many mechanisms have to work together harmoniously to deliver superior tone, ergonomics, and versatility. To that end, the A-WO33 incorporates exclusive Yanagisawa innovations such as a fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker, which eliminates extraneous motion with rounded rocker ends and a fluororesin coating on the receiving sleeves they contact. This high-tech, non-stick coating delivers reliable action without the excessive stickiness buildup that can plague standard octave key mechanisms. As soon as your fingers alight on the keys, another thing you’ll notice is the innovative seesaw linkage between the C# and Bb table keys, which incorporates a proprietary slider mechanism to enable faster, smoother fingering technique.

Enhanced performance, precision, and reliability

Even under the hood, the A-WO33 Elite alto is packed with Yanagisawa innovations that enhance performance and long-term durability. A hidden advantage of the A-WO33 is its pointed pivot screws, which increase precision and reliability by ensuring an accurate fit for the center arms and hinge rods. The A-WO33’s sealed, waterproof pads provide a leak-free, airtight fit while facilitating balanced action and extended service life. Domed resonators (“tone boosters”) are fitted for a big, bright, and assertive tone that brings your notes to life. For faster action and better control over challenging passages, Yanagisawa uses blue-steel needle springs — the professional standard for durable, perfectly tensioned keywork. This punctilious attention to detail results in a masterful instrument that will go the distance in your career and advance your ongoing development as an artist.

A design as beautiful as it is masterful

Aside from its intricate hand engraving, other readily apparent high-end features of the Yanagisawa A-WO33 Elite alto include its key touches, which are concavely shaped for a more natural finger fit. They’re surfaced with genuine mother-of-pearl, which looks amazing and wicks away moisture more effectively than commonly used plastic — something you’ll definitely appreciate toward the end of a long set under hot stage lights. More utilitarian, but nevertheless performance critical, are the metal thumb hook and the brass thumb rest, which are designed to make minimal point contact with the body to enhance resonance while allowing for smoother response and optimized tonal balance.

Handcrafted in Japan

Based in Tokyo, the Yanagisawa Wind Instrument Company is a boutique shop specializing in one product: handmade professional saxophones designed to exceed the expectations of the most demanding players. Combining old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge design and performance features, Yanagisawa instruments are among the highest-quality professional saxophones available today, and Sweetwater is proud to offer you their distinguished line of fine musical instruments. If you’re a saxophonist looking to upgrade to a world-class professional instrument, you can feel confident in your step up to Yanagisawa quality.

Yanagisawa A-WO33 Elite Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• Solid sterling silver neck and bell; yellow bell brass body and bow
• Upper and lower rib-mounted stack posts
• Ergonomically optimized keywork
• High F# key
• Contoured independent palm keys
• Metal thumb hook and brass thumb rest
• Fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker
• Seesaw C#–Bb table key linkages with proprietary slider mechanism
• F auxiliary and low C# mechanism
• Adjustable vibration-damping bar
• Blue-steel needle springs
• Pointed pivot screws
• Sealed, waterproof pads with domed tone boosters
• Indented mother-of-pearl key touches
• Dual-arm low B and C prevent larger key cups from flexing
• Tri-point bell-bow brace
• Elegant hand engraving
• Ebonite mouthpiece, cap, ligature, and case included
• Handcrafted in Japan

Tech Specs

• Key:Alto
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Clear Lacquer
• Auxillary Keys:High F#
• Body:Fully Ribbed
• Body Material:Yellow Brass
• Neck Material:Sterling Silver
• Bell Type:Sterling Silver
• Bell Decoration:Hand-engraved
• Key Buttons:Contoured Independent Palm
• Pads:Premium Leather, Domed Resonators
• Thumb Rest:Adjustable
• Manufacturer Part Number:AW033

The alto saxophone — evolved

The Signature alto represents a natural evolution for Henri Selmer Paris. While this exquisite horn’s refined finish and stunning art deco ornamentation pay homage to the handcraftmanship passed down through generations of Selmer artisans in Mantes-la-Ville since 1919, its richly opulent sound combines the best-loved characteristics of the company’s coveted historical horns, including the flexibility of expression and sensation of lightness. Due to its acoustic qualities and playing comfort, the Series II alto has been a pro favorite since its introduction in 1986. The Signature alto is effectively a reinvention of this esteemed model that leverages advanced features developed for the Supreme range. For the Supreme models, Selmer Paris set out to re-engineer the physics, ergonomics, and aesthetics of the saxophone. Traditional yet cutting edge, the Signature alto is the beneficiary of these efforts, offering the serious saxophonist a more accessible French-made Selmer infused with the Supreme’s DNA.

Acoustical and mechanical perfection

The acoustical traits of the Signature alto are characterized by its vast expressive flexibility. Regardless of register, the Signature lets you transition effortlessly from subtones to various timbres. Its carefully calibrated neck opening diameter delivers increased power and projection. Equipped with the 3-point concentric clamping socket and adjustable nickel-silver tightening ring developed for the Supreme model, the Signature alto ensures perfect uniformity of sound across its range, from low Bb to high F#. Soloists will find the Selmer Paris Signature alto an ideal delivery vehicle for any genre of music. Whether you’re finessing a concerto, romancing a ballad, or chasin’ the Trane, the Signature alto faithfully conveys every nuance of expression in your performance. Its flawless keywork faithfully executes your every musical whim. Meanwhile, its treated leather pads, fitted with riveted metal resonators, add the perfect amount of crispness to your every note for a big, commanding sound that’s warm, vibrant, and burnished to perfection.

High tech meets traditional handcraftmanship

Saxophones are marvels of complexity, and a successful design resides comfortably at the nexus of the acoustic, the mechanical, and the aesthetic — the end result of thousands of decisions. Surely, a considerable amount of information to distill into a design brief for a new horn; however, Selmer Paris, drawing on more than a century of expertise, met the challenge by integrating the advantages of advanced technology with traditional handcraftmanship. With the development of the Signature alto, high-tech R&D — including in-house 3D modeling — enabled Selmer to push the physical limitations of the relationship between tuning, timbre, and response, thus optimizing production for an extreme level of precision in executing critical details such as tone hole extrusion and neck diameter boring. During the manufacturing of the final design, automated control over machining tools was implemented, and 3D fabrication control was employed to eliminate inconsistencies from instrument to instrument. At the end of the process, Selmer’s comprehensive and meticulous factory setup ensures that the horn absolutely purrs straight out of the box.

A complete package with premium accessories

The Henri Selmer Paris Signature alto saxophone arrives to you with premium accessories that befit the horn’s extreme level of sophistication. The Selmer Paris Concept alto mouthpiece is crafted using cutting-edge fabrication technology. Its refined, innovative, high-precision acoustic design provides expressive dexterity, sonic richness, and homogeneity across all registers. A matching mouthpiece cap and ligature are also included. The sleek hardshell case, which features a rugged ABS outer shell, is fabricated specifically for the Signature alto by Selmer’s partner, BAM. Despite its compact dimensions, this high-end case boasts ample storage space and two detachable inside pockets. It also has durable handles and backpack-style straps to facilitate comfortable carrying. The included neck strap is made from cushy, leather-covered foam with a gilded metal slider featuring the Henri Selmer Paris logo. A dual-material cloth in the shape of the case is fashioned from soft silk on one side and microfiber on the other, covering your Signature alto inside its case and providing maximum protection. Graced with the Signature engraving motif, the microfiber body swab features a highly absorbent foam pad in the center for extra absorbency. The microfiber neck swab and even the included cork grease stick are emblazoned with the Signature engraving pattern! Finally, as you might expect, your Signature alto comes with a metal end plug to protect the neck receiver and octave mechanism.

The Selmer legacy of quality and innovation

As all modern saxophone designs are based on the Selmer platform, it’s instructive to take a look at the company’s history to understand its considerable influence on the instrument as we know it today. Conservatory-trained clarinetist Henri Selmer founded Henri Selmer Paris in 1885. Fashioning reeds and mouthpieces in his small workshop, he soon took on instrument repair and modifications, which eventually led to the design and manufacture of clarinets. In 1900, Selmer opened a retail shop in New York (the beginnings of Selmer USA). In 1942, Selmer introduced its first saxophone: the Model 22. In the ensuing decades, Selmer released industry-leading designs such as the Balanced Action, Super Action, Mark VI, and Reference 54, which have set the standard for what a modern saxophone should be. Listen to any iconic jazz recording by John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Paul Desmond, (late period) Cannonball Adderley, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis, or Joshua Redman, and you will hear one of these legendary horns in action. Delivering exceptional value at every level, from student to professional, Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris offer a full line of woodwind and brass instruments. Sweetwater is proud to bring you Selmer’s rich legacy of quality and innovation.

Selmer Paris Signature Series Professional Alto Saxophone Features:

• The versatility and sonic qualities of the Series II with improved intonation and response
• Mechanical advances ported from the Supreme model
• Sumptuous richness of timbre ideal for all musical genres
• Great projection and flexibility of play
• Refined vintage-modern aesthetic
• Range: low Bb to high F#
• Neck receiver with adjustable, concentric 3-point nickel-silver tightening ring
• Elegant gold gilded metal thumb rests
• Keys inlaid with exotic mother-of-pearl
• Treated leather pads with riveted metal resonators
• Exclusive Signature finishes and engraving
• Included ensemble of model-specific accessories: Concept mouthpiece, Signature case, strap with metal slide toggle, metal end plug, dual-material cloth, body and neck swabs, cork grease
• Handcrafted in France

Tech Specs

• Key:Eb
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Brushed Lacquer
• Auxillary Keys:Low Bb to High F#
• Neck Type:Adjustable with Receiver Tightening Ring
• Bell Decoration:Exclusive Signature Engraving
• Key Buttons:Inlaid Mother-of-pearl
• Pads:Leather with Riveted Metal Resonators
• Mouthpiece:Concept Mouthpiece (ligature/cover included)
• Thumb Rest:Gold Gilded Metal Thumb Supoort
• Case/Gig Bag:Exclusive Signature Case
• Manufacturer Part Number:82SIGM

Packed with performance-enhancing features

The Keilwerth SX90R has several unique, performance-enhancing features that will nurture your technique and advance your continuing development as an artist. Notable are the SX90R’s rolled tone holes, which provide a larger surface area for the pads to make contact with. Painstakingly crafted, the tone holes are individually drawn and fitted with hand-soldered rings. This not only gives you longer pad life, but it also delivers a broader sound with increased projection, as compared with horns that have straight tone holes. The SX90R’s specially treated leather pads with metal resonators provide a leak-free, airtight fit while delivering a big, bright, and assertive tone that brings your notes to life.

A player’s horn with meticulous ergonomic keywork

Keilwerth paid meticulous attention to the SX90R’s robust key system to provide you with confident fingering, which you’ll particularly appreciate during fast, difficult passages. Whether you’re playing an adagio line or firing off a flurry of notes, you’ll appreciate the fluid, synergistic response of this superb saxophone as your fingertips savor the luxurious feel of the elegant mother-of-pearl key touches. Saxophonists use different altissimo fingerings; however you access it, you’ll find that the SX90R slots the altissimo range effortlessly. And the same goes for subtones. A thoughtful feature are the height-adjustable palm key touch pieces that comfortably fit the curvature of your hand. If you change your hand position as your technique advances, the Keilwerth SX90R is a horn that will evolve with you on your musical journey. Again, more thought has gone into the bell key spatulas, and you’ll love the feel of the sturdy pin-and-socket arrangement for the low Bb to C# link. With its smoothly ergonomic keywork and responsive action powered by blue steel springs, the SX90R is a true player’s horn.

A pro saxophone that brings out your individuality

Professional saxophones should emphasize the individuality of the player, enhancing the myriad of playing techniques, from embouchure to fingering, that collectively produce your inimitable sound and define who you are as an artist. As accessible as it is exceptional, the Keilwerth SX90R is an ideal professional tenor saxophone. Its single-post-to-body construction gives you quicker response with lighter overall weight and less initial resistance, resonating more immediately as compared with heavier ribbed-construction saxophones that generally require more effort from the player. With that said, many seasoned pros find everything they need in this superb saxophone. Boasting superior ergonomics, crisp intonation, and rich, precise sound that reflects every expressive nuance of your playing, the SX90R is equally at home in jazz, fusion, classical, and pop settings, and it will elevate your technique and unlock new worlds of musical expression.

The legendary “Keilwerth sound”

Founded by Julius Keilwerth in 1925, German saxophone maker Keilwerth still crafts its instruments in the old-world tradition using the finest German brass and other high-grade materials. After early designs were road tested in the music halls of Europe, Keilwerth’s saxophones burst onto the world stage in the latter half of the 20th century with a significant boost from American jazz musicians who favored them for their bold sound and tonal flexibility. In the modern era, live performances and recordings by top jazz artists such as Dave Liebman, James Moody, and Ernie Watts have made “The Keilwerth Sound” a go-to for professional and advancing saxophonists who value these amazing instruments for their robust tone, excellent build quality, smooth playability, and top-notch performance. Sweetwater is excited to offer you Keilwerth’s distinguished line of premium saxophones.

Keilwerth SX90R Professional Tenor Saxophone Features:

• German brass body
• Black nickel plating on body and bell
• Gold lacquer inner bell and keywork
• Mother-of-pearl key buttons
• Adjustable palm keys
• Adjustable metal thumb rest
• Drawn tone holes with hand-soldered rings
• Pisoni leather pads with metal resonators
• Premium laser precision engraving
• Includes mouthpiece, ligature, accessories, and hard case

Tech Specs

• Key:Bb
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Black Nickel-plated
• Auxillary Keys:High F#
• Body Material:German Brass
• Key Buttons:Gold Lacquer, Mother-of-pearl
• Springs:Blued Steel
• Bell Decoration:Laser Engraved
• Pads:Leather Pisoni
• Tone Holes:Drawn with Hand Soldered Rings, Metal Resonators
• Mouthpiece:Included
• Thumb Rest:Metal, Adjustable
• Additional Features:Adjustable Palm Keys
• Case/Gig Bag:Hard Case

Ergonomic and sonic perfection

Professional saxophones should emphasize the individuality of the player, enhancing the myriad of playing techniques, from embouchure to fingering, that collectively produce your inimitable sound and define who you are as an artist. Yanagisawa WO10 series instruments represent the apotheosis of modern saxophone design. As accessible as it is exceptional, the Yanagisawa T-WO10 Elite is an ideal professional tenor saxophone. In your hands, you will find the T-WO10 feels just right. Whether you’re finessing an adagio line or firing off a volley of notes, you’ll appreciate the fluid, synergistic response of this superb horn as your fingertips savor the luxurious feel of its elegant genuine mother-of-pearl key touches. Sonically, you’ll be rewarded with a commanding tone and strong projection, making this horn ideal for jazz, classical, and any other genre.

The benefits of ribbed body construction

Yanagisawa’s Elite models feature fully ribbed construction. Integrating the multiple key posts into a single plate — as opposed to soldering them directly to the body of the saxophone — ribbed construction gives the tube higher mass (and hence, more rigidity and durability), and requires somewhat more effort from the player. While added mass implies a slightly heavier instrument, it pays back dividends in the form of increased tonal depth and richness. Ribbed construction makes the horn blow with moderate resistance while delivering a solid fundamental with rich tonal color. For experienced intermediate and pro saxophonists with a more developed embouchure and sound concept, it’s a definite advantage. Although ribbed construction typically presents a slightly increased initial resistance, it effectively gives you another level of resonance — an extra “gear,” if you will — to blow through for additional dynamic range and expression. Simply put, you can push your Yanagisawa T-WO10 further, and it will go exactly where you want it to go.

Well-designed mechanisms working together harmoniously

With a complex instrument like a saxophone, many mechanisms have to work together harmoniously to deliver superior tone, ergonomics, and versatility. To that end, the T-WO10 incorporates exclusive Yanagisawa innovations such as a Fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker, which eliminates extraneous motion with rounded rocker ends and a Fluororesin coating on the receiving sleeves they contact. This high-tech, non-stick coating delivers reliable action without the excessive stickiness buildup over time that plagues standard octave key mechanisms. As soon as your fingers alight on the keys, another thing you’ll notice is the innovative seesaw linkage between the C# and Bb table keys, which incorporates a proprietary slider mechanism to enable faster, smoother fingering technique.

Enhanced performance, precision, and reliability

Even under the hood, the T-WO10 Elite tenor is packed with Yanagisawa innovations that enhance performance and long-term durability. A hidden advantage of the T-WO10 is its pointed pivot screws, which increase precision and reliability by ensuring an accurate fit for the center arms and hinge rods. The T-WO10’s sealed, waterproof pads provide a leak-free, airtight fit while facilitating balanced action and extended service life. For faster action and better control over challenging passages, Yanagisawa uses blue-steel needle springs — the professional standard for durable, perfectly tensioned keywork. This punctilious attention to detail results in a masterful instrument that will go the distance in your career and advance your ongoing development as an artist.

A design as beautiful as it is masterful

Aside from its delicately hand-engraved bell, other readily apparent high-end features of the Yanagisawa T-WO10 Elite tenor include its key touches, which are concavely shaped for a more natural finger fit. They’re surfaced with genuine mother-of-pearl, which not only looks amazing; it wicks away moisture more effectively than commonly used plastic — something you’ll definitely appreciate toward the end of a long set under hot stage lights. More utilitarian, but nevertheless performance critical, are the metal thumb hook and the brass thumb rest, which are designed to make minimal point contact with the body to enhance resonance while allowing for smoother response and optimized tonal balance.

Handcrafted in Japan

Based in Tokyo, the Yanagisawa Wind Instrument Company is a boutique shop specializing in one product: handmade professional saxophones designed to exceed the expectations of the most demanding players. Combining old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge design and performance features, Yanagisawa instruments are among the highest-quality professional saxophones available today, and Sweetwater is proud to offer you their distinguished line of fine musical instruments. If you’re a saxophonist looking to upgrade to a world-class professional instrument, you can feel confident in your step up to Yanagisawa quality.

Yanagisawa T-WO10 Elite Professional Tenor Saxophone Features:

• Premium brass body tubing
• Ergonomically optimized keywork
• High F# key
• Metal thumb hook and brass thumb rest
• Fluororesin-sleeved octave rocker
• Seesaw C#–Bb table key linkages with proprietary slider mechanism
• Adjustable vibration-damping bar
• Blue-steel needle springs
• Pointed pivot screws
• Sealed, waterproof pads
• Indented mother-of-pearl key touches
• Dual arms prevent larger key cups from twisting
• Tri-point bell-bow brace
• Elegant hand engraving
• Ebonite mouthpiece, ligature, strap, cork grease, microfiber cloth, and case included
• Handcrafted in Japan

Tech Specs

• Key:Bb
• Level:Professional
• Finish:Silver-plated
• Auxillary Keys:High F#, Low B/C
• Body Material:Brass
• Key Buttons:Mother-of-pearl
• Springs:Blued-steel Needle
• Bell Decoration:Hand Engraved
• Pads:Sealed, Waterproof
• Mouthpiece:Included with Yany Ligature/Cap
• Thumb Hook:Metal
• Thumb Rest:Metal
• Additional Features:Contoured Independent Palm Keys
• Case/Gig Bag:Included