Code: 102184
The JP245 Eb alto saxophone is ideal for beginners looking for an instrument to last or existing players wanting to source their own upgrade instrument at an affordable price. This saxophone is designed to take the player through the lower and into the upper grades.
There are many features on the JP245 that are present on professional models, a fully ribbed construction and double spine on B & C keys provides additional strength. An underslung octave mechanism also improves instrument reliability, whilst blue steel springs are rust resistant with better tension memory. The high grade 80:20 brass construction of the JP245 contributes towards a full sound and the ability greater projection. Italian leather pads create a great seal that translates into a fuller sound that is more responsive which lasts longer than conventional pads.
The instrument also features High F# and Front F keys and a floating plate design for the little finger (left hand) cluster, this aids faster movement once players have become proficient. An adjustable thumb rest allows a more natural and comfortable hand position to be achieved.
A sling ring also provides the opportunity to make the instrument even lighter with the use of the provided sling or harness. The appearance of the JP245 has been enhanced with elaborate engraving and white pearl touch-pieces.
Every so often an instrument turns up on the test bench that really surprises us. . . . Solidly built, with some tasteful floral engraving that not only adorns the bell but also the upper body, the JP245 comes with indented mother of pearl style finger pieces and a top table and palm keys that are very similar in both size and shape to the Yamaha model. Blue springs are used throughout with metal reflectors and calf pads. A free and easy blower, the JP245 has a very positive and crisp action and produces a well balanced spread of sound with a full bodied and defined lower register - the altissimo also speaks nicely. I found the octave key particularly sweet and smooth and I appreciated the angle of the top F key - but that may well be down to my rather large digits! Intonation is excellent and the dynamic range is nothing short of remarkable for an instrument at this price point. Tonally the JP245 does not carry a unique voice, but it does have some bite and an interesting edge to the sound that would make it ideal for a big band horn section. Packed into a plush lined, compartmented, semi-solid zippered case with a sizeable zippered front pocket, grab handle, shoulder sling and a pocketed back harness, the JP245 is extraordinarily good value for money and comes highly recommended with a full 5 stars.
The JP245 is supplied in a hard case which has D rings that can facilitate a shoulder strap for ease of transportation along with a JP mouthpiece, cap, ligature, JP "Well slung" sling and reed.
Pete Long reviews the JP245 Alto Saxophone
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