What instruments is the Hercules DS730B compatible with?

The DS730B is designed to hold either an alto saxophone or a tenor saxophone. Its universal yoke adjusts to the specific bell size of these two common instruments.

What is the maximum height of the stand?

The stand can be adjusted to a maximum height of 1325mm. This is sufficient for most adult players to use the stand while standing upright.

What is the minimum height setting for the DS730B?

The minimum height for this stand is 925mm. This setting is typically used for seated performances or for shorter players.

How does the Auto Grip System (AGS) work?

The AGS uses the weight of the saxophone to activate two security arms. As you place the instrument in the yoke, the arms rotate to lock the bell in place automatically.

Can this stand be used for a baritone saxophone?

No, this specific model is designed for alto and tenor saxophones. Baritone saxophones are generally too heavy and large for the DS730B and require a dedicated bari stand.

Is the stand portable for gigging musicians?

Yes, the stand is designed to fold down to a convenient size for transportation. This makes it a practical choice for musicians who travel frequently between venues.

Does the stand protect the saxophone's lacquer?

The stand uses Specially Formulated Foam (SFF) on all contact points. This material is designed to be gentle on the instrument's finish and prevent scratches.

Can I use this stand while sitting down?

Yes, the height is adjustable down to 925mm. This allow musicians to position the saxophone at the correct height while sitting on a standard performance chair.

Does this stand include a peg for a flute or clarinet?

The DS730B is a single-instrument stand for saxophone. While some Hercules stands allow for add-on pegs like the DS504B, this model is primarily focused on the performance height saxophone yoke.

What is the typical price range for this stand?

The Hercules DS730B typically retails for approximately GBP 48. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.

Is the tripod base stable enough for a heavy tenor sax?

Yes, the tripod base is designed to provide a wide footprint. This ensures stability even when a larger tenor saxophone is placed at the maximum height setting.

Does the stand require assembly?

The stand comes mostly assembled. The user simply needs to unfold the tripod legs and the yoke, then adjust the central column to the desired height.

Gear article

Hercules DS730B AGS Performance Saxophone Stand

The Hercules DS730B AGS is a professional-grade saxophone stand designed to accommodate both seated and standing performance heights. It features an integrated Auto Grip System (AGS) and is compatible with both alto and tenor saxophones.

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Overview and Design

The Hercules DS730B AGS Performance Saxophone Stand is a versatile mounting solution for wind musicians. Unlike standard low-profile floor stands, the DS730B is specifically engineered for 'performance' height, meaning it can be positioned to hold the instrument while the musician is actively playing or switching between instruments during a set.

The stand's primary innovation is its height-adjustable central column, which extends from a minimum of 925mm to a maximum of 1325mm. This allows the saxophone to be positioned at mouth level for a standing player or adjusted lower for a seated performer. The design is intended to reduce the strain of holding a heavy instrument for extended periods.

Auto Grip System (AGS)

A defining feature of this model is the Hercules Auto Grip System (AGS). When the bell of the saxophone is placed into the yoke, the weight of the instrument triggers a locking mechanism. Two arms swing across the front of the bell to secure it in place, preventing the instrument from falling out if the stand is bumped. The yoke is designed to be universal, accommodating the different bell diameters and shapes of both alto and tenor saxophones without requiring manual adjustment.

Construction and Portability

The DS730B is constructed from durable materials typical of the Hercules range, featuring a tripod base for stability. Despite its extended height capabilities, the stand is designed with the touring musician in mind. It folds down into a compact form factor, making it easier to transport to rehearsals and gigs compared to fixed-height performance stands.

The contact points on the yoke and the backrest are covered in Specially Formulated Foam (SFF) to protect the instrument's finish from scratches or lacquer wear over time.

Target Audience and Comparison

This stand is primarily aimed at multi-instrumentalists who need to switch quickly between saxophone and other instruments, such as those using a Shure SM58 for vocals or playing keys on a Gibraltar GKS-KT75. By holding the saxophone at the ready, it eliminates the need to lift the instrument from a floor stand during a performance.

Compared to standard floor models like the Hercules DS530B, the DS730B offers significant ergonomic advantages for standing players. While specialized stands like the Hercules DS504B Piccolo Stand Peg are meant for smaller woodwinds, the DS730B remains a robust choice for the primary saxophone family.

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Frequently asked questions

What instruments is the Hercules DS730B compatible with?: The DS730B is designed to hold either an alto saxophone or a tenor saxophone. Its universal yoke adjusts to the specific bell size of these two common instruments.
What is the maximum height of the stand?: The stand can be adjusted to a maximum height of 1325mm. This is sufficient for most adult players to use the stand while standing upright.
What is the minimum height setting for the DS730B?: The minimum height for this stand is 925mm. This setting is typically used for seated performances or for shorter players.
How does the Auto Grip System (AGS) work?: The AGS uses the weight of the saxophone to activate two security arms. As you place the instrument in the yoke, the arms rotate to lock the bell in place automatically.
Can this stand be used for a baritone saxophone?: No, this specific model is designed for alto and tenor saxophones. Baritone saxophones are generally too heavy and large for the DS730B and require a dedicated bari stand.
Is the stand portable for gigging musicians?: Yes, the stand is designed to fold down to a convenient size for transportation. This makes it a practical choice for musicians who travel frequently between venues.
Does the stand protect the saxophone's lacquer?: The stand uses Specially Formulated Foam (SFF) on all contact points. This material is designed to be gentle on the instrument's finish and prevent scratches.
Can I use this stand while sitting down?: Yes, the height is adjustable down to 925mm. This allow musicians to position the saxophone at the correct height while sitting on a standard performance chair.
Does this stand include a peg for a flute or clarinet?: The DS730B is a single-instrument stand for saxophone. While some Hercules stands allow for add-on pegs like the DS504B, this model is primarily focused on the performance height saxophone yoke.
What is the typical price range for this stand?: The Hercules DS730B typically retails for approximately GBP 48. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Is the tripod base stable enough for a heavy tenor sax?: Yes, the tripod base is designed to provide a wide footprint. This ensures stability even when a larger tenor saxophone is placed at the maximum height setting.
Does the stand require assembly?: The stand comes mostly assembled. The user simply needs to unfold the tripod legs and the yoke, then adjust the central column to the desired height.