What is the primary finish of the YAS875EXS?

The YAS875EXS features a high-quality silver-plated finish, which provides a distinct aesthetic and influences the instrument's resonance.

How does the bell design affect the instrument?

The saxophone features a hand-hammered one-piece bell with floral engraving. This construction method supports better resonance and provides a visually stunning appearance.

What is the function of the two-point bell/body brace?

The two-point brace is designed to enhance projection and provide a more focused sound, ensuring the player has the power to reach the back of a performance hall.

What makes the octave key mechanism unique?

It utilizes a new ball joint design that allows for smoother and quicker action compared to traditional octave key mechanisms.

Which neck comes standard with the YAS875EXS?

The instrument is equipped with the Yamaha Custom V1 neck, which is known for its quick response and highly accurate intonation.

Is the YAS875EXS suitable for classical or jazz playing?

While it is a versatile professional instrument, its rich tonal colours and precise intonation make it a world-class choice for both classical performance and contemporary settings.

What is the typical price point for this model?

The YAS875EXS typically retails for approximately £5,050 in the United Kingdom.

What is the purpose of the left-hand seesaw key?

The seesaw key is designed to allow the player to move between keys more fluidly with the left hand, facilitating faster technical passages.

How does silver plating differ from clear lacquer?

Silver plating often provides a slightly different harmonic response and is highly durable, though it requires regular polishing to maintain its shine.

Does Yamaha offer other silver-plated saxophones?

Yes, Yamaha produces other silver-plated models such as the YBS480 Baritone Saxophone, though the YAS875EXS is the flagship professional alto model.

What accessories are often used with professional Yamaha saxophones?

Players often pair these instruments with high-quality reeds like D'Addario Organic Select Jazz or Vandoren Java, and ligatures such as the Rovner 3RL or Vandoren Cuir Leather series.

Who is the intended user for the Custom EX series?

The Custom EX series is designed for professional musicians and advanced players who require the highest level of mechanical reliability and tonal sophistication.

Gear article

Yamaha YAS875EXS Custom Alto Saxophone (Silver Plated)

The Yamaha YAS875EXS is a professional-grade Custom EX series alto saxophone featuring a silver-plated finish and a hand-hammered one-piece bell. Renowned for its refined mechanisms and the high-performance V1 neck, it is engineered for precise intonation and expressive tonal richness.

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Overview and Design

The YAS875EXS represents the pinnacle of Yamaha's saxophone craftsmanship, sitting within the 'Custom EX' line. The instrument is distinguished by its silver-plated finish and a hand-hammered one-piece bell, which features intricate floral engraving. A key design element is the two-point bell/body brace, which is specifically engineered to provide enhanced projection and a more stable response under various playing conditions.

Mechanics and Playability

Yamaha has implemented several advanced ergonomic features to facilitate high-speed technical performance. The octave key utilizes a unique ball joint design to ensure smoother transitions and increased durability. Additionally, the left-hand seesaw key mechanism has been refined to allow for quicker action and a more comfortable reach for the player's pinky finger. These mechanical improvements contribute to a level of playability suitable for demanding professional repertoire.

The Custom V1 Neck

A defining component of the YAS875EXS is the Custom V1 neck. This specific neck design is credited with providing a highly accurate intonation across the instrument's entire range. It also offers a quick response and an 'open' feel, allowing the performer more flexibility in shaping their sound and dynamics. The synergy between the V1 neck and the silver-plated body results in a reliable instrument for both studio and stage use.

Tonal Character and Suitability

The silver-plated YAS875EXS is noted for a sound full of rich colours, offering a different resonance compared to standard lacquer models. It is designed to provide the power required to impress an audience while maintaining the nuance needed for delicate passages. This instrument is primarily aimed at professional saxophonists, advanced students, and orchestral players who require extreme precision and a versatile tonal palette.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary finish of the YAS875EXS?: The YAS875EXS features a high-quality silver-plated finish, which provides a distinct aesthetic and influences the instrument's resonance.
How does the bell design affect the instrument?: The saxophone features a hand-hammered one-piece bell with floral engraving. This construction method supports better resonance and provides a visually stunning appearance.
What is the function of the two-point bell/body brace?: The two-point brace is designed to enhance projection and provide a more focused sound, ensuring the player has the power to reach the back of a performance hall.
What makes the octave key mechanism unique?: It utilizes a new ball joint design that allows for smoother and quicker action compared to traditional octave key mechanisms.
Which neck comes standard with the YAS875EXS?: The instrument is equipped with the Yamaha Custom V1 neck, which is known for its quick response and highly accurate intonation.
Is the YAS875EXS suitable for classical or jazz playing?: While it is a versatile professional instrument, its rich tonal colours and precise intonation make it a world-class choice for both classical performance and contemporary settings.
What is the typical price point for this model?: The YAS875EXS typically retails for approximately £5,050 in the United Kingdom.
What is the purpose of the left-hand seesaw key?: The seesaw key is designed to allow the player to move between keys more fluidly with the left hand, facilitating faster technical passages.
How does silver plating differ from clear lacquer?: Silver plating often provides a slightly different harmonic response and is highly durable, though it requires regular polishing to maintain its shine.
Does Yamaha offer other silver-plated saxophones?: Yes, Yamaha produces other silver-plated models such as the YBS480 Baritone Saxophone, though the YAS875EXS is the flagship professional alto model.
What accessories are often used with professional Yamaha saxophones?: Players often pair these instruments with high-quality reeds like D'Addario Organic Select Jazz or Vandoren Java, and ligatures such as the Rovner 3RL or Vandoren Cuir Leather series.
Who is the intended user for the Custom EX series?: The Custom EX series is designed for professional musicians and advanced players who require the highest level of mechanical reliability and tonal sophistication.