Yanagisawa S-W020 Elite Soprano Saxophone (Bronze)

Description

Yanagisawa SWO20 Elite Soprano Saxophone (Bronze)

Materials and Construction

Bronze Body: The SWO20 is crafted from high-quality bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, which imparts a distinct tonal richness and warmth. Compared to the brass of the SW010, the bronze material offers a softer, fuller sound with a broader tonal palette. This choice of material helps achieve a more nuanced and expressive tone, making it ideal for a variety of musical styles.

Bronze Bow and Bell: The bow and bell of the SWO20 are also made from bronze, complementing the body and ensuring a consistent tonal quality throughout the instrument. The bronze construction contributes to the saxophone’s robust projection and resonance, particularly in the lower register.

Lacquered Finish: The SWO20 is finished with a high-quality lacquer that not only protects the instrument from corrosion but also enhances its visual appeal. This finish ensures longevity and maintains the saxophone’s aesthetic and acoustic integrity over time.

Neck Options: The SWO20 comes with both a straight and a curved neck, allowing players to choose the configuration that best suits their playing style and preference. The straight neck provides a direct and focused tone, while the curved neck offers a more personalized playing position and can influence intonation and response.

Design and Engineering Enhancements

New Bore Shape and Tone Holes: The SWO20 benefits from a redesigned bore shape and modified tone hole sizes and positioning. These changes contribute to smoother playability, improved intonation, and enhanced resonance. The adjustments are integral to achieving the instrument’s refined sound and precise response.

Specially Sourced Bronze Material: The new bronze material used in the SWO20 has been carefully selected and treated to maximize tonal possibilities. This material choice ensures a strong core tone with excellent depth and color, adding to the instrument’s versatility.

Keywork Modifications: The SWO20 features several keywork improvements exclusive to the WO series:

• Front F Key: Redesigned for improved ergonomics and ease of operation.
• Right Hand Pinky Keys (Low Eb and Low C): Modified in shape and feel to facilitate quicker and more comfortable finger movement.
• Additional Feet Under Right Hand Side Keys: Added for increased support and a more positive feel when playing.

Engraving and Aesthetic Touches: The bell of the SWO20 is adorned with elaborate, hand-done engraving, adding a touch of luxury and individuality to the instrument. This meticulous craftsmanship enhances the visual appeal of the saxophone.

Case and Accessories

Case: The SWO20 is supplied with a fabric-covered woodshell case equipped with outer pockets and backpack straps. This case provides excellent protection for the instrument and facilitates convenient transport. The case features latches for secure closure and a comfortable carrying experience.

Mouthpiece: The saxophone comes with a Yanagisawa Ebonite mouthpiece, known for its superior tonal quality and playability. This mouthpiece is designed to complement the SWO20’s acoustic characteristics and enhance the overall playing experience.

Performance and Playability

Tonal Quality: The SWO20 is celebrated for its warm, rich tone with a strong core and excellent tonal depth. The bronze body contributes to a softer, more resonant sound compared to brass models, making it well-suited for a wide range of musical genres and performance contexts.

Playability: The SWO20 is designed to offer a high level of playability and comfort. The keywork modifications and ergonomic enhancements ensure smooth and responsive action, allowing players to execute fast passages and intricate techniques with ease.

Intonation and Response: The redesigned bore shape and tone hole positioning, along with the dedicated top G key, contribute to flawless intonation and a focused sound. The SWO20 provides a balanced resistance, making it easier for players to achieve an effortlessly smooth tone across the entire range of the instrument.

Summary

The Yanagisawa SWO20 Elite Soprano Saxophone stands out as a top-tier professional instrument that combines advanced materials, engineering, and design to deliver an unparalleled playing experience. Its bronze construction, refined keywork, and elegant aesthetics make it a premier choice for musicians seeking a soprano saxophone with exceptional tonal richness, precision, and versatility. The SWO20 offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of performance and craftsmanship.

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