Yamaha 875EX ii | The best pro saxophone?

[@Sirvalorsax]

I totally feel you with quitting your job right before the "Zombie Apocalypse". 😆 Great channel and I look forward to the pros and cons aspect of your reviews.

[@drwallysax]

Sirvalorsax, that means a lot to me, thanks man. I'm a fan of your thoughtful approach - certainly more intellectual than my snarky dad-jokes! Your explanation of mechanical advantage (regarding sound development) was outstanding. So likewise, looking forward to more of your content as well!

[@grayfox3057]

It’s great to see Sirvalorsax hanging around here :)

[@r.g.saxone]

My two favorite reviewers !!! 🎩

[@ricaard]

What they said!!🎷🔥🎷

[@thomasjohnson395]

love seeing saxophone content creators supporting each other

[@joamon559]

Yamaha. What an amazing company. I have owned a Yamaha flute, and a Yamaha motorcycle. I still own two Yamaha Guitars, a Yamaha bass guitar and my Yamaha 62iii Tenor. All have been (or are) excellent.

[@stelmara111]

Yep, seems one cannot go wrong no matter what Yamaha instrument one buys, I have both a YTS62 and YTS 23 tenor Sax's, an 875EX Alto Sax, 2 Yamaha trumpets and a Yamaha Tenor Horn

[@dhu2056]

@@stelmara111 Yamaha Venova kinda garbage though

[@alanhirayama4592]

I played on the original 875EX alto for 8 years while I was a military musician, it was an amazing saxophone.

[@drwallysax]

That was my horn in the Army Band as well! (thanks supply sergeant!)

[@robertdoom8331]

Your reviews and lessons are brilliant, the best on the web; you are a national treasure!

[@drwallysax]

You. I like you.

[@xrgiok]

It's very true!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Oh Wally, this review is tempting me to upgrade my classic 62 alto! Great review mate.

[@mikespadafora9077]

I’ve been okay my YAS 62 since 1984. Big and fat warm tone. Used it for classical at university and everything else over the years.

[@MichaelCorner-l7o]

Just finding this years later. I've played on the 875EXi since it first came out. Switched from a Mark VI...got tired of fighting the pitch issues all the time. I'm a professional doubler; my primary instrument is clarinet, where I'm the Principal of the local symphony. That being said, I also play for the Broadway shows; both the locally produced ones and the tours coming through. The 875 allows me to do everything comfortably. I've played "Old Castle" from Pictures on it several times. Couldn't do that easily on an 82Z (too thin sounding), or on my old Mark VI (pitch issues). I've played old timey jazz shows like 42nd Street on it, I've played hipper, more modern shows (City of Angels) on it, and when I put a higher baffle mouthpiece on it's great for Rock and Roll playing as well (Book of Mormon, i.a.). When I tried the EXii at a convention a couple of years back, I noticed the improvements. If I was mid career I'd switch in a heartbeat, but I'm an old fart and there's no need to switch now. I like the V1 neck in silver plate, and use an old Phil Barone NY6 (Meyer style) hard rubber mouthpiece. It's dark enough for the classical stuff, too! Great video. Thanks.

[@SaxophoneSteveKortyka]

I've heard that it is the closest to the Mark vi in terms of its dimensions. Very cool video - thank you!

[@drwallysax]

Interesting! I know VERY little about the dimensions, but in my experience, the 82z feels more like a good mark vi. But man I love the warmth of the 875. Have a great weekend, Steve!

[@benhostetler268]

I love Yamaha and I totally agree they are the best bang for your buck brand. While I love my mark VI it was a journey to be able to play it in tune and learn it but once I learned it the payoff was huge I have a lot more tonal flexibility with it than my old YAS-62s I had in HS.

[@ehetenandayo2742]

Beginner in sax here, This saxophone is the cheapest yamaha saxophone I can find in our country, currently buying it, best of luck to me I know that it is a pro sax but I can still learn from it, Thank you for this wonderful review

[@olafsrensen9578]

Your tone is close to Poul Desmonds. It!s not the worst .Just love it. Saxplayer Olaf Copenhagen Denmark

[@patrickmarino8110]

I agree about the quality of the yamaha saxophones. I have an 875 custom silver plated tenor sax . Over 20 years old and in mint condition. I've changed one pad on the horn and the rest are all original. I practice every day and the horn has only required some corks felts and adjustments. It has the M1 neck. The plating is very thick and not like the silver plate on the old mark six selmers that wears off over the years. I enjoyed your review and your comments were very informative. Thanks. Patrick Marino

[@ollinaumann]

Also check out the YAS-855 if you're looking for a used Yamaha pro alto. Great alternative to the 875 imho

[@drwallysax]

Those are fantastic as well! I have completely forgotten about them, don't see them very often. Good recommendation! Happy weekend, Oliver!

[@xaviermarican4557]

I got a Yamaha 875 EX one week used for half the retail price at the time and it has been a wonderful horn. Every time I put my fingers on a different instrument, going back to the EX feels like coming home from an awkward vacation

[@drwallysax]

I really want to find a great, cheaper option for my students. I've play tested a fair number but always SO happy to get back to my Yamaha.

[@owlsdragons906]

You really deserve more subsribers and more views, your production quality is so high, your information is precise and clear, and I could listen to your playing all day long. Looking forward to more content, but please don't stress yourself, we're here.

[@drwallysax]

That's incredibly kind, thank you Owls&Dragons. I've been a little stressed making content, but partially because I value this cool lil' community so much. It's been incredibly warm and supportive. I'm glad you're a part of it. Thanks my friend.

[@orvillewright1549]

have a Yamaha 23 only horn Ive had getting ready to step up my game on the sax . Played piano forever. my buddy has selmer and pushes that . Ive done lots of research and seems that this one fits me as I go to the next level thanks. especially love the black n gold lac.

[@patrickmarino8601]

Great review! I own a yts silver plated 875 custom sax I bought about 21 or 22 years ago just before they came out with the new line of yamaha horns. The neck on it is an M1. you are right about the quality and the work done on these horns. I've been playing mine over 21 years and I do all my own repairs. Since I bought this horn and play over 150 gigs a year with lots of PRACTICE TIME on it I've only replaced 3 pads and some felts and corks. I do all my own repairs so I keep the horn in mint condition. Perfect seal, adjustment, and not a scratch in it. I wanted to note that the yamaha co. Back then used alot of silver on these silver plated models. I don't think the selmer co. from what I've seen uses as much silver in their plating. That being said I agree with you that they make a great pro horn. Being a band director for almost 30 years I've come across alot of horns and many were selmers. Some selmers were good and alot were bad. Condition has alot to do with it. I hope things work out for you with your job change. Patrick

[@bahalvorsen]

Favourite modern horns: Yamaha 875EX Yamaha 82Z Yanagisawa A-WO37 Buffet Crampon Senzo Keilwerth SX90R Shadow Free Wind (by Friso Heidinga) All excellent, also different. The Yamaha 875EX really does it for me, it has that middle of the road flexibility, a healthy dose of resistance, brilliant altissimo, stability, tuning and egality on par with the best, and also a build quality second to none. An extremely versatile, refined workhorse! It has a dull, almost pedestrian look, but it delivers musically!

[@ryanstrohman7429]

At the end of the day, you just gotta play a ton of horns and see what really speaks to you. I couldn’t be happier with my 72 VI - it absolutely blew my old 62 out of the water. That being said, the same day I played another VI that my Yamaha 62 blew out of the water heheh.

[@drwallysax]

Absolutely. Part of the reason I make these reviews is to promote well made instruments to students who don’t have enough experience to tell the difference between a good Yamaha and eBay trash. Happy Saturday!

[@freshlysqueezedaesthetics2942]

The 82z and Series III are my favorite horns ever; I just need to get my hands on them! Finding them in black is are rare treat indeed.

[@ldever3]

For less than $3000 I bought a Yanagisawa AW02. It think it is as well made as a Yamaha. And if you were to look in the back of my closet, you would see the case is pretty decent. It’s been a long time since my sax has seen its case.

[@vladimirlopez7840]

It’s better than the Yamaha in my opinion. I own a TW01 the tenor and a Yamaha YAS62iii. Both are great horns but the Yanagisawa is just smoother in the keywork just feels more refined. And I can imagine that if you compare the higher lines of both companies you would find the same.

[@bobblues1158]

Great review Dr. Wally. And good luck with the home schooling. I enjoy your playing very much because you are improvising and not playing someone else.(but I enjoy that also). The Chinese, and Taiwan horns have a ways to go material wise and quality control is also not competitive with the Japanese saxes. I play all Yanagisawa. but I do have a P. Mauriat tenor, a Cannon Ball Mad Meg Tenor. Love the sound they have, but more trips to the tech than Yanagisawa or my 1942 Conn 10m tenor.

[@TonyAguirreJazz]

I had the V1 neck on a Custom Z tenor and loved it. Yamaha really deserves more credit for never failing to deliver outstanding horns. Look at the Purple label alto's. Note the YAS-61 still played by Dave Koz. Always a huge fan, Best Sax channel on KZbin

[@drwallysax]

I played on my university's purple label tenor - I debated stealing it. It was just amazing. Thanks for the kind words Tony, happy practicing!

[@xrgiok]

This is a masterpiece amongst reviews, sir!

[@gradyparks5249]

Great balanced review. I appreciate your honest opinions. There is no question about the consistency of Yamaha build quality! My YTS 875 non EX with M1 neck is still in rotation with my PMXT66RUL which I just wanted something different and I am happy with both. On the Alto side I still play my 52 and I am looking hard and an upgrade option so I appreciate this review and the 52 Street review.

[@GetYourSaxTogether]

Hey Wally. Really looking forward to your increased content schedule! You always make super high quality content which we can all aspire to. Tough gig on the home schooling man - maximum respect there! Thanks for the vids, I know I’ve learned some great nuggets from your content and I look forward to more of your high quality contributions to the online sax space. Jamie 🎷😎

[@drwallysax]

Hey Jamie, thanks for the incredibly kind words! I just had a chance to check out some of your content as well - awesome stuff man! Though, it's unfair, your accent makes you sound instantly more credible than me! Greetings from the colonies - have an awesome weekend!

[@GetYourSaxTogether]

Saxophone Academy Thanks Wally! I’ll be tuned in for your next offering. I might start shooting with Received Pronunciation for that extra authority from now on! lol

[@drwallysax]

No fair! I'm going to have to start wearing a bow tie...

[@GetYourSaxTogether]

You’re kidding me! You’re the best dressed sax tutor on the whole inter web already. You make me and everyone else look like tramps! 😂

[@Batman3939393]

Great video! I would love for you to do a review video for the 82Z. I just purchased one for Christmas, and I love it!

[@drwallysax]

That would be fun! So glad you're loving it, it's a fantastic horn.

[@stefanzdraveski]

Finally! YAS 875EX review from top notch player and reasonably thinking player.. Today everyone says "buy this, buy that here is my promocode" etc.. When i was buying mine there was no such reviews like now. I upgraded from Yamaha 62. Never liked the Selmer or Eastman, or P.Mauriat saxophones.. Excelent made video. Very much appreciated! Cheers from Bulgaria! :)

[@windowsdefender7685]

Hi, I have a 62(iii) too! How does yours compare with the 875EX?

[@stefanzdraveski]

@@windowsdefender7685 hello. I switched to 875EX now, it is way different than 62. It's very subjective and you should try it! ;)

[@kms_domo]

Played one of these blind and instantly bought it. I heard a lot of good things about the 62, but when I tried it, it didn't really click for me. I tried the 875ex right after and fell in love.

[@willistaylor4077]

I don't play Sax, but I do so enjoy watching your videos. ♥️♥️♥️ (The Flute is just easier for me, with my lack of physical stamina.)

[@smrtn2441]

I own a 62III tenor at this point - and very happy with it - but I admit to having been tempted a number of times to get an EX. Great vid as usual.

[@rmoraespinto]

Congrats for the excellent review. I have had a Yani (WO10) and and a Selmer Paris (Jubilee II). I could not care very much when I saw my Yani depart. Now, the Selmer was another story, as it was tested at length by a friend of mine, against other Selmer JIIs and was problably the best alto sax that I have ever played. Times were sad and I had to see the Selmer depart... Enter a Yamaha 62, Actually my son's. And a Selmer JII neck -- wow. What a splendid result! Yamaha sasophones have the greatest value in the market (with a little tweak...)

[@petegalindez9961]

I own a 62 Mark I. Bought it new in 1998. Bought a Selmer Series III as an upgrade in 2015…sold the Selmer last week. Still playing the 62. I did upgrade to a G3 neck though.

[@FedoraOutlierLLC]

I was wondering what happened to your podcast. Glad I found you. Love the video. I play a silver plated 82z alto and didn’t take two looks at a 875 because everyone said if I’m not playing classical then I need a “jazz horn”. I always liked the silver horns so I ended up with the 82. I actually love a dark sound and might have preferred it. Now I added a 1954 King Zepher to my collection and its personality is dark and smooth.

[@drwallysax]

I've always wanted a mid-century King! I played a super 20 last year, it was amazing. Unfortunately, given the price, I would need a divorce attorney if I bought it!

[@FedoraOutlierLLC]

@@drwallysax Well I can sell you mines for $1500 with shipping. Its been fully overhauled, perfect lacquer etc.

[@mountainbiker6098]

I love my Yamaha silver 875II EX Custom Atelier, so very beautiful...........

[@alonzoarredondo]

Dr. Wally, thank you for the presentation. I appreciate the informative review. I play the alto and enjoy my YAS 82Z and YAS 875 EX II horns. The EX II is the newer of my altos and has great intonation. As you stated, this horn has more resistance than the 82Z. It also has great intonation. Thanks again!

[@drwallysax]

Thanks, and a good assessment, Alonzo! Happy new year!

[@alonzoarredondo]

@@drwallysax Happy new year!

[@alonzoarredondo]

@Nishant K. Saxo - Guitarist The 875EXII i have has more resistance than my pre 2007 82Z (with G1 neck and plastic resonators). The 82Z is a very free blowing alto and i use a vandoren V16 6M mouthpiece with a rovner ligature and rigotti jazz 3-strong reeds. Those reeds provide the tone i prefer on esp on the lower notes, but sacrifice the upper altissimo notes and i’m ok with that. I prefer playing with an acoustic trio. The 875... is a heavier horn with a tone that is darker. I think changing the mp/ setup would brighten the sound on the 875. The 875 has great intonation. That horn is spot on. I recommend going to a horn shop and trying both horns. I also recommend trying the YAS 62 because it has a great tone as well. Good luck!

[@alonzoarredondo]

@Nishant K. Saxo - Guitarist How exciting! I wish you the best with your new alto. The ergonomics are impressive. Post a photo!

[@johnyu5494]

Great review!!! I have 82z.. and it is really easy to play. Especially for low notes, it is extremely easier than any other saxophones. Perfect intonation and great ergonomics as well... Ah, just one bad thing I need to mention is.... its pads are easier to stick to tone-holes. Maybe it is because I am living in very humid place, 🇸🇬 Singapore. Other than this, it is such a lovely 🎷 saxophone ❤❤

[@jediyodabush86]

I have an original alto EX and tenor Z! I love them! I haven't experimented with changing necks.

[@t.santos9807]

I owned this model as well as the original 62 purple logo. Simultaneously, I owned a mark vi 141xxx. I also owned 2 yamaha sopranos, a 62 straight and a 62R with the attached curved neck. I really liked my yamahas, but what kept me playing my MKvi is the sound. The yamahas sound just fine and certainly darker but the natural lyric sound and the flexibility of the mark vi can't be compared. It is certain that the yamaha is more consistent and they all play the same, but for me this is not a positive, it is actually a negative that takes away from uniqueness. Again, people's opinions are different from each other and this is mine. Great horns but not great enough for me to make a change, and I certainly tried. When I listen to other players on KZbin playing mark vi's then and yamahas now, I find myself liking their tone and musical expression more attractive with the old horns.

[@LapuertadeHal]

As soon as I started studying, I did a little research on the saxophone market and went straight from a Startone to a 82zul, it has been the best investment I have made in my life, apart from my wife's ring. Congratulations on the channel, I love your style, good luck!

[@drwallysax]

But does your wife's ring come in an unlacquered version? Bet the diamond doesn't even have a front F adjustment. Yamaha was the better investment.

[@LapuertadeHal]

@@drwallysax jaja is true!

[@TheJazzocrat]

This is a great review! You have a tremendous personality, a ton of knowledge, and some really great lines. This review was thoroughly entertaining. Thank you.

[@Craig2760]

Hang in there Dr. Wally. I taught at the local community college for about 10 years. Paycheck was nice, politics was a pain. Either way, I’m happy to point my students to you and several other great saxophone KZbin channels. I’m constantly reminded of things long forgotten and learning techniques my teachers never touched on. ps I love the sound of that Tonalin mouthpiece!

[@drwallysax]

Appreciate that, Craig! You currently teaching saxophone?

[@Craig2760]

Saxophone Academy private studio, 5 sax students, a couple clarinet. The glory days 10-12 years ago of 35 students just hasn’t come back.

[@grayfox3057]

Welcome back and thanks for posting, informative video as always!

[@drwallysax]

Francis, thanks for being part of the academy (and sticking around). Hope you have a great weekend!

[@rickstokes2239]

I’ve been playing on the Selmer SA 80 II since ‘91 and love it but now need an alto for doubling and the 875EX and CustomZII really have my attention. Thanks for your review.

[@owenwalter451]

You made us wait long enough. Great video as always. Keep it up.

[@drwallysax]

Thanks man. Wait, is this the formerly known as Tsunstar? new name, who dis. Have a great weekend.....Owen?

[@owenwalter451]

Saxophone Academy yep, took a name change since it seems most people on the saxophone community use their real name.

[@ronaldlively8400]

Thanks for this great review, Dr. Wallace. I've had an 82ZIIB alto on order for the last 2 months and expect delivery on it within a few weeks from Gerry's Music in South Hadley, MA. Their a great pro-shop and will give me the support I need on it for years to come. I too have a first generation 62 alto (purple logo) that still is an absolute work horse, as the build quality has remained in tact since 1988 when I purchased it. I may not notice a significant difference in sound with the new custom Z, but as you say, it will be different. Will let you know how I make out.

[@zangsax]

I enjoy your content. I have been predominately a jazz and commercial player. I am also a woodwind tech. Ive owned many saxophones of all sizes. When i finally decided i needed to cash in my 1956 mk VI alto. I decided that the Selmer serie iII and 875 EX Ii cover everything I need and i got both of those for less than I got for my VI ( all slightly used) i owned an 82Z for a little while and have played a lot of serie II. It seems that I prefer the so called “classical”horns better and I dont play classical pieces. I feel that Yanagisawa makes excellent altos and sopranos as well . I play a 901 because its one piece. I just sold my VI soprano but have an 875EX sop. Decades of playing and buying horns leaves me with two of everything but only 1 bass. Sorry for length.

[@drwallysax]

You've owned some great horns! As a tech, any horns you love/hate working on?

[@richardhogg8707]

I have similar horns as you: a non-purple logo (stamped? engraved?) 62 tenor from around 1999 and an 875EX from 2003. I upgraded both to V1 necks, and I really love it on alto, but it's a bit of a tossup with the stock 62 tenor neck. Rascher/Legere for classical, Phil-Tone Orion or Brilharts and Fibracells for jazz, and these horns are perfect! I even got to upgrade my soprano to an 875EX v1, and got a 62 bari. Sweet horns all around. I'm definitely a Yamaha guy!

[@ossorrera]

thanks for this review, I watched your selmer supreme review as well, you are very honest and you give what buyers are looking for, honest review. more power to you.

[@samueledwards5423]

I have an early Yamaha yts 52 & 62 purple logo tenor that are my go to horns. It's bullet proof. I played the 52 professionally for many years, I also played it when I was in the army band back in the Vietnam era. I prefer it over my Selmer series II. Yamaha ergonomics are hard to beat! Now I'm trying to decide between a Purple logo yas 62 alto or a yas 82ZII. I think the early years Yamaha have a unique sound, especially the altos. I really enjoy your channel, keep up the good work!!

[@saxofonmafia]

I listened to you testing the selmer supreme and the yamaha 875ex ii. You criticize that the supreme does not sing for you as your mvi. I am interested what you think of ‚the singing character‘ of the 875ex. In my ears the yamaha sings significantly less than the selmer… i hear what makes the difference for jazz saxists😉. Nice tests by the way😊👍🏻

[@AbiSax]

What do you think about people stating this is more a classical Sax? What your opinions Dr. Wally?

[@paoloalbano4690]

Great video Doc.. I'am a Conn fan, I play old Chu Berry on alto and tenor, 20 years now...I'm a Selmer player who switch to old Conns.. I played Yam 62, but didn't feel so good, both on alto and tenor. I think I probably diddn't pick the right ones, but your opinion is quite interesting and valuable. I'll give 'em a try if I'll have a chance

[@rangersmith4652]

I've mostly played vintage horns, as I was a bit of a collector and because I love their sound. Ergos though? Not so much. As for altos, I've owned a Mark VI, a Mark VII, Buffet Dynaction and S1, various Bueschers and Conns, and a copper Buffet S3 Prestige (not a CX-90). When I sold off my collection, I could not part with my SX-90R Anniversary Edition. When I got back to playing in 2000 (after not holding a sax for over 10 years), I selected it from a dozen horns at Lemca in Antwerp; it was my first real pro sax and is still my favorite.

[@drwallysax]

That's a well rounded collection - glad you're back playing again! Happy holidays to you and your family, Ranger!

[@jeffcopoloff8716]

I don’t want to sound political here . However, I’m under the impression that the “ Chinese Knockoffs “ are actually made in Taiwan 🇹🇼, NOT 🇨🇳 China ... a great source of knowledge is David Kessler at Kessler Music in Las Vegas ... to be honest , I sold my Selmer Mark VI ( # 66444 ) , and purchased a Kessler Tenor ( with Selmer Neck ) .... Love your content !! Keep it up , from Dr. Jeff ( played at McGill U Jazz 1981 ) , now a Foot Surgeon !!! Cheers !

[@drwallysax]

Hey Jeff, great point! There are many popular brands made in Taiwan, and not bad at all. I also don’t want to seem I recognize the “One China” policy by not explicitly differentiating. There are, however, a lot of Chinese owned brands and factories that create this French facade and make truly garbage horns. In hindsight, I want to drop the nationality issue altogether. I want everyone to feel good about the horns they have, regardless of budget! I’ll hit you up for a foot replacement! In my mid 40s, things are popping and cracking like a drum solo. Happy holidays my friend!

[@evanchrisney7069]

I've had my 82Z alto for almost 10 years and got it with the V1 neck. Its about as close as you can get to a mark VI for at least half the price, it's called the V1 (VI) for a reason!

[@drwallysax]

What alto are you playing these days?

[@evanchrisney7069]

I still play my 82Z alto, I prefer it slightly over the 875, and it is up there with mark VIs I've tried. For soprano I use a 675 with the M1R neck, it's essentially the 62R but has a detachable neck.

[@PonchMuniz]

I have an 875II EX Custom and....absolutely love it!

[@drwallysax]

It's a fantastic horn. Happy practicing!

[@Saxamaphonegirl]

Awesome review. Thanks for being so comprehensive. I agree with basically everything you've said, and as I've said if I ever get around to upgrading the YAS 62 this would be my go to horn. Looking forward to more content, and I feel your pain, I'm homeschooling two as well, combined with teaching online (pass the wine!).

[@drwallysax]

Thanks, Kerry! Good luck with the homeschooling (we'll need it)!

[@toomuchtoofast4533]

I have been playing a 1985-1989 Yamaha YTS-52 (Yamaha woodwinds identified vie serial #) It is a beautiful horn and I always get compliments on it (it still looks new) I kind of think your practice and playing comprises your sound more than the equipment ! Practice makes kind of perfect lol

[@BGroveski]

You have a beautiful sound! I'm looking forward to more of your content.

[@drwallysax]

That's incredibly kind! More content on the way, let me know if there's something you want covered. Happy weekend my friend!

[@KrisVComm]

Gorgeous warm tone. Very beautiful phrasing, dynamics and articulation.

[@drwallysax]

That's very kind, thank you Kris!

[@KrisVComm]

@@drwallysax your altissimo is so clean! Normally I am a Marc Russo fan but man you have chops!

[@martygillespie5486]

Hi Dr Wallace. First, I want to say that I find your posts always enlightening. You have a great combination of knowledge, skills and the ability to articulate what you know clearly .. not a combination that is found all that often. Also, are you a reincarnation of Paul Desmond (and that IS a compliment)? I think your evaluation of the 875 is spot on. I had a chance to borrow one from a friend, and loved the harmonics available, something that to my ear is lacking in the 82Z … too bright for me that one. That being said, I have yet to find a horn that has tempted me to part with my Mark VI. Even with the inconsistencies, the breadth of the harmonics has yet to be equaled in any horn I’ve auditioned. I laughed as I was attending a concert by the late, great, Phil Woods. He had been a high profile Yamaha rep for a number of years, but was on the stand playing his Mark VI.

[@drwallysax]

I've heard that about Woods before! Thanks for the kind words my friend, hope you're having a great week!

[@tpark89]

Thank you for another great video. On a sidenote, I think it's important to distinguish the Chinese-made horns from Taiwanese-made horns. They're not the same, in more sense than one.

[@drwallysax]

Good point, the Saxophone Academy does NOT recognize the "One-China" policy (they block KZbin, don't they?). To my understanding, Cannonball is made in Taiwan, correct? And Eastman is manufactured in China? Which brands do you prefer? I've not noticed a huge difference between the Taiwanese made and better Chinese made horns. They are fine, and getting better by the day to be sure. Happy Weekend, Tony!

[@tpark89]

Saxophone Academy thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. I have tried only a Cannonball and not an Eastman. The Cannonball I felt was very heavy and not very ergonomically friendly for my smaller hands. I play a Mark VI alto personally and have played owned a couple Yamahas (23& 62) that I’ve loved (always kick myself for letting those go).

[@JulianChanSax]

@@drwallysax As far as I know, most of the popular/premium new brands (Cannonball, Eastman, P.Mauriat, etc) are definitely TAIWANESE made. I don't think there are (m)any CHINESE-made popular ones floating around the US, but I'm quite sure there are CHINESE made ones swimming in the lower end markets.

[@MIKEDUZZI420]

I have a feeling you have not "abused" many horns Dr. Wally! But I do understand what your saying about build quality. I bought my Miraphone BBb in 1997 and it's still playing like the day it arrived from wood and brass wind. Initial build quality is what guarantees long service lifes of instruments. The higer the initial tolerances are the better.

[@drwallysax]

VERY well put Mikeduzzi, I think you nailed it. Happy practicing and have a great weekend my friend!

[@michaelperkins1515]

Dude….I really appreciate your stuff. Keep it up

[@stevel6895]

I always appreciate your videos Doc. However, I'm gonna stick with my 62II. It's a great horn especially once I paired it with a 62 neck. But like you said Yamaha gives you more bang for your buck. I do own an 875EX tenor.

[@drwallysax]

If I had a 62ii alto, I'd see NO reason to "upgrade." They're just amazing horns REGARDLESS of their reasonable price. Happy practicing my friend!

[@chuckgladfelter]

I have a Yanagisawa A-901 with the 92 bronze neck I bought back in 2008.

[@JKMcentral]

love the reviews! I'm a big Yami fan. Like you, I've had a YTS-62 for years, erm 38 of them. I have a really nice Mk 6 and have tried the 82Z, 875 and many others, but that old '62 holds it's own effortlessly. In fact, despite all the allure of the Mk.6 I have so much more fun on the '62. I love the neutrality, it's a blank canvas and the ergonomics are excellent. I'll keep trying new horns of course but I have a sneaking feeling I'll always come back to that old '62. Either way I'll certainly never sell it!

[@brendonjohnstone6010]

I’m very happy with my Yamaha 62iii tenor. Does everything beautifully for me.

[@drwallysax]

Love me some 62s

[@stelmara111]

I have (amongst others) an 875EX with the G1 next and for me this horn is faultless in it's build quality and in truth no matter which of my Alto's (Keilwerth, Martin Magna and Eastman 52nd st) I play to my ear I still sound like me. All the Saxophones feel in my had differnt though I adapt to each in a minute or so. Nobody would or could be dissapointed if they bought one (875EX) that's for sure.

[@krommer66]

Just got mine!!! I think the case is nice!!!

[@jongoforth1405]

Beautiful sound, Dr. Wally! And an excellent review. I’m itchin to try one now. I’m playing a 78k “mid-bow” VI alto, which is gonna be a little tough to beat, but there’s really nothing quite like an excellent, well set-up, brand new horn. I’m late to your party-is that a Tonalin you’re playing?

[@thomasjohnson395]

cant believe you only have 4.5 thousand subs. deserve a lot more

[@drwallysax]

that's very kind, Thomas, thanks. We've got a small, but cool little community growing here. I call them my "pack of strays." Welcome aboard!

[@scomdnz9]

Geez how many altos u got Doc? I love my unlacquered 82z but would love to give the 875EX a try. You're absolutely right about the G1 series neck intonation issues. Had to call Yamaha and they sent me some random neck of theirs that I have no idea if its a 52 or 62 version. The V1 sounds like its worth a try tho! I still have my G1 which now plays in tune....cus I dented it by accident lol.

[@drwallysax]

Ha! Only the one alto. I sold my 875 and still play on the 875EX I bought back in 2003. This horn was on loan from a retailer friend. I was thinking of "upgrading" but my nearly 20 year old EXi is still fantastic. Can't justify selling it! Glad you "fixed" your G1! ha!

[@gds520]

My first alto Sax was a Yamaha 280, I loved it but after five years I upgraded to a P. Mauriat System 76 2nd Edition. I've been playing it now for several years, Its quite a good horn, feels different than my YAS 280 in the hand and has more resistance. The tone is very different though, a big fat sound, but no sweetness...Recently I've started playing some contemporary music, but I've quickly realised that the P. Mauriat in my opinion is not good for this. Its missing colours its more resistant to adding inflections on the notes as well. I think I'm going to try a Yamaha YAS 82Z...

[@bobene425]

I agree with you about the quality of Yamahas. Although I play a Selmer Series iii alto for classical playing, I find myself occasionally picking up an almost 10 year old YAS 62 at my school just for fun, and it is a blast to play due to the keywork with such a focused sound and great intonation. Also I look forward to more videos!

[@drwallysax]

It's interesting how popular the series iii is with classical players, but NOT at all with jazz players (I know there are a few)? You keep the 62 as a backup?

[@bobene425]

Saxophone Academy Yeah the 62 is a backup whenever the Selmer goes to the shop. It’s also a great horn for marching band.

[@HaHaHaHope]

My first horn was Selmer SA-80 alto and when I wanted something different I bought Yamaha 82ZII alto online (couldn’t try horns in stores due to virus) I hated it and returned it. I couldn’t get used to the front F key teardrop. I then bought a Selmer Ref54 alto which has the pearl Front key and I love it.

[@drwallysax]

That's a beautiful horn!

[@philipbohi]

Great review. I understand the concept that there are no "jazz horns" or "classical horns." That being said, I'd love to see what a classical player with a classical set-up would sound like on my King Super 20 alto. Along the same lines, people say that players sound like themselves on different set-ups. I want to see David Sanborn play on a Rascher mouthpiece and sound like he does on a Dukoff or whatever Dukoff clone he's playing now.

[@drwallysax]

That's very true, Philip! I'm classical trained, and when looking at horns, my main concern is homogeny of color across the range. I'd love the play a super 20 with my classical setup, would be neat to try! Have a great weekend!

[@dynoroad]

Sanborn actually recorded a classical concerto, playing a hard rubber mouthpiece (probably meyer style, so not comparable with a small tip opening rascher). He still sounded like Sanborn, just a tad smoother around the edges. watch?v=96t3ia2Oqzc

[@LuisPabloGasparotto]

My favorite pro alto saxophone is my YAS-62S (silverplated). I also enjoy playing my Jupiter JAS-868 which is silverplated with a solid silver neck but the YAS-62S is several steps above in terms of build quality.

[@drwallysax]

62 is just such a great horn. Neve felt any reason to "upgrade" my 62 tenor. happy Weekend!

[@chickencheese9913]

Thanks for making this video man, I’ve been looking in to getting this horn and I think you’ve sold me on it lol

[@drwallysax]

I should get a kickback from Yamaha :) Hope you enjoy it!

[@limitinfinity]

Just bought one of these today, from Alamo Music in San Antonio. My freshman son is going to be thrilled! Edit: mine is an 875 EX custom.

[@drwallysax]

What an amazing horn, he's a lucky kid!! My parents bought me my 1st 875EX when I was accepted into music school. It was a HUGE expense for our family, I vividly remember my mother starting to cry as she wrote the check. Wish your son luck from Dr. Wally!!!

[@limitinfinity]

@@drwallysax Thank you for the kind reply, my wife and I are raising a multi-talented young man, and are determined to give him every opportunity to excel.

[@DynamixWarePro]

Another great review. I have been looking to upgrade from my Yamaha YAS-280 alto to a professional alto and if I had the budget, the 875EX, is the saxophone I'd want as I play mostly classical as well as some other music and I quite like the warm, tubby sound it has over the middle of the road, do anything sound of the 62 or the brighter edge of the 82z. Instead I am getting a Yanagisawa AWO2 within the next few months, just waiting for one to be in stock at my local dealer. I have always loved Yanagisawa's high build quality and after comparing the AWO1 brass and the AWO2 bronze models, I like how they have a centred tone, but I prefer the richer, slightly more mellow tone of the bronze over the brighter sound of the brass and can't wait to upgrade. I do have the option to get an unlacquered AWO2U now. I have never owned or played an unlacquered saxophone, so I don't know if the tone would change over time as it oxidises or if it might need more maintenance compared to a lacquered version due to the oxidisation. I have heard there is a minor differences in tone with the unlacquered being ever so slightly brighter and slightly less centred than the lacquered version. Also I am thinking I may get a Chedeville RC alto mouthpiece for my classical playing due to it being free blowing, can play louder than other classical mouthpieces and has a very nice dark tone that isn't stuffy. I currently play on a Selmer Soloist E and while I like it, I find it a little resistant for me and would prefer a bit less resistance and more dynamic range than it has, especially after playing on a JodyJazz HR* for Jazz and feeling how much more free blowing and easy it is to play on. The Chedeville mouthpiece is just a bit expensive for me right now and can't justify the cost. If you are able to get one, could you review the Chedeville RC mouthpiece?

[@drwallysax]

I'll see if I can get my hands on one!

[@KrisVComm]

My favorite horn is my Ishimori WoodStone silver plated alto. I have a Yamaha silver plated tenor Custom 82Zii and an older Yanagisawa 2200r soprano with the straight and curved necks. The Ishimori is crazy free blowing and is a cut above any other alto I’ve ever tried.

[@drwallysax]

I've heard good things from my friend Brian over at getasax.com (he's the only dealer I know of). Where'd you find yours, if you don't mind me asking? (not common in my neck of the woods). Happy Thursday, Kris!

[@KrisVComm]

@@drwallysax Thank you Wally! Funny story but too long to relate here. I went to Long Beach Woodwinds (So CA) to buy a Yamaha YAS-82Zii and Rusty said, have you thought about a WoodStone? I had no idea! He had a silver one left from the NAMM show. He has a silver alto right now. Contact Rusty. He's amazing and he is a true player (was Toni Tenille's saxman). Tell Rusty I talked you into it...hahaha. They are amazing. He plays a 1957 Mark VI which is his 37th Mark VI and his favorite ever. This sounded BETTER...unbelievable!

[@marklicciardo1180]

Yamaha Alto 62, all the way… l had a Selmer AS400, it spent most of its time with the Tech trying to sort out the low Bb,B,C# keys, the sound on the low keys never sounded good… The Y62 was perfect out of box, had it 3 years now and would never swap it out…. With my Jody Jazz HR* 7tip it sounds amazing..

[@drwallysax]

It's just such a good work-horse instrument. Never played one I didn't like.

[@robstevens9590]

Thanks for the review (and for coming back after the forced break)!

[@drwallysax]

Hope you and yours are doing well, Rob! Thanks for sticking around, I really appreciate it. Have a great weekend!

[@robstevens9590]

@@drwallysax I appreciate your posts, even if I am not in a position to buy a professional level sax. All of the input you give is helpful, and I enjoy your sense of humor, almost as much as I enjoy it when you play.

[@AaronTMartin]

Another nice presentation, Wally...thanks! I’d love to try an 875EX or an 82Z one day. But for now I sure do love my YAS-62ii and YTS-62iii, both of which I upgraded with V1 necks. You’re right; going from the G1 to the V1 was an instant and marked improvement in intonation, tonal color, and volume (especially with the alto. I didn’t sense any issues with the stock 62 neck for the YTS-62iii; I just knew that I wanted to move up to the V1). Thanks again and looking forward to your next video!

[@drwallysax]

Thanks Aaron! The stock 62 neck feels VERY similar to the V-series to me. I loved the stock neck on the YAS62iii I tried (and my old 1990s stock YTS62 neck as well). Hope you and the family have a great weekend my friend!

[@AaronTMartin]

Thanks, Wally; we wish you the same!

[@dynoroad]

On the ballad you sounded a lot like swedish alto player Arne Domnérus. His rendition of "The Midnight Sun Never Sets" is an international classic. As for the last question, my dream horns would be a Keilwerth on the tenor side, a selmer on the soprano side. For alto I would consider too many brands to mention, Yamaha being one of them.

[@jtheriault16]

I was always a Selmer guy, owning several over the years. Took a long break from playing and returned to playing when my son began to play Sax. I picked up a YAS 280 to play along with him, it's a great horn despite being a student model. Much more free blowing and mouthpiece friendly. It always felt like my Selmer's (Pro Paris France) were stuffy and fighting me. I don't get that from the student Yamaha. I have been playing pro level Yamaha's at local shops and been even more impressed. Bottom line I can see a Yamaha 62 Tenor (or higher) in my future!

[@drwallysax]

I get the allure of Selmer, the history the heritage. But man, $2000 more for French manufacturing in this economy? Glad you're enjoying playing again!

[@jtheriault16]

@@drwallysax Just a follow up, ended finding a closet quality Yamaha YTS-61. I got a great horn, at a great price !

[@drwallysax]

@@jtheriault16 A rare find! Congrats on a great instrument!

[@EddieJennings]

I’d be curious to try whatever the latest Yahama Custom tenor is. Back when the 875 was the top of the line horn, I loved its tone, but I felt the key action wasn’t as agile as the my 62.

[@drwallysax]

I haven't found any tenor as lovely as my YTS62. I'm only playing jazz now, so the tone is perfect for me. Let me know if you get your hands on one. Hope you're well, Eddie!

[@genobourn7423]

EX is best! Love it!

[@robertgalardi3731]

I love this guy ,,, he is the real deal and a good player ... bobby G..

[@drwallysax]

Thanks Bobby! Happy practicing my friend!

[@ZiSlepovitch]

Great video, thank you! I concur: 875EX is a stellar instrument. Of course, it's the matter of preference and small details that make all the difference to each player. Haven't tried the soprano, but been playing EX both alto and tenor for a few years. On the tenor I switched from YTS-62 (mk I) - I seriously love how more controlled the intonation is on the EX, yet the horn is still very colorful, in its own right. Switching between styles is the matter of switching the setup and the embouchure, the horn works marvelously well in any playing situation. I am suspecting this is what Selmer had in mind when developing their Supreme alto. As for the necks, my EX mark 1 came with G1 which I replaced with V1 and C1, and same for the tenor: that makes all the difference. I vividly remember doing the intonation balance act every time I hit the palm keys on the 62 tenor with G1 neck, and how I seamlessly get those notes every time I play the EX. I played 82Z tenor as well, they rented one for me on tour in Europe: I seriously enjoyed the horn, but to me that felt a lot like an upgraded 62, more colors, more resonance, richer sound, but the same concept. Which is not a bad thing, it's rather telling how EX is different, and which confirms the point you are making here. Finally, I got my both EXs off the Bay of E, very gently used and well loved, at $2.8K and $3K respectively: so if you know exactly what you're looking at, that might be the way to get an excellent horn cheaper.

[@drwallysax]

That's a fantastic price on an amazing horn! Absolutely agree about the preferences - I steer students towards Yamaha because between the models, they're likely to find a sound they love and the horn will last FOREVER! Know what I mean?

[@ZiSlepovitch]

@@drwallysax oh absolutely! Yamaha horns last decades. As for the sound, Yamaha instruments in general offer a lot, but (and?) have the capability to stay out of the way. For that matter some players love them, and some need “more of a character” - which can mean a wide range of things. Some of that can be attained by correcting the setup. Speaking of which, I did get the Selmer Claude Delangle mouthpiece on sale, and for me that was the way to achieve “more character” (or, perhaps, more or the “French” / brighter/ livelier sound) with the classical setup (as opposed to the more neutral and also beautiful Vandoren Optimum AL5).

[@drwallysax]

@@ZiSlepovitch Well put, Zisl!! Glad to meet you - we think alike. (that should scare you). Happy Thursday my friend.

[@ZiSlepovitch]

@@drwallysax likewise! Nice to meet you, Wally, and thank you for your contribution to the community!

[@Kevin-ek1su]

Very helpful video! Could you do a showcase on a tenor or baritone saxophone?

[@drwallysax]

I'll see what I can do! Being a new/small channel, it's not easy for me to get inventory.

[@drwallysax]

Would be happy to. I'll see what I can do, but being a small/new channel, it's not easy for me to line up gear (yet).

[@alexwillats]

I love your sound, it's really beautiful and expressive. I'm more of a Yanagisawa girl but you sound wonderful on the Yamaha. What mouthpiece are you using? (The age-old question!)

[@drwallysax]

First, thank you for the kind words! The mouthpiece is a 1960s Brilhart Tonalin, made in Carlsbad California. It's marked a 3*, but Brian at "Get a Sax" measured it, and it's really a 5* (they're hilariously inaccurate in face markings). Yanis are great, we just don't have many in stock are found here! Have a great weekend!

[@gregvovos9381]

Great video! Curious if your evaluation is the same for the Tenor. I know you play on a 62. But do you rate the Tenor 875 as highly as you do the Alto? I currently play on a Yamaha 52 (Tenor); and I actually kinda love it. But one day, when if I upgrade, I'm most likely sticking with Yamaha. I also play a Yamaha 650 Clarinet (or torture stick as you call it, lol).

[@cullendouglas473]

Really liked the review. I am considering trying to learn how to play jazz on the saxophone because of this. I am also curious to see a review of the same saxophone but classical as i am more of a classical saxophonist. 😃🎷

[@drwallysax]

Hi Cullen, I’m a classical player as well! You can hear the EX playing classical in my review of the Claude Delangle mouthpiece (essentially the same horn). The 875 is my favorite for both genres!

[@billstotts2346]

Now I'm living in a van down by the river, lol. Great video as usual.

[@thepianokid27]

Used to play on an 82Z alto years back but had to sell it off. Recently my favourite horn has been the Trevor James signature custom RAW unlacquered. Absolutely kickass pro horn with amazing build quality, tone and an even better price point :)

[@drwallysax]

I haven't played (or heard of them). Glad your pleased! Any idea where they're based - or manufactured? Have a great weekend!

[@thepianokid27]

@@drwallysax They are based in the UK :) Been around for years now but their recent Signature Customs have been making waves throughout the sax world. Guys like Jeff Kashiwa, Andy Snitzer, Steve Cole etc use them. Manufactured in Taiwan, but every Custom horn goes through the hands of their Chief Tech Dave Farley back in the UK before being released for sale. Check them out if you ever get a chance to. Have a great weekend too!

[@stevepovey2489]

I think they are made in the far east but assembled and adjusted 5 mins from where I live in UK

[@thepianokid27]

Steve Povey made in Taiwan that’s right but perfected in the UK 👍🏼

[@drwallysax]

@@stevepovey2489 Alright, now I want to try one. Drive the 5 minutes and beg them to let me borrow one for review. Tell them I make bad dad jokes with high production value. I'll cover shipping costs (and hair product needed for video production).

[@brianpite0893]

I have to say I was really surprised that you left your position. I do enjoy your presentations. That Yamaha sounds so good. But I have a hard time getting past that name. Where's the clutch? I guess I am shallow, that's why I have a Reference 54. I know it's not better. Keep posting Dr. Wally!

[@drwallysax]

I was part time at the University, teaching just enough to get in the way of my ultimate goal: building online courses for those who can’t afford a music degree or don’t have access to a great teacher. I put my wife through medical school, now I have some freedom! As for Yamaha, I get it! When I first started looking for a pro horn and someone recommended the brand, I thought: “Yamaha? I’m not buying a motorcycle?!”

[@ricardobp007]

Nice video!!! thanks But, How do you compare the 875EXII against the Yanis???

[@drwallysax]

They're very similar build quality and value. It's just a matter of preference. I just prefer the Yamaha. Yamaha is also easier to spell.