Klarinet Archive - Posting 000082.txt from 1994/01

From: Jay Heiser <jayh@-----.COM>
Subj: Anyone know what a Strasser-Marigaux is?
Date: Mon, 17 Jan 1994 15:32:26 -0500

Given that there doesn't seem to be a sax or woodwind mailing list nor
newsgroup, I'm going to take a chance and ask the good members of this
mailing list a question that has nothing to do with either plastic or
metal clarinets.

Anybody know anything about Strasser-Marigaux? I've just come into possession
of a Strasser-Marigaux tenor sax (SML on the neck). The shop that sold it
didn't know anything about it either, but guesstimated that it was from the
early 60s.

Its sort of low-end professional quality. Forged keys, engraving, posts
soldered to ribs, etc. Keys are pearloid instead of for real MOP, but
other than that its all top of the line stuff. I've only seen one other
sax that had more adjustments on it (an alto of unknown vintage that seemed
to have more in common with a typewriter). It even has a fingerwheel on
the articulated G-sharp so that you can adjust it w/o recourse to a screw-
driver. (this adj is normal on pro saxes, but is usually a slotted head).

Action on the table keys is very light -- nice. Thumb rest is hinged,
apparently to allow easier octave key action -- not nice.

Primary concerns were price & quality, and this horn met my requirements.
I admit to being curious about it, though.

thanks in advance,

(Gee, I slammed plastic again. OK, in my humble opinion, the keys
don't affect sound, but I do prefer the feel of real pearl against
my fingertips -- it isn't as slippery. Also, its very easy to melt
or even ignite the plastic button when attempting an emergency pad
reglue with a lighter. I stand on my statement that nacre is superior
to resin).
======================================
Yes, it is snowing and everybody
has boogied out of here!