Help! YAS 61

My son has been playing sax for a few years and I ran across a 'deal' on a YAS 61. Is this a good saxophone? Is it the same in quality as a YAS 62? Does anyone know anything about this saxophone and how much is it worth. (approx) It seems in very good condition especially for an older sax. It has orig case but not orig mouthpiece. Thank you for your help. Gregg

Gregg- Many people prefer it to the YAS62. -Chuck Hollocker

Gregg,

I own a YAS 61 and think it is a fine horn. I think you will find most people will compare it to a YAS 52 rather than a '62. The story I have heard is that this was the top-of-the-line horn from Yamaha when they first started doing serious sax mfg. in the 70's. Five years ago, a troll of this news group would have yielded a huge amount of negative press on Yamahas in general. During the last several months I have noticed consistent positive comments.

If your son is a student who wants to upgrade from a beginner horn to an intermediate sax and the price is right, I think you are in pretty good shape. The original mp is nothing special.

Having played a YAS-52, 61 and 62, I can tell you that there is a huge difference between the 61 and the 52. In my opinion the 62 is closer to the 52 as far as build and sound go. The 61 was a superior horn. The 61 I played was an early (late 70's) model and was their top of the line. The 62 and 52 were late 90's models. The 61 was heavier, more solid. Rods felt stronger. Mark Bushaw

I second this. The YAS-61 is certainly a very sturdy instrument. I have never seen it compared to a 52, other than to say that it (the 61) is a much superior sax. I bought my son a used 61, and I wish I could find another at the same price for myself.

I stand corrected. Back to my original point, however, I think it is a fine sax. Excellent choice for an up & comer.

My YAS 62 is Ace

Campbell