It’s consensus that the SBA has the best sound and keywork among vintage saxophones. And for that reason, the list of SBA players is long and impressive, including John Coltrane, Scott Hamilton, Branford Marsalis, Joshua Redman, James Carter, etc.
This 34xxx silverplated one is no exception with a rich, lush sound. As the pictures show, the horn is in minty condition with 99.99 % of its original silverplate intact. Furthermore, the horn was overhauled two months ago by Wichita Band Instruments with metal resonators, so it’s in top physical and playing shape.
A relacquered SBA tenor goes for about US$ 8000 or $9000 these days—depending on what dealer you’re looking at.