Yamaha finally adds Custom baritone!

We wrote earlier this year about Yamaha releasing a new intermediate level baritone. Well, it seems like this is the year for Yamaha and the baritone. They have finally released a baritone on their “Custom” line of instruments, which is their highest professional level instruments. This model will be the YBS-82. One of the most important features of the new model is a choice of hand made neck – more on that in just a bit. In addition to neck choice there are six different finishes –  lacquer and plating options,  and additional key options (can be ordered without high F#). The bell will be one piece construction as opposed to the YBS-62’s two piece. Key buttons will be mother of pearl, as opposed to most Yamaha’s polyester/plastic buttons.

There are some important changes and improvements from the existing horns as well. Ergonomic improvements, and a shorter bell! The shorter bell is a welcome change, both for tuning and size reasons. Not only has Yamaha released two completely new models of baritone but they have also announced the YBS-62II! This will replace the current YBS-62 with many of the same ergonomic improvements. Both the YBS-82 and YBS-62 will come with an integrated, but removable peg to make the horn easier to play while sitting down.

Custom Necks!

Custom necks are all the rage right now, players are finally discovering how much of a difference the neck of a saxophone can make. Both by changing materials, bore, plating etc. So the most exciting news here could be that Yamaha is offering a custom hand made neck with the new YBS-82. But also that they will have these necks for sale a la carte as well, and that these necks will work with any current Yamaha baritone! Pricing starting at $366 – which is actually incredibly cheap compared to current custom neck options. They will offer three different bore/taper sizes (C [small], E [medium], V [large]), and 6 finish options. This could be an amazing way to spruce up or improve your current Yamaha horn. I also wonder if… maybe these custom necks could work on Selmer baritones? I’m hoping someone can try this out sometime and let us know!

How does it play?

I was offered the chance to try a new ‘secret’ baritone from Yamaha at the Navy Sax show in January of this year. I was floored, and which I had gotten to spend more time playing it. The horn felt great under the fingers, but I was most blown away by the neck options and how different the tapers felt. I am so glad that Yamaha has finally entered the truly top end range of saxophones that they had already done with their soprano, alto, and tenor lines!