Supreme Sound / Elegant Design / Best Ergonomics
Now many of you haven't heard of the brand Skytone. Well... just to start things off, Skytone is a brand that specialises in Saxophones straight from Taiwan, showcasing many Selmer features, yet at the same time offer their own original technology to help and improve the quality of a saxophone.
Now we just had to get an experts opinion on this, and who better to review the Skytone Saxophone than our very own repair technician. The very person who fixes any bumps or bruises on the saxophone gives his very own opinion on the feel and structure of this saxophone.
Skytone A702-GL Alto Saxophone
Technicians Opinion
Now as a repair technician, I can say hands down that Skytone saxophones are definitely built for playability but more at an affordable price. Not comparing the different brands and overall quality of saxophones, Skytone has certainly created their own league.
As for the unboxing, first thing you would notice is the saxophone packed in a rectangular soft case; light-weight and portable. Apart from basic saxophone setup, you get microfiber cleaning cloth, fine cork grease and my favorite "adjustable neck strap with hook lock". After trying it myself, I felt that the strap was very comfortable on the neck, and you never feel the weight of the saxophone-as if it's levitating itself.
Close up details on the Saxophone
As a player, there were no issues ergonomically. When you have one of these in your hands, it just feels like it's hand-carved for you. The keys have a sturdy feel, but at the same time it's extremely smooth and natural. It's just a pleasure to hold in your hands.
The sounds you get from a saxophone has a lot more to do with the player behind it, their sound concept, their mouthpiece and reed set-up has a higher impact in comparison to the saxophone itself. No one would ever say that this saxophone is better suited to jazz or classical or rock music because it just allows the player to play whatever they desire.
When looking for a saxophone many people ask "does it play in tune?"
I can say, saxophone players' play in tune - the saxophones themselves not so much. I've never had a saxophone that you could adjust one embouchure and one voicing and play every note in tune without making any adjustments. That's so surreal.
It's an elegant instrument and I'm not just talking about the fine engraving, the sleek underslung octave key mechanism, and-you know-the overall look of the whole thing. This is not an eye-candy, nothing fancy, no gimmicks. The beauty of this instrument speaks for itself.
In a Nutshell
I bet there are no other saxophones (I personally haven't found it yet) in the world that gives absolute value for every cent you invest. The case comes with a full set of accessories and exquisite saxophone; with a marvelous sound and so easy to play. I suggest it's best suited for beginners and intermediate players. Granted that an instrument is so excellent, that in itself is a pack full of motivation. I reckon it's a smooth and effortless journey, learning and mastering the saxophone with brands like Skytone.