King Marigaux Alto
$1,850.00
Crafted in Paris by the legendary SML, this professional-grade King saxophone is in exceptional condition and completely dent-free. It has just undergone a full professional rebuild—including new pads, corks, and felts—and was meticulously disassembled, cleaned, and lubed. Fully regulated and gig-ready, this horn comes complete with the original neck, a King A mouthpiece and ligature, end cap, cleaning swab, and a protective case.
Condition & Work Done
Details on the recent professional overhaul and physical state.
- Mechanical Overhaul: The instrument was completely disassembled for a deep action cleaning and fresh lubrication.
- New Components: Outfitted with brand-new pads, corks, and felts throughout.
- Physical State: Remarkable “very good” condition with no dents or dings.
- Setup: Professionally regulated and play-tested to ensure it is “gig-ready” out of the case.
1 in stock
Description
The King Marigaux Alto Saxophone is a professional-grade vintage instrument manufactured in France by Strasser Marigaux & Lemaire (SML) for King Musical Instruments between the 1960s and mid-1980s. Often referred to as an “SML stencil,” it is based on the prestigious SML Gold Medal series and is highly regarded for its rich, centered tone that blends the warmth of American horns with French precision.
Key Features and Specifications
- Manufacturer: Handmade in Paris by SML, a company renowned for high-quality woodwinds and world-class oboes.
- Design Traits: Shares many characteristics with SML’s Gold Medal series, though usually without the rolled tone holes found on some original SML models.
- Unique Mechanisms:
- Optional G# Articulation: Includes a lever to facilitate specific technical passages.
- Moveable Neck Receiver: Can be repositioned and tightened at various angles for player comfort.
- Gold Plated Springs: Designed to resist corrosion and maintain snappy action.
- Key Range: Keyed from low Bb up to high F, featuring a front F mechanism and genuine mother-of-pearl key touches.
- Sound Profile: Known for a dark, focused, and “huge” sound with excellent intonation across all registers, making it suitable for both jazz and classical music.
Comparison to Other Models
- Vs. Selmer Mark VI: Many players consider the King Marigaux a high-level professional alternative to the Selmer Mark VI of the same era, often offering a “fatter” sound at a significantly lower price point.
- Vs. American Kings: Unlike the legendary King Super 20 (made in Ohio), which is famous for its “pop” and brilliance, the Marigaux is darker and more centered, tailored more toward the classical community and jazz players seeking a focused sound.
Condition
We rate each horn’s condition. Any defects are noted here. Each criteria is on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being poor condition and 10 being perfect
- Body (dents, deep scratches, etc.) – 9 A couple of peppercorn size dimples
- Finish (lacquer, silver plate, paint, etc.) – 8 No scratches, wear from use on bow, and bell.
- Previous repairs (soldered posts, dent work, etc.) – 10 none noted
- Accessories (case, mouthpiece, etc.) – 8 case has wear on corner
- Playability (leaks, sticky keys, etc.) – 10 just rebuilt, plays as it should
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