First, let me say that I completely agree that the Keilwerth SX90R is the ONE modern saxophone that is cut from a different cloth and comes closest to what the Conn 10M was all about. HUGE SOUND!!! Nice spread and flexible core and such a fast response. But the Keilwerth has the advantage of better (modern) keywork and a much better scale. Don't get me wrong, I love a good WWII vintage Conn 10M or 30M and I choose to play them on gigs from time to time. But, all things being equal (and take out the sentimental, "I'm playing the same horn that early Dexter played")..........guess what, I'm grabbing my Keilwerth SX90R!!!
To be more precise, if you haven't tried the new VINTAGE series SX90R, then DO SO!!! This particular new Keilwerth saxophone (set up properly with a nice open key height) is great! Check out this new Vintage Series SX90R and open your mind to a new tonal concept!!! It's the real deal!!!
All other modern saxophone makers seem to be trying to replicate (with varying degrees of success) one specific tonal concept that Selmer hit upon in the 1950's. While this sound may have ushered in the bop and post-bop movements heralded by many players of iconic status.........with all due respect, today's player needs to be more than that!!! SOUND is key; and the key to sound is creating your own voice steeped in tradition. Seriously, is there more to it than that.......I don't think so!
So, all modern saxophones don't have to sound the same and they don't have to have that same "forced" (but not yet fully achieved) vintage Selmer focused core. THANK GOODNESS that Keilwerth saxophones has recently doubled down their efforts and continues to believe in diversity. I love that BIG broad Keilwerth sound! Its unique, its true to itself and its not trying to half-ass replicate something that's already been done!!!
Keilwerth is the only big player manufacturer who has stayed true to their vision of what a saxophone should be..........and it's without a doubt the closest existing version to what the 40's Conn "naked lady" saxophone was all about.
To get back to the response here, I have to say, I really don't think the neck enhancer from Saxgourmet is going to get you what you are looking for here. I'm friends with Steve Goodson and I'm a huge fan of his vision in seeing beyond the Selmer Mark VI in regards to his own saxophone line. But, really, in this instance, take the 10M for what it is and relish its beauty. Perhaps, try the neck enhancer as its a relatively inexpensive investment, but my guess is that it will quickly be another one of those accessories that fills up your desk drawer in this instance.
BEST OF LUCK!!!!
Cheers,
Mark Overton
WWW.SAXQUEST.COM