Gold Plated King Super 20 Alto Saxophone, Full Pearls, 297,xxx, Charlie Parker S/N
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98% original gold plated 1948 297,xxx King Super 20 alto saxophone. Here is a rare, well preserved King Super 20 alto saxophone, made within a couple of months of Charlie Parker's Super 20. This is an artist model, made for Mariano Cabotaje, whose name was engraved on the bow to bell brace by a King craftsman. The saxophone is the "full pearls" version, which has extra pearl touches on the side keys, palm keys, octave key, alt F# key, G# key and pinky rollers.
The King Super 20 alto saxophone is a classic vintage saxophone that was the same model used by Charlie Parker and Cannonball Adderley. Among vintage saxophones, only the Mark VI has a bigger reputation. They tend to be a bit more outgoing and brash than the Mark VI.
The overall condition is excellent, and Eric Beach just performed a full mechanical overhaul. He used Pisoni Pro pads. The neck is a solid silver King neck, although the serial number is not present on the neck. Because of this, we think that it is not original to the horn. However, it's a great match and fits the body of the horn perfectly. The gold lacquer on the neck is a very close match to the gold plating. The sax comes in a leather Oleg case that is a good match for the horn. However, please contact me if you're interested in upgrading to a new Bam case.
The horn has the big, lush sound this model is known for, with more finesse than most, which may be the gold plating. It is even and stable at low dynamics and opens up when pushed. It is the best Super 20 I have played.
I have done a bit of research regarding the identity of the original owner, and I have come up with nothing so far. If the name of this saxophonist is familiar to any of you, please reach out to me.
