Yamaha Custom YAS-855 Alto Saxophone, Near Mint
Yamaha Custom YAS-855 alto saxophone. Here's a one-owner horn that is in near mint condition. This is the rarest Yamaha Custom model, which was only produced in the 1990's. This one is an early one that has a low 4-digit serial number. I'd guess that this was made around 1993. Yamaha came out with the 855 and 875 at the same time. The 855 had a smaller bore and fewer were produced. However, for many saxophonists, this is the best Custom model, which is increasingly hard to find. This model is quite nostalgic for me, as it was the first pro horn that my parents bought for me when I was 13 years old.
This is an incredible playing horn. The action still feels new and smooth. The low notes pop out and the entire range is silky and responsive. The tone is a bit darker than an 875. It sort of reminds me of a 62 in terms of tone and response, but with a richer tone.