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Ground Breaking New Design from Eastman
Over the years, Eastman worked closely with world-renowned saxophonist Bob Mintzer to refine and elevate every aspect of the modern 52nd Street saxophone. Through extensive testing and collaboration, new approaches to body construction, tone hole configuration, and neck design were explored—each contributing to a more resonant, expressive, and responsive instrument. The ‘DS’ mechanism is named after prolific flute company WMS Haynes’ head body designer David Schipani. Eastman is the head company of WMS Haynes and have combined forces to create some exceptional new designs on the 850 range.
The overarching innovation with this series is that the left and right hand key action has been redesigned to feel much more smooth and fluid.
The 52nd Street saxophone is a professional instrument and comes unlacquered for a truly vintage appearance. It is an exceptionally responsive horn in all registers and produces a big, fat sound with precise intonation. A larger bell and rolled-style tone holes contribute to the sound qualities of this instrument that many compare to some of the great vintage horns of the past. Developed in collaboration with acclaimed saxophonist Alex Hahn—whose deep familiarity with the 52nd Street Alto made him an ideal partner—this instrument builds upon the innovations introduced with the ETS852 Tenor. This model includes both an "S" and "H" neck, developed with Alex Hahn, and features our DS mechanism to provide players with versatility and unmatched playability.
At the core of the EAS852 is the unmistakable 52nd Street philosophy: a robust tonal center, exceptional projection, and depth of sound. Paired with the patented DS Mechanism, it delivers a playing experience delivers improved key action, stability, and reliability.
Other great features include:
Two necks: The EAS852 features both the standard “S” neck and the newly designed “H” neck, developed specifically for Hahn to deliver a seamless, optimized pairing with the instrument. While grounded in the same design philosophy, the alto required its own refinements—resulting in an instrument that offers a compelling balance of power, immediacy, and tonal richness.
Redesigned octave key mechanism: A much more ergonomic and comfortable thumb rest which has strayed away from the traditional circular shape and is now a crescent shape, which is complimented by a sculpted octave key design.
Rounded tone hole cups: Very much reminiscent of a vintage horn.
Redesigned palm keys: Designed to fit much more comfortably in a palm, these keys have been bevelled and shaped.
Side F♯ and top F♯ redesigned: Designed to much more comfortably fit into a hand shape.
Deluxe hand engraving: This range has some super elegant engraving, really making it stand out.
The amount of thought that has gone into each aspect of design in this saxophone is truly mind blowing. Each aspect has been deliberated over to help the player find the overall sound they’re looking for.
About Eastman
Eastman Music was founded in 1992 by Qian Ni, an accomplished flutist from Beijing after graduating from the Boston University School of Music. He never imagined that over the course of 25 years, the company would grow from a small business operated out of the back of his car into a global maker of musical instruments. Eastman products are handmade products made to the highest quality and offer great value for money.
Their traditional approach in their workshops ensures players receive an instrument of the highest quality regardless of level. Employing the same methods used in workshops over 100 years ago, each instrument resonates with a voice only achieved by these techniques. From the first student instrument to the professional heirloom, Eastman Music Company is committed to crafting the finest instruments for musicians throughout the world.
These time-honoured yet humble beginnings keep us grounded as the Eastman family grows into our third decade of service, supplying the world with the finest instruments. We will continue to provide the responsive service and outstanding products that have helped us emerge as a leader in the world of modern instruments.
