How do you know if your saxophone is leaking?
Leaks. A leak happens when something on the saxophone such as pad closing is not an airtight seal. The symptoms are squeaking or notes not sounding properly and generally a feeling of resistance. A good indication of a leaking saxophone is when you suddenly find you can no longer play a low note pianissimo.
Why is my saxophone leaking?
So, what causes air leaks? Sometimes they happen when keys are bent out of position, but most of the time they’re due to old or deteriorating pads. As sax pads get older, the leather gets stiff and doesn’t seal well.
How do you inspect saxophone pads?
To test each pad, you’ll need to close each key and form a tight seal with the pad. Your leak light should be directly behind the pad that you’re testing. Once you’ve pressed down on the key, look around it to see if you observe any light shining through. Light indicates a leak.
How can you tell if a saxophone pad is good?
A pad can be quite hard and moldy and still be working just fine, assuming no leaks. But, if it is newer, clean, etc, it is more likely to be sealing well (assuming your tech is good).
How much does it cost to fix a saxophone?
Saxophone Repair
| SAXOPHONES | Average for Playing Condition | *Repad |
|---|---|---|
| Student B Flat Soprano | $80.00 | $490.00 |
| E Flat Alto | $80.00 | $490.00 |
| B Flat Tenor/ C Melody | $90.00 | $500.00 |
| E Flat Baritone** | $125.00 | $630.00 |
How long do saxophone repairs take?
It usually takes around between 30 to 40 hours to do a total refurb this includes total stripdown getting the silver plate finish up to scratch, re-padding & re-corking the whole works including some spring replacement it’s hards work & can be done ….
How do you use a saxophone leak light?
Put your flexible leak light through the instrument and position it so the light is under the pad being tested. Close the pad against the tone hole. Press lightly, or the value of the test is lost. Heavy pressure will seal almost any pad against its tone hole and create the impression that the pad covers.
How do you know if your flute is leaking?
CHECKING FOR PAD LEAKS Visually inspect the pads. Look for tears or spots where the pads have worn through. Examine your flute under good lighting, possibly using a flashlight to see the pads more clearly. Tears or worn spots in the pad skin may reveal a small area of white felt showing through the pad skin.
How do you clean saxophone pads?
While most saxophone players prefer the paper methods described above, another option is to clean the pads and key holes with rubbing alcohol. To use this option, douse a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and clean swipe it on each key pad and around each tone hole to clean away any visible residue.
