Saxophone Resonators

Resonators are attached to the pad with a rivet and they reflect sound back into the bore of the saxophone. While there are a lot of theories in the saxophone repair field about the different sizes, shapes, and types of metals used in resonators, it is often difficult to pinpoint with certainty the specific differences that resonators make. Generally, increased surface area of the resonator is attributed to free-blowing and "brightness".

Less surface area is attributed to a "darker" sound. Because the resonator is only one contributor among many factors in sound production, it is best to let the player decide what they like best.

From least surface area to most, the resonators go from: rivet, flat metal, domed, seamless domed, Maestro Classic, and Maestro Airtight. In the Sax ProShop, we generally like to use flat metal resonators on vintage instruments that originally came from the factory with them, such as Conn and Martin saxophones. For most other saxophones, Seamless Domed metal resonators are a great choice because of their versatility. Many players who are seeking more projection will choose Maestro resonators.