The contrabass saxophone is the largest member of the saxophone family. It does not sound as low as the BBb contrabass sarussophone or the contrabassoon, but it is heavier than these instruments with its wide saxophone bore. It has a height of six feet four inches and a weight of approximately 45 pounds. It produces a harsh and massive tone similar to a foghorn. It has an extremely low register that it can be difficult for listeners to perceive individual pitches. The contrabass saxophone is a rare instrument, but it is still in production today.
Types of Contrabass Saxophones
Kinds of Contrabass Saxophones include the following:
Standard contrabass saxophone
The standard contrabass saxophone is pitched in the key of double E-flat.
It is one octave lower than the baritone saxophone.
Tubax
The tubax is a newer version of the contrabass saxophone. It was developed in 1999.
It has the same register and fingering as the standard contrabass saxophone, but it has a narrower bore, making it more compact and manageable.
It has a reedier and fatter timbre similar to the double-reed sarrusophone.
Choosing Contrabass Saxophones (Buying tips)
Brand: To get quality construction and better sound, choose a contrabass saxophone made by a reputable manufacturer.
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