Jazzwise Magazine
Atlantic London 'The Duke' tenor saxophone
"We'd wager that it will soon become the first choice of instrument for pros and semi-pros alike"
There are more saxophones out there than you can shake a stick at, so any new offering needs to have some unique selling points to be able to cut into the crowded market.
Jamie Straker, owner of sax.co.uk, has seen and played plenty of saxophones over the years and his expertise together with that of his experienced staff not only know about the various instruments, but their knowledge base could be said to be second to none. So it’s not that surprising that Straker should set up a separate company under the brand name Atlantic London to launch his own models, bringing together all the best features of the myriad saxophones that have passed through sax.co.uk at one time or another.
We took a look at an unlacquered version of Atlantic London’s flagship model, the Duke. Manufactured in a bespoke facility in Taiwan, the build quality is exemplary. Crafted from high quality brass, it features a ribbed body construction with an enlarged bell, rolled tone holes (nice smooth top) and a RESO+ neck.
It’s clear from the outset that the key ergonomics have been designed with functionality in mind and veer towards more of a compact set-up, with closely aligned and reasonably flat countersunk but easily accessible table keys. The low keys have been manufactured with low tolerances, offering the player a secure but not set-up with a key action that is smooth, consistent, and relatively tight throughout.
The pads and springs are what you would expect on such an instrument (leather pads with metal resonators). In contrast to most Conn saxophones, the Duke features low Bb/B, C and Eb wire-style key guards.
In a similar vein, the octave key incorporates the same design, giving the sax a unique visual identity. But what really makes these saxes stand out from the crowd is their impressive engraving, featuring a hybrid traditional/art-deco style design. Apparently this work is completed by hand, courtesy of the factory’s master engraver.
There is also a bespoke metal head cap rather than the usual plastic one. Very nice, but don’t drop it on your foot! The choice of unlacquered or cognac finishes again makes the instrument contrast with the vast array of standard lacquered saxes on the market.
Also included is an Atlantic London Belgravia neckstrap with a wide cord spreader which is very practical and easily adjustable.
Out of the box the instrument fits like a glove, and the key placements, tension and response are perfect for our hands. Every note from bottom Bb to altissimo pops out with great ease. This is clearly not your standard Taiwanese stencil instrument.
Though the unlacquered version does involve wiping and maintenance to keep the great results. Add to this, keyguards with extra thought and design input, and it gives you the resulting instrument.
The Duke comes in a solid, stylish silver/slate coloured case with sturdy carrying straps and three simple latch clips for closure.
The Duke is set to join the well-established, high-end sax brands a good run for their money. And we'd wager that it will soon become the first choice of instrument for pros and semi-pros alike.