Let's just start this with an opinion (which I don't like to do): This is my favorite soprano saxophone that's available from P. Mauriat, and I'm surprised more people haven't adopted this model.
What makes the 601 Soprano different are a few things. Firstly, you can get the 601 in two different configurations: A (typical) straight bell, and a Saxello-inspired tipped bell configuration. Second, when you consider other P. Mauriat models, the 601 features a different and (in my opinion) larger body bore than the 76 series sopranos, which are the biggest selling models for P. Mauriat.
This has a beautifully dark, round tone that sits beautifully in any setting.
Want a P. Mauriat 601 Soprano Sax for yourself? These are typically a special order from your local P. Mauriat dealer, but you may have some luck on Amazon.com.
Round, Rich tone
I always recommend this horn to people who want a dark tone on a soprano, and I especially recommend it to those looking for a very free-blowing horn. What makes the 601 stand out most to me is the tipped bell design, which is a design we haven't seen much of in quite a few decades. The tipped bell option changes the tone just a little bit, and it sounds a bit more 'round' to the ear. Also, you've got the added advantage of projecting your sound forward instead of towards the ground like a typical soprano saxophone.
P. Mauriat came from being a little-known brand in 2005 to being the industry leader for Taiwanese-made saxophones in 2019. Not to mention, they're constantly nipping at the heels of Yamaha and Selmer in terms of sales. Of all of the Taiwanese brands, P. Mauriat is also a leader in R&D and Quality Control. PM is constantly working to develop new versions of their horns or even make improvements to previous models.
The P. Mauriat 601 Soprano Sax comes with a soft shell case (similar to a ProTec) with a strap, but cork grease, a neckstrap, a cleaning cloth a warranty card, and a stock mouthpiece.
If you're looking to buy one for yourself, please contact your local P. Mauriat dealer.
Want my thoughts?
I was visiting P. Mauriat's headquarters and showroom in Taipei, Taiwan when I discovered this horn for the first time. There are probably 30 unique horns in the showroom, but after I saw this particular one, I couldn't put it down for a whole afternoon. I just couldn't stop practicing on it, and it fit my concept of sound so well. 6 months later, I bought one and the rest is history.
My 601 has been in my possession for 6 years, and has been on tour with me for 4 years. It's been to 40+ countries and 48 states, and rarely needs to be worked on (although I do put it in for preventative maintenance).
My tech, Tyler Hill, going over my 601.
The only downside (in my opinion) to the 601 is that it will be difficult to find an aftermarket case for it if you need one. The soft case that it comes in is ok, but I think it deserves a hard case design.
Why P. Mauriat?
P. Mauriat is constantly looking to make a better saxophone, and the passion for the saxophone seems to include every employee working there.
Made in Taiwan, the company is owned by a saxophone player who lives and breathes music. His passion for the saxophone led him to put other things in life down and start a saxophone company. Primarily known for the 76 and 66/67 models, P. Mauriat is known for beautiful handmade saxophones.
From P. Mauriat's website: "P. Mauriat Instruments represent the embodiment of aesthetic beauty and technical precision. All of our horns are handmade in order to bring out the innate characteristics of sound of each exclusive model. The natural sound quality of our horns is what we believe differentiates us from all others, and we believe that you will hear it too."
This has a beautifully dark, round tone that sits beautifully in any setting.
Please note: SaxophoneCentral.com gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Purchasing items through these links help to support our website and corresponding Youtube Channel.
