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C Melody Saxophone Forum / Repairs and Refurbishing / Plastic or Metal

Paul(UK) User ID: 0534004	May 10th 12:17 PM I was just wondering what people think are the most appropriate for a c melody, plastic or metal resonators. Paul
WW2 User ID: 0882114	May 11th 5:15 PM I would think whichever you prefer for sound. However, for a vintage look you might want to go for small metal resonators. Personally, I prefer large metal resonators, gold plated if possible! The purpose of resonators is to reflect the sound waves back from the tone holes into the saxophone when the keys are closed. They also reflect the sound waves out when the keys are open. Plastic and Metal resonators both do a decent job of this. The largest resonator that fits inside the tone hole will provide the most reflection thus adding to a brighter, and a bit louder sound. Having very small, or no resonators installed allows the pads to absorb the sound waves so you get a softer, more stuffy sound. I believe that the small to non-existent resonators on original C-Melody pads is what has caused the "stuffy sound" reputation they endure. Large plastic or metal resonators will allow the C-Melody to play with the brashest tenor saxophone.
Paul(UK) User ID: 0534004	May 13th 4:03 AM Thanks, I'll go with the metal. Paul