Keilwerth 1981 ‘[Superba II] – Armstrong Heritage’ Bb Soprano, Stencil #85k(Archived)

1981 Armstrong (Keilwerth) Heritage Soprano

The Armstrong Heritage model was made by Keilwerth and should basically be considered the Couf Superba ii. Common Keilwerth stencil stamping on the rear body tube: "Made in West Germany exclusively for the W.T. Armstrong Company, Julius Keilwerth, Musical Instrument Factory". There is no F# on this sax and I'll insert my Couf description to add info and context here:

Made famous by Grover Washington Jr., these sopranos are steadily becoming more sought after due to the strong build, intonation, ergos, and a price that isn't blowing up your bank. Although Superba 1's (alto and tenor) have rolled tone holes, the sopranos do not, whether it is a "i" or a "ii",; as well as baritones! It does have the "JK" rear stamp but none of the "Made for WT Armstrong..." that is seen on later examples. It has standard sized pearls (not the over-sized like alto and tenor).

My friend Helen helps distinguish Couf sopranos best: BassicSax website. I encourage you to read it for some really good info.

Like an early era of Couf Superba II soprano, this one does not have the high F# key; the early examples also have the metal thumbhook but this one is plastic. And like all of them, the lack of a neckstrap ring has caused many owners to add one; many people add one. 

TONE: It is cleaner and focused more than I would have thought (based on my JK tenor/also experiences). I found it "refreshing" for a soprano.

PADS: It arrived with a what could be original pads.

REBUILD: not needed, but you can request such. The price will be very attractive in the current condition. 

CASE: Original Armstrong case in great shape with keys included!

Item#:WWSL4.1S5.3S9.08202.0-C0-003