Used Martin Committee A190 - 1948 Alto Saxophone w/Case & Mouthpiece

A190

$1,749.99

In Stock!

Free Shipping on Most Orders Over $99 Lower 48* USA

30-day guarantee and hassle-free returns

A “classic” sound is determined by the craftsmanship that goes into the making of an instrument and, most assuredly, by the passionate music making of the performer. Over time, the vision of a great playing instrument, coupled with the forging of an iconic sound, brings out devoted players seeking to capture that incredible quality of play in the modern age.

“The Martin” from Martin is one of these sought-after saxophones that has truly stood the test of time. Our featured instrument dates from 1948 and bears Serial Number 1693XX. Often described as a “Committee III” model, its intrinsic sound quality is derived from its core layer of brass and the intensive mechanism build that companies of the "Golden Age" of manufacturing produced as common fare. Of course, this is not your common saxophone by a long shot.

This vintage saxophone is being sold AS IS, with no returns accepted. Please review all photos and the description carefully before purchasing.

  • Vintage craftsmanship – Manufactured in 1948, this Martin “Committee III” saxophone represents the golden age of instrument making
  • Rich, dark tone – Soldered tone holes and heavy brass construction create a deep, resonant sound
  • Unique design elements – Features ornate key guards, creative bell adornments, and a matching neck
  • Advanced mechanics – Includes an innovative octave key mechanism and adjustable metal thumb rest
  • Well-aged patina – Shows natural wear but maintains structural integrity with no major dents or damage
  • Collector’s item – Sold "AS-IS" for musicians or collectors seeking a historic, old-school sound

Included in the package are:

Used Martin Committee A190 - 1948 Alto Saxophone w/Case & Mouthpiece

*Includes hardshell case and mouthpiece

Apply for extended financing through Synchrony with George's Music and start playing now.

Apply here

Learn more

Most orders placed by 3pm EST ship same day!

1-day delivery for most PA and FL orders!

Used Martin Committee A190 1948 Alto Saxophone w/Case & Mouthpiece

Used Martin Committee A190 - 1948 Alto Saxophone w/Case & Mouthpiece

$1,749.99

$1,749.99

Before we delve into the physical attributes of this particular serialized Alto Saxophone, let us first review some of the nuts and bolts of the instrument itself. For this model designation, the manufacturer employed soldered tones to help give the saxophone a dark and active sound quality. Also found in the construct of the instrument is heavy walls made from quality brass alloys. Other interesting details of this model saxophone include a state of the art Octave Key Mechanism (for its’ time), movable/adjustable metal Thumb Rest, Ornate Key Guards, festooned with creative bell adornments and encompassing a matching neck. True care and concern for a higher build sentiment went into making the now classic “The Martin – Committee III” for generations upon generations.

The instruments’ beauty is beneath the surface. In this case and like a strong percentage of many of the different model runs, the discoloration or metal flaking is a common formality. At first, we were ready to condemn the previous owner for using it as a marching band sacrifice, but after consultation with our repair technician and doing some snooping, we learned the facts about this model.

Though the patina is worn, the actual underlying brass and key mechanism is as strong as the day it was manufactured. Visible on this instrument is nearly seventy-seven years of usage. There are the usual pings and dings from common play-through; but no major dents and only a few repairs done over the course of the previous owner(s) usage. With all of this in mind and our interaction with a regionally known woodwind repair artisan, we have elected to sell the instrument “AS-IS”.

FEATURES

  • Vintage craftsmanship – Manufactured in 1948, this Martin “Committee III” saxophone represents the golden age of instrument making
  • Rich, dark tone – Soldered tone holes and heavy brass construction create a deep, resonant sound
  • Unique design elements – Features ornate key guards, creative bell adornments, and a matching neck
  • Advanced mechanics – Includes an innovative octave key mechanism and adjustable metal thumb rest
  • Well-aged patina – Shows natural wear but maintains structural integrity with no major dents or damage
  • Collector’s item – Sold "AS-IS" for musicians or collectors seeking a historic, old-school sound

*Includes hardshell case and mouthpiece

DESCRIPTION

Manufactured in 1948, this The Martin "Committee III" Alto Saxophone represents one of the most respected American saxophone designs of the Golden Age of instrument manufacturing. Its heavy brass construction, soldered tone holes, and precision keywork produce the warm, full-bodied sound that has made the Committee III a favorite among collectors and vintage saxophone enthusiasts.

This instrument displays approximately 77 years of honest use, including natural lacquer wear, patina, and typical cosmetic blemishes associated with a vintage instrument of this era. The underlying brass remains structurally solid, with no major dents and only minor repairs completed during its lifetime.

After consultation with our repair technician, we have elected not to perform additional mechanical adjustments. Every player and collector has different preferences regarding setup, regulation, and restoration, and we believe the next owner should have the opportunity to have the instrument serviced to their own specifications.

Accordingly, this saxophone is offered at a fair market price and is sold AS IS with NO RETURNS.

Whether you're searching for an exceptional restoration candidate, a collectible American classic, or a vintage instrument with the unmistakable Martin sound, this Committee III is an outstanding opportunity.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Model: Committee III
  • Year: 1948
  • Serial Number: 1693XX
  • Tone Holes: Soldered
  • Body Material: Heavy brass alloy
  • Octave Key Mechanism: Advanced for its time
  • Thumb Rest: Adjustable metal
  • Key Guards: Ornate design
  • Bell Engraving: Decorative adornments
  • Finish: Aged patina with natural wear
  • Neck: Matching original
  • Condition: Sold "AS-IS" with minor repairs and no major dents

*Includes hardshell case and mouthpiece

While the basic adjustments are fairly common to be performed, the needs of a collector or a performer may make null and void the usual considerations on the saxophone. We feel that each possible new owner may elect to have their own technician make adjustments and/or improvements based upon their own particular needs. Thus, it is our desire to sell this instrument in its present state at a fair-market price. If you are looking for an instrument to add to your collection or desire that “old-school” sound; look no further than this advertisement. Get it before it’s gone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Specs & Support

  • Model: Committee III
  • Year: 1948
  • Serial Number: 1693XX
  • Tone Holes: Soldered
  • Body Material: Heavy brass alloy
  • Octave Key Mechanism: Advanced for its time
  • Thumb Rest: Adjustable metal
  • Key Guards: Ornate design
  • Bell Engraving: Decorative adornments
  • Finish: Aged patina with natural wear
  • Neck: Matching original
  • Condition: Sold "AS-IS" with minor repairs and no major dents

*Includes hardshell case and mouthpiece

RECENTLY VIEWED PRODUCTS