Testimonials
Customer reviews
"The neck affords a nice buzz to the sound and speaks beautifully in all the registers, even altissimo up to high Eb! Still a strong core and enough edge, all the volume and control I could hope for. This is the best time I’ve ever had and my sound has always been my biggest focus as I’ve been playing for 60 years!"
Richard B
Redwood hand hammered copper on Selmer Mark VI
"Again, just amazing the intonation is perfect and so easy, thank you this neck is perfect for my Yamaha EX Custom it added excitement to the sound! Well I am sure all this has been said before, so again thank you for your dedication and craftsmanship."
Eduardo W
Silver plated Redwood hand hammered copper on Yamaha EX Custom tenor sax
"I have had the Vanguard neck now for one week now and I cannot find enough superlatives to use to describe it. It has made an astonishing difference on my Mark VI. The fit was perfect and I immediately could feel that the delivery of the air through the horn was different. My main reason for getting the neck was due to intonation problems. I see now that the original neck was the culprit here. The intonation is vastly improved with the KB neck. I would have settled for this alone but the improvement in tone is just so noticeable. My sound has much more color and nuance to it. The response is immediate and the altissimo effortless. I swear I feel like I have a new Mark VI."
Lenny L
Vanguard M-61 brass tenor neck on Selmer Mark VI 102xxx
"I just wanted to say thanks for delivering the best tenor neck that I have ever played. It is nothing short of amazing.
Thanks again,"
Darren O
Canyon M61 silver plate on Selmer Mark VI 86,xxx tenor
"Hey Kim, I want to update you on your Redwood neck on my Supreme tenor. Thank you for suggesting that neck on that horn. That neck/horn combo, with my Drake SOS(M) mouthpiece and Select Jazz reeds, make for the best tone I've ever produced. It's exactly the tone concept I've had for a long time. I truly couldn't be happier. And, the bonus is that neck, lacquered, is drop dead gorgeous. Thanks,"
Brian C
Redwood HH copper on Selmer Supreme tenor sax
"I did an all acoustic concert in Miller Theatre back in January. I would never have dared to do this without the projection of my new neck! I felt that every note at all dynamic levels were keenly heard by the whole audience. The set was recorded and here are the preliminary mixes in case you would like to check it out. Thanks again for your amazing work."
Ole M
Redwood hand hammered copper on Keilwerth SX90R
"Hi Kim, I had a great session with the neck today, and I’m really impressed. The intonation is spot on across the full range of the horn. Compared to my original Selmer neck, the tone has more clarity and projection, yet still retains a rich, complex character. I’m excited to make this part of my setup for years to come! Thanks again for the excellent craftsmanship and support."
Jeremy M
Vanguard hand hammered bronze on Selmer Mark VI # 80,xxx tenor sax
"Kim, I love the new necks I ordered. Thank you!
I was hoping to decide between the two but have decided to keep both, which seems a little impractical but they work differently with different mouthpieces. They are truly life-changing in the practice room, even for an amateur player like me who will never probably scale the heights of playing that you have.
I know that there has been quite a bit of experimentation and development time on these necks and I am truly appreciative. To all the vintage horn players out there, we thank you for these necks!!! You are offering a valuable product to us that makes me want to play even more! Thank you.
The new neck is fantastic! Good tenon fit and this horn really needs the focus that it gives!"
I was hoping to decide between the two but have decided to keep both, which seems a little impractical but they work differently with different mouthpieces. They are truly life-changing in the practice room, even for an amateur player like me who will never probably scale the heights of playing that you have.
I know that there has been quite a bit of experimentation and development time on these necks and I am truly appreciative. To all the vintage horn players out there, we thank you for these necks!!! You are offering a valuable product to us that makes me want to play even more! Thank you.
The new neck is fantastic! Good tenon fit and this horn really needs the focus that it gives!"
Dewey B
Vanguard C69 on Selmer Mark VI tenor 94,xxx
"Hey Kim. Just wanted to send a message and let you know how much I am loving my neck. The redwood has added so much to my playing and I am really loving it. Thanks so much"
Joe N
Redwood HH copper on Selmer Mark VI 164,xxx tenor
"Hi there Kim, Just received my neck and wow my horn has never sounded so great! Really appreciate all the help."
Jordan B
Canyon C69 brass on Selmer SBA 54,xxx alto
"Hi Kim, the neck arrived on saturday in perfect shape.
I could play it since then and I feel it is a solid improvement on my horn. I loose nothing of its qualities - especially richness of tone - and also gain a lot : the sound is more open, articulation is better, intonation and homogeneity between registers are great.
I still need to work a little to adjust my embouchure and get fully accustomed to it, to explore this new sound palette. There is for sure something new - and better - in my sound now.
I had in the past tested some neck options, but there were always drawbacks and in the end the original neck was the winner for global coherence. Not with yours.
The best feature when blowing is perhaps the sensation of a better conection to the horn, for a better expression. Thank you very much!"
I could play it since then and I feel it is a solid improvement on my horn. I loose nothing of its qualities - especially richness of tone - and also gain a lot : the sound is more open, articulation is better, intonation and homogeneity between registers are great.
I still need to work a little to adjust my embouchure and get fully accustomed to it, to explore this new sound palette. There is for sure something new - and better - in my sound now.
I had in the past tested some neck options, but there were always drawbacks and in the end the original neck was the winner for global coherence. Not with yours.
The best feature when blowing is perhaps the sensation of a better conection to the horn, for a better expression. Thank you very much!"
Emmanuel S (France)
Vanguard C69 on Selmer reference 36 tenor sax
"Good evening Kim! I realized I never thanked you for your amazing work on my two necks, so thank you! I just got back from my first tour with the alto neck, and it was fantastic. Loved the projection and change in sound quality. The tenor neck is special too and makes me feel like a decent tenor player ha… have yet to play a gig on it but I can’t wait. Thank you so much Kim!"
Jake C
Vanguard hand hammered copper tenor neck on Yamaha Custom Z tenor sax
Gold plated Vanguard hand hammered copper alto neck on Selmer Reference alto sax
Gold plated Vanguard hand hammered copper alto neck on Selmer Reference alto sax
"Kim, I just received the copper neck, and OH MY GOODNESS. This thing is unreal. I'm going to have to get used to completely nonchalantly playing in the altissimo, because that is how easy it feels. The instrument feels punchy and resonant in all ranges, and it has the exact projection and focus that was advertised.
Thank you so so much for this, and for being so wonderful to work with."
Dave L
Vanguard HH copper tenor neck on 200,xxx Selmer mark VI
"The KB by Kim Bock is maybe the most beautiful saxophone piece I’ve ever seen. A work of art.
Intonation on these all out perform BSS neck which I’ve been playing on for a month. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Above high B were always a bit sharp as you know. Even after servicing from a solid Selmer tech.
Not anymore!
As you suggested, the Canyon and Vanguard maintain that vintage Mark VI sound I love. Especially in the lower register. Resonant and warm
Projection is crazy good! Effortless blowing.
All notes through the full range are equally as clear and focused.
Easier to achieve altissimo and more power in that register.
Just makes the horn even more of a joy to play which will result in my playing even longer hours daily.
Note:
I’m on a 10MFan Alto Madness 6 with Rigotti Gold 3 (Light).
Congratulations on your hard work Kim. Best in class for sure."
David R
Canyon brass, Vanguard C69 brass and KB by Kim Bock hand hammered V brass on 76,xxx Selmer Mark VI alto sax
"Hi Kim, For 3 weeks we are back from our trip to NY. It was a pleasure to meet you in your workshop.
I have now played the Vanguard hand hammered bronze for a while, and I enjoy it very much. The response is very quick and it is easy to play. I played it on my SBA, but it sounds much better on my BA. The neck works on both instruments.
Everything fine! I am happy with the new neck!
I have now played the Vanguard hand hammered bronze for a while, and I enjoy it very much. The response is very quick and it is easy to play. I played it on my SBA, but it sounds much better on my BA. The neck works on both instruments.
Everything fine! I am happy with the new neck!
Rainer S
Vanguard HH bronze tenor on Selmer BA & SBA
"Hi Kim,
I hope this finds you well.
I wanted to let you know how much I’m loving the Vanguard neck on my MKVI tenor. I recently needed to get the cork replaced, and went back to playing my original Mark VI neck for a while. It’s a very good neck, but as soon as I put yours back on, there was no contest!
I just wanted to thank you again for making such a fantastic product. I appreciate how much time and effort goes into creating something like this, and I look forward to playing this neck for many years to come."
Kelly J
Vanguard C69 brass on Selmer Mark VI 205,xxx
"Kim, I received the neck and it’s absolutely stunning. It fits like a glove, has an amazing tone, and the articulation is incredible on it. And can’t forget to mention that the high notes really sing better than with my old neck, and subtoning down low is magnificently easy with this new neck too.
Thank you for all the hard work you put into your product, and the great communication! Cheers."
Tim G
Vanguard hand hammered copper on Buescher Big B (1949) tenor saxophone serial number 318,xxx
"Hi Kim, so a friend brought me the neck, thank you very much, the neck is fantastic /WAU/👏👍👍🎶🎶🎷🎷🎷, an immediate change, I have to get used to it a bit and adjust the position of the chin and lips, but those are things that only get better you are doing a fantastic job, thank you very much again and all the best"
Ladislav B
KB by Kim Bock alto sax neck on Rampone Cazzani alto sax
"Hi Kim,
I received the saxophone neck. The color is spot on and it plays great. The sound is more focused than the original neck, which I truly appreciate. Thanks so much for creating such beautiful playing necks."
Karl B
Vanguard M-61 dark lacquer on Selmer 47,xxx (SBA) tenor sax
"I really have no complaints. You’ve turned a horn that didn’t play into one of my favorite instruments. Very happy with it and the next investment I make in my sound will be a neck for my Yamaha in silver. Thanks again!"
Don B
Vanguard hand hammered copper on Selmer Mark VI 224,xxx
"Hi Kim,
So much has happened since I received your saxophone neck. I had intended to have responded the moment I received and played it. All I can say is EXCELLENT! It really opened up my VI with a NICE, WARM, FOCUSED sound. When I had lessons 2 weeks ago, my sax instructor's wife overheard me playing and complimented "what a nice sound I had."
The funny thing about it is my instructor had just purchased an 85k original VI (~$14k). He started the lesson off by playing many different tunes. Or rather, showing it off. But, when he finally settled to allow me to replay a ballad that he had just played, his jaws dropped. He noticed the quality of the sound right away. To be honest, although we were on skype, I sounded better than he did. 🙂 I guess he found it hard to accept that my 142k VI could sound just as good or better than his new 85k VI.
And yes, it was visibly obvious that I had another neck. So, thank you so much for creating such a beautiful looking and sounding saxophone neck. I'm looking forward to playing it for many years to come. And I'm also looking forward to receiving the SBA neck. Until we talk, have a great weekend."
So much has happened since I received your saxophone neck. I had intended to have responded the moment I received and played it. All I can say is EXCELLENT! It really opened up my VI with a NICE, WARM, FOCUSED sound. When I had lessons 2 weeks ago, my sax instructor's wife overheard me playing and complimented "what a nice sound I had."
The funny thing about it is my instructor had just purchased an 85k original VI (~$14k). He started the lesson off by playing many different tunes. Or rather, showing it off. But, when he finally settled to allow me to replay a ballad that he had just played, his jaws dropped. He noticed the quality of the sound right away. To be honest, although we were on skype, I sounded better than he did. 🙂 I guess he found it hard to accept that my 142k VI could sound just as good or better than his new 85k VI.
And yes, it was visibly obvious that I had another neck. So, thank you so much for creating such a beautiful looking and sounding saxophone neck. I'm looking forward to playing it for many years to come. And I'm also looking forward to receiving the SBA neck. Until we talk, have a great weekend."
Karl B
Vanguard HH bronze on Selmer Mark VI 142,xxx
"Hey Kim, I just wanted to wish you a happy new year and let you know the 2 necks have been working GREAT for me. The vanguard on the SBA and the redwood on the VI seem to be my favorite pairings.
Thank you again for letting me play test the necks at your shop, and for helping me with that extra step in picking out the perfect necks. I know you’re super busy and going above and beyond to help me made a big difference. I truly appreciate it, thank you!"
Thank you again for letting me play test the necks at your shop, and for helping me with that extra step in picking out the perfect necks. I know you’re super busy and going above and beyond to help me made a big difference. I truly appreciate it, thank you!"
Jake Saslow (Michael Bublé band)
Canyon C69 brass tenor
"Hi Kim,
I received the neck a couple of days ago and have been testing since. Firstly, I like the neck very much - sound, feel, craftsmanship.
It is a great piece and I started to enjoy playing it. It took a while to adjust myself to unleash all of its potential but now I am quite free to blow it.
It is much better than my old Mark VII neck - the whole range sounds more even, I feel more projection, the body of the sound is full and round.
I can compare it with the Yanagisawa bronze neck I have by playability, even the character of the sound is slightly different.
Strange thing but I found that I have to push the mouthpiece a millimeter about less than on other necks. Nevertheless, the tuning is good as well as altissimo."
Nikolai P
Vanguard hand hammered bronze on Selmer Mark VII 257,xxx
"Hi Kim,
Very good job and so beautiful too. Thanks for all Kim.
I love it so much."
Laurent A (France)
Vanguard dual alloy alto sax neck - hand hammered bronze and M61-brass, gold plated on Selmer Mark VI 73,xxx alto sax
"Hi Kim,
I am writing to express my gratitude for the saxophone neck. It's exactly as described and advertised, and I'm looking forward to using it with great care."
Ken T (Japan)
Vanguard Hand Hammered Bronze alto sax neck for Selmer Mark VII
"Hi Kim,
It’s been two weeks since I started playing the neck with my horn. First of all I’m much satisfied with it so far! So let me tell you a bit how I feel to your product as my gratitude.
The things I like the most about the neck are great resonance and easiness to get focused tones in all range. As to great resonance, I felt it more when I played in a place with less echo like playing outdoors. It WAS different than my previous neck. Probably I’ll feel the same when I play a big room like concert halls. Also I meant by the focused tones that I feel like an air stream can be easily and directly delivered to the best spot of each tone timbre-wise as well as pitch-wise. I can’t wait to use it in gigs because I've played only in a practice room so far and I’m looking forward to spending more years with this amazing neck!"
The things I like the most about the neck are great resonance and easiness to get focused tones in all range. As to great resonance, I felt it more when I played in a place with less echo like playing outdoors. It WAS different than my previous neck. Probably I’ll feel the same when I play a big room like concert halls. Also I meant by the focused tones that I feel like an air stream can be easily and directly delivered to the best spot of each tone timbre-wise as well as pitch-wise. I can’t wait to use it in gigs because I've played only in a practice room so far and I’m looking forward to spending more years with this amazing neck!"
Kazuki Y (Japan)
KB Sax Vanguard hand hammered copper in Selmer SA 80 II
"Hey Kim. Just wanted to share that I love the neck more and more. My muscle memory is still quite used to the other neck so I’m constantly surprised every time I pick up the horn. I anticipate the sound of the old neck. I am so relieved to receive the new changes and reactions. The intonation is different but I’ll get used to it. I love how stable and firm the sound is. It’s truly a drastic improvement. Thank you so much."
Yali R
Vanguard C69 on Selmer Mark VI tenor 148,xxx
"Hi Kim,
Just received and tested the new neck: perfect fit and great tone, I'm very happy with your craftmanship!"
Jeroen B (Belgium)
Vanguard M61 on Super SBA tenor sax
"Finally got my hands on a KB Sax neck! When I bought my SBA it didn’t come with its original neck. It has either been destroyed or lost. Kim Bock is a true craftsman that has an impeccable eye for detail. His neck really sing! If you are considering a new neck for your tenor or alto consider a KB neck.
I am using the Vanguard M-61 model."
I am using the Vanguard M-61 model."
Chris S
Vanguard M-61 on Selmer SBA 53,xxx tenor sax
"Quick report: WOW!. Boy does the C-69 neck change the game! Have been checking intonation this past couple of weeks, and it is spot on. It revolutionizes how I approach this particular horn… a lot less adjustment for playing on pitch and this is a wonderful thing. It sounds amazing, (of course)… and the playability…. frankly the most impressive part of the equation. The neck opens up and evens out the ‘quirky notes’ on the horn, playing with more level timbre and volume across all registers. It inspires confidence when going for (historically) harder to play notes. I feel bulletproof playing this on my trusty Mark VI. Thank you for ‘saving’ this horn for me, and opening up all of the possibilities you have on the instrument by making it play so nicely. "
Brad R
Vanguard C-69 alto neck on Selmer Mark VI 140,xxx
"I got the M61 yesterday and I experimented it today all day.
I want to thank you for this remarkable neck for my SBA.
I tried it on my mark 6 and it works great!!
I just love it !!!!
I promise I will spread the word to my colleagues in Israel."
Albert B (Israel)
Vanguard M-61 brass on Selmer SBA tenor sax
"I am absolutely delighted. The intonation is more accurate over the whole horn than the original manufacturer version. The timbre is much improved. And yet in the higher register I can also make it sound angelic Paul Desmond on his alto.
This has proved to be such a good decision and is already making a difference to my music making. I have a rehearsal tomorrow and a gig coming up soon. To say that I am excited would be an understatement!
Thank you so very much for your help. Greatly appreciated. This neck has made such a difference. I wish I had done this a long time ago.
This has proved to be such a good decision and is already making a difference to my music making. I have a rehearsal tomorrow and a gig coming up soon. To say that I am excited would be an understatement!
Thank you so very much for your help. Greatly appreciated. This neck has made such a difference. I wish I had done this a long time ago.
Simon W (UK)
Redwood hand hammered copper on Selmer Reference 54 tenor sax
"Hi Kim, I hope this finds you well. I got my Vanguard C-69 brass tenor neck properly fitted by my technician a couple of weeks ago, and just wanted to send you a quick message to tell you how much I love the neck! Thank you very much once again, Kim."
Kelly J (Canada)
Vanguard C-69 brass on Selmer Mark VI 205,xxx
"Kim, I have received the sax neck. It sounds great, good fit, a joy to play. Excellent craftsmanship. Thank you."
Mike S (UK)
Vanguard C-69 brass on Selmer Mark VI tenor sax 202,xxx
"Kim, I wanted to reach out and thank you again for the neck. It plays great and tuning is awesome. Also, the fit of the neck is spot on. Thanks again again!!!"
Rj P (US)
Redwood hand hammered copper on Selmer SBA tenor sax 49,xxx
"Dear Kim, the Vanguard C-69 arrived at my home today. I just unpacked it and have played on it now, only for 30'. Played the original neck for a while first, then changed. It fits perfectly, so you were right. Of course I need to play it much more, but my initial reaction is WOW!
It's almost unbelievable! Sound, intonation, altissimo, deepest tones - like a new instrument! Perfect response back when I play, and an amplification of my own sound on mid- and higher registry, and I still have my core sound. Too early to say in detail, but so far what I hoped for and much more! The volume is bigger as well. It's like a new elite horn, and my sax is already very good. Now it became fantastic! Thank you SO much!"
Bengt G (Sweden)
Vanguard C-69 brass on Selmer Mark VI 167,xxx
"The alto neck is simply extraordinary. I've tried a dozen necks over the last 2 decades on that instrument, and nothing has brought it to life like this. The intonation and tone is solid and even and complex. Just wonderful. Incidentally, last night I received my first call to sub with the Chicago Symphony for a pops concert this weekend. This is LITERALLY the scenario for which I bought this neck."
David O (US)
KB by Kim Bock double alloy brass/copper gold plated on Selmer SA80 Series II
"Hi Kim,
After a bit more playing, I'm really finding all the greatness of the new neck! The tuning is much better than my old neck, but still very flexible. It has a marvelous core and really sings into palms and altissimo. I can push it differently than my sba neck, both brighter or darker. Very stable."
Paul N (US)
Vanguard C-69 brass on Semer SBA 53,xxx
"Hi Kim, I finally got the neck in my hands. Despite the fact that it was measured, it would not fit and I had to take it to my repairman to make it fit on my tenor. That said, my man did it and I then played and played and ... wow!
The neck transformed my horn. I get a completely new vibrant and wider sound that fills the room with new harmonics. Anyone, can hear the difference immediately, not just musicians, anyone.
Blowing feels like a new effortless experience and so is the sound in every register: palm keys, middle notes, low notes, altissimo. The depth of the sound and the degree to which I can manipulate it, overblow, subtone, whisper is totally new. I am really as happy as I would be if I had bought a new great MARK VI three times as good as my old one. The bad news: I will have a hard time playing my old neck again except perhaps to remind myself how great your neck is! Thanks Kim."
The neck transformed my horn. I get a completely new vibrant and wider sound that fills the room with new harmonics. Anyone, can hear the difference immediately, not just musicians, anyone.
Blowing feels like a new effortless experience and so is the sound in every register: palm keys, middle notes, low notes, altissimo. The depth of the sound and the degree to which I can manipulate it, overblow, subtone, whisper is totally new. I am really as happy as I would be if I had bought a new great MARK VI three times as good as my old one. The bad news: I will have a hard time playing my old neck again except perhaps to remind myself how great your neck is! Thanks Kim."
Dimos D (Greece)
Vanguard hand hammered copper on Selmer Mark VI 136,xxx
"Hey Kim - just wanted to reach out and reiterate how much I'm absolutely loving these necks! The alto neck has completely transformed that horn. The tenor necks are a beautiful color option that I'm constantly switching between. So again, THANK YOU for such beautiful work! I'm begging you for a bari neck!!! lol"
John I (US)
Alto: KB by Kim Bock on Selmer BA alto sax
Tenor: Vanguard HH bronze on Selmer SBA tenor sax 47,xxx
Tenor: Vanguard HH bronze on Selmer SBA tenor sax 47,xxx
"Hi Kim! I hope you've been well. I've been meaning to reach out to let you know how incredible your neck has been for me. This is not overstatement, but your neck on my horn has rejuvenated my love of practicing and playing. I just wanted to thank you for this amazing piece of gear, and thank you for the impact it has had on my playing."
Tim V (US)
Redwood hand hammered copper on Selmer Reference 36 tenor sax
"Hi Kim, The Redwood neck arrived on Saturday, and today I am playing the first time. After 1 hour playing the neck: The neck is free blowing, and the sound is stable and very clear (compared to the original neck). I cannot describe it exactly for the moment, but I can say I enjoy the neck a lot I am happy!
The neck is a piece of art!
Thank you very much."
Rainer S (France)
Redwood hand hammered copper on Woodstone Ishimori New Vintage AF model tenor sax
"Hi Kim, Thank you for your fine work. It was worth the wait! I was unable to play my Balanced Action alto professionally with my old neck. The notes from high A up to high E were so sharp and out of tune. I would go to play a high C# and it could wind up being several other notes, D or D#?
The neck you made for me solved all those problems. Now the notes lock in to where they belong. Not to mention the low B and B flat pop out loud and clear (another problem solved). You made a previously unpresentable horn presentable.
I can't wait (but will patiently wait) for the neck you will make for my tenor. You are a genius"
The neck you made for me solved all those problems. Now the notes lock in to where they belong. Not to mention the low B and B flat pop out loud and clear (another problem solved). You made a previously unpresentable horn presentable.
I can't wait (but will patiently wait) for the neck you will make for my tenor. You are a genius"
Joe M (US)
Vanguard hand hammered copper on Selmer BA alto sax 26,xxx
"Dear Kim, how are you? After some months of waiting (I was very relaxed about timing so it's been super ok) today I got my Vanguard C69 neck for my silver plated 149xxx Mark VI... by the way I need further testing but after a couple of hours of playing it I want to thank you... I loved it in every aspect in this first session and liked it much better than the Redwood hammered bronze!
Compared to my original neck: Richer more complex and centered tone and slightly darker too, immediately easier to play in tune, more projected sound but also better perception of my tone from behind... Slight more resistant but also more dynamically responsive... Broader dynamic range, Faster response. Better, easier articulation... Very easy altissimo. I'm very very happy... Thank you immensely!
Hope for you my bests and thank you again for your artistic craftmanship and exceptional work and service! To me your pieces are work of art... and I'm so happy to own one."
Compared to my original neck: Richer more complex and centered tone and slightly darker too, immediately easier to play in tune, more projected sound but also better perception of my tone from behind... Slight more resistant but also more dynamically responsive... Broader dynamic range, Faster response. Better, easier articulation... Very easy altissimo. I'm very very happy... Thank you immensely!
Hope for you my bests and thank you again for your artistic craftmanship and exceptional work and service! To me your pieces are work of art... and I'm so happy to own one."
Michele L (Italy)
Vanguard C-69 on Selmer Mark VI tenor sax 149,xxx
"Thanks so much for the neck; I just received it yesterday and it is absolutely gorgeous handwork and, based on the couple of hours I managed to play with it, it sounds amazing - much much cleaner than my original neck (which is already very good despite its nearly 67 yrs old age), particularly in the top register."
Pascal R (UK)
Silver plated Vanguard C-69 brass on Selmer Mark VI tenor 58,xxx
"The KB neck on the Selmer Supreme alto sax is an important option to have in my bag. It produces a considerably bigger sound coupled with a powerful and pleasing core. In so saying, I am not speaking of a subtle shift in sound. The KB neck is strikingly distinct in projection and feedback. I can push the Supreme while maintaining a cool, dark core, i.e., without “spreading” or “splitting” the sound.
The first time I swapped necks, I was genuinely startled by the change, pleasingly startled to be sure. I didn’t think a neck would change the sound to that degree. I was wrong. It is now my goto neck for most of my playing. As for pitch, Intonation is different, but not difficult. I find the top palm keys (D, Eb, E, F, and F#) to be lower than those produced on the stock Selmer neck. For some players, this may actually be a plus."
The first time I swapped necks, I was genuinely startled by the change, pleasingly startled to be sure. I didn’t think a neck would change the sound to that degree. I was wrong. It is now my goto neck for most of my playing. As for pitch, Intonation is different, but not difficult. I find the top palm keys (D, Eb, E, F, and F#) to be lower than those produced on the stock Selmer neck. For some players, this may actually be a plus."
Marcus H (USA)
KB by Kim Bock V-brass gold-plated alto sax neck on Selmer Supreme
"Hi Kim, I received the neck last week, and I was so surprised by the amazing difference. I have a 180xxx Mark 6 tenor, and I had some issues with the neck, that I never knew. Most of my work is playing in a horn section with 2 trumpets and a trombone. Intonation was sometimes difficult. And with some notes I had too much air resistance, which could result in a lower pitch and a distorted sound. The Vanguard neck is so much more free blowing, and it is so comfortable to play. Also the response of the neck is much quicker. Especially with short 16th notes with the section, it is much easier to place the note where it belongs. Absolutely love it! The overall sound difference is also amazing. Much more sizzle, over the whole range of the instrument. Incredible!
Thanks so much for the amazing neck! Not many colleagues know KB sax I discovered, I will DEFINITELY spread the word, and let people discover the difference. All the best from the Netherlands,"
Thanks so much for the amazing neck! Not many colleagues know KB sax I discovered, I will DEFINITELY spread the word, and let people discover the difference. All the best from the Netherlands,"
Ben R (the Netherlands)
Vanguard M-61 tenor neck on Selmer Mark VI 180,xxx
"After just 5 min. I'm shocked at how much more brilliance and projection this Vanguard has than my Redwood (which is still ultra fat and rich!) THANK YOU! It's making darker mouthpieces that I've kept on the shelf come alive!"
Dan G (US)
Vanguard hand hammered copper on Mark VI tenor sax
"Hi Kim, I received the refinished neck and spent a few weeks playing it at gigs, different mouthpieces…. It is simply stunning. The core tone, pitch and harmonic vibrancy place it a step beyond my stock YTS 62 neck and the Boston Sax Shop neck, which I really liked for different reasons, but will now be replaced by your own. The playability is beyond my expectations. Thank you for your time and craftsmanship."
Nicholas S (Australia)
Vanguard M-61 tenor sax neck on Yamaha YTS-62
"I'm working on Mark six and your M 61 neck which is going perfectly well and which also adds to the sound. There are more details more focus than the original vocal which is however very much better than the one I had. Congratulations for your very precise work on your neck."
Thierry C (France)
Vanguard M-61 tenor sax neck on Selmer Mark VI 99xxx
"Hi Kim. I want you to know that I've received the neck (Vanguard C-69) and that I've been playing it a couple of weeks by now. First thing I immediately noticed was the ease of playing 3rd register notes, the g3 in particular now pops out just as easy as every other note up there. Also, the overall richness in sound in all registers makes the horn such a pleasure to play. This was so much worth waiting for!"
Hans A (Sweden)
Vanguard C-69 tenor sax neck on Selmer Mark VI 95xxx
" "Hi Kim, Thanks so much for the very quick response - especially since it's the weekend; it would have been very stressful finally having your new neck in my hands and not being able to enjoy it for a few days.
It didn't take much in the way of sanding. I wrapped the larger diameter/raised detail collar (with the double painted lines) in electrical tape in order not to scuff it while sanding. After very little sanding it now fits perfectly - even better than my original sax neck.
Your packaging is Applesque, making the unboxing experience on par with the best high-end and boutique products. Shipping went well/gentle and if it hadn't, the protection provided would have taken on most anything. Compliments of stunning design and attention-to-detail workmanship this KB by Kim Bock alto neck looks so smart. My original P. Mauriat Super VI neck sounded excellent and this new neck sounds even better in a number of ways. The 3rd D to F# notes (that's as high as I go at this point in my playing) have more body and richness in tone, the second C# to D transition (introducing the octave key) is smoother and I don't yet know how to exactly describe the tonal quality of all the other notes - they sounded great before and now they sound a different great; right down to the low Bb, which is pure and full bodied.
I believe these neck upgrade experiences to be subtle but there is no doubt that this new neck has made me sound 6-12 months better. I'm very happy that I decided to do this.
Purchasing from you has been a great experience right from the beginning. I'm a Toronto Maple Leaf hockey fan, so I've been conditioned to be patient for the waiting time from initial order to delivery - still waiting on the Leafs."
It didn't take much in the way of sanding. I wrapped the larger diameter/raised detail collar (with the double painted lines) in electrical tape in order not to scuff it while sanding. After very little sanding it now fits perfectly - even better than my original sax neck.
Your packaging is Applesque, making the unboxing experience on par with the best high-end and boutique products. Shipping went well/gentle and if it hadn't, the protection provided would have taken on most anything. Compliments of stunning design and attention-to-detail workmanship this KB by Kim Bock alto neck looks so smart. My original P. Mauriat Super VI neck sounded excellent and this new neck sounds even better in a number of ways. The 3rd D to F# notes (that's as high as I go at this point in my playing) have more body and richness in tone, the second C# to D transition (introducing the octave key) is smoother and I don't yet know how to exactly describe the tonal quality of all the other notes - they sounded great before and now they sound a different great; right down to the low Bb, which is pure and full bodied.
I believe these neck upgrade experiences to be subtle but there is no doubt that this new neck has made me sound 6-12 months better. I'm very happy that I decided to do this.
Purchasing from you has been a great experience right from the beginning. I'm a Toronto Maple Leaf hockey fan, so I've been conditioned to be patient for the waiting time from initial order to delivery - still waiting on the Leafs."
Dale B (Canada)
KB by Kim Bock hand hammered copper gold-plated alto sax neck on P. Mauriat
"Hi Kim, just wanted to drop you a line to say that the neck has arrived. It’s remarkably well adjusted out of the box, cork/mouthpiece combo are perfect, the neck fits beautifully into the tenon (I doubt I’ll need any adjustment from my local tech), and the octave mechanism sits at the correct height, but I’m sure that’s no accident, and exactly what you anticipated! Fantastic neck to play on, I’m looking forward to getting used to it properly over the next couple of weeks."
Dan F (Australia)
Redwood hand hammered copper tenor neck on Selmer Mark VI 169xxx
"Hi, Kim I got the neck today. I just want to tell you that it is an exceptionally great one - it has exceeded all my expectations, it has everything I always wanted and I am very happy about it! Thank you so much! I appreciate everything you have done for me!"
Alex G
Vanguard hand hammered bronze alto neck on Selmer Mark VI alto
"Kim, Wow!!! I got a chance to give the necks a whirl at an R&B club. Incredible! The brass M-61 was the bet for that genre. It's like having a new voice. No problem filling a rather large club without a microphone with a large bright, full tone. I was debating on whether to send the hand hammered bronze back, but it's so cool sounding that I know that I'll find a time to use it on some project somewhere. It's also a keeper! Thanks so much for these tremendous necks."
P Jr. S
Vanguard M-61 brass & Vanguard HH bronze on Selmer Mark VI 63xxx tenor
"Just wanted to let you know I absolutely LOVE the necks! The alto is exactly what I was hoping for - big, projecting, but with a great core sound and a nice sparkle. Ditto the tenor necks though I’m having a beast of a time deciding which I like more - they’re great flavors in the same basic tonal palette. I’ve played all three on a multitude of different gigs and have been really enjoying playing them. Thank you! Now, you just need to make a baritone neck and the world will be right!!"
John I
Vanguard HH bronze & Vanguard HH copper on Selmer Mark VI
KB by Kim Bock silver-plated double-alloy alto neck on Selmer BA
KB by Kim Bock silver-plated double-alloy alto neck on Selmer BA
"Hey Kim, I just got the neck today and wanted to say, WOW! I tend to spend a lot of time with the same gear and focus mostly on myself as issues arise, but this neck (compared to my VI neck I’ve been playing for 15 years) made an immediate difference and seems to make some trouble areas on my horn (mostly the palms and high C, which I believe to be more affected by the neck) feel significantly better. I really look forward to shedding on this neck and learning it more! Thank you for your expertise and craftsmanship!"
Michael E
Vanguard C-69 brass alto neck on Selmer Mark VI 81xxx
"The new neck is wonderful, sound a bit more centered, even better projection. I'll take it! ...You are doing beautiful work!"
Alan M
KB by Kim Bock brass alto neck on Selmer Mark VI
"Hello Kim, Been playing the neck a bunch since I received it. It’s great. A tiny bit more resistant than my older silver neck, about same as original, a bit darker than silver but a lot more harmonics and much richer sound and broader sound. Takes a while to start finding the center of tone, but as I grow into it, the sounds keeps getting richer and deeper and more expressive. Great for my Mk6, which I will now keep as it really balances its sound. When I put original back on, it sounds so narrow, dull and thin. Thanks a lot for your superb craftmanship and customer service."
Yves B
Vanguard hand hammered alto neck on Selmer Mark VI 195xxx
"Hi Kim, thank You so much for the neck! It is such a great upgrade in my playing because it is a fantastic improvement for my sound, tune and articulation! I just changed the mouthpiece to get even more out of the neck. And its a piece of art also! Again, thank you for everything."
Carlos M (Portugal)
Vanguard hand hammered bronze tenor neck on Selmer Mark VI 84xxx
"Kim, I just received my new copper Vanguard alto neck for my YAS-62. I have got a big problem! Before, I loved to play my alto, but now I can't put it down. All I can say is WOW!!! What a difference. I'm having difficulty expressing just how pleased I am with it. The neck is magic! It's like I have a whole new instrument. I never knew how much a difference a neck can make. I am so fortunate to have one of your necks. I am so glad you do what you do! Just wanted to let you know how I feel. THANK YOU"
Rod P
Vanguard Hand Hammered Copper alto neck on Yamaha YAS-62
"Kim, I received the neck on Wednesday, I absolutely love it. The craftsmanship is amazing. I wanted to wait and write a review after my gig yesterday. The Vanguard hand hammered bronze is an absolutely beautifully crafted piece. I opened the beautiful packaging and just stared at the lushest bronze work. The piece is incredible. At some point I would have to work harder physically with the old neck during a gig, this one allowed me to play naturally and I had no problem keeping up volume wise with the other musicians. The piece also greatly reduced any intonation issues. It is a keeper, and I will be singing your praises to many other saxophone players."
Jeffrey S
Vanguard hand hammered bronze on Phil Barone tenor sax
"The redwood copper is Fantastic...a little more character and resonance in the sound than the redwood brass, and a little more focused, but more spread than the vanguard copper. All three are great and give me a lot of flexibility with different mouthpiece and reed setups on my Radio Improved tenor...thanks!"
UPDATE: ""I still have the same opinion regarding your marvelous neck. I've been playing it close to a year now and am totally satisfied. As you are aware, time is the ultimate test. It's easy to get infatuated with a new product during the “honey moon” period. This will be an enduring relationship.”
UPDATE: ""I still have the same opinion regarding your marvelous neck. I've been playing it close to a year now and am totally satisfied. As you are aware, time is the ultimate test. It's easy to get infatuated with a new product during the “honey moon” period. This will be an enduring relationship.”
Jeff M
Redwood hand hammered copper, Redwood brass & Vanguard hand hammered copper on Selmer Radio Improved tenor
"Hi Kim, Wow your necks are great!! I love the easy blowing (with little resistance) throughout all registers and the sound is homogeneous from bottom to top of the horn. The intonation is much improved and the sonority is rich with just the right harmonics. It's easy to play with strong projection especially the Vanguard so that is my choice. Thanks again for your wonderful work and service."
Pierre R
Vanguard Hand Hammered Copper on Selmer Mark VI 66,xxx tenor
(2 years after receiving neck) - "I have spent decades on the search for equipment that would propel myself and my students toward the elusive and perpetual task of achieving that quintessential sound. Nothing has brought me closer to this goal than the purchase of my KB saxophone neck. Kim has a seemingly endless variety of necks that will allow you to specifically tailor the search to promptly acquire your ideal tone!”
Dr. Jeff B
Redwood brass on Selmer Mark VI 100,xxx
"The Vanguard M61 on the 85k is superb. Played it on a few gigs and big band rehearsals before things started shutting down everywhere. Everything about the horn is improved, especially the intonation, which is essentially perfect. Faster response, more punch, more mid range tone focus which was already really good on this horn, and much easier altissimo. Love the tone quality, ease of response in all registers and dynamics and the overall feel. A joy to play. Your handcrafted necks really are magical."
Eric R
Vanguard M61 on Selmer Mark VI 85xxx
"I have a 63xxx mk6 and it sat in the closet for years. Then I heard a KB neck on a SBA and knew I had to try it on mine. I got the KB copper Vanguard for it and now it’s my daily player."
Patrick L
Vanguard Hand Hammered Copper on Selmer Mark VI 63,xxx tenor