Product Review: KGU Music Saxophone Neck Screw (Heavy 180)
As a saxophonist, I'm always on the lookout for accessories that can enhance my playing experience, improve usability, and look good while doing it. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the KGU Music Saxophone Neck Screw (Heavy 180). In this review, I'll share my honest thoughts on this product, explore the fine details, and explore why someone would want this for their setup.
Build Quality & Finish
At face value, you may say “it’s just a screw” but the folks at KGU Music stand behind their product and focus on delivering a quality product. The screw is made from high-quality brass with fine-tolerance threads, which ensures it’s snug and secure fit, eliminating any wobbling or slipping. I opted for the Gold-Plated Heavy 180 model, which matched the simple aesthetic I wanted to achieve with my soprano. The gold plating is stunning, with a rich, warm tone that adds a touch of elegance and matches my Yamaha YSS-875EXHG soprano’s lacquer very well. The plating is evenly applied, with no signs of wear or flaking, even after extensive use inside and outside.
Weight & Ergonimics
The Heavy 180 lives up to its name, weighing in at roughly 18.0 grams. KGU advertises that these screws were “engineered to provide stabilized high and low notes, improving timbre and tonal character for a more vivid and colorful sound.” Personally, I cannot confidently determine a significant sound or response difference with or without this product. However, I will admit that I adore the way it looks and feels. It also is of note that the ergonomics make it easier to quickly turn with one finger, which allows me to quickly adjust my neck. While some may find a heavy mass neck screw excessive, I found it to be a welcome addition, providing a sense of quality and durability to my horn. Plus, I think it just looks cool!
Other Versions & Options
With this model, in particular, KGU Music currently has the following finishes available:
Raw Brass
998 silver
Silver Brushed
24k Gold
Antique Bronze Lacquer
Antique Copper Lacquer
Matte antique Bronze Lacquer
Matte antique Copper Lacquer
Black Edition
In addition, KGU also offers many different variations of neck screws, with different weights, finishes, textures, knurling, and even gemstones! No matter the version, KGU offers screws in all sizes for the various brands of saxophones including (but not limited to):
Yamaha
Selmer-Paris
Eastman
Yanagisawa
P. Mariut
Cannonball
Conclusion
The KGU Music Saxophone Neck Screw is an outstanding accessory that lets saxophonists personalize their instruments, and possibly even provide performance improvements. Its exceptional build quality, ergonomics, and stunning finish make it a great option for any serious saxophonist.
Available for purchase:
*Note: This product was received for free in exchange for an unbiased, honest, unpaid review.
