The bell keys switch from a split bell key design to left-hand design at about 245,xxx.

The first “transitional” feature to appear on the altos is the sculpted/raised side E touchpiece, the earliest example of which I have seen was on a 234,xxx horn that was with that one design exception a run-of-the-mill New Wonder Series II. (Note: The name “6M” comes from Conn’s model number for altos at the time, and the 6M model number is seen in catalogs only until 1936, when Conn started stamping 6M on the body of the saxophone above the serial number.) In addition, there are some interesting neck variations that show up during the transitional period that last through the first few years of “regular” 6M production. For altos, the serial number range of the transitional horns is roughly 234,000 to 270,000- give or take a few- which means from roughly 1930 to 1935. These transitional 6M saxophones can have a wide variety of features, in general evolving over time from configurations that are mostly identical to New Wonder Series II configurations to configurations that are almost identical to the eventual 6M model of 1936 that remained mostly unchanged until 1948, when the rolled toneholes were discontinued.

during the period of evolution from the New Wonder Series II alto saxophone to the 6M “Artist” alto saxophone. The name 6M “Transitional” is a blanket term applied by saxophone collectors and players to the alto saxophones made by C. You really should click this photo and check it out in full resolution, maybe even make it your wallpaper. Some information may repeat between what I wrote and what he wrote, but trust me there is a ton of information here and the read is worth it if you are interested in Conn transitional altos!Īnd of course, if you know something I don’t, share it! Ok, on with the article.Ĭonn altos from New Wonder Series II to 6M. Because I have left most of what Paul wrote intact with only minor editing, I have put his name next to sections for which he is mainly responsible. Both Paul and Brian are fellow Conn lovers, and this article would not have been possible without their help.

This article includes (with permission) information from posts on the forum at Saxontheweb by saxophone historian/geek Paul Lindemeyer, author of Celebrating the Saxophone, and photos and information from Brian at.

Conn serial numbers