Matt Funamura

Hey all. I just switched from my yamaha xeno ytr 8335RGS to a '90's Calicchio 1s3ML. Please note that I now prefer the handbuilt Calicchio to the factory built Yamaha but I would love to hear some arguments for both.

Thanks all!
Matt

Original_Username

Do you mind telling me some things about the Calicchio? Playability? Comparisons between the sound? Versatility?

Matt Funamura

The Calicchio has a wider tonal spectrum than the yamaha. The Xeno is darker with a more pronounced midrange (not something I'm a big fan of). The Calicchio has a much more balanced tone from lows, mids, and highs and responds to my playing style more. I'm a jazz player primarily and I like the breathier tone I get from the Calicchio. I like to say it's a "real jazz machine".
The Xeno is much less forgiving when I push it. It's harder to get large tonal differentiation. It's probably because it's a heavier horn with thicker metal and the valve section was put together with jigs (which makes for a less vibrant horn overall). The Calicchio's valve section was simply wired together before soldering and therefore had less stress during construction allowing for more vibration in the final product.
The calicchio plays easier, has more of the sound I hear in my head, and feels better than most factory built horns I've found.
You should check some out if you're in the market! There are several bell and leadpipe options with endless combination options. Their bore sizes are M (.453), ML (.460), and L (.468).

Matt

BergeronWannabe

Are you selling your Xeno?

Matt Funamura

Not that I know of yet. But my Heavywall is still in the shop and because school is so expensive, I will probably have to sell one of them. :( I really don't like doing that but sometimes, you gotta!