Straps are used when playing the saxophone. While the emphasis is of course on playability, various designs are available from various companies as an item that can be easily personalized.
Points to Choosing a Strap
① Hook
The hook is the part that hooks onto the strap ring of the saxophone body. There are two main designs.
Hook | Snap hook |
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There are two main types of hooks: the hook type, which makes attaching and detaching the instrument easier, and the snap hook type, which prevents it from coming off unexpectedly. There are also two types of hook materials: plastic and metal.
Plastic hooks do not damage the instrument's strap rings, but they are not as strong as metal hooks. Metal straps are stronger, but the strap ring or hook itself will wear out, so the strap ring or hook may need to be replaced.
*Saxophone straps are only intended to help hold the instrument while playing. Be sure to keep your hand on the instrument to prevent it from falling (^-^;)
② Neck Pad
An alto saxophone weighs approximately 2 to 3 kg, while a baritone saxophone weighs approximately 7 to 8 kg. Even though the saxophone is supported in the hands, it’s important to minimize the burden on the neck as much as possible.
Simple | With a band |
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Some are padded at the neck and others are simple.
The simple ones are inexpensive and also look nicer when wearing collared shirts. Padded ones are slightly more expensive, but they can reduce the strain on the neck.
They are also available in nylon and leather. The leather ones will become more comfortable to your neck as you continue to use them.
③ There are other types too!
Harness | Shoulder |
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Both are designed to reduce the burden on the neck. The harness distributes the weight of the instrument to the entire upper body. I have the impression that baritone saxophonists use this harness most frequently. Shoulder straps are designed to support the instrument on the shoulders, not the neck.
④ Custom Straps
Custom straps allow you to choose your favorite strap parts and are also available piece by piece. Bird straps and Breathaking straps are the most popular. Sound House carries Bird straps.
Custom types are also popular, as they prevent neck reduction and can be freely combined with different parts. Since the parts can be replaced, they can be maintained and used for a long time.
Recommended Top 5 Ranking
If you’re unsure about what to choose... Here is a ranking of popular straps for you.
*The rankings are based on Sound House's best-selling straps.
① B.AIR / BSN-AW-M Bird Strap for Saxophone, size M
This popular strap is designed to reduce neck strain and is highly customizable. This strap is a complete product combining various parts.
② BRANCHER / BRSS-B Neck Strap Standard Black
This is a great value for its price and is a simple design. The snap hook is also a nice feature.
③ BG ( BG ) / S40SH Saxophone Strap Harness
BG straps are the most popular harness type and are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors.
④ LEVY'S / M27W-003 Saxophone Strap
⑤ D'Addario Woodwinds / DWLSBK-SM Neck Strap Leather
For those who value design, I recommend this one! The padded leather is available in two colors, black and branded. The hooks are also colored to match the leather.
In Closing
Neck straps are an easy item that allows players to express their individuality. You can find a strap to your liking.♪♪