Dick Stabile Alto Saxophone Overview

The Dick Stabile alto saxophone is a lacquered Eb alto suited to the standard alto role in concert, jazz, and commercial settings. Its traditional curved-neck format and familiar alto layout make it worth considering for musicians seeking an instrument for ensemble playing, teaching, and doubling.

Dick Stabile Alto Saxophone Specifications

• Instrument Type: Alto Saxophone
• Key: Eb
• Marking: Dick Stabile
• Body Material: Brass
• Finish: Lacquer
• Case: Leblanc-branded hard case
• Removable curved neck
• Accessories: None included
• Serial number: 25227

Condition & Setup

This used Dick Stabile alto saxophone is in excellent playing order. It has received a complete repad, with all pads replaced and regulated, followed by professional service, lubrication, adjustment, setup, and play testing. Cosmetic wear is extensive, including widespread lacquer loss, scratches, scuffs, tarnish, a darkened bell interior, and localized oxidation across the body, bell, bow, neck, and keywork. The included Leblanc-branded hard case has scuffs, stains, worn interior lining, oxidized hardware, and a heavily worn handle that should be handled carefully.

Who the Dick Stabile Alto Saxophone Is For

This alto is best suited to an advancing player, experienced doubler, educator, or collector who values a traditional Eb alto and chooses an instrument by its response, intonation, and key feel. It can serve in concert band, jazz ensemble, commercial, and general doubling settings; players accustomed to modern ergonomics should compare its keywork and feel with their usual instrument.

Common Questions About the Dick Stabile

What does a complete repad include?

A complete repad means that all pads have been replaced and regulated to establish proper seating and coordinated key action.

How should this alto be evaluated against a modern saxophone?

Compare its response, intonation tendencies, key ergonomics, and tonal core with the instruments you normally play. Traditional keywork can feel different from current designs without being objectively better or worse.

Does the lacquer loss affect playability?

Lacquer wear is cosmetic and does not by itself determine response, regulation, or pad seal. The mechanical preparation of this instrument includes a complete repad, professional setup, and play testing.