YAS-82ZII – Yamaha Custom Z Alto Sax
Handmade in Japan – 2nd Generation Design
Released originally in 2003, the YAS-82Z Yamaha Custom Z series horns redefined the Yamaha professional saxophone concept. Offering exceptional intonation, build quality and performance, the new Yamaha Custom Z has quickly become one of the most trusted professional saxophones on the market. Then, in 2013, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Custom Z release, Yamaha launched the 2nd Generation YAS-82ZII further improving the line to offer players more than ever!
2nd Generation Yamaha Custom Z
Custom Z saxophones were completely reexamined from neck to bell to offer players even more. With the new V1 Custom neck, the Yamaha Custom Z Alto Sax offers a richer tone than previous models while maintaining an exceptional combination of expressiveness, response and control while staying true to their free-spirited origins. Since the Custom Z Alto Sax was developed in 2003, the technology, craftsmanship and specifications of the Custom Z series have continued to improve to fulfill the needs of the highest level musicians.
One Piece Bell
Aside from the new neck design, the other major improvement that the 2nd generation Yamaha Custom Z Alto Sax received was in the bell. The first generation model utilized a hydro-formed 2 piece bell. While this is an efficient method of manufacturing, it was a radical departure from the traditional methods employed on pro horns throughout time. With the 2nd generation Yamaha Custom Z alto sax, Yamaha has returned to the traditional one piece bell. This feature drastically improves low end response and offers the player a wider palette of tonal color.
Compare the Custom Models – 875EX vs 82Z
Yamaha offers 2 models in the “Custom” line with the Custom EX and the Custom Z. A common question with customers is “what’s the difference?!”. There is a common misconception that the Z is a “jazz sax” and the EX is a “classical” sax. In reality, they are both equally equipped for all musical styles and genres. The difference in these 2 models is the bore taper.
- Custom Z – This is a bore that expands at a quicker pace in the body tube. This produces a free-blow that offers a broader tone and quick response.
- Custom EX – This bore has a less drastic expansion. This will allow for a little more tonal compression leading towards a bit higher resistance but a more complex, mellow tone.
Neither is “better” but simply different. We find that players who are coming from less resistant models like other Yamaha models or many student horns will prefer the ease of play the Custom Z affords. However, players who are coming from Selmer style horns or who want a more focused sound will prefer the Custom EX. Both are exceptional saxophones and feature the same build quality and value as the other.
Additional Information
Professional Setup
Every horn we send out to a customer is not released from us unless it has been completely setup in our shop first. This is because the setup on the horn is of the utmost importance! Sometimes, a saxophone (regardless of who the manufacturer) comes in needing 20 minutes of adjustments and then the very next one can require 2 hours! So if you were to get 5 of the same model right out of the box, they will all play different. This leads players to believe that they are “good” or “bad” saxes. The reality is that the one that was the best out of the 5 was likely the one that needed the least amount of work and the “bad” sax was the one that needed 2 hours worth of adjustments!
Once the same 5 saxophones are properly regulated and adjusted to perfection, they become near identical saxophones. Even the pickiest of players would be challenged to pick a true “favorite” horn. However, since most stores do not or even can not perform this setup, the player never knows this and is simply relying on the luck of the draw. This is why we perform our setup (in our www.SaxophoneRepairs.com ProShop) on them before delivering your new sax to you. You trust us with your purchase and we want to make sure that you are rewarded by giving you your ideal saxophone setup flawlessly!
Model | YAS-82ZII |
Body Material | Yellow Brass |
Body Construction | Fully Ribbed Body Construction |
Country of Manufacture | Handmade in Japan |
Neck | Custom V1 |
Pads | Premium Leather with Domed Metal Resonators |
Mouthpiece | Yamaha Custom 4C Rubber |
Case | Premium Custom Z Series Case |
Financing Available

18 Month, 0% Interest Financing!
Purchase your new Yamaha Custom Z Alto Sax from Kessler & Sons using First Mutual Finance and receive special 18 Month, 0% Interest Financing!
Click Here for more information on financing program details and to apply!
18 Month, 0% Financing Option Available on New Instrument at Advertised New Price Only. Full details on financing page.
Does not apply towards Store Used Demos or Used Instruments. Demos and Used models can still be financed under standard terms.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.