Introducing the EAS852 52nd Street Alto Saxophone
NEWLY DESIGNED H NECK
VINTAGE-INSPIRED LARGE BELL
Rolled-Style Tone Holes
Special 52nd Street Engraving
Patented DS Mechanism
The Eastman EAS852 52nd Street Alto Saxophone represents the next evolution in our professional saxophone lineup. Developed in collaboration with acclaimed saxophonist Alex Hahn—whose deep familiarity with the 52nd Street Alto made him an ideal partner—this instrument builds upon the innovations introduced with the ETS852 Tenor.
Applying those lessons to the unique voice of the alto, we explored and refined every detail—from body resonance and tone hole configuration to the development of multiple neck designs. The result is an alto saxophone that balances power, response, and tonal richness with remarkable precision.
At the core of the EAS852 is the unmistakable 52nd Street philosophy: a robust tonal center, exceptional projection, and depth of sound. Paired with the patented DS Mechanism, it delivers a playing experience delivers improved key action, stability, and reliability.
Over the years, we worked closely with world-renowned saxophonist Bob Mintzer to refine and elevate every aspect of the modern 52nd Street saxophone. Through extensive testing and collaboration, new approaches to body construction, tone hole configuration, and neck design were explored—each contributing to a more resonant, expressive, and responsive instrument.
Particular attention was given to the neck, where even subtle variations in construction and weight played a critical role in shaping tone and responsiveness. The result was the evolution of the classic 52nd Street sound—a benchmark concept offering depth, projection, and tonal complexity while preserving the flexibility and feel that define the 52nd Street line.
Building on the success of the tenor, development turned to the alto with a clear goal: translate the 52nd Street concept while honoring the alto’s distinct voice.
Partnering with Alex Hahn, the team undertook extensive experimentation with resonance, tone hole configurations, and neck prototypes.
The EAS852 features both the standard “S” neck and the newly designed “H” neck, developed specifically for Hahn to deliver a seamless, optimized pairing with the instrument.
While grounded in the same design philosophy, the alto required its own refinements—resulting in an instrument that offers a compelling balance of power, immediacy, and tonal richness.
The EAS852 Alto and ETS852 Tenor share a unified design vision: a centered core sound, exceptional projection, and a dynamic playing experience that inspires confidence across the full range of the instrument.
Together, they represent the most refined expression of the 52nd Street concept yet—shaped through years of collaboration with world-class artists and built for players who demand both character and performance.