Came across the beauty recently and couldn't turn down the opportunity to compare my Reference 54 and Yani 991. Ultimately, I'm happy with what I have. IMO, the build quality of Yanagisawa is top notch and comparable or surpasses the other Big Four.
Known for its superb intonation, effortless response, and refined tonal quality, this horn is a top choice for advancing students, professionals, and collectors alike.
Cosmetically, it's lived a full life and the photos tell the story, so definitely check that. Otherwise, it's been fully setup by my favorite tech: replaced several pads, got rid of noisy/sloppy keyword, replaced several springs, etc. The case is an older molder hard case, but note there's a small hole in the back-- it seems very very sturdy otherwise.
Features:
Hand-crafted Japanese construction
Solid brass body with elegant engraving
Ergonomic keywork for comfortable playability
Exceptional intonation and smooth response across all registers
Rich, full-bodied tone ideal for both jazz and classical performance