Serial number 2 of the Conn CONNfirmation alto saxophone is one of the earliest examples from Conn’s ambitious project to reintroduce the classic American sound into a modern professional platform. This horn was given directly by Conn to Michael Wilbur, saxophonist of Moon Hooch, as part of the company’s artist program – making it both historically significant and uniquely collectible.

Overview

The CONNfirmation series was conceived as a deliberate bridge between Conn’s legendary vintage altos – most famously the New Wonder, 6M, and early Artist models – and today’s expectations for precision, consistency, and ergonomic refinement. Conn’s design team studied vintage bore profiles, tone hole layouts, and brass alloys to recreate the warmth, flexibility, and powerful projection that defined early American saxophone manufacturing.

At the same time, they integrated contemporary advancements: keywork geometry optimized for speed, modern rib construction, improved pad seating, and a more stable, resonant body tube. The result is a horn that feels unmistakably Conn in its voice, yet unmistakably modern in its responsiveness.

Finish and Vintage Aesthetic

To complete the vintage-meets-modern concept, the CONNfirmation line features a finish inspired by the soft, honey-amber tonalities of pre-war Conn lacquer. Serial number 2 showcases that finish at its absolute best – a deep, even, warm-tinted lacquer designed to evoke the character of 1920s and 1930s Conn altos while maintaining the durability and clarity of modern materials. The engraving and styling take cues from the ornate aesthetic of early Conn production, giving the horn a distinctive historical presence from the moment it’s lifted from the case.

Condition

This example is in pristine, near-mint condition, effectively as-issued. The lacquer is fully intact and shows no meaningful signs of use. Keywork is crisp, tight, and perfectly aligned. Pads and felts remain factory-original and the horn speaks with the immediacy, resonance, and powerful projection that defined the intent of the CONNfirmation redesign.

Features

• Serial number 2 – among the first CONNfirmation altos ever produced
• Artist-issued directly to Michael Wilbur (Moon Hooch)
• Vintage-inspired lacquer and engraving modeled after pre-war Conn finishes
• Acoustic design influenced by vintage bore proportions and tone hole philosophy
• Modern ergonomic keywork with fast, precise action
• Resonant, powerful core sound with vintage warmth and modern stability
• Factory setup in preserved, pristine condition

Provenance

Michael Wilbur’s explosive performance style with Moon Hooch – blending jazz, EDM, funk, and experimental saxophone techniques – made him an ideal early ambassador for the CONNfirmation concept. His involvement highlights the horn’s dual mission: honoring Conn’s historic identity while embracing the forward-thinking creativity of contemporary saxophonists.

Summary

This is a museum-caliber example of one of Conn’s most meaningful modern projects. As an early serial-numbered horn issued to a prominent Conn artist, serial number 2 represents the perfect convergence of heritage, innovation, and provenance.

Comes in the original case with extras in excellent condition.