I think the setup might have more to do with how it feels for your airstream when trying to create your sound. I spent years copying Dexter on a Yamaha, when I picked up a real beefy 10m, the pieces really fell into place. I'm playing on a Tenor Madness horn, and the neck options they let you try are radically different from the feel side.
I agree, I had a similar experience in college when I tried desperately to sound like Kenny Garrett on my Yamaha alto. When I finally got my hands on a Mark VI, that was the missing piece of the puzzle (the 20%, in my opinion). Our equipment should definitely feel good. Having a strong mental concept of sound is what guides us, and equipment can make it easier to obtain that concept. It's inspiring when I see Potter, Branford and Turner each play a Yamaha tenor, and sound essentially the same. Their mental concept is so strong, physically they can make it happen regardless of the gear. Thanks for your feedback, Andrew. I appreciate your thoughtful comments!
