Mark VII or SA 80 Series II tenors?

[evo462]

I was wondering what the major differences were between the two models. I found one of each for sale at reasonable prices. Well, the Mark II is actually about $800 cheaper than the SA 80 (new old stock). I owned a SA 80 II about 5 years ago and loved it, but never played any other Selmer Paris models. The Mk VII is has 80% lacquer, no dents and the SA 80 II is "like new".

I was wondering how the two differed in ergonomics (assuming they're similar), tone, and overall playability (consider them both properly set up).

Thanks

[Grumps]

Now I've owned and played a VII tenor for years in the past, but only test played a II tenor. Large hands help with a VII tenor as the pinky tables can be a stretch. As for the more subjective elements, you've really got to try them out before buying and know you'll be happy with what you've got. Generally speaking, the VII tenor and the II tenor are probaby Selmer's least regarded modern horns, though many are happy with them.

[clarnibass]

I think it depends what is common in your area. For example here the SA80II tenor is not close to least regarded and actually one of the most popular tenors, maybe even the most popular. I agree that it's important to try the models but also important to try the specific ones. With the II model so popular here, I've tried many, and they vary from some of my favorite and some I didn't even like much.

[Grumps]

With the II model so popular here...
II tenors, right? As the II alto is a whole 'nother story and should be considered seperately. And I know you said II tenors... but it just seems they're getting knocked like the VII has been for years. As an aside, the II alto is probably my favorite modern alto out there.

[evo462]

Yes, just tenors.

[clarnibass]

II tenors, right? As the II alto is a whole 'nother story and should be considered seperately. And I know you said II tenors... but it just seems they're getting knocked like the VII has been for years. As an aside, the II alto is probably my favorite modern alto out there.
Yes tenors, but altos too. What you describe ("it just seems they're getting knocked") doesn't exist here (in my country). The Selmer SA80SII and SIII are the most popular professional models altos and tenors (the former the most popular, at least from what I see).

[Grumps]

Are II tenors preferred for classical playing, or just all around?

[clarnibass]

I'd say all around. The point is also that some people like them, but they are not "knocked" by everyone else.

Classical saxophone is big in my city because of one paticular teacher. His students usually play newer Selmers. I think for classical, it's more equal between SII and SIII, I can't really say which is more common. For jazz players there are a lot more different models (not only Selmer) but still SII and SIII are popular and the SII definitely more than the SIII (both altos and tenors).

[Grumps]

II tenors get knocked quite a bit here. Then again, so does nearly every horn. However, when knocking Selmers, it's usually on a scale relative to only Selmers; not in comparison with other horns. Most would certainly recognize the professional status of all of their modern lines.

[clarnibass]

II tenors get knocked quite a bit here. Then again, so does nearly every horn. However, when knocking Selmers, it's usually on a scale relative to only Selmers; not in comparison with other horns. Most would certainly recognize the professional status of all of their modern lines.
Like a Hanzo sword.... yes, happens here too. But not specifically with tenor or the SII model, but generally saying the newer ones are not as good as the Mark VI. But this opinion usually come from players with a bias so it is not very meaningful.

There are opinions and there are actual reasons that someone chooses an instrument. Opinions about technical things and similar things can help. Opinions about how instruments play, and what is better, are sometimes fun to talk about and can be fun on a forum, but are not the most meaningful when actually choosing an instrument. At least here, usually people try instruments and choose the one they like. Not a certain model, but a specific instrument. For many players players (some excellent ones too) that was a SII model.

BTW since you mentioned the VII model, by coincidence yesterday was the second time I got to play a VII (a tenor). I don't remember anything from the first time. Trying to ignore all the rumors and opinions about this model, I played it, and that instrument was definitely one that I can understand why a player would choose.