Referance 54 compared to all other saxes

[DuquesneSax85]

I have had a Selmer Series II Alto for about 6 years. I just don't get the dark warmth sound that I want from it. I have heard great things about the Ref. 54 alto. How does the horn compare to all other makes of saxophones and how well does it fit the classical standard? Please let me know! Thanks!!!

[jaankaden]

there are comparisons and opinions of the reference alto literally drowning the alto board, so i would suggest you look through them because not only does your question, having been repeated so many times by others before you, not warrant a response, but the extreme open-endedness (compare to ALL other makes of saxophones?) makes it impossible to give you one as well.

[DuquesneSax85]

Thanks for your response. I do agree with you for bringing up that same old topic. I should have been more specific. I am trying to get a good view of the horn, maybe not compared to ALL horns but the top 3, Selmer series, Yamaha, and Yani (at least I think so)... Let me know more about the horn in terms of how it plays and how it handles, intonation, and how well is it utilized in a classical setting.. Thanks

[Dave Dolson]

Duquesne: Short answer - better than any other saxophone I've ever played (and in 48 years of playing, that's a whole bunch; vintage and new, all of the big four new ones, and the premier vintage horns). DAVE

[DuquesneSax85]

I've seen pictures of the Reference 54 Alto in the Matte finish, but I am having a hard time finding it every store I look... Do they actually sell it in the matte finish (just like the tenor), and where can I get it?

[Dave Dolson]

Duquense: I have not seen nor heard of any finish other than the dark-honey lacquer on the alto. Every Ref 54 I tried was of the same finish - a finish by the way that receives rave comments from everyone who has seen mine.

I believe finishes are a personal thing (much like tone and mouthpieces) but I don't think you'll be disappointed when you play one in any finish, assuming it is properly set up (which is a whole different discussion). DAVE

[DuquesneSax85]

I have seen the honey brown finish, but I have a picture of the Reference 54 in the matte finish, like the tenor... I guess you would call that the antique or rusted look... not sure..

[DaveKessler]

What you are referring to is known currently as a Limited Edition Reference 54 Alto in the Vintage Finish (Conn-Selmer model 72F).

These were done (supposedly) as a 1 time run upon dealer order only. I received a good number of the altos in this finish but have only 1 left. And I have someone coming in from Seattle tomorrow to try it up against the standard Reference altos. So I am holding it for them. If it doesnt sell, I will make it available to members of this forum first before putting it online.

Price is the same at $3895. Comes in the same case & accessory package as the standard Reference alto.

Also, there is no engraving on the Vintage Finish. There is also nothing on the horn or in the paperwork with the horn stating that it is a Limited Edition. Personally, I beleive that Selmer is simply testing the market and that they will eventually make it a standard option but they will not confirm or deny that.

[Dave Dolson]

Dave Kessler and Duquesne: Interesting.

However, I have never cared for that matte look (except in gold-plating) and have no regrets whatsoever about my Ref 54 alto, including the dealer where I bought it (Kessler's). Like I said before, finish is personal and to those of you who like that matte look, all the more power to you. Enjoy it. DAVE

[singlereed]

Mine is antique gold finish which is nice, but if they brought out one in silver plate, I'd be very tempted!

[DuquesneSax85]

Dave:
I would like to speak with you about that horn if this person does not purchase it. Oh, and thanks for the info. I knew I wasn't just seeing things when I looked at the picture of the horn and it had the matte finish. I personally think that particular finish is very unique, and I like it. Do you have any other suggestions of where I could find that horn in that finish... perhaps contact Selmer? Thanks...

[DaveKessler]

My customer from Seattle found a regular lacquered Reference he preferred over the remaining Vintage finished horn. So that horn is available to you.

As far as getting more, Selmer has none remaining and did not make any extras. I already tried to get more.