SML Altos balance keywork?

[heinz]

Hi SML experts, I am considering to buy a SML if I manage to grab one at a reasonble price. Is the SML keywork "balanced" like Selmer's? Or are the toneholes rather "in line" US style? Thanks!

[TRWham]

My GM2 tenor has inline toneholes, not offset like a Mk VI or SBA.

[heinz]

Thanks! How would you rate the playability compared to a SBA?

[TRWham]

I've never played an SBA so I cannot compare. You really need to play both to make a good comparison. Good luck with your search.

[manofsteel]

I go back and forth between my Rev D tenor and my Selmer MkVI Bari and Alto. While the offset keyboard is more ergonomic, it doesn't take me long to get used to the inline keys of my SML. Very comfortable to me. Even if it wasn't, the sound of the SML would make up for a lot!

[mike_s]

i have an SML super 46, and i have played it back to back with a very nice SBA alto. they are two utterly different horns. i would say the SML has the same build quality but a lot more meat to the sound. the keywork is fine.

not sure the offset keys make the selmer balanced, i would point out that the first "balanced" action altos did not have the offset keys.

[danodownunder]

enough said the sound and the brain can rule.......SML phew what a sound HOW much POWER