From Ref54 to Serie II Tenor

[marc]

Just to share your thoughts:

I was playing aRef54 for 2 years and I never could get out of this horn a clear and punchy high register and altissimo. I read several threads on this subject on SOTW and it seems I was not the only one experiencing this problem. I even received from the Selmer factory a brand new neck which improved a little bit the response, but not that much.
I sold it few months ago and tried a Dave Guardala Artist. No comparison, big big sound and incredibly easier to play. Last week I had the opportunity to buy on Ebay a SA80 serie II from 1988. And I just want to say here how wonderful this horn is : great projection, very easy subtones, rich and powerful low register, very clear and easy altissimo. Both Guardala and Serie II sound very close but the serie II has some more richness in the low register and I can really shape the sound and growl as I want.
Did I really get a bad Ref54 or what ?

[Dr G]

It sounds like you never experienced the Ref after a good setup. Too bad. A good Ref can be a great horn. If it was never set up properly, you'll never know whether you let a great one slip away.

[Sigmund451]

Im liking mine a lot now. I have a Barone neck I use for more projection, and punch...I still like the stock neck for some applications tho. Its nice having both options. I agree with Doc...from what Ive heard the setup is really sensitive on this horn.

[jaankaden]

i've got to agree with Dr G and Sigmund451, selmer horns need to be properly setup to get the best out of them. the Serie II tenor is a very high-regarded horn among performing professionals as well and between these two, or even any others, there certainly isn't a "better" horn, just a "better for you". since the SA80's working great for you right now, it's all good.