SAristocrat AS500

[bronzZoot]

I was told that this new horn by Selmer (SAristocrat AS500) has a different octave key mechanism.

Described here:

http://www.davephillipsmusic.com/band.htm

or

"The innovative change of lowering the octave key pin flush with the top of the neck receiver will protect it from damage, especially when students forget to use the end plug." (from the website)

Doesn't this mean that something extra will have to drop down from the neck? I would think that the neck is more prone to getting banged up. Is this a good idea or just another marketing scam?

Anyone had the chance to play or inspect one?

SJT

[foresterdjb]

As described, the pin of the octave mechanizm is even with the top of the receiver, so the loop of the octave key is slightly lower to contact it, but not so low as to go below the tenon part of the neck. The ad used with almost all sales of the AS500 (your link included) was from a February 2003 press release by Selmer USA. I started learning the sax last February and I am renting a Selmer AS500 from my local music shop. I was at first very concerned about the quality of the horn, due to it's made in Taiwan label. However, I believe most of my problems were due to beginner status, weak embochure, etc. As I have improved slowly, my tone seems quite fine, at least my instructor and a local tech tell me so. The AS500 has adjusting screws for both the upper and lower stack, the articulated G#,C#,B,Bb left hand table keys, and nice engraving, features not found on most "student" level horns. I use a Selmer C* mouthpiece, a rovner ligature, and either Rico 2.5 or a fibracell medium reed.