Thanks for the input, all!
I ended up with something completely different.. (isn't that how it always works?)
Went up to the local music store this evening to look at some saxes I've been considering. Ended up playing a YTS-475 and a Jupiter 889SG. I went in there convinced I'd like the Yamaha better. Walked out of there with the 889SG. While the Yamaha was pretty as can be, and had excellent, smooth keywork, neither the sound nor the feel was at all what I wanted. I could appreciate the workmanship and that it's obviously a quality instrument, but it just wasn't for me. Like I told my wife, "it sounds too much like a saxophone."
The Jupiter on the other hand just felt *right*. The tone was great; soft, even, smooth. The keys just fell under my fingers (except for the low Bb, which feels a little weird still), and music just flowed... hard to explain, but as soon as I started playing it I knew I found the right one. Didn't care for the 'Jupiter 4C' mouthpiece much; too bright and brassy sounding. Sticking with my el cheapo Goldentone 3 for now.