Thomas
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Selmer Paris Super Action 80 Serie IIIf you're thinking about purchasing a Serie II, then read the following. I own one, and this is my personal insight into this particular Selmer saxophone:
Musically, the Super Action 80 Serie II alto that I have is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I have noticed a quantum leap in my intonation, and the notes just sound so much more like I want them to with this sax.
The placement of the keys on a Serie II is just so much more convenient, too. For example, the octave key mechanism is more practical, and is easier to work. If you're playing a fast piece which involves switching from low B to low C#, it is much more convenient.
I recently tried my old student model Yamaha again, just to see what the difference was. The low keys are just so much harder to work than the ones on my Selmer. It is a million times better than my old one in so many ways.
There are a few downsides to this horn, though. As with most saxophones, this horn has notes that are naturally sharp or flat, so there are certain things the player must do automatically to compensate:
- Middle C sharp is flat by nature, so there are several alternate fingerings that can be used to make it more in tune. The one I use most often is just to press down the Tc key (the middle of the 3 side keys). This is particularly useful in long, sustained passages.
- As for middle D, which is sharp by nature, the player can simply press down the low B key in addition to the regular middle D fingering, and this will make the note more in tune.
Unfortunately, quality like this comes at a steep price. There are many different lacquer finishes you can get, and tons of accessories which will vary the price a little. However, your basic package can cost you at least $3000. I feel very fortunate to be in a family that was able to afford this.
If you're going to play mostly classical, then this is the sax of choice for you. However, if you're more into jazz, then it would be in your best interest to find a good mark VI.
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JPSaxMan
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Yes, I was going more along the jazz lines...I think the black lacquer horns are just awesome! So I was gonna get a black lacquer Serie III which might be better suited for jazz. But keep in mind I'm getting black lacquer also for the versatility of say, pit orchestras, chamber groups, etc. I might wanna try out both and see what I think! :D
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Thomas
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Well, don't get me wrong, the Serie II is a great horn. I was brought into my lessons playing classical music, so I never really got serious about jazz. I get by in jazz band with my Serie II for my level, but I'd need a different horn if I were to say, pursue a professional career playing jazz.
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Thomas
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Does black lacquer really make that much of a difference?
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JPSaxMan
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Yep. Actually, any type of heavier lacquer on a horn (white, black, and the LA Sax finishes) make the sound darker! But all I do is add a metal piece and MAYBE a silver neck if needed to get a jazz sound out of it.
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altosax4ever
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RIGHT!JP, you're absolutley right. If you add a metyal piece, the sound gets jazzier instantly.
It doesn't matter what horn it is, anyone can play jazz on ANY horn. As long as your great, it really doesn't matter. (Unless it's a crap chinese make)
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JPSaxMan
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And I'm probably wrong...
It's not so much the material, but a mouthpiece with a high baffle and a wider tip opening. Otto Link metal pieces tend to be dark, believe it or not  ??:
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altosax4ever
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No, you're very right. It's just that metal pieces tend to have a higher baffle.
Same Diff, I suppose 
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