Selmer Signature - Tenor Sax

Product Information

The latest model from the Selmer Paris factory is the new Signature Tenor Saxophone. The Signature models are the natural evolution from the Super Action 80 Series II and Series III Saxophones. It builds on their classic tonal characteristics whilst employing some of the new design techniques and features of the flagship Supreme model. Interestingly the Signature Alto & Tenor have different inspirations and design philosophies, read on to find out more…

Why the Selmer Signature Tenor Sax?

As the Selmer Saxophone range has developed over the last decade it's been clear that eventually the Series II and Series III models would be superseded.  Selmer have added the Axos as an entry-level professional model, then the Supreme as the flagship top of the range instrument. Thus, the mid-range professional area needed tidying up and here is the Signature model to do just that. 

Selmer say the Signature has the ‘DNA of the Supreme, but is more accessible’. Basically they're alluding to the price! The Signature is the instrument that the majority of players will choose, like the Series II or III models of years gone by. The Supreme is more of a rare beast due to supply and cost restrictions.

Selmer Signature Design & Technical Spec - Tenor Model

The Signature Tenor has been inspired by the Series III Tenor. This is unlike the Alto Signature which was based more on the Super Action 80 Series II. So, why did Selmer choose the Series III as the inspiration for the Signature Tenor Sax?

Originally launched in 1995 the Series III was a very popular choice for Tenor players. Selmer wanted the Signature Tenor to have some of the Series III vibrancy and flexibility of tone which was much appreciated by users. The Signature features a larger diameter on the neck receiver and small modifications to the key layout versus the old Series III.

There are also some small technical advancements which filter down from the Supreme such as the 3-point neck receiver system, an octave key with teflon supports, and the new engraving designs. The Signature has an Art Deco style engraving which looks very classy.  The metal thumb button and metal thumb hook finish off the impressive spec of the Signature Tenor Sax.

How Does the Signature Tenor Sax Play?

Like all Selmer Tenor Saxophones it retains that elusive ‘weight’ to the tone which makes them so irresistible. Whilst this is true of the Alto in some respects, we actually feel the Signature Tenor is more of a classic ‘Selmer’ sounding instrument. The metal resonators on the premium pads help add back a little bite or ping to the sound which counters the density of the core sound quite nicely.

We feel the Signature has more punch, power and projection than the Series III it was inspired by, but not at the expense of subtlety and quality of tone. We would except players of any genre from jazz to classical to find a home with the Signature, it is very versatile and flexible. Thankfully it both feels and sounds different to the Supreme so players now have a serious choice between the two.

• Selmer Signature Tenor Saxophone
• Gold Lacquer Finish
• Supplied with Signature Case
• Comes with Selmer Concept Mouthpiece, Lig & Cap
• Fully Workshop Checked & Set-Up
• Includes Selmer Strap, Metal End Stop, Swabs, Grease

Selmer Signature - Tenor Sax Reviews