Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $5,495

High-end/Boutique

$1500

$3501+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Step back in time with the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone, a quintessential piece of musical history renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and rich tonal quality. This vintage instrument is a favorite among professional musicians and collectors alike, thanks to its distinctive sound profile that has stood the test of time. Handcrafted in France, the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone is celebrated for its robust build and intricate keywork, which offers both precision and comfort, making it a pleasure to play.

The saxophone features a ribbed construction, adding to its durability and resonance, while the traditional brass body amplifies its warm, full-bodied sound. Its key action is fluid and responsive, allowing players to effortlessly navigate complex passages. The balanced intonation and projection make it suitable for both solo performances and ensemble settings. Whether you're performing in a jazz club or a symphony orchestra, this instrument ensures that your sound is both powerful and nuanced.

Ideal for seasoned saxophonists seeking a high-quality, reliable instrument, the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone is more than just a tool—it's a legacy. The saxophone is a testament to Selmer's commitment to excellence and innovation, embodying a blend of tradition and artistry that continues to inspire musicians around the world.

Key Features:

  • Handcrafted in France
  • Ribbed construction for enhanced durability
  • Traditional brass body for a warm sound
  • Intricate keywork for precision and comfort
  • Balanced intonation and projection
  • Suitable for solo and ensemble performances

FAQs

What are the key features of the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone?

The 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone is renowned for its rich, warm tone and excellent craftsmanship. It features a balanced action keywork and is highly sought after by professional musicians for its superior sound quality and playability.

Is the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone suitable for professional use?

Yes, the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone is considered a professional-grade instrument, known for its excellent intonation and tonal richness, making it ideal for advanced players and professional musicians.

How does the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone compare to modern models?

The 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone is often praised for its vintage sound and craftsmanship, offering a distinct tonal character that many players find preferable to the brighter, more modern sound of newer models.

What type of music is the 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone best suited for?

This saxophone is versatile and well-suited for a range of genres, including jazz, classical, and blues, thanks to its warm, expressive tone and responsive keywork.

How can I identify if my Selmer Alto Saxophone is from 1968?

You can identify a 1968 Selmer Alto Saxophone by checking the serial number, which should fall within the range specific to that production year. Additionally, the engraving and craftsmanship details can also provide clues to its authenticity and age.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1968 Selmer Alto Saxaphone.

Comparisons

  • The 1968 Selmer Mark VI is described as having a bright, edgy sound with consistent range, unlike older VIs which are deeper and less thin.

    Source
  • Compared to the Buffet-Crampon SDA, the Mark VI emphasizes upper and mid frequencies, while the SDA highlights mids and lows.

    Source
  • Compared to the Conn 10M and Yamaha 62, the Mark VI is favored for jazz due to its distinct sound potential, though the 62 is described as more neutral and precise for modern bands.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the Selmer Mark VI from '68 offers a comfortable playing experience, unlike the Buffet SDA, which has awkward right-hand positioning due to tone hole design.

    Source
  • A user indicates that the Selmer Mark VI is "stupidly consistent" across its range, suggesting reliable performance for both practice and performance settings.

    Source
  • The Selmer Mark VI is noted for its harmonically rich, versatile core tone, adaptable to various styles, providing a unique feedback to the player, unlike some modern saxophones.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The Selmer Mark VI is noted for its consistent performance across its range, making it reliable for various playing conditions.

    Source

Build quality

  • There is significant variation in build quality among individual Mark VI saxophones; one user noted finding only 5 good examples in a 50-year career.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Mark VI introduced a tilting Bb spatula, enhancing maneuverability, although some critique the ergonomics for requiring awkward pinky movements.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A good Mark VI is considered legendary, with high resale value and reputation, but its quality can vary, making it less consistent compared to modern horns.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rory Gallagher uses 1968 Selmer Alto Saxaphone

Rory Gallagher

Guitarist, Singer

Taste

...
Verified via Rorygallagher

While in the band Taste, Rory used this 1968 Selmer Alto sax on their 1970 album "On the Boards"

See how Brian Jones uses 1968 Selmer Alto Saxaphone

Brian Jones

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Rolling Stones

...
Verified

In this photo you can see jones playing the saxophone on the Beatles song “you know my name (look up the number)”

Album Usage

The 1968 Selmer Alto Saxaphone has been featured on the following albums:

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