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Description

The Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone is a timeless piece, cherished by saxophonists for its exceptional craftsmanship and legendary sound. Emerging in the late 1950s, the Mark VI series has since set a benchmark in the saxophone community for its unparalleled tonal qualities and responsive playability. This esteemed instrument is renowned for its rich and warm sound, which is consistently clear across all registers. Many musicians favor the Selmer Mark VI for its superior intonation and precise key action, making it an ideal choice for both solo performances and ensemble settings.

Designed with professional musicians in mind, the Mark VI Soprano features a meticulously crafted bore and keywork, enhancing its playability and ease of use. Each saxophone is individually tuned and adjusted to ensure it meets Selmer's high standards of quality and performance. The instrument's durability and elegant design make it not only a pleasure to play but also a visual statement on stage.

Whether you are performing a classical repertoire or exploring the depths of jazz improvisation, the Selmer Mark VI Soprano offers the versatility and expressiveness needed to make your music shine. Its historical significance and continued popularity affirm its status as a preferred choice among professional saxophonists.

Key Features:

  • Legendary Selmer Mark VI design
  • Renowned for rich, warm sound across all registers
  • Superior intonation and precise key action
  • Individually tuned and adjusted for optimal performance
  • Durable construction with elegant design

Product specs

Brand Selmer
Model Mark VI Soprano Saxophone
Finish Lacquered Brass
Year 1970 - 1975
Categories Saxophones

FAQs

What makes the Selmer Mark VI Soprano saxophone highly sought after by musicians?

The Selmer Mark VI Soprano is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, warm tone, and superior intonation. Produced between 1970 and 1975, it is considered a classic model that many professional saxophonists prefer for its rich sound and historical significance.

Is the Selmer Mark VI Soprano saxophone suitable for beginners?

The Selmer Mark VI Soprano is typically recommended for experienced players due to its challenging playability and tuning sensitivity. Beginners might find it difficult to control, so it's generally better suited for advanced musicians who can appreciate its nuanced sound.

What is the typical range of the Selmer Mark VI Soprano saxophone?

The Selmer Mark VI Soprano saxophone typically features a range from low B♭ to high F♯, making it versatile for various musical styles. This range allows players to perform both classical and contemporary pieces with ease.

How does the lacquered brass finish affect the sound of the Selmer Mark VI Soprano?

The lacquered brass finish on the Selmer Mark VI Soprano contributes to its warm and resonant tone. This finish not only enhances the saxophone's aesthetic appeal but also plays a role in its sound projection and tonal quality.

What are the key characteristics of the Selmer Mark VI Soprano's sound?

The Selmer Mark VI Soprano is known for its rich, full-bodied sound with excellent projection and smooth intonation. Its tonal quality is often described as warm and vibrant, making it a favorite among jazz and classical saxophonists alike.

Solar Music play tests

Solar Music play tests

#6778 SELMER MARK VI SOPRANO SAXOPHONE 5 DIGIT #94812 play test

Video thumbnail for #6778 SELMER MARK VI SOPRANO SAXOPHONE 5 DIGIT #94812 play test by Solar Music play tests

#6778 SELMER MARK VI SOPRANO SAXOPHONE 5 DIGIT #94812 play test

Solar Music play tests

Solar Music play tests

Video thumbnail for Sax-Shop.com 1959 Selmer Mark VI Silver Soprano Saxophone by Sax-Shop com

Sax-Shop.com 1959 Selmer Mark VI Silver Soprano Saxophone

Sax-Shop com

Sax-Shop com

Video thumbnail for Mark VI Soprano Sax VS Mark VI Soprano Saxophone! Which one will win? 🤔 by JL Woodwinds

Mark VI Soprano Sax VS Mark VI Soprano Saxophone! Which one will win? 🤔

JL Woodwinds

JL Woodwinds

Video thumbnail for Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com by DC Sax

Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com

DC Sax

DC Sax

Video thumbnail for Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo by DC Sax

Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo

DC Sax

DC Sax

Video thumbnail for Play Test of Beautiful Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone 292xxx Original Lacquer! www.newyorksax.com by JL Woodwinds

Play Test of Beautiful Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone 292xxx Original Lacquer! www.newyorksax.com

JL Woodwinds

JL Woodwinds

Video thumbnail for Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com by DC Sax

Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com

DC Sax

DC Sax

Video thumbnail for 97,xxx Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com by DC Sax

97,xxx Selmer Mark VI Soprano Saxophone Demo, www.dcsax.com

DC Sax

DC Sax

Video thumbnail for Amazing Condition Original Selmer Mark VI Soprano 187xxx Play Test! www.newyorksax.com by JL Woodwinds

Amazing Condition Original Selmer Mark VI Soprano 187xxx Play Test! www.newyorksax.com

JL Woodwinds

JL Woodwinds

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Selmer Mark VI Soprano.

Setup and maintenance

  • Mark VI sopranos often require more air support; a modern mouthpiece may help reduce resistance compared to older models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users find Yamaha and Yanagisawa sopranos easier to play than the Mark VI, suggesting these as alternatives for those struggling with the Selmer.

    Source
  • Mark VI sopranos reportedly continued production through the 1970s without redesign, unlike alto and tenor models which transitioned to Mark VII.

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  • Despite the Mark VI's historical reputation, some players find modern saxophones like Yamaha's to offer better ergonomics and intonation, reflecting advancements in precision and quality.

    Source
  • Many legendary jazz saxophonists, including Dexter Gordon and Stan Getz, popularized the Mark VI, contributing to its iconic status despite varied opinions on its superiority.

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User experience

  • Late 70s Mark VI models can have inconsistent quality; some owners find them less reliable compared to other eras.

    Source
  • Owners have noted that the palm keys on some Mark VI sopranos feature a standard arrangement, unlike other models with unusual stacked orders.

    Source
  • Mark VI sopranos are noted for their distinctive, harmonically rich core tones adaptable to many styles, though some find the tone inconsistent across different horns.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some players report difficulty in playing certain notes like low D in tune, needing embouchure adjustments to compensate.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A different mouthpiece and reed combo can significantly change playability, with medium open mouthpieces and medium hard reeds recommended for better response.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some Selmer Mark VI sopranos from the late 70s may have serial numbers overlapping with Mark VII, but these are still genuine Mark VI models due to continued production.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Original pads from the 30s-60s era Selmers are often still found on these instruments, indicating durable and lasting construction.

    Source
  • The Mark VI introduced the tilting Bb spatula, enhancing maneuverability, though some players find the pinky transitions challenging due to the ergonomic design.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Mark VI sopranos are highly sought after for their historical significance and resale value, though some players argue modern horns offer better consistency and performance for the price.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kenny G uses Selmer Mark VI Soprano

Kenny G

Saxophonist

Jeff Lorber Fusion

...
Verified via Music Work Center

A VST which intends to replicate Kenny G's sound. It states that he used a Selmer Mark VI soprano with a Dukoff D8 mouthpiece and a Hemke reed.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Selmer Mark VI Soprano, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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