Factory new Ref 54

[BillC]

What is involved with the 'set-up' of this new instrument? I read here of deficiencies in the neck, and poor factory delivery condition and etc. What should I expect and look for?

Bill C.

[Dr G]

Play it. If it works well for you, then it works well. If not, then sit down with a tech and go through it top to bottom. The only thing I did with my new Ref was dial in the spring tension to suit my preference. Some people get lucky and are satisfied with the horn right out of the box - I've played several such horns. Minor leaks are not uncommon after shipping but are not a show stopper either. Other folk are very sensitive to their needs after years of playing and would have _any_ horn (not just a Ref) taken apart, repadded, and resprung.

Try it first. It may be just fine.

[BillC]

Thanks Dr.G...

You bring up something ot note there about the "minor leaks are not uncommon after shipping..." The keys are wedged and fixed different ways for shipping but what is your feeling about key clamps for your tenors? I do not own a set so have never used them but if they are the way to go...

Thanks,
Bill C.

[DaveKessler]

Thanks Dr.G...

You bring up something ot note there about the "minor leaks are not uncommon after shipping..." The keys are wedged and fixed different ways for shipping but what is your feeling about key clamps for your tenors? I do not own a set so have never used them but if they are the way to go...

Thanks,
Bill C.

Bill,

I know you directed that question at Dr.G but I thought I might chime in as well if you dont mind.

I own a repair shop & 3 retail stores in Las Vegas. As you can imagine, I see people from all over the world with their horns and just about every contraption known to man.

For people traveling a lot with their horns, key clamps are not a bad idea because as you change climate, pads can shift. So the key clamps can be useful.

If you are staying in one place though, we do not care for them. We find that they cause a lot of sticky pad problems when used all the time and especially right after playing. The pad being wet with spit and what not being clamped, the pad can dry to the tone hole. For some people, their spit isnt bad and doesnt cause many problems. But some people have spit that is like super glue to pads.

So, my recommendation is only use them when you travel with it and dont put them on right after you are done playing. Let the pads dry fully first.

[BillC]

Thank you DaveKessler!

I was just in Las Vegas a few weeks ago visiting the area with a team from VA using one of the dry lake beds in nearby CA to test an AC. I brought a sax with me but did not have time to explore Las Vegas with it (as if I was that good) but played at the hotel with a band from Canada. That was at Buffalo Bills. Man was that a blast! That was on a Yamaha YTS-52 and instrumental in my decision to purchase this Selmer Ref. 54.

The Reference 54 is probably the best sax I have ever played, and it belongs to me... fantastic.

Thank you for the info.
Bill C.