Selmer USA SN 820xxx/828xxx (sleepers?)

[tsaxy]

Hi,
Just want to thank those that contributed information about the 80s Selmer USA saxes. (Omega ? or 162/164 models) As most others , I thought Selmer's had to have "Paris" engraved on the bell to be worth a d---.

I purchased a 821xxx USA tenor based on the information given in these threads here. The one I have is simply a well made, super sounding horn and is comfortable to hold.(like a MK VI or VII?) It is a keeper and my main gig horn, now. I liked it so much that I bought a 823xxx alto , also. Same results.

I think the secret is out. There is a USA tenor(828xxx or 825xxx I think) on Ebay right now that has a bid of $1900. It is, of course, a mint looking horn. The same ebay seller just sold a similar alto for $1600. I saw one at a internet dealer's site for $1450. (alto). These horns mentioned are all in top condition. I did not pay anywhere near these prices, but it is encouraging that I may be able to get my investment back, if I decide to change horns again.

Thanks

[rmp]

ez_sax has my 8404XX alto right now and is bringing it back to life after years of abuse and mal-adjustment. I'm very excited to get it back from him, I can tell by my discussions with him that's going to be better than ever. Thanks Ed!

I'd also love to hear his straight-up opinion on the horn compared to others. I've heard these referred to as US made Mark VIs, etc - bunk or not? I haven't played a lot of the new modern horns in the past 15 years, so I don't have much to compare to.

Those prices are indeed higher than I thought they were worth. A similar tenor sold last week on ebay for $730 or so? Could be a hell of a deal. I bought my alto for $1000 back in 88 and it's been a good old horn.

rmp

[stevesklar]

I consider the Selmer Omega 80s horns to be very nice horns. How does it compare to my VII or VIs ?

I don't think they have the Selmer Paris core tone but still, very very good. RPMs horn plays very nicely and will play better after the adjustments Ed does. I think they did an excellent job copying the VI design though apparently the visual overall quality is not as high.

But I would not hesitate getting one at a good price - I nearly bidded on that one on ebay too.

There are some Omegas that have full bell and bow engraving too. So watch out for those, they really look nice - very similar engraving to the Paris horns. I have pics of one if anyone wants to see it.

[sycc]

I have 2 Selmer Omegas-a alto and a tenor and both play very well. I also have a super 80 baritone and a super 80 II soprano and the USA compare quite nicely to them. Also the compare favorablely w/ my daughters' yanagisawas,cannonball and kielwerth.