Bravo on playing a Mark VII tenor. I really want to try one, just because people hate them for name alone and I love killing expectations (see signature).

Anyway, glad your horn's working better for you. I don't know about the physics of it, but I'm more inclined to think the tone has improved not so much because the horn's pads were altering it but more because you're now comfortable with the horn and you're improving the tone.
Have you considered figuring out basic maintenance for yourself? I got a Music Medic rope leak light and bought or rigged a few other basic tools, and it took me a bit to figure out how to work on the horn, but I am glad I can do it! It saves me from running to the tech every time the lows get iffy, and that saves me money! Not to mention that it is much more fun playing a well-adjusted sax than one that looks like a Christmas tree when a leak light's in the bore. Granted, I can't replace dead pads yet (soon...), but I can regulate good ones and keep it leak-free.

 

 

Ed, you are so right. I'm always amazed at how many players post on here about having problems with low notes, high notes, response, etc, on a horn they bought used (or new for that matter) on ebay or from a friend, AND they have been trying everything, asking about their mpc, embouchure, etc, without ever taking the horn in to the shop. After all, the seller said it was in good shape (of course)! I've also heard all kinds of stories about players trying out vintage horns, then declaring them out of tune, stuffy, poor response on low notes, and just plain old and no good. When the horn was undoubtedly full of leaks.

I probably don't take my horn in to my tech as often as I should, but I try to do it at least once a year, even if I think it's playing well. He usually finds a leak or two and after after he fixes that, I'm amazed at how much better the horn plays.

Every player should watch this video that saxpiece posted:



p.s. Nothing wrong with a MKVIl (assuming it's in good playing condition). I haven't played one, but I've heard a local player on one who has an amazing sound.

 

Mmm. I'm pretty familiar with the horn since I bought it new 35 odd years ago. I have a/b this horn with many others and none have made me want to swap. The only one that I do miss is my first one a Conn naked lady. I prefer it to the mark Vl I played but part of that could be my familiarity with it. I have never played another Vll but I do think they may be underrated.

 

35? That's the same age as my VII. I'm totally happy with it.

 

This reminds me....when I get well I need to take my horn to the doctor. I got a patch up job done last year but there are a few tone holes that need leveling and a touch of swedging to be done. My horn is by far not bad but it doesnt pop and feel tight. It deserves to be set up good and proper.

 

My friend had a really nice Mark VII. I've heard more than a few nice ones besides.

 

The 'bad rap' on the 7 tenor really amounted to one thing - it wasn't a MK VI. Now that everybody has had several decades to get over that, we find that the 7, while having some different ergos, can be anything you need, and is still a bargain. Plus, there are plenty of reasonably-priced Selmer Paris necks (Series III) to try on it if you want to find that special combination.