[Bikertrash]

I'm tempted to make my next tenor a P.Mauriat, as they seem to have the sound I want - but I don't especially like the antiqued lacquer finish, which seems to be the most common style. I've heard they now produce an unlacquered version - has anyone tried this variant?

 

[Reedsplinter]

I don't have experience with the horn you describe; my "answer" to your post is of a different kind. As you think about what you want, consider the information in this thread (if you haven't already seen it):

http://www.saxontheweb.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=581036#post581036

It's a massive thread, with lots of opinions (and fireworks), but you might be interested in what Phil Barone says when he starts to chime in about 3/4 of the way through.

Good luck!

PS -- this link seems to take you to the very end of the thread; you'll figure it out.