1951 45,xxx Selmer Super Balanced Action Alto Saxophone, Near Mint, Overhaul, Desmond S/N, Video
1951 45,xxx Selmer Super Balanced Action "SBA" alto saxophone with 99.9% original silver plating. Based on my research, Desmond also played a 1951 SBA with serial number 43,xxx. This horn, being just a couple of thousand off from his, was produced just months after Desmond's. The overall condition is immaculate and darn near close to mint. The silver plating is nearly 100% intact, and the horn is remarkably straight. I believe a small ding was taken out of the bow at one point, but otherwise, I don't see any other significant blemishes.
The sax just received a full mechanical overhaul from Eric Beach, who is one of the best in the business. The action feels smooth and efficient, and the springs have a light touch, giving the horn an effortless feel to it. Eric used Pisoni Pro pads, which will last for years if not decades, along with rivetless domed metal resonators, similar in shape to what this horn would have originally come with. The sax comes in its original case, also in excellent condition.
This SBA captures what I love about this model. There's a sweetness and soulfulness to the sound that comes alive when you put air into it. The sound can be supple when desired, but it can really project when you put a lot of air into it. The tone is very stable in all dynamic registers. Over the last few years, SBA altos have become as popular as their tenor counterpart for good reason. These are just incredible horns that are finally getting the reputation they deserve.
