1937 23,xxx Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone, Video
1937 Selmer Balanced Action tenor saxophone, s/n 23985. Here's an early Balanced Action tenor, made in the second year of production. This is a beautiful example. The engraving is clear and crisp, and although its current coat of lacquer is likely not original, it was done very well. The horn received an overhaul approximately five years ago and the pads still are in great condition with a lot of life left. Based on the look and feel, I believe that they're Pisoni Pros. The reonators are domed brass, and appear to be high quality and reusable. The previous owner moved the neck strap ring to its proper place for better balance. The horn feels great and plays well from top to bottom.
This is a great sounding horn. Selmer's attempt to recreate this 1936 Balanced Action with their Reference 36 doesn't do these older horns justice. There is tonal expression that modern horns can't match. Nothing against the Reference 36 which is a great horn, but it's nothing like an early Balanced Action. My advice: save thousands and buy the real thing.
