1952 51,xxx Selmer SBA Super Balanced Action Alto Saxophone, Fresh Overhaul, Video
1952 Selmer SBA alto saxophone, s/n 51311. This sax is a prime vintage SBA, made just two years before the Mark VI. The sax just received an overhaul from Aaron Barnard, who installed Pisoni Pro pads and domed rivetless metal resonators, similar in shape to what this horn was originally equipped with. The sax comes in the original Chesterfield case which is in good condition. We think the sax most likely had a factory relacquer. It has the lacquer color and type as an early 1960's Mark VI. It was done incredibly well, which goes to show that the quality of the job matters a lot.
This SBA has a mellow, laid-back vibe to it. Super even and consistent through all registers, but it has a gorgeous sound that screams Paul Desmond to me. Match this with a vintage Gregory, and you'll have your perfect west coast jazz setup.
