1982 339,xxx Selmer Super Action 80 Alto Saxophone, Just Serviced

1982 Selmer Super Action 80 alto saxophone, s/n 339247. This is a 1980s Selmer that was made shortly after the Mark VI and VII horns. Some refer to this model as a Series I, but its official name is a Super Action 80. These are excellent horns that get overlooked, since relatively few were made compared to the Mark VI or the Series II.

They have a more focused and compact sound than a Series II, and they sit on the darker side. For this reason I think they make a great crossover horn that can do both classical and jazz equally well. It is as easy to make this horn sing with a New York Meyer as it is with a Selmer Concept mouthpiece. Few horns can do this as well as a Series I.

My repairman just serviced the sax prior to sale. He replaced two pads and four key corks, then regulated the rest. The remaining pads are in good condition and seal well, so the horn plays easily in all registers. This horn is stamped USN for the United States Navy on the bell, right next to the bell to bow ring. Navy horns were bought new by the service for its bands and this one looks like it was well cared for. The sax comes in its original hard case.

Here is a video of another Super Action 80 alto that came through the shop. It should give you a good idea of what this model sounds like.