Re: Selmer Mark VII vs Mark VI
I agree with Jon. It truly is a personal choice. I have a Mark VI tenor that I have had since 1980. It was the only one available in my price range. I found it at the first place I looked, tried to find others, but couldn't .It was purchased in bad condition and needed refurbishing.
I could not have been able to afford one in playing condition. At that time they were selling in the 3500 range. I was a 17 year old kid and saved 625 bucks to buy the carcass. I was lucky to have a local guy that worked on all the working jazz players horns. When He was finished, he said it has a Sonny Rollins voice. That meant almost nothing to me then. Today, It is a true Gem and I agree it has a Sonny Rollins voice. He did the work for about 175 bucks. I still play on the tenor and would never replace it. I know it too well and it is now my voice.
I am sorry, I can get wordy.
My point is, If I had picked up a Martin or a Conn, I would probably still be playing on it also. I have a SA 80 series II alto that is a very nice horn. They are as good as the legend the Mark VI is. I myself find the larger keywork on a VII a bit over done, but it simply comes down to what you like or are familiar with.
Play as many different horns as possible and see what you like.
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