Selmer Signature - Alto Sax

Product Information

The latest model from the Selmer Paris factory is the new Signature Alto Saxophone. The Signature models are the natural evolution from the Super Action 80 Series II and Series III Saxophones. It builds on their classic tonal characteristics whilst employing some of the new design techniques and features of the flagship Supreme model. Interestingly the Signature Alto & Tenor have different inspirations and design philosophies, read on to find out more…

Why the Selmer Signature Alto Sax?

As the Selmer Saxophone range has developed over the last decade it's been clear that eventually the Series II and Series III models would be superseded.  Selmer have added the Axos as an entry-level professional model, then the Supreme as the flagship top of the range instrument. Thus, the mid-range professional area needed tidying up and here is the Signature model to do just that. 

Selmer say the Signature has the ‘DNA of the Supreme, but is more accessible’. Basically they're alluding to the price! The Signature is the instrument that the majority of players will choose, like the Series II or III models of years gone by. The Supreme is more of a rare beast due to supply and cost restrictions.

Selmer Signature Design & Technical Spec - Alto Model

The Signature Alto takes over from the classic Super Action 80 Series II which has been on the market since 1986. The Signature benefits from improved intonation, especially in the upper register, and also a broader more easily created sound in the lower register.

Ergonomically the key layout and positioning on the Alto model has been heavily inspired by the Series II - the Tenor has followed a different path. This inspiration from the SA80 Series II on the Alto is great news as the Series II was universally regarded as the most comfortable Selmer to play. 

There are also some small technical advancements which filter down from the Supreme such as the 3-point neck receiver system, an octave key with teflon supports, and the new engraving designs. The Signature has an Art Deco style engraving which looks very classy.

How Does the Signature Alto Sax Play?

Unsurprisingly this Alto sounds great, but let's try and be more helpful than that! To us, the Signature takes all the best parts of a Series II and then adds more richness and more projection. It is easy to get around physically and tonally its towards the Supreme whilst retaining it's own character. It feels very versatile, so whatever genre or mood you throw at it the Signature can cope. 

We can see Classical and Jazz players really enjoying this instrument. Arguably it's actually more versatile than the Supreme which has a quite specific sound in our opinion. The Signature is more of a blank canvas that allows you to craft the tone in any direction. Intonation is excellent and the dynamic range (just like the Surpeme) is vast.

The new neck internal bore shaping ensures excellent intonation across the range of the instrument. Improvements can be heard in the left hand and upper register in particular compared to Series II and III models. It has a full, rounded sound throughout. The metal thumb button and thumb hook finish off the impressive spec of the Signature Alto.

• Selmer Signature Alto Saxophone
• Gold Lacquer Finish
• Supplied with Signature Case
• Comes with Selmer Concept Mouthpiece, Lig & Cap
• Fully Workshop Checked & Set-Up
• Includes Selmer Strap, Metal End Stop, Swabs, Grease

Selmer Signature - Alto Sax Reviews