Selmer 1938 Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone - Artist Owned -Benny Goodman's Band

1938 Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone - Artist Owned -Benny Goodman's Band. Condition is Used.

Selmer Paris released the Balanced Action officially in 1935. It was another leap forward for Selmer, and sort of a response to the great American-made saxes that were so popular in the 20's and 30's. It has a bigger bore throughout, giving you some added volume with less effort. It also was the first Selmer horn to put the bell keys together on right side of the bell, a style since copied by pretty much all modern horns. The ads in their day touted the Balanced Action's fast keywork, saying the player would play “25% faster.”
It introduced a revolutionary new layout for the key table operating the G♯ and low C♯, B, and B♭ keys. A model played by many Jazz artists of the time including Stan Getz.

Serial Number 26xxx puts it in the year of 1938, more than 80 years old piece of Selmer history
The instrument was bought in an estate sale!

A prime example of a Selmer Balanced Action Tenor in a great condition played in Benny Goodman's Band by CHESTER "CHET' BENN.

It has that glorious round sound which made BA Tenor an instant hit among saxophonists at that time playing melodies & lyrical notes. Nothing can actually beat sound of a full volume Balanced Action Tenor, arguably second to Conn 10M.

It seems to be a case of Factory relacquer, you can see that crisp engraving pattern of floral themes & Mountain with House & trees, verifying it to be well done job with proper baking as it was done in those early years. It seems that after getting relacquered from the Selmer USA factory, it was not played again until recent years.

Also look at the natural patina, which is beautiful. No resolders or any major Dents. Original Neck is Solid & round.

The action is extremely light and fluid. The feeling is beautiful and helps you execute faster lines much better than any other saxophone or the market.

Comes in its Original Black Case, Original Wood Cap, Vintage Reed Box, Saxophone Pad Saver, Pack of Pads w/ Metal Resonators that were previously installed.
Selmer style Pads are in great condition, currently seal well and have tons of life in them and mechanics work flawlessly.

It is getting increasingly difficult to find Balanced Action TENORS in such a good condition with solid body, older relacquer, crisp engraving and that elusive FAT & ROUND Tone. Your search may end with this one. It sounds as good as an original lacquer one and I’ve played few in person to confirm that.

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Notte: I can supply the saxophone in a Brand New ABS Shell Carrying Case, better & safer for longer transit or shipping. The original case doesn't provide enough protection to the horn during shipping.

Ships from NJ, USA