Is the SELMER SUPREME the New MARK VI?

#bettersax #saxophone #selmer
Jay Metcalf reviews the new Selmer Supreme Tenor Saxophone.
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[@insaneevillogan]

I think that perhaps the Mark VI appeals to everyone more because it’s what we always hear on the old records and even though the sound of a saxophone itself is so subtle in comparison to one’s individual embouchure and mouthpiece and even neck, the mark VI is what we’re all nostalgic for. So for those who are truly more forward modern thinkers, they may not be affected by the Mark VI’s old charm.

[@vncstudio]

It's the Gibson Les Paul of saxophones. LOL.

[@ranthony7180]

Since the Mark VI was introduced in 1952, one would assume that there would be major advances in design and manufacturing technology after 70 years. That being said, I found the Mark VI to have a more pleasing sound to my ears. The Mark VI had a very warm and mellow sound, what my sax playing friends and I would call a "fat" sound. The Supreme had, in my opinion, a harsher sound. I think the Mark VI has more pleasing overtones, whereas the Supreme has tightened the overtones, which is possibly one reason why it plays more in tune. My father bought me my Mark VI tenor new in 1967. I have no reason at age 70 to swap it for the Supreme. I wish Selmer tremendous success in their saxophone business. Selmer is the true legacy of Adolph Sax's wonderful creation. Thanks for doing this comparison Jay. You are a strong force in promoting the saxophone. God Bless You.

[@juliovitolo5356]

For my ears the Mark VI had a warmer, more dense sound than the Supreme. The Supreme for me had a metallic or thinner sound. That’s just my ears but I must say the distinction was very clear to me. I’ll take the Mark VI even if the Supreme has more advances. Thanks for the presentation! Great as usual.

[@mprenn1547]

yes, you took the words right out of my mouth...

[@jedivideo6203]

Agree.

[@juliovitolo5356]

@Official TCC Channel. ok, that’s a fair analysis. It would be interesting to hear the Supreme with a different neck and mouthpiece. Thanks for your insight!

[@wauzers]

I agree.

[@pajjakid]

More agreements here !! Supreme sounded very bright with this setup. Mark VI with newer neck quite amazing.

[@garyhonor4220]

Sax players: It’s tooo expensive! Flute players: Hold my beer.

[@Buasop]

Piccolo players: Hold my lithium

[@matthieufritz2624]

Violin players: that's just cute

[@cdstoc]

As someone who plays sax but whose primary instrument is flute, I approve of this comment. I just moved from a lower pro Yamaha to a Powell Conservatory flute 3 years ago, and it cost more than my 3 saxes combined. It's only about half the cost of the *really* premium flutes, though, which is the really crazy part.

[@benhostetler268]

I totally agree I am lucky enough to have played a Supreme and I totally agree it is hands down better than 99% of Mark VI tenors on the market that can cost between 10k and 20k+

[@jackbarton4679]

Loved hearing these comparisons! To my ears, your sound on the Mark VI and the Supreme were roughly the same. Your TWO33 seemed to emphasize the mid-to-low frequencies while the Supreme had more bite in the upper frequencies. None of them was "better" than the other, just different. All of them sound fantastic!

[@floridadad2817]

My dad still has his Alto Mark VI he bought new around 1974. Still plays it. I went bassoon but played sax for a while. I should pick it up again so someone in the family is always using the Mark VI.

[@b.smitty5273]

Playing both classical and jazz professionally, I can say that the supreme when I tried it felt like an amazing allrounder. I tried it against several other horns, with the yanagisawa wo37 as it's main contender, being roughly the main price in my area. I personally preferred the supreme, but some of my musician friends preferred the yanagisawa. It's an amazing instrument that felt like a clear improvement to me over almost all the other modern options out there. Mark VI's are undefeated to me when it comes to being fun to play, but modern Selmers are still my go to for any professional gig.

[@maugog]

I'm listening in my studio, which is quite well balanced, and the supreme sounds a way better than the others, better quality sound, better tuned, and a dense and warmer body too, but not in excess. It's like the sound get into the ears much easier and pleasant and the high notes sound beautiful

[@Shihan-4708]

Great commentary! I play on the Mark Vii and love being connected with history. Yet Selmer making these upgrades will keep our art continually improving. Appreciate your honesty.

[@jamestaylor7746]

To me the Supreme sounded better than the Yani played. Smoother!

[@gilsontopfstedt3554]

It sounds Better, hás but more resistance

[@hflynnjr]

Jay, this is one of the best reviews I've seen in the saxophone/music community. Thanks for all the hard work and effort you put into doing this review. I really like the presentation of the history with Selmer and also discussion about all of the other reasons one would buy a saxophone besides than how it plays. When comparing the sound of the three, they all sound great. I could hear the differences but I can't decide which one is necessarily better than the other. I sensed you were most comfortable on the Yani, but the fact that I know you prefer Yani's may have influenced my preception. My take away after watching this is that your sound comes out in all of them, and each player should get the saxophone that makes them personally feel the best. Again, fantastic video.

[@bettersax]

Thanks Hank!

[@whyneaux]

Thanks for the review! Your content is always enjoyed and appreciated. I'm a Berklee Alum from the 70's and have owned many Mark VI's, from a '57 to a '71. They generally do play and sound great, but can be hit & miss. Not all are great horns. And most are difficult to control the intonation; it's something you have to learn with each of them. I've also had a YAS-875 and YAS-82ZII. They're decent enough but they truly are thinner sounding. I recently purchased the Selmer Supreme. And while many say the Mark VI's are better, I disagree. I expect many players have had a Mark VI for years and balk at the price of the Supreme. This may part of the reason for some of the bias. It's easy to be comfortable with a familiar instrument and be hesitant to try something new. My perception of the Supreme is that it has a very warm, full and round tone. On top of it, the intonation is head & shoulders above the MK VI. Additionally, the action is smoother and faster. It's a joy to play! The use of Teflon inside the octave key system is inspired. The included Concept mouthpiece pairs with the horn extremely well and the sax just performs flawlessly up and down the entire range. Note that Selmer has raised the price on these Supremes, which says something. It's my opinion the Supreme is the new Mark VI and outshines it in most ways. If you're a younger player considering moving up to a Mark VI, I would seriously recommend the Supreme over spinning the wheel and hoping you get a decent Mark VI.

[@Yestopeace365]

That Supreme sounds like it will really have a strong projection and ease of playing at all volumes. Loved hearing it vs the Yani, significantly better Selmer sound from listener perspective.

[@williamgregory1848]

Henri Selmer Paris has defined the modern saxophone with iconic designs like the Balanced Action, the Mark VI, the Super Action 80 Series II, the Series III, and the Reference horns. But here, they’ve created a brand new saxophone that incorporates all the best qualities of those legendary instruments - but manages to surpass them in every way. As much as I respect the Mark VI for its role in jazz history, I’ve got to give it to the Supreme horn (which, fun fact, is named after John Coltrane’s mythical album).

[@michaelporter8242]

I preferred the Yani two33 sound. It sounded like it was a little easier and more free to play, compared to the new Selmer. I could be happy with either horn. Thanks for the mention of KB Sax necks!

[@SAXDAVEBOY]

Great review. Supreme sounded great. Both fantastic. I just went back to Selmer after 20 years from them. Loving my MKVIs again.

[@MikeySaxMusic]

Hey Jay. This was really well done… the Mark VI vs the Supreme were eerily identical. Very thorough. Happy you exist, my friend!

[@bettersax]

Thanks Mikey

[@j.r.1210]

Between the Supreme and the TWO33, the Supreme sounds slightly more like a 1950s-60s jazz tenor, which means sounding more like a Mark VI, which means sounding more like ... a Selmer. The Yany is designed and built to sound great, but not to attempt to replicate the old Selmer sound with such precision. Selmer always tends to have an edge in comparisons like this -- especially when playing jazz, and especially on a tenor -- because consciously or not, a key part of the test for many players is , "Which sax sounds more like a Selmer?"

[@FranckWolf]

I played modern Selmers for years (Sa80, SII, SIII…), and for a long time I didn’t understand that MkVI fan thing, because every time I tried one it wasn’t as good as my modern horns. Until the day I tried one, built in 1963, that seduced me in 3 notes! (18 years ago). I’m still playing it today and got the chance to compare it to the Suprême a couple of weeks ago. I agree with you, the Suprême is better in every possible way! Can’t wait to get mine! 🎷🎶🎵😊 Btw great revue 👏👏👏

[@breckerfan]

This is an amazing review. Everything you say, make sense! Totally agree! Finally a review that is 100% accurate. Selmer is the only company that can go forward with the saxophone evolution...just like George Lucas and Star Wars movies. Well done Sir! Love all your videos and reviews! 👏👏👍🏼👍🏼

[@bettersax]

Thanks!

[@joshcharlat850]

@@bettersax Jay, Mr. Wally talked about how Selmer saxophones fresh from the factory aren't ready to be played. How can that be? For that amount of money? It is so unacceptable as to be criminal. I'm not sure that it wouldn't hold up in small claims court. Now imagine EVERY customer taking them to court!!

[@bettersax]

I did not watch the video you are referring to, so did not hear him say that. I've played 3 Supreme tenors now that were setup at the factory and they all played great. That's not to say one could not dial in the setup for personal preferences further.

[@joshcharlat850]

@@bettersax That's encouraging because they SHOULD be, just as mouthpieces ought to be perfect, too.

[@Buasop]

Actually, Selmer copied Yanagisawa with the F to F# stabilizer bar and they copied SML with their "New" neck tenon.

[@lukeserrano62]

Many thanks Jay for such a well considered and presented review. There’s a great deal of price hysteria surrounding the instrument, in a ‘how dare they’ kind of way. The Supremes imo (both alto - I’m a very fortunate and proud owner- and tenor) have a glowing, golden resonance around the core sound that I think is a truly new element in saxophone tone evolution. It’s hard to hear it on recordings but in person it’s really noticeable. It gives the horn an amazingly special presence. Sometimes I find it almost too intoxicating!

[@inspir.edmusic]

The VI with the KB neck sounds incredible.

[@johncoyle8413]

Regardless of any thoughts I spewed in my comment below, I neglected to thank you for your excellent presentation(s). And… I would gladly enjoy an evening listening to you on WHICHEVER horn you decided to bring to the gig!❤🎶

[@chribm]

I always appreciate the comparisons you do. You've always given a very honest and less biased take than I have seen with many others. I do think you favor the Yani (all good natured), but I can tell you always try to give a clear assessment. Thank you very much, this was really well done!

[@courtneynero6886]

Great review. In your video, I preferred the sound and character of the Supreme. In early Jan 2023, I played a $6K Mark VI at the International Saxophone Symposium and was rather amazed. I had played a Mark VI almost a decade ago that was nothing to write home about. When I played the VI at the Symposium, the feel and tone made me think, "OK, THIS is the magic." I played a Supreme at Chuck Levin's (Wheaton, MD) about a week ago, and the Supreme had that same VI magic: feel, tone, projection, ease of play. Ten years ago, I was in the market for a new tenor. The BEST tenor I played was a Selmer SA80 Series III Jubilee edition - remarkable horn. At $6K, way out of my price range. The horn I bought and have been playing ever since with great joy was a Cannonball Vintage Reborn tenor (likely Cannonball's version of a VI), at less than half the price of the Selmer Jubilee.

[@Morph-hf1hy]

Really great and fair review. Credit to you for mentioning that you prefer the Supreme vs Yani on the listen back! One thing worth metnioning is resale value when chosing between a Mark VI and a new Supreme. New horns has lots of plusses but depreciation isn't one of them!

[@af5889]

Your thorough reviews, knowledge and playing abilities, not to mention your approachable persona, are a gift to today’s sax player (old or younger, student, amateur or pro)! It’s a tough and wonderful topic. I recently parted with a gorgeous silver SBA that I thought would be the forever horn, and for less than 1/2 the price picked up one of Randy’s TM Custom with the mark 6 style neck…best playing horn ever…for me, at least. Thanks again!

[@bettersax]

Thanks! Good luck with the new horn.

[@MusicalKinetics]

"I've gone way beyond the number where anyone in the house won't notice another one" 😅😅😅😅🤣. So true...So true... Excellent video. On behalf of the wood wind community, thank you for this in-depth review of the Supreme. This video will be referenced for many years to come.

[@bettersax]

Thank you!

[@leanmchungry4735]

Nice demonstration, hearing the horn play music makes it real. I enjoy the sound of the Supreme, but still have a preference for my 50K SBA. Congratulations to Selmer for creating something I like though, it's been a while.

[@bengatss]

Don't worry about the sax price. Cello bow alone cost 20k eur, and are chalanging to find one that feels and plays well. For example French maker's - Eugène Sartory. A great Master's Cello at least 150+ years old, usually cost more than typical player can affoard, and are again challanging to get. So, be happy with 10k price tag...

[@guywithdogs]

Great review, Jay. They are all out of my snack bracket, but it was interesting to hear the side by side sound clips. I liked the Supreme sound slightly better in your samples, for the reasons you highlighted.

[@bettersax]

Thanks

[@xandesax6004]

Selmer suprime is more in tune, but mark vi sounds better. with all certainty supreme is the closest to the mkvi that I've seen until today.

[@jongoforth1405]

Geez, Jay. One of the best reviews I've ever seen of saxophones. Of damn near any gear, actually. Thanks so much! My opinion? The Supreme is probably the best. The VI has kind of a subtle "husky" thing that is lacking in both the newer horns-I miss that. The Supreme sounds more like the VI than the Yani-the Yani is very smooth. Very beautiful, almost too smooth. The Supreme has a bit of that Selmer "rat" or ring in the note. An aside here -Yanagisawas play great; in '07 I was on tour in Japan and music store where we were doing a clinic had darn near every Yani model there (no sopraninos), SATB, in brass, bronze, and most of the silver configurations including solid silver. And they were all "pink gold" plated. Damn near needed sunglasses to walk in the room! They all played very well, but independently my buddy Jay & I both liked a solid silver one piece soprano-the 9030, I think. I play a very early Yamaha 62; Jay plays a Yani Elimona. Tenor, I play either a 50k or a 54k SBA, or one of two Super 20's (a 346k, silver neck, a 298k Silver Sonic(!!!). Usually an SBA. Alto, either a 78k or a 189k VI-very similar, actually, both "mid bow" horns, or one of three Super 20 Altos. All that said, I'm itchin' to try the Supreme. Oh-I know EXACTLY what you mean about spring tension. Yikes! Why? I play a lot of flute-I like light action and no pad noise flappin at me. That's just my two bucks worth, two cents corrected for inflation. Oh-my folks bought me my first VI alto in 1967 for my 12th b-day, brand new, for $425. Oh, how things have changed. Jay, you're beautiful, baybee. Keep up the fine work-no one will go wrong if they just take your advice on "all things saxophone" and in fact, will be very well served. -jg

[@bettersax]

Thank you Jon! Much appreciate.

[@joshcharlat850]

I am glad you talked about how it sounded to you on the recording. That is an aspect which continues to amaze me-- the difference between what we hear when we're playing the horn and how the horn sounds on playback. I preferred the Selmer to the Yani, but I was happy to hear your glowing comments about its design. In this case the price is still high. And I think they'll hold their value which means you have to save up.

[@derekakien7379]

Very, very close though.

[@joshcharlat850]

@@derekakien7379 The first time I heard my saxophone played by a technician really surprised me. Sure at the time, I wasn't much of a player (and I'm still not), but I realized that it's a different experience. More recently, a recording of my horn with a lucky positioning of the microphone allowed me to hear even more than I imagined was there when I played it. So, my impression is that it can be a significant difference. However, I probably have to concede that another factor is that when we play, we are focusing on more than just listening. My listening ability is diminished.

[@sonholee5769]

wow. That was a great honest review. Just from A / B comparisons heard online, whatever that is worth, I have not been so impressed on the solid silver Yanis. I'm not a big believer that metals of horns make a big difference to the sound, but the solid silver horns just have not been impressive online. I think in this comparison, the palm key notes on the Supreme were obviously warmer and fuller. I wonder how a regular brass Yani would fare... Shrug.

[@darrellzimmerman7719]

I love Supreme🎷

[@totitoFIN]

A Love Supreme

[@bryanskrantz]

As a sax player myself (for almost 30 years now) the new selmer is extremely close to the original in terms of sound. at least from what I can hear (I have studio monitor headphones if that makes a difference). The Supreme does sound a bit brighter in the mid range but that may be the mouthpiece and the reed you're using. I can't afford the Supreme being developmentally disabled heh. Edit: but oooooooo that Yani/Supreme demo.

[@ChipTheMusicMan]

Really interesting, Jay. I too felt that the Supreme edged out the Yani sound wise. I'm not sure why but the Supreme alto never blew me away but this tenor version sounds really nice. It's extremely rich while retaining clarity and has a good balance between a core and spread sound. That's impressive!

[@benhostetler268]

I really like the Supreme alto but when I brought my old mark VI alto and played it against a Supreme and Ref 54 I fell in love with the ref 54 it really felt like a modern mark VI.

[@ChipTheMusicMan]

@@benhostetler268 Interesting. I play alto too...I think it's harder to dial in the right sound on alto. From what I can tell It's comparatively easier to get a tenor to sound good. Thoughts?

[@benhostetler268]

@@ChipTheMusicMan it depends on the sound you want I have a naturally brighter big sound on alto kind of like a slightly brighter Cannonball Adderley but on Tenor I am have a darker sound but I am a mainly an alto player.

[@ChipTheMusicMan]

@@benhostetler268 Ok, that's cool man. I dig.

[@zvonimirtosic6171]

Subjectively, Supreme may feel a bit more cozy than the Yanni tenor. But objectively, from the orchestral viewpoint, Yanni delivers a more versatile, flexible, open sound ready for many genres. It can do anything, and that openness can be confined - if needed. Supreme tenor, like the Supreme alto, are very good saxes, but of the opposite quality: they are great inside their confines.

[@toddcorbeil314]

Wow, all three horns sound amazing. The biggest difference I could hear was when you put the new neck on your MVI. I think the Supreme would have to be played to be appreciated. But what a gorgeous horn

[@peterhorah7884]

Wow - another great video, Jay! My hearing isn’t as good as it used to be. It’s seems to me that when comparing the Mark VI with the Supteme; the Supreme was “brighter” And then when comparing the Yany with the Supreme; the Yany was brighter! Thank goodness I can’t afford to make the choice!

[@ColdCorner49]

I like the Supreme. It had the sweet tone of the 6, but a nice high end tweak (to my ear).

[@sidneiramalho]

Omg, I played the Supreme on my local music store. It felt amazing, what a sound and easy to play. It felt so solid so cool. I'd definitely buy one.

[@marks.6656]

Great video, Jay! It looks like Selmer borrowed a page out of Peter Ponzol's ProOne tenor neck to open the players' throat up and free the air column.

[@SaxophoneSteveKortyka]

Wow super interesting!! The VI sounded more like the supreme with the improved neck! Both horns sound great but a clear difference in focus and color - Supreme for the win in my opinion 🚀🚀🚀

[@Kirktracy]

I've never tried a modern Selmer, but I would like to compare it with my Yanigasawa. BetterSax Jazz Cut, reeds?! I'm looking forward to trying those out. Great Video, Jay.

[@bettersax]

Kirk, your wallet will thank you if you don’t try it.

[@DiMoraDiamond]

Wow, the Mark VI was a bit more laid back / stuffier. The Supreme is slightly brighter. I loved the sound of both.

[@derekakien7379]

See my comment - I think brand new instruments sound brighter to start with.

[@donmilland7606]

That nailed it!

[@richardjones990]

Your TWO33 Yani is a beautiful sounding instrument, fantastic focus and just a touch bright to my ear. It's a truly outstanding horn.The Supreme sounded excellent as well but to me it had more of a soulful touch to it, soft and a velvet/creamy tone. For me it would be almost impossible to choose between those two. I'm glad you played them side by side.

[@bettersax]

yeah that would be a tough choice indeed!

[@EricTorreborre]

I think I preferred the Yanigasawa. But if the intonation and keywork of the upcoming BetterSax tenor suit me I will probably get one of those when the time comes

[@Scxrpionz]

The intonation definitely won't. it's a chinese manufactured, beginner made horn

[@Buasop]

@@Scxrpionz So, you've played one then?

[@Scxrpionz]

@@Buasop It's called making an inference, and taking the reviews made from the BS alto. You can go play it yourself and come back to tell me if its intonation is better than a $5000 yani.

[@Colin-mc5oz]

Great review and well put together by Jay. I feel we needed a comparison with a lacquered and dark lacquered Supreme against the Mark 6, to see how close they are.

[@richardmiddleton7970]

Wonderful analysis, Jay. Best I've seen. Thank you so much.

[@muhammadslostcousin4568]

Being a Dexter Gordon fan, I knew he had a MKVI at one point but he originally played on a Conn 10M. Don't get me wrong, the MVI is a tremendous horn. Dexter also had a custom Hollywood Dukoff which are pretty much impossible to find.

[@Tom06]

The tone from a conn m10 is impossible to beat. Shame about the ergonomics though…

[@joshcharlat850]

@@Tom06 And I play a CONN, so I'm trying to experience different ergonomics, but I love the sound.

[@Tom06]

@@joshcharlat850 I’m afraid to say I’ve never had the chance to play on one. Is it as difficult as people say or does it just take a little getting used to?

[@joshcharlat850]

@@Tom06 I am such a low level player that I think my answer is not going to be very telling. I have a tiny pinky finger that has always found the tree difficult. A technician told me that they play when others won't play. After a complete repadding, I discovered that I could hit the low notes quite easily. I think you get used to it. I see them played by some pros, and that means something. I believe they are becoming harder to find, but I'm just guessing. I think the population of sax players in the world is still small.

[@Tom06]

@@joshcharlat850 So am I! Thanks for such a detailed reply. I’m thinking about buying a tenor (I just play on alto and Bari at the moment) but I’m not sure wether to go vintage or new. I’m worried that with the vintage ones I won’t be good enough to tell how good they are though. And I wont be able to blame my equipment when I sound nothing like the pros…

[@Dionpr1]

Thanks Jay. Very interesting. I play a Selmer SA80 tenor. It sings and takes off when the foot goes down. I've played Yanis and Yamis and found they were in tune, easier to play but didn't take off when the foot went down. Selmers seem to stretch out when extra effort is applied. (In my opinion). Got any info on the SA80. (Not SA80II) I'd be interested to hear your review.

[@HonestSaxSound-unEdited-]

Excellent review Jay, many thanks! It's very hard to decide between this 3 top magnific horns.. so hard that i go to hear it again on the headphones😊 I think all 3 has his own pros. The price is worth for such a top quality (flutes can be more expensive!)

[@RobertJWaid]

The Supreme has a nice cutting sound while the Mark VI and Yany warmly filled the room. I would change mouthpieces on my Mark VI to switch from cutting to warm depending on the room, type of music, and the group. I know the Mark VI can do both. I wonder if the Supreme can get the warm, just fill the room sound.

[@Ruff2700]

I playing Selmer too, and ear no differents beetwen the Mark VI and the Supreme they were identical sup er, thank you Jay for this compaire

[@schildster]

The tenon ring clamp was an SML innovation. Plenty of legends played those horns too. Adjustment to the neck of the mark VI is common for intonation in the second register and higher. There are plenty of horns with more copper content for a broader dynamic range for much le$$ but they will be ignored due to politics

[@westtexassaxophone]

I’ve been a huge proponent for the reference of four models. I believe that’s one of the best. I love that horn and I would buy that for my child.

[@ketong71]

Great review! Between the Mark VI and the Supreme, I felt that they were pretty much equal. They did sound almost identical. I couldn't find any difference. Between the Yani and the Supreme, to me, the Supreme sounded so smooth and buttery in the lower end, better than the Yani. However, the Yani just popped out to me on the mid and higher ranges. The Supreme, to my novice ears, sounded a bit stuffy in the higher range compared to the Yani. If someone gave me the budget to purchase only one, I would probably go for the Yani. BUUUTTT.... I would still try to get the Selmer Supreme just because it is such a gorgeous horn. And yes, I agree with you that buying the Supreme over a Mark VI makes more sense.

[@watermelonhelmet6854]

It's fun how different the perception is between players and non-players. I'm a guitarist, give me an A to B between two different guitars and I can immediately hear major differences. Not being a sax player and having no experience of playing any brass instrument at all, I could only just barely tell the difference... and honestly would say they sound different, but I couldn't point to one that was 'better'. Fair enough, I'm listening to it youtube with a pair of halfway decent headphones, so maybe I'd have a different opinion in the room.... but I do think that as musicians, we tend to obsess over nuances of our instruments that the average listener would never notice, especially when listening to that instrument in a full mix.

[@tobiassaxophon1288]

Great review that is very useful.... but i am missing a sound example in high energy music like rock, pop or funk. For my ears the Mark VI has a bit brighter and tighter core sound that could be usefull in such situations. So my preference would be the Mark VI. But it is only my opinion.

[@nickm8134]

Thanks for this - really enjoyed it. To me as a listener, the Mk VI has some kind of 'human' character that just isn't there in the other saxes. The Supreme and Yani are without doubt great instruments, but they didn't speak to me in the same way. Perhaps it is the imperfect nature of the MK VI that makes it almost perfect :)

[@mauricemusician7636]

SML came up with that neck tenon. My Rev D tenor has it!

[@garyhonor4220]

The only other things which I think sax players like about the old horns is the cast key cups vs pressed AND also the weight of the horns, especially the SBA. Is the supreme a heavier horn? Those two things probably effect the resonance a fair bit.

[@zvonimirtosic6171]

Tuning and intonation imperfections, oddly enough, have some benefits in music that imitates the inflections and imperfections of the human voice. That is where MK6 is at home, because its imperfections are not drawbacks then, but traits. In this video, it is audible that in »jazz phrasing«, it reacts faster and is smoother than the Supreme.

[@bobmarsh3776]

To be honest they both sounded superb, well, it was Jay playing them. I still love my Buescher Aristocrat (1961) which, well, just feels and sounds right.

[@JeffKashiwasax]

I’ve played the Supreme and love it!! Beautiful playing, Jay. Love that Mobley solo.

[@bettersax]

Thanks Jeff!

[@johnnysalinas]

Very informative video.... Thanks, Jay! btw, you sound great on all the saxophones! I still believe that a great player is going to sound great on any saxophone.

[@SeanFoushee]

Fantastic review. I'd rank these three: Yanagisawa, Mark VI, then the Supreme. However, the Supreme and the Mark VI are closer than I expected. The Supreme is a bit brighter than the VI, but I'm not sure if that is due to the composition of the brass used in the 66XXX series or the variation in lacquer, but Selmer certainly made a great horn for the modern age. Another kudos for explaining the neck issue with the VI, as that is one of the upgrades I've had on my list for my 169XXX model for quite some time. I'll need to check out the KB models in the near future, thanks for the suggestion.

[@HonestSaxSound-unEdited-]

Your Mp and reeds sounds like the best!! And your playing is excellent.. perfect for this review. Thanks and congrats!

[@jongoforth1405]

Okay, well, I listened again today to this excellent review. Some folks commented on my earlier review, universally liking the VI the best. I'd have to agree-I fast forwarded and rewound to hear the VI with both the Yani and the Supreme. The VI seems to have the most flexibility in the sound. They all sound fine-Jay, you sound very good. again, nice work.

[@moonhooch]

You're a great player man! Thanks for this thorough assessment!

[@innofitself]

To my ears, I slightly prefer the sound of the Mark IV over the Supreme in your comparison, and no question I prefer the Yany over the Supreme; it sounds warmer, smoother and more "even". The Supreme has a more modern sound to me; a little brighter and perhaps more cut, but I personally don't like that sound as much, which is further removed from the best sounds of the past.

[@ramonfw]

One of the main differences between mk6 and sba is that the former's middle D doesn't sound "muffled" (like in most saxophones). How did it sound to you?

[@peedrowchan-man102]

..”way beyond the number, where anyone in the house will notice another one.” 😝😜😉🤩

[@martygillespie5486]

Hi Jay. This was a most appreciated review. I would have to say that the supreme is the closest horn I have heard to the Mark VI sound, that unique set of harmonics that makes a VI sound like a VI. The Yanis and Yamahas play more in tune, but the harmonics to my ear are not as complex and inviting as the sixes … although the tenor you played here had more harmonic complexity that I am used to from Yanis. As to the selmer comparison, the original VI had a sound that has just a touch of the (really) classic buesher sound, a little less bite, while the supreme had just a bit more of the modern edge. My preference is the original VI but I would be delighted to play either horn. Selmer really did capture the unique harmonics of the six in this new iteration. As an aside, I play a King silver sonic super 20 tenor. Not as ergonomic as the modern horns or even a mark VI, but I love the fat sound of the silver!

[@luminxgd7451]

They both sound amazing but something about the mark VI is so pleasing to listen to

[@KuwaywayLogic]

I own and play a custom Z but was able to play the selmer supreme at NAMM for quite sometime. In terms of ergonamics I prefer the custom z maybe its because I'm used to it but the supreme felt like my hands had to angle more and it had smaller key pearls rather than on the custom where my fingers feel more flat to the keys which i prefer. I think its good to keep your fingers flat. I liked the improvements at the neck joint and octave key mechanism and some other mechanical improvements. The tone was phenomenal and ease of response was incredible but its what i expect from anything in the professional price range. Speaking of price I do not think this horn is worth 11,000 or is that good. I think you can get the exact same feel and tone and ease of response from any other professional horn for almost half the price. Custom Z is a good example of a very consistent and mechanically sound instrument, yanny's are great as well, hell p.mauriat and cannonball also make fine offerings that offer wider customization. When I compared the supreme to the custom z I didn't notice anything that was worth 5-6k more. I sounded the same on both horns because your sound comes from you and your mouthpiece more than it does the horn. Was it a great horn yes but for 11,000 id damn well expect the horn to play itself at that point. I personally don't see a point in buying this horn, it feels like selmer is just playing catch up with the rest of the industry. I do think this is selmer's best horn to date mechanically and build quality wise, however other manufacturers have also gotten really good at refining their product as well as have a better time at getting their product out to people not to mention the price. If you are looking for a professional sax I would urge you to look at other options, with the left over cash you would've spent on the supreme you could buy a new mouthpiece, ligature, reeds, a reed geek, new neckstrap, new case, and then put a downpayment on a car and you'll still sound just as good as if you were to buy a supreme

[@bricecaille]

Fantastic review, Jay, as usual ! Keep it on ! You sounds great on your Yanagy 😎👌👏

[@patrickcronin6829]

The Yani speaks clearer than the supreme. That’s probably why you preferred that horn while Playing but liked the more subtle sound of the supreme while listening. I wonder if you would have a greater dynamic contrast available to you with the yani than is possible with the supreme?

[@robratner6730]

You do a great job with all of your videos. Thanks. Regarding the two saxes. In sound they are so close. The Mark 6 however has a soulfulness sound that the Supreme did not have in this video. The Supreme did have a bit more clarity. I am splitting hairs at this point. Thanks for doing this.

[@lukasalihein]

I liked your sound best on the Yani - warmer, fuller, more even to my ear.

[@yvesbajulaz]

The 6 at the beginning has that little extra bit of singing. Due to hand problems, I play a new yanni 01UL alto, best ergo for me, but my mk6 alto has a little more singing to it.

[@mitrogaming7154]

Very interesting video Jay, love it!

[@1972HIM]

I liked the Selmer supreme, its such a smother and darker sound.

[@jackstern2133]

Great video Jay, I think that the sound of the supreme is actually a little bit better than the yani. And it's very interesting your take on how much better the supreme is than a Mark VI. I'm currently in the market for another tenor and thinking of the supreme thanks appreciate it

[@user-tb9lx1oz9n]

I have played and owned just about every high-end alto and tenor saxophone, including MK VI alto and tenor. ( Selmer, Yanagisawa, Cannonball, Yamaha, Keilwerth ). I have a Selmer Supreme Alto in the dark lacquer and this saxophone is the absolute best alto I have ever played. And its superiority is so far above the others that, for me, there is no contest or discussion.

[@Mrkevino77]

Interesting that you said the supreme sounded better from a listeners point of view as it seemed to me that you played the Yani with a tad more feel so I completely agree with you! I love my Super 80 series 2 tenor that I’ve had for 35 years since new it’s well beaten up but plays magically most of the time!

[@marklee1965]

Greetings from the UK Jay. Great comparison and thanks for the history, interesting. To my ears, the Yanny marginally edged it over the Supreme. However, I think if you were to adjust the Supreme to your taste, given what you said about less resistance and becoming familiar with it, the Supreme would be ahead. Best wishes.

[@mironhorodi4429]

I bought my son a Trevor James signature custom (alto) and came to the conclusion that it is the best value for money. Myself I have a Selmer Paris SA-80 II series Tenor which I bought 2nd hand several years ago as they are still very expensive, however, was I to buy my instrument today, that would definitely be a new Trevor James signature custom, which for the same amount of money would have given me a brand new instrument with perfect quality.

[@AllenMover]

17:06 "...there are tons of really great inexpensive saxophones out there." Hey Jay, maybe one of these days you could do a video devoted to you discussing some of these "inexpensive" options you have in mind. Yes, you've alluded to some of them in other videos over time, but it would be great for you to do a video dedicated to the subject. Thanks for all your great content.

[@brucesmith6007]

Tons of instruments, but imo nothing compares to instruments before the 1980s. Yani has great action, intonation, tone. Imo i wish it had the punch of a selmer.

[@georgesmajerus]

Long time (40y) Selmer player, I like the Yany Sound better from a listeners perspective. Late Selmer Models are also stiff in action so I am not suprised about that.... I have 4 MKVI and 1 SBA which I found tucked away in some cupboards of Brass Bands. I did not pay a fortune ... keep looking.😊

[@losangelespat]

Another GREAT Video, Jay... Between the VI and Supreme, I'm in agreement with a lot of the reviews... the VI has what I, and many others, call the "Selmer Sound"... call it fat, warmer, dense, it's what the VI is about. And I hear an "edge" to the tone of both Supreme and Yani. Between the Yani and Supreme, the Yani has that warmer sound of the VI... I go with the Yani. I really have to play those 2 and compare them to my 130K Mark VI... which my Repairman and all who have played it, call the Best Sax they've EVER played... forget the names, models, years, whatever... I am one of the lucky sax players, a great VI Tenor... great '59 VI Alto... and a super '76 S-6 Yanagisawa Soprano (they ALL can't be great... lol). P.S. Looking forward to the Better Sax Reeds... we are ALWAYS looking for THE reed 🙃

[@lotharhartig3260]

Thanks for this great comparison. For my taste, the Yani sounds the best.

[@ippolitolamedica5562]

Listening to your recordings Mark 6 original is better. It has more thickness, the sound is more round and deep. I had a similar experience comparing my vintage original Otto Link Florida 7 mouthpiece with the new Otto Link Vintage (I tried also the new Florida, but there is no compare): the newer is beautiful but the old one has something more (in my case even more power)...

[@jerryr574]

Hi Jay, the Two33 has the more velvety lower end to my ears, but the Supreme’s high end sounded more open. Did you feel/hear that? What about the resonators. I definitely hear more attack (reflection) on the Supreme throughout. Fabulous review!! You da man..🎷

[@bettersax]

They are both as good as it gets in all ranges honestly. Most variation is going to come down to me as a player

[@Edu_ribeiro]

Wow… Amazing review. Thanks for sharing Jay!

[@tracezacur6784]

i prefer the mark 6 sound. i won't try to justify this with any science. just my pure opinion. both horns sound absolutely fantastic though! love the supreme and i love your rationale for the continuing innovation from Selmer

[@petegalindez9961]

That Yani is SICK!!!! Always loved Yanis…it sounds darker to me (the tenor TWO33) than the Supreme.

[@michaelpedicinjr]

Also, I love the sound you get on the mouthpiece! I'll check it out, as I'd like to get one.

[@KOACAINE]

The price seems fair for a top of the line horn. I don’t understand why people think it is unusually high price. Quality costs money and it always has.