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.
@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!
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.
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.
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.
I bought my mark 6 in high school from my sax Teacher. Bless him for that. It had always made me sound better then I really am. I have no speed - but I can hold a single note on it and it sounds heavenly .
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!
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!
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.
@@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?
@@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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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+
Thanks Jay, what a great review. I thought both sounded fantastic but for me I actually preferred the sound of your Yani. I’d still like to try one of these Supremes though!
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!
Thank you so much for playing the same thing side by side. So many comparison videos have the player playing random 128th notes totally different between the 2 things being compared. You did it the way it should be done.
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.
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!
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.
Thanks for the great review and all your other great videos! I like the sound of the Selmer Supreme the best. It has more projection, character and liveliness than the MK6 and Yanagisava TW 033. But I would be happy with any of them as well since they are all great saxophones.
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!
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!
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!❤🎶
Excellent, informative and well done! Gotta correct a bit though The reference 36 is a recreation of the Balanced Action (year 1936) not the super action aka SBA. Really close on the Yany and Supreme, slight preference for the Supreme as a listener. And much preferred the supreme over the Mk VI
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?"
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.
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).
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 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!!
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.
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.
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.
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 👏👏👏
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!
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.
Thanks for this review! I have played the supreme tenor (and a few altos) against other tenors modern and vintage. Here’s my take: I think if development of the saxophone as an “S” curve. Back 100 years ago there were definite improvements to be made. Deleting stuff like trill Eb, the G# trill and adding stuff like low C# lock and high f#. It makes me wonder what Eddie Trumbauer, Charlie Parker, Lester Young and Illinois Jacquet would have thought of the Yamaha 23! In other words, devepment has come so far, that most student level horns trump the nicest horn you could get 100 years ago (maybe even 50 to 60 years ago). Much if this development was done throughout the manufacturers through the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. This means nowadays, there just isn’t the progress to be made. The key layout is nearly the same (although not I interchangeable) between almost all horns, body taper is pretty consistent, and there is little variation between tone hole sizes (although there is some). To me, this means there is little mechanical difference between a Yamaha Custom, Yanagisawa, TM Custom, Lake City, Cannonball or P.Mauriat, and yes, Even a Selmer, even if it is a Supreme. So in my opinion , the value difference in these horns is in how they feel/sound. Form that point a $4000 might be a better fit than a $10,000 horn. The Supreme would have to be at least two times better, to even begin competing at that price point. But for that 10 grand price, you get a tenor, made of brass, lacquer finish, pivot screws, hinge screws, standard taper, no deviation in key layout/engineering-just like a $2500 Jupiter. So is the sound $7500 better? I think my old Mark 6, and the TM tenors, (and others) go toe to toe with the supreme, at literally half the price. There just doesn’t seem to be that much innovation and dramatic improvement left (say since the series 3, and other competitors) yo ask for this price. Great horn? Yes! Worth the price? I have a hard time seeing why.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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.
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
@@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.
Listening from my computer speakers, the differences are subtle, but I prefer the Supreme versus the other 2. Thank you so much for your honest test and opinions!
Great video Jay. I gotta go to our local shop to blow on the supreme, they have one. Very curious. All horns I’ve played so far don’t get close to my $1,5K 1969 Yani T5 lol
yeah, you'll dig the sound I'm sure, but nothing beats the value of a used Yany. Action will be too resistent and it won't be set up as well as a new Yany either. Those things can be fixed though.
Both the Yani and the Supreme sounded fantastic. I thought the sound of the supreme sounded ever so slightly more focused. It sounded like you could push the yani a little harder. In other words, I heard that little bit more resistance in the Supreme sound. I'd love to have either horn. Both my Alto and Tenor are Mark VI's. If I do go for a modern horn someday, I will definitely look at the Yani and the Supreme.
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...
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!
I preferred the Supreme over both Yani and the Mark IV. The difference between the Mark IV and supreme was less than the Mark IV and the Mark IV with the replacement neck. It makes me wish you had compared those two. I suspect I may have preferred the latter to the Supreme in a head to head. I felt the Yani sounded a little grating with too many high overtones in spots.
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.
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
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.
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.
Excellent review! Interesting you said the Yani sounded better on the players side vs the listener… I listened on the phone speaker then good bose headphones and my opinion changed again! I also think the real champion here is that burning mouthpiece. Impressive balance of tone color/ brightness. You did real well with that one!
"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.
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.
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?
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!)
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.
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.
Finally, the review I wanted to hear! Thank you. Selmer will always have that sparkle for all sax players. That said, seems to me the most important element to a saxophone is whether or not the mechanisms function well and that there are no obvious flaws (leaks, joints, key placements, etc.) Since the things closest to being inside the player’s mouth matter the most, it stands to reason that (outside of the player’s biology and technique), the mouthpiece and reed have much more effect on sound. What that means to me is, “does the saxophone itself facilitate ease of operation such that the player feels free to create without fighting against the horn?” The sound of a silver horn, for me, will always edge out that of a brass or bronze horn. The Silver Yani is just an amazing horn. I’m certain the new Selmer is amazing if they’ve actually worked to eliminate the obstacles which a MKVI presents (intonation and unevenness being the biggest). I’m actually very very happy that Selmer seems to have finally stepped into the modern age and worked hard to update their product! Kudos to Selmer!! However, I have my Ishimori silver plated alto and I simply can’t imagine ever parting with it. Clearly the horn is “better” than I will ever be. For me, that’s the best thing to be said of a horn. Does it get out of my way? Does it inspire me to create or play in a new way, mostly because it is in no way an obstacle to be overcome?
I agree 100%! I’d be willing to bet if all these people saying the Mark VI sounds better were blindfolded and had to identify which horn from this video they hear playing, they wouldn’t be able to distinguish one from the other.
Love it. The beauty is that 30 years from now the newest saxes will continue to refine, and these Supremes will join the flawed.. quirky, and historical sax voices of the vintage 2020s ☺️
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.
Epic review. Nice demo, Jay. Though I did prefer the sound of the Yani better. The upper register sounded smoother with greater articulated finesse. The cult of the Selmer Mark VI continues. But the apparent stability of the new Supreme should extend the Selmer legacy for decades to come. Meanwhile, those of us outliners who chose an alternative brand know that following the herd does not always deliver the best results. I play Yamaha Custom EX soprano, alto and tenor saxophones now after years of playing Selmer Mk VI alto, tenor and baritone. So I'm looking forward, and probably quite a ways forward, to playing the Supreme in any horn.
Yanagisawa sound the best to me with having a very balanced tone and a nice reaction sound from the keys. I love my Mark VI and have had it for many years and have also tried many horns that I have agreed that I can’t tell the difference between either the tone or performance or the key work but my Mark VI is personal to me and has a story to it. I also personally love the weight of it and how heavy the springs are, for me it just feels more reactive and powerful with the weight and not cheap feeling but I never recommend to students or friends to just go buy a Mark VI without either playing one and trying out other options especially when there are better options out there.
As a not professional saxophonist, i tried many MVI and Conn. The 10M Naked Lady gives you the power, it's almost alive. The MVI is good for mechanic and sound, but the new Supreme is like a mix beetwen power and perfection. 🎷
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.
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.
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 🚀🚀🚀
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.
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..🎷
The Supreme sounded slightly cleaner. With that being said, do you think they sent you a random horn, or do you think they hand picked it for you? Selmers are super inconsistent.
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.
@@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?
@@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.
@@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…
I love them both, the mark vi has a slight difference in tone, the supreme is slightly clearer and brighter. Both sound amazing and I’d gladly have a Supreme as I’ll probably never own a Mark VI
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.
Great video Jay!!! It does answer most of the questions I had. I like new things better the "vintage" ones. I also the a Yani, which I'm really happy with. But I'd like to play test a Supreme :)
Complimenti. Ottimo paragone. Il Supreme rispetto allo Yanagisawa l'ho sentito più ricco nel timbro. Lo Yanagisawa più scuro e il Supreme oltre al dark tone anche una maggiore presenza di armonici superiori. Quindi l'ho trovato più emozionante. Grazie di tutto
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 :)
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.
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.
I just registered to this and I agree with your observations, I bought a Supreme Alto and truly love it against my older mark VII, but it is only nuances and slight intonation.
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?
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.
yes, you took the words right out of my mouth...
Agree.
@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!
I agree.
More agreements here !! Supreme sounded very bright with this setup. Mark VI with newer neck quite amazing.
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.
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.
It's the Gibson Les Paul of saxophones. LOL.
ehhh depends on the era of old records, a lot of dudes in the 40s 50s and 60s played American saxes
Sax players: It’s tooo expensive!
Flute players: Hold my beer.
and what about bassoon players' beers?
Piccolo players: Hold my lithium
Violin players: that's just cute
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.
"the grand piano walks in"...
I bought my mark 6 in high school from my sax Teacher. Bless him for that. It had always made me sound better then I really am. I have no speed - but I can hold a single note on it and it sounds heavenly .
You're a great player man! Thanks for this thorough assessment!
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!
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!
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.
@@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?
@@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.
@@benhostetler268 Ok, that's cool man. I dig.
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.
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
The VI with the KB neck sounds incredible.
It’s crazy how much work selmer has brought out in to the saxophone community. Thank you Jay for a great video and review🎷👍.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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+
Thanks Jay, what a great review. I thought both sounded fantastic but for me I actually preferred the sound of your Yani. I’d still like to try one of these Supremes though!
Thanks Nigel!
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!
Thank you so much for playing the same thing side by side. So many comparison videos have the player playing random 128th notes totally different between the 2 things being compared. You did it the way it should be done.
The TW033 is amazing, more focused sound…that would also be my choice! Plus it looks wonderful and it is solid silver!
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.
Thanks Hank!
Great review. Supreme sounded great. Both fantastic. I just went back to Selmer after 20 years from them. Loving my MKVIs again.
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!
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.
To me the Supreme sounded better than the Yani played. Smoother!
It sounds Better, hás but more resistance
Thanks for the great review and all your other great videos! I like the sound of the Selmer Supreme the best. It has more projection, character and liveliness than the MK6 and Yanagisava TW 033. But I would be happy with any of them as well since they are all great saxophones.
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!
Hey Jay. This was really well done… the Mark VI vs the Supreme were eerily identical. Very thorough. Happy you exist, my friend!
Thanks Mikey
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!
Thanks! Good luck with the new horn.
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!❤🎶
Some would argue, it is those imperfections that make the Mk6 perfect, particularly one from the 50's - 1955 - 58', for example.
Excellent, informative and well done! Gotta correct a bit though The reference 36 is a recreation of the Balanced Action (year 1936) not the super action aka SBA. Really close on the Yany and Supreme, slight preference for the Supreme as a listener. And much preferred the supreme over the Mk VI
Wonderful analysis, Jay. Best I've seen. Thank you so much.
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?"
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.
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).
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! 👏👏👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks!
@@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!!
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.
@@bettersax That's encouraging because they SHOULD be, just as mouthpieces ought to be perfect, too.
Actually, Selmer copied Yanagisawa with the F to F# stabilizer bar and they copied SML with their "New" neck tenon.
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.
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.
Thanks
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 👏👏👏
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!
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.
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.
Thanks for this review! I have played the supreme tenor (and a few altos) against other tenors modern and vintage. Here’s my take:
I think if development of the saxophone as an “S” curve. Back 100 years ago there were definite improvements to be made. Deleting stuff like trill Eb, the G# trill and adding stuff like low C# lock and high f#. It makes me wonder what Eddie Trumbauer, Charlie Parker, Lester Young and Illinois Jacquet would have thought of the Yamaha 23! In other words, devepment has come so far, that most student level horns trump the nicest horn you could get 100 years ago (maybe even 50 to 60 years ago). Much if this development was done throughout the manufacturers through the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. This means nowadays, there just isn’t the progress to be made. The key layout is nearly the same (although not I interchangeable) between almost all horns, body taper is pretty consistent, and there is little variation between tone hole sizes (although there is some). To me, this means there is little mechanical difference between a Yamaha Custom, Yanagisawa, TM Custom, Lake City, Cannonball or P.Mauriat, and yes, Even a Selmer, even if it is a Supreme. So in my opinion , the value difference in these horns is in how they feel/sound. Form that point a $4000 might be a better fit than a $10,000 horn. The Supreme would have to be at least two times better, to even begin competing at that price point. But for that 10 grand price, you get a tenor, made of brass, lacquer finish, pivot screws, hinge screws, standard taper, no deviation in key layout/engineering-just like a $2500 Jupiter. So is the sound $7500 better? I think my old Mark 6, and the TM tenors, (and others) go toe to toe with the supreme, at literally half the price. There just doesn’t seem to be that much innovation and dramatic improvement left (say since the series 3, and other competitors) yo ask for this price. Great horn? Yes! Worth the price? I have a hard time seeing why.
Great review, Jay! Awesome comparisons and thoughts on this new horn. I’m excited to try one when I get the chance 🎷
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.
Kirk, your wallet will thank you if you don’t try it.
As usual, thanks for your directness and honesty!!! 😃Rocket🚀
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.
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.
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
Thank you Jon! Much appreciate.
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.
I like the Supreme. It had the sweet tone of the 6, but a nice high end tweak (to my ear).
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.
Very, very close though.
@@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.
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
The intonation definitely won't. it's a chinese manufactured, beginner made horn
@@Scxrpionz So, you've played one then?
@@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.
Listening from my computer speakers, the differences are subtle, but I prefer the Supreme versus the other 2. Thank you so much for your honest test and opinions!
Great video Jay. I gotta go to our local shop to blow on the supreme, they have one. Very curious. All horns I’ve played so far don’t get close to my $1,5K 1969 Yani T5 lol
yeah, you'll dig the sound I'm sure, but nothing beats the value of a used Yany. Action will be too resistent and it won't be set up as well as a new Yany either. Those things can be fixed though.
Both the Yani and the Supreme sounded fantastic. I thought the sound of the supreme sounded ever so slightly more focused. It sounded like you could push the yani a little harder. In other words, I heard that little bit more resistance in the Supreme sound. I'd love to have either horn. Both my Alto and Tenor are Mark VI's. If I do go for a modern horn someday, I will definitely look at the Yani and the Supreme.
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...
I love Supreme🎷
A Love Supreme
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!
I preferred the Supreme over both Yani and the Mark IV. The difference between the Mark IV and supreme was less than the Mark IV and the Mark IV with the replacement neck. It makes me wish you had compared those two. I suspect I may have preferred the latter to the Supreme in a head to head. I felt the Yani sounded a little grating with too many high overtones in spots.
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.
SML came up with that neck tenon. My Rev D tenor has it!
Your Mp and reeds sounds like the best!!
And your playing is excellent.. perfect for this review. Thanks and congrats!
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
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.
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.
Excellent review! Interesting you said the Yani sounded better on the players side vs the listener… I listened on the phone speaker then good bose headphones and my opinion changed again!
I also think the real champion here is that burning mouthpiece. Impressive balance of tone color/ brightness. You did real well with that one!
"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.
Thank you!
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.
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?
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!)
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.
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.
yeah that would be a tough choice indeed!
Finally, the review I wanted to hear! Thank you.
Selmer will always have that sparkle for all sax players.
That said, seems to me the most important element to a saxophone is whether or not the mechanisms function well and that there are no obvious flaws (leaks, joints, key placements, etc.)
Since the things closest to being inside the player’s mouth matter the most, it stands to reason that (outside of the player’s biology and technique), the mouthpiece and reed have much more effect on sound.
What that means to me is, “does the saxophone itself facilitate ease of operation such that the player feels free to create without fighting against the horn?”
The sound of a silver horn, for me, will always edge out that of a brass or bronze horn. The Silver Yani is just an amazing horn.
I’m certain the new Selmer is amazing if they’ve actually worked to eliminate the obstacles which a MKVI presents (intonation and unevenness being the biggest).
I’m actually very very happy that Selmer seems to have finally stepped into the modern age and worked hard to update their product! Kudos to Selmer!!
However, I have my Ishimori silver plated alto and I simply can’t imagine ever parting with it. Clearly the horn is “better” than I will ever be. For me, that’s the best thing to be said of a horn. Does it get out of my way? Does it inspire me to create or play in a new way, mostly because it is in no way an obstacle to be overcome?
I agree 100%! I’d be willing to bet if all these people saying the Mark VI sounds better were blindfolded and had to identify which horn from this video they hear playing, they wouldn’t be able to distinguish one from the other.
@@Saxrasta that’s precisely what would happen!
Love it. The beauty is that 30 years from now the newest saxes will continue to refine, and these Supremes will join the flawed.. quirky, and historical sax voices of the vintage 2020s ☺️
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
Fantastic review, Jay, as usual ! Keep it on ! You sounds great on your Yanagy 😎👌👏
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.
Epic review. Nice demo, Jay. Though I did prefer the sound of the Yani better. The upper register sounded smoother with greater articulated finesse. The cult of the Selmer Mark VI continues. But the apparent stability of the new Supreme should extend the Selmer legacy for decades to come. Meanwhile, those of us outliners who chose an alternative brand know that following the herd does not always deliver the best results. I play Yamaha Custom EX soprano, alto and tenor saxophones now after years of playing Selmer Mk VI alto, tenor and baritone. So I'm looking forward, and probably quite a ways forward, to playing the Supreme in any horn.
I’ve played the Supreme and love it!! Beautiful playing, Jay. Love that Mobley solo.
Thanks Jeff!
Yanagisawa sound the best to me with having a very balanced tone and a nice reaction sound from the keys. I love my Mark VI and have had it for many years and have also tried many horns that I have agreed that I can’t tell the difference between either the tone or performance or the key work but my Mark VI is personal to me and has a story to it. I also personally love the weight of it and how heavy the springs are, for me it just feels more reactive and powerful with the weight and not cheap feeling but I never recommend to students or friends to just go buy a Mark VI without either playing one and trying out other options especially when there are better options out there.
As a not professional saxophonist, i tried many MVI and Conn. The 10M Naked Lady gives you the power, it's almost alive. The MVI is good for mechanic and sound, but the new Supreme is like a mix beetwen power and perfection. 🎷
but you should be asked are you a classical saxophonist?10m isn't going to work for classcial music.
@@ongtengkee9225 you’re right, but I was talking for jazz, pop etc…. Classical music is played on Yamahas usually, new selmers or yanagisawa
VERY NICE REVIEW. I really like the mid to upper sound of the Supreme. It seems to speak well with controlled punch.
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.
Wow… Amazing review. Thanks for sharing Jay!
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.
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 🚀🚀🚀
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.
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..🎷
They are both as good as it gets in all ranges honestly. Most variation is going to come down to me as a player
The Supreme sounded slightly cleaner. With that being said, do you think they sent you a random horn, or do you think they hand picked it for you? Selmers are super inconsistent.
It was a random one.
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.
The tone from a conn m10 is impossible to beat. Shame about the ergonomics though…
@@Tom06 And I play a CONN, so I'm trying to experience different ergonomics, but I love the sound.
@@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?
@@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.
@@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…
Also, I love the sound you get on the mouthpiece! I'll check it out, as I'd like to get one.
I love them both, the mark vi has a slight difference in tone, the supreme is slightly clearer and brighter. Both sound amazing and I’d gladly have a Supreme as I’ll probably never own a Mark VI
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.
Great video Jay!!! It does answer most of the questions I had. I like new things better the "vintage" ones. I also the a Yani, which I'm really happy with. But I'd like to play test a Supreme :)
Complimenti. Ottimo paragone. Il Supreme rispetto allo Yanagisawa l'ho sentito più ricco nel timbro. Lo Yanagisawa più scuro e il Supreme oltre al dark tone anche una maggiore presenza di armonici superiori. Quindi l'ho trovato più emozionante. Grazie di tutto
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 :)
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.
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.
I just registered to this and I agree with your observations, I bought a Supreme Alto and truly love it against my older mark VII, but it is only nuances and slight intonation.
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?