Here’s a beautiful Selmer Balanced Action tenor from 1938 that has been (probably factory) relacquered once, and still looks nearly original with nice, sharp engraving. I think the Balanced Action has just about the most beautiful engraving pattern of any saxophone. It also has the most beautiful tone of any Selmer in my opinion. I’m biased, because I play Balanced Action on tenor most of the time, but the complex, warm, medium spread tone fills a room so beautifully. It’s hard to put one of these down once you start playing it. It’s also the first saxophone to be built with what would become modern keywork, so you get the feel of a modern horn (more or less) and the tone of a vintage horn in one package.
If you’re looking for a gorgeous tenor both sonically and tonally, the Balanced Action may be for you! This one has old pads, so it’s time for an overhaul. It’s priced low enough though, that you can get it with the old pads and overhaul it and still come out ahead. I don’t think you’ll regret it. The Balanced Action is one of the best tenor saxophones ever made.
