The only part where the plating has come off is the bottom bell guard.The Yamaha YAS-21 serials match the Vito YAS-21 serials up until 1980 when the Yamaha YAS-23 is introduced but the Vitos still use YAS-21 parts until 1989 when the Vitos start using YAS-23 parts nearly 10 years after Yamaha introduced the YAS-23. There is minimal keystick, oxidation, or discoloration. I'm a bad parent) and the keyguards and bell flare have not bent a bit. The metal is thick, leaving me with a saxophone that has withstood a hell of a lot of life with only 3 dents none major.

The appearance itself is gorgeous a dark amber brass with a metal thumbhold on the higher models (plastic on some as well). Of course, it's slight enough to pull in with a slight adjustment of embouchure. My standard C is a little on the flat side, but the alternate fingering brings it right back in tune. I'm a university student now and I have been complimented by many people over the years (including several directors) on the tone quality it has. I picked this one up brand new in 5th grade and kept it in mint condition for years. I would never buy one new.Īs far as Vitos, to whomever may be reading this in the future, I do very much suggest trying before buying. The Mark VI, like every other Selmer in the world, is a good horn for someone to pick up cheap and learn saxophone on. Some people find it desirable some do not. As far as jazz goes, you can get a sloppy sound from them. (I know this is late, but it's a good topic) There are a million Bundy and Bundy II saxes in the world today. I fully agree with you on the Selmer stance. If she does well and enjoys playing, then you might think about rewarding her with a new horn. Let her try it for a few years and see how she likes it. You may want to have it checked out by a technition, or make sure that it comes with some sort of guarantee. I do like the sound of my SBA for some things because it is so silky smooth, but the Conn 6M plays better and has a better intonation, and the sound will just knock your socks off! The Vito is a perfectly good starter instrument especially if it has been repadded and recently serviced. Everyone says it's hard to beat a Selmer alto. The Mark VI and the SBA were given to me, otherwise, I wouldn't own them! The Series III soprano I traded off a few months ago for an old Buescher 400 tenor! The Series III was a little over a year old, the Buescher is a 1949! Still, I think I got the better end of the deal! So what am I missing? What is so great about Selmer? I don't like their tenors at all. 'once she gets good get her a selmer :)' Why Selmer? So she can sound like every other snob in band? I don't understand.what is it you people love about Selmers? What am I missing? I've owned 3 Selmers a Mark VI, an SBA, and a Series III! ALL French made, all supposedly the top of the line, but I wasn't particularly impressed by any of them.

Vito alto saxophone serial numbers