Original Lacquer Selmer Paris Super Action 80 Low A Bari Sax - Serial # 339569

Product ID: 339569SelmerSA80Bari

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This is an early 1980s era first series Selmer Paris Super Action 80 baritone saxophone, with modern keywork from low A to high F#, serial number 339569. Though a short-lived model, I particularly like the first series SA80 bari saxes. They aren't as dark as a Series II or III, can give you a lot of punch when you need it, and have a meaty bottom end that fills up a room with ease. This example checks all those boxes.

This horn came off the assembly line in 1982, but despite 40+ years of use, it remains in solid shape. Tiny dings and dimples as to be expected, and a couple resolders (low Eb keyguard, top neck receiver on the horn) but all repairs have been done well, and I see no signs of any major past dent work or serious trauma. Has certainly never been banged around or abused. The right hand thumbrest has been swapped with a newer ergonomic model, but the original black thumbrest is still in the case too.

The sax came to us on an older pad job that still seems to be holding up well, but to make it perfect, the sax will go through our repair shop for a very thorough cleaning and adjustment. We'll take it apart, clean up the older solder work, take out any dings that would be affecting playing, clean and reseat all pads (replacing any that are showing signs of aging), and replace all key adjustment material. We'll also perform a fresh spring job. When our work is complete, the action will feel tight and fluid with no lost motion, just as it did the day it left the factory.

As I mentioned above, this is a really solid playing bari sax, ideal for professional players on the hunt for a premium model low A. I found its response to be very lively and it plays with a controlled, uniform tone up and down the range of the instrument. It is full in the bell keys and stays fat as you climb up into the palm keys and altissimo. These days it is increasingly hard to find a “ready to play” Selmer Paris bari sax for under $8k; this one can be had for a great price and with our work, it will be playing great for a long time to come.