series2/series 3 selmer

simon_andrews · Jan 26, 2007

what are the advantages of haveing a series 3 as opposed to a series 2 or is it just a matter of opinion?

griff136 · Jan 26, 2007

In my opionion its a matter of opinion.

I actually prefer the series 2 to the 3. it felt better under the fingers.

Jules · Jan 26, 2007

as far as I know the series 3 is designed for classical work, not jazz. As such it's design agenda is super-high presicion (oops, spelling ) at low volumes. it's also a bit brighter.... So, not really advantages, just a bit different.

Linky Lee · Jan 27, 2007

The series 3 has some extra gadgets that the series 2 doesn't.

I'll leave you to make up your mind whether they are good or bad.

Pete Thomas · Jan 28, 2007

Most people I know prefer a series II, I don't have personal experience of both to compare.

tengu01 · Jan 30, 2007

I have a Series 3 alto and a Series 2 tenor, so it's not quite comparing like with like. However,

I would characterise them as follows: The series 3 is quite bright and "in your face". Would be perfect for funk or playing in a band with amps, guitars and drums. I have found I am looking for a slightly darker mouthpiece for this horn to reign it in a little.

Series 2: More "restrained" so to speak, but I find the sound a little more complex. Less brash, but almost a little "richer" if you can characterise the sound. However, you have to push a little harder on the series 2. Not an instant "In-your-face" effect like the series 3.

Also, palm keys are lower down and if you're used to them being in your hand, I now have to reach for the E palm key. I am finding it really rewarding to play the series 2 because the more I learn about breath control, diaphram support and airstream support, the better it sounds. Need quite a free-blowing mouthpiece though because it runs the risk of sounding a little muffled with the wrong setup.

Still fine-tuning both these horns and how to play them, but I really didn't like the series 3 tenors I playtested. Series 2 altos were quite similar in characteristics to the tenor, as described above.