SML Rev D Alto Saxophone 11xxx Original Fresh Overhaul

Description

SML is one of my favorite saxophone makers, and this is my favorite model of alto that they made. Don’t be fooled by the fact that there are more expensive horns on the site. The price does not always correspond to what you get. This is one of the best playing altos around. This horn has rolled tone holes and a big sound like a Conn, but it also has a French core and great ergonomics like a Selmer. On top of that SML has its own vibe and complexity, so when you put it all together, you have a seriously good alto sax.

This horn has almost all its original lacquer with only minor wear. There are no resolders, no dents, no dings. The original neck looks great with no damage. The engraving on this horn is beautiful with multiple flowers all over the bell. The original lacquer has aged to a honey gold.

This horn has a nearly new top shelf overhaul. It was done about a year ago by Matt Stohrer, who does the best pad work that I have seen, particularly on lesser known horns like SML’s. Everything is nice and tight. The spring tension is set comfortably, and the pads have a pleasant pop to them. It is a superb player. It has a big warm sound with plenty of power and with a rich, lyrical core to it. The ergonomics are very good (Selmer guys have to get used to the LH pinky keys, which takes a few weeks.) and the intonation is great. It’s hard to find a Rev D in this kind of condition, and it is harder to find one that has had a really good overhaul and is totally ready to go for years and years to come. If I didn’t already have one just like this, it would be in my closet.