Are the Jubilee models better than the pervious models?
Yes and no… it depends on how old the previous model is that you are comparing. Currently, Selmer is physically manufacturing their horns to a higher level than they ever have in the past. The tone holes are manufactured better (and more level), firmer pads (Pisoni Pro) are now being used, the keywork has been modified to improve response, non-essential excess weight on the horn (which can hinder response and vibration) have been greatly diminished… all of which make the Jubilee models the best Selmer’s yet!

Some of these changes went in to place shortly before the Jubilee switch in 2011 but when all of them are combined on to the Jubilee & the horn is properly setup and regulated like we do in our shop, the Series II becomes one of the absolutely most impressive saxophones on the face of the planet!!!

Why did Selmer change the octave key on the Jubilee models?
The Jubilee models will be the first to feature the new redesigned neck octave key. The key has been redesigned to be lighter in weight thus improving vibration and responsiveness throughout the horn, but specifically in the altissimo of the sax. They also changed the mounting mechanism design on the Jubilee models that results in a much more stable and secure fitting octave key. The neck logo of the Selmer “S” has been modernized with a deeper blue background.

52JBL is a Black Lacquered Series II Jubilee Alto Sax with Gold Lacquered Keys.

Isn’t the Series II Alto a “Classical Sax”?
While the Series II alto (52JBL) is a marvelous classical players’ saxophone, it is by no means just a “classical sax” but rather much, much more than that. Frankly, we find that the Series II alto is the best “overall” sax that Selmer makes. It is very flexible for any and all styles of music and performance depending on the player and their mouthpiece. Furthermore, the Series II alto is by its general design, the thickest & richest sounding model that Selmer makes. However, it has enhanced versatility to be anything a player needs by simply changing the mouthpiece and if needed, the neck! For example, if you want a brighter, edgier tone with increased projection, simply put on the appropriate mouthpiece and a Selmer Series III Neck!

No matter what your performance preference, it is highly likely that a properly setup Series II Alto will be able to fit your needs!

Professional Setup
Every 52JBL Alto we send out to a customer is not released from us unless it has been completely setup in our shop first. This is because the setup on the horn is of the utmost importance! Sometimes, a saxophone (regardless of who the manufacturer or the price point is) comes in needing 20 minutes of adjustments and then the very next one can require 2 hours! So if you were to get 5 of the same model right out of the box, they will all play different which leads people to believe that they are “good” or “bad” saxes… but the reality is that the one that was the best out of the 5 was likely the one that needed the least amount of work and on the flip side, the “bad” sax was the one that needed 2 hours worth of adjustments!

Once the same 5 saxophones are properly regulated and adjusted to perfection, they become near identical saxophones that even the pickiest of players would be challenged to pick a true “favorite” horn. However, since most stores do not or even can not perform this setup, the player never knows this and is simply relying on the luck of the draw. This is why we perform our setup (in our www.SaxophoneRepairs.com ProShop) on them before delivering your new sax to you. You trust us with the purchase of your 52JBL Alto and we want to make sure that you are rewarded by giving you your ideal saxophone setup flawlessly!