The Sound of the Mark VI, Built for Today
There's a reason so many serious tenor players have come back to the Reference 54. Selmer Paris designed it specifically to channel the character of the 1954 Mark VI — that centered, focused core with just enough edge and warmth — while giving it the ergonomics and consistency of a modern professional horn. It's not a replica; it's a thoughtful evolution.
The body is built from hand-engraved yellow brass, and the Reference bore and neck geometry are engineered to deliver that balanced, rich tone the Mark VI became famous for. Players who spend time with this horn often notice how consistent it is across the full range — from the lower register's characteristic depth to a clear, even upper register.
Crafted in Selmer's workshops in Mantes-la-Ville, France, this is the kind of instrument built for players who know what they want out of a tenor and don't want to compromise to get it.
A Body Built for Tone
The Reference 54's yellow brass body is hand-engraved — a hallmark of Selmer Paris professional instruments. The Reference body style is tuned for full sound, and the neck uses the Reference bore geometry developed specifically for this model. These aren't superficial design choices; they shape how the horn responds from the moment you start a phrase.
The bell is longer than many contemporary designs, which contributes to improved intonation in the lower register. Construction uses a rib-based method, and the result is an instrument with a rich, throaty quality that still maintains clarity and balance across the entire range.
Keywork That Gets Out of Your Way
Selmer Paris redesigned the keywork on the Reference 54 to sit closer to the body, reducing the stretch needed for difficult passages and high notes. If you've played older vintage horns and spent time coaxing your hands around less ergonomic layouts, this will feel noticeably more natural.
The front F key uses a spatula design, and both thumb rests are well-considered: a plastic left-hand rest and an adjustable metal right-hand rest. Tapered pivot screws and adjusting screws at multiple key points — including high F, G# key, F#/G# lug, F#/G#, low C#, low B, side C, and side Bb — allow for precise regulation and long-term stability. The high F# key extends the range for players who need it.
Premium Components Throughout
The pads are treated leather with plastic resonators, providing an airtight seal while contributing to a resonant, projecting tone. Blued steel needle springs deliver responsive, consistent key action. These components are chosen to work together, not just to meet a spec sheet.
The Reference 54 is a professional instrument built to handle the demands of steady performance, rehearsal, and gigging — the kind of horn you set up once, keep in good condition, and rely on for years.
Product Features:
- Instrument Type: Bb Tenor Saxophone, Professional level
- Body: Hand-engraved yellow brass with Reference body style for full sound
- Neck: Reference bore geometry designed for the Mark VI character
- Construction: Rib-based construction with longer bell for improved intonation
- Pads: Treated leather with plastic resonators for airtight seal and resonant tone
- Springs: Blued steel needle springs for responsive key action
- Keywork: Compact layout positioned closer to the body; tapered pivot screws
- Range: High F# key; front F key with spatula
- Thumb Rests: Adjustable metal right-hand; plastic left-hand
- Adjusting Screws: High F, G# key, F#/G# lug, F#/G#, low C#, low B, side C, side Bb
- Crafted in Mantes-la-Ville, France by Henri Selmer Paris
Brand: Selmer Paris
Model: Reference 54
SKU: 74
Condition: New
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