The Selmer Mark VI and Conn 10M are both vintage tenor saxophones, and are highly sought after by saxophonists and collectors. Both have unique characteristics and have been used by famous jazz musicians.
The Selmer Mark VI was produced from 1954-1972 and is known for its rich, complex tone, and even intonation. It has a slightly wider bore than the Conn 10M which gives it a bit more resistance and a darker sound. Many famous jazz saxophonists have played the Mark VI including John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and Sonny Rollins.
The Conn 10M was produced from the 1920s to the 1940s and is known for its bright and lively tone, and excellent projection. It has a narrower bore than the Selmer Mark VI which gives it a more free-blowing feel. Famous jazz saxophonists who have played the Conn 10M include Coleman Hawkins, Benny Carter, and Lester Young.
Prices for a well-maintained Selmer Mark VI in good playing condition can range from around £5,000 to £10,000, and can be much higher for rarer models or those in pristine condition. Prices for a well-maintained Conn 10M in good playing condition can range from around £2,500 to £6,000.
However, there are many other vintage saxophones that are considered to be high-quality instruments and are popular among saxophonists and collectors. Here are a couple of examples:
- The Martin Committee: The Martin Committee was produced by the C.G. Conn company from 1939-1972 and is considered one of the best saxophones ever made. It is known for its rich, complex tone and even intonation. It has a similar bore size and tonal characteristics as the Selmer Mark VI, and is considered by many to be a worthy alternative. Famous jazz saxophonists who have played the Martin Committee include Wayne Shorter and Dexter Gordon. Prices for a well-maintained Martin Committee in good playing condition can range from around £4,000 to £8,000
- The King Super 20: The King Super 20 was produced by the H.N. White Company from the 1930s to the 1960s, and is known for its powerful and projecting tone. It has a larger bore than the Selmer Mark VI and Conn 10M, which gives it a more free-blowing feel and a brighter sound. Famous jazz saxophonists who have played the King Super 20 include Illinois Jacquet, Paul Gonsalves and Stan Getz. Prices for a well-maintained King Super 20 in good playing condition can range from around £3,000 to £6,000
- The Buescher Aristocrat: The Buescher Aristocrat was produced by the Buescher band instrument company from the 1930s to the 1950s and is known for its balanced and versatile tone. It has a similar bore size as the Selmer Mark VI and Conn 10M which gives it a more darker and focused sound. The Buescher Aristocrat was played by many famous saxophonists including Paul Desmond, Stan Getz and Zoot Sims. Prices for a well-maintained Buescher Aristocrat in good playing condition can range from around £2,500 to £6,000
It’s worth noting that these are just approximate price ranges and prices for these saxophones can fluctuate depending on the market and demand, and can also be affected by factors such as the instrument’s age, condition, and rarity. Therefore, it’s important to consult with saxophone experts or appraisers to get a more accurate estimate of the value and price of a specific instrument.