Question:
Clapped out VI or Rebuilt 62?
I have a choice between a clapped out Mark VI and a freshly rebuilt YSS-62. I much prefer the tone of the Selmer, but it's kind of a drag to play compared to the 62's ergos. The Yamaha's actually about 50% less as well. I actually put some cash down on the VI to hold it 'til next week. Will I regret it? Should I go back and snatch the 62 as well - I don't have a backup. :twisted: What would a rational person do?

Answer:
I have played Selmers for years BUT I think the Yam will be your better player. The Selmer should hold the value better. Without knowing the price, it is hard to be sure.

Answer:
You can get around the ergos but you won't get around the tone if you don't like it. I play Selmer..I've always found Yamaha instruments a little one dimensional.

Answer:
Buy the Selmer. You can always find a Yamaha. There is really no comparison in sound.

Answer:
Buy the Selmer and save money for a 62 in the future. I've owned both. Much prefer the Selmer sound but the palm keys were un-workable (for me) It made my alto and tenor feel foreign. I had the Oleg front F added to the VI which solve the front F dilemma. There's also a slick Oleg neck strap ring attachment.
Currently, I play a YSS-62R which is simply a great sounding everyday work-horse type soprano. Palm Keys and ergo don't conflict with my alto or tenor. When I get rich :D I'll probably get another VI for those rainy days.
By the way - what does clapped-out mean?

Answer:
clapped out here usually means knackered... on it's last legs..and other unfortunate references to the noble horse.

Answer:
a "clapped out" VI sounds like a money pit. Better find a better VI specimen.
But I agree on the above about the Selmer sound and the Yams ergos. Maybe look at a more modern Selmer (early Super Action 80s) and get both.

Answer:
If you like the Selmer tone, I'd look for a Vito soprano made by Yani as a Mark VI copy (usually a S6 in disguise as a Vito). They are not hard to find, sell at reasonable prices, and are said to be much more consistent than the VI's they are copying. Realize though, they will still have the LH ergos of the VI.

Answer:
Originally Posted by Fred If you like the Selmer tone, I'd look for a Vito soprano made by Yani as a Mark VI copy (usually a S6 in disguise as a Vito). They are not hard to find, sell at reasonable prices, and are said to be much more consistent than the VI's they are copying. Realize though, they will still have the LH ergos of the VI. Don't fool yourself. These don't come close in "copying" the Selmer sound. Consistent might be a selling point, but these are still "also-rans". We are all still waiting for the guys with the impossible-to-play-in-tune Bueschers and Conns to chime in.

Answer:
A lot of it depends on what you're going to use it for...I personally don't like the Mark VI ergos, and I can't keep them in tune very well, either. That being said, if this were any other "voice," I'd say get the Selmer. Being that it's a soprano, I think the 62 is a much better instrument...especially if it's a 62R. Both hold their value well.

Answer:
Nice Vitos can be found for around $600. I had a Yana and liked it better than the three VIs I had. I would look for a Vito (or a Whitehall) and use the money you save to get a vintage Soprano to add to the herd.