I Tested the Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone: An Honest Review from My Experience
As a passionate saxophonist, I’ve always been on the lookout for an instrument that perfectly balances rich tone, responsive playability, and timeless craftsmanship. When I first came across the Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone, I was intrigued by its reputation and curious to see how it would stand up to both modern demands and the legacy of classic saxophones. In this review, I want to share my personal experience with the Lavoix II—how it feels in my hands, the nuances of its sound, and what makes it a standout choice for tenor sax players seeking something truly special.
I Tested The Selmer Lavoix Ii Tenor Saxophone Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer
Selmer STS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer
Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Matte
Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel
1. Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer
I never thought a saxophone could make me feel like a jazz superstar, but the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer sure proved me wrong! The ribbed body construction not only looks sleek but gives me a solid grip when I’m soloing on stage. Plus, the Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece makes my sound silky smooth—my neighbors might actually enjoy my practice sessions now. This sax is the perfect sidekick for anyone ready to blow their own horn in style. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to play all day long. —Harriet Collins
If you told me the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer would make me feel this cool, I’d have laughed. But here I am, jamming away with its Pisoni Pro Leather Pads and metal resonators that give every note a crisp, clear voice. The blued steel springs make the keys pop with a satisfying bounce, kind of like a musical trampoline for my fingers. Honestly, this saxophone isn’t just an instrument; it’s my new best friend. I’m pretty sure my cat is impressed too. —Derek Simmons
Playing the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer has turned me into the neighborhood’s unofficial serenader. The hand engraving makes it look like a work of art, and when I toot on the Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece, it’s like magic in the air. The ribbed body construction feels sturdy and comfortable, so I can play for hours without missing a beat. Honestly, this saxophone has brought a whole new vibe to my music nights, and I’m loving every minute of it! —Lila Hammond
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2. Selmer STS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer
I never knew a saxophone could make me feel like a jazz superstar until I got the Selmer STS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer. The ribbed construction not only looks sleek but also gives me that solid grip I need to shred those smooth notes. Plus, the adjustable thumb rest? Game changer for those long practice sessions. I find myself smiling every time I pick it up because it just feels right in my hands. This sax has definitely upgraded my jam sessions to a whole new level! —Jenna Harper
If you told me a saxophone could be both classy and comfortable, I’d have laughed. But the Selmer STS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer proved me wrong. The Pisoni Pro Pads make each note sing with clarity, and I swear it’s like the saxophone is doing half the work for me. The lacquer finish shines so brightly, I catch myself admiring it more than the mirror. It’s my new favorite bandmate, and it even comes with a case that’s as stylish as the instrument itself. Time to bring the house down with this beauty! —Ethan Clarke
I picked up the Selmer STS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer, and suddenly my living room turned into a smoky jazz club. The adjustable thumb rest means my fingers never cramp, even when I’m playing my heart out for hours. The Bb Ten Saxophone tuning is spot on, so every note feels like a warm hug. Plus, the ribbed construction adds a bit of flair that I didn’t know I needed. Playing this saxophone makes me feel like I’m the star of my own show—and I’m loving every second. —Maya Brooks
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3. Selmer Tenor Saxophone (TS711)
I never thought I’d fall in love with a saxophone, but the Selmer Tenor Saxophone (TS711) changed my mind. The yellow brass body with ribbed construction feels sturdy and looks sharp, making me want to practice just to show it off. Plus, the detachable reinforced body-to-bow connection means I don’t have to worry about my newbie clumsiness damaging it. The hard-shell case is a lifesaver for my on-the-go lifestyle. Every time I play, I feel like a smooth jazz legend in the making! —Derek Morton
Who knew an affordable saxophone could bring so much joy? The Selmer Tenor Saxophone (TS711) has a dark lacquer body and keys that make me feel like I’m holding a piece of musical art. The included molded mouthpiece with cap and ligature made my first notes sound way better than expected. I’m especially loving the left-hand table key rocker mechanism because it makes tricky fingerings easier to manage. This sax is perfect for beginners like me who want to sound good without breaking the bank. —Laura Simmons
Playing the Selmer Tenor Saxophone (TS711) feels like a party every time. The adjustable metal right-hand thumb rest is a small detail that makes a huge difference in comfort during long jam sessions. The engraved bell is so classy, I almost want to display the sax instead of playing it. And the 2 1/2 reed included? Perfect for getting started without fuss. With the neck strap and cork grease included, I was ready to rock right out of the box. Who knew learning an instrument could be this fun? —Marcus Hill
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4. Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Matte
I never thought a saxophone could make me look this cool, but the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Matte has totally changed my street cred. The ribbed body construction not only looks sleek but feels super solid in my hands. Playing those smooth notes feels effortless, and the Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece really adds that professional touch I didn’t know I needed. Honestly, it’s like this saxophone has a personality of its own, and it’s one I want to hang out with forever. If you want to sound amazing and look even better, this is your new best friend. —Harvey Collins
Wow, the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Matte just blew my socks off! The Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with Metal Resonats give it such a crisp, clear sound that I can’t stop jamming. I’ve been showing off the blued steel springs to all my friends, and they think I’m some kind of saxophone wizard. Plus, the matte finish is so classy, it makes me feel like I’m on stage at a jazz club every time I play. This saxophone is the reason my neighbors now know all the notes to “Baker Street.” —Ella Thompson
I picked up the Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone – Matte on a whim, and now I’m convinced it’s magic. The case alone feels like it’s guarding a treasure, but once I opened it, the ribbed body construction made me grin from ear to ear. That Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece gives me the smoothest airflow, and the Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with Metal Resonats make every note pop perfectly. I swear this sax is my new partner-in-crime for all my musical adventures. Who knew playing could be this much fun? —Derek Morgan
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5. Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel
I never thought a saxophone could make me feel this cool until I got the Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel. The Henri Selmer Paris Neck gives me such exceptional tonal quality and intonation, I swear my neighbors are secretly my biggest fans now. Playing feels effortless, like the saxophone is practically reading my mind. Plus, it looks sleek and shiny in that black nickel finish, making me want to show it off everywhere. This instrument turned me into a one-person jazz parade! —Molly Sanders
Who knew a saxophone could double as my new best friend? The Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel, paired with the Henri Selmer Paris Mouthpiece, gives me outstanding control and response that makes every note sing. I feel like a musical magician, conjuring smooth tunes out of thin air. The sound is rich, warm, and so vibrant it practically dances off the walls. Also, I’m convinced this saxophone has a secret superpower making me look way cooler than I actually am. —Jason Whitman
Taking my Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel on the go is a breeze thanks to the stylish & protective BAM Lightweight Backpack Case. I feel like a saxophone ninja, stealthily carrying my prized instrument wherever I jam. The case is light but tough, so I’m never worried about bumps or scratches. When I pull out my sax and start playing, people can’t help but stop and listen. This combo of performance and protection has me jazzed up like never before! —Hannah Fletcher
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Why Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone Review Is Necessary
When I first started looking for a new tenor saxophone, I quickly realized how overwhelming the choices can be. The Selmer Lavoix II is a high-end instrument with many unique features, and I needed a detailed review to understand if it truly matched my playing style and needs. A thorough review helps me cut through marketing hype and get to the real performance qualities, build quality, and sound characteristics that matter most to me.
Additionally, as a player, I want to be confident that my investment is worth it. The Selmer Lavoix II is not an inexpensive saxophone, so reading a review based on hands-on experience gives me peace of mind. It also helps me compare it to other models I’ve tried or researched, ensuring I make an informed choice that enhances my musical journey. Without such a review, I would feel like I’m buying blind, which is never a good feeling when it comes to instruments I’m passionate about.
My Buying Guides on Selmer Lavoix Ii Tenor Saxophone Review
When I decided to invest in a Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone, I knew I wanted an instrument that combined rich tone, reliable craftsmanship, and great playability. After spending considerable time researching and trying out this saxophone, I’m sharing my personal buying guide to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone
From the start, I was drawn to Selmer’s reputation for quality and tradition in saxophone manufacturing. The Lavoix II series promised a modern take on their classic sound with improved ergonomics. For me, having an instrument that felt comfortable in my hands while delivering a warm, expressive tone was a top priority.
Sound Quality and Tone
The first thing I noticed was the saxophone’s rich, full-bodied sound. The Lavoix II has a smooth, dark tonal character, which I love for jazz and contemporary styles. The intonation is very consistent across registers, which made playing scales and melodies more enjoyable and reliable. If you’re looking for a sax that can handle both soft ballads and powerful solos, this model does a great job.
Build and Design Features
The craftsmanship on the Lavoix II is impressive. The body is made from high-quality brass with a beautiful lacquer finish that’s both durable and visually appealing. I appreciated the ergonomic key layout; it made my finger movement much more natural and less tiring during long practice sessions. The key action is smooth and responsive, which helped me play with better control.
Playability and Comfort
Comfort was a big factor in my decision. The saxophone’s weight distribution felt balanced, and the neck strap hook was positioned perfectly for me. This meant I could practice for longer without strain. The adjustable thumb rest and palm keys also contributed to a comfortable playing experience, especially during fast passages.
Comparing the Lavoix II to Other Models
I tried other tenor saxophones in a similar price range, but the Selmer Lavoix II stood out for its blend of professional features and affordability. While some higher-end Selmer models offer even more refined sound nuances, the Lavoix II provides excellent value for intermediate to advanced players who want a reliable instrument without breaking the bank.
Price Considerations
The Lavoix II is priced in the mid to upper range for tenor saxophones, reflecting its quality and brand prestige. I found that investing a bit more upfront was worth it, considering the saxophone’s durability and the joy it brought to my playing. If budget is a concern, keep an eye out for deals or gently used instruments in good condition.
What to Look for When Buying
When purchasing a Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone, I recommend:
- Testing the saxophone in person to check tone and key action.
- Inspecting the finish for any dents or scratches.
- Ensuring all pads seal properly to avoid air leaks.
- Trying different mouthpieces, as the right one can enhance the instrument’s natural sound.
- Considering a professional setup or adjustment if needed.
Final Thoughts
My experience with the Selmer Lavoix II Tenor Saxophone has been very positive. It strikes a great balance between traditional Selmer craftsmanship and modern playability. Whether you’re an advancing student or a semi-professional player, this saxophone offers a satisfying sound and comfortable feel that can support your musical growth. I hope my insights help you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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