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Selmer Mark VII Tenor Mouthpieces

The Selmer Mark VII tenor (produced 1975–1980s) is often described as brighter and more powerful than the legendary Mark VI, with a larger bore, different taper, and sometimes a "whiny" high end. Many players seek mouthpieces that darken or warm the tone while maintaining projection and response. Recommendations overlap heavily with those for the Mark VI, as both are Selmer Paris horns, but focus on versatile or darker options for the VII's character.


Popular recommendations from forums and reviews include:

  • Selmer Soloist (hard rubber, modern reissue of the vintage scroll shank model): Versatile, warm, and centered; often suggested (e.g., E or higher facing) to balance the VII's brightness for jazz or mixed use.

  • Selmer S80 or S90 (hard rubber): Classic choices for focused, even tone; C* facing is common for control, especially if leaning classical.

  • Otto Link Super Tone Master (metal or rubber): A "classic combination" with Selmer tenors; provides warmth and spread to counter brightness.

  • Meyer (hard rubber): Warm, round, and flexible; frequently praised for Selmer horns in general.

  • Vandoren models (e.g., Java or V16): Bright but controllable; good for modern jazz.

  • Other mentions: Berg Larsen, Lawton, or Theo Wanne for more power; Selmer Concept or Jazz Tribute (metal) for contemporary versatility.

Ultimately, mouthpiece choice is personal—test with your setup, as the VII responds well to darker pieces to tame its edge.



Famous Saxophonists Associated with Selmer Mark VII Tenor

The Mark VII was less popular than the Mark VI and didn't attract as many iconic players, partly due to its reputation for brighter tone and ergonomic differences (e.g., wider pinky key spacing). Few jazz legends primarily used it; most stuck with or switched back to Mark VI.

Notable mentions include:


  • Simon Spillett (UK jazz tenorist, in the Tubby Hayes style): Played a Mark VII for many years before acquiring a vintage Mark VI.

  • Bob Rockwell (American expatriate in Denmark): Known for playing a silver-plated Mark VII tenor.

In contrast, the Selmer Mark VI tenor (1954–1974/75) is iconic and was played by countless legends, including:

  • John Coltrane (e.g., on A Love Supreme)

  • Sonny Rollins

  • Dexter Gordon

  • Stan Getz

  • Michael Brecker

  • Wayne Shorter

  • Joe Henderson

  • Hank Mobley

Many greats from the 1950s–1970s era used the Mark VI, cementing its status as the "gold standard" tenor.

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