Author: BartHx
Date: 2014-05-21 01:05
Not to be annoying here, but I know there was at least one quality instrument that was, in fact, made with solid silver keys. I have a Selmer Model 55 with solid silver keys. I know they are solid silver because, before I got it, it was extensively used and some of the rings are worn almost all the way through on the free edge. That means I have been able to test metal that would, normally, be inside the key. Some members of this site have told me that they have a Model 55 that does not have solid silver keys, and I have no doubt that they do. I wondered, given how easily it is bent, why Selmer would build an instrument with solid silver keys. I spent considerable time researching the possible why. The most logical reason I could come up with was that, in 1945, silver was probably more easily available than other metals that would be needed more in the manufacturer of munitions.
On the other hand, today I would never buy a "professional" level instrument with solid silver keys. Silver is just way too soft.
On the topic of totally non-scientific research, my Model 55 has a lovely, full, sweet tone. Obviously, that must be because of the solid silver keys. ;^)
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