Experimentation is the key. You must try out any horn that you are interested in. If a dealer doesn't allow you to "test drive" the instrument, then don't buy it. Mouthpiece and reed combinations are very important. But, selecting the horn that is best for you is equally important. All saxophones ARE NOT the same. Each brand of horn will produce it's own sound due to the way it is made from the instrument company. For example, Selmer Mark VI's are very famous for their dark sounds. If you examine the horn, (The specs and measurements, materials used, etc.) you will find that all of these things add up to give the VI it's unique sound. Now, even in the Mark VI family of instruments, some are still considered to be better than others. For example, the "Five Digit" horns are considered to be the best ever made. Also, for me, the action on my VI has been faster than any other horn that I have ever come across. Once again, this is my own taste. I like the dark overtones the VI's produce, and, as stated earlier, I feel that the action on the VI is second to none. Experiment until you find what you like.