For decades, 62 was the only model Yamaha made, and it was good enough for everything. During the same time, Selmer also had just one model, and it was good enough for everything. Now every sax company has pointless multiple models.
My issue with the 82Z is that it is geared towards jazz and pop and too free blowing. YTS-62 is balanced all around. The Selmer Mark VI is just that balanced all around that is why it is such a great horn. But yeah if you want to get a more expensive horn, I think it's better to get the YTS-875. If you can find the first Gen that is even better, because that was like an improvement over the purple logo. The player could have pushed the horns more, to show what they can do. A little breathy perhaps. Yeah -- he liked the 62 more and I don't blame him. NOW why I am not so much in favor with a horn that's gear towards jazz, even though I play jazz - I think a neutral horn which classical players can also use is more malleable as well and the players sound comes through more.
I played a 62 tenor for 6 months, but, from the first notes I played on the 82II, it just seemed to have a more complex tone. It took me a few months of daily playing to make the horn "mine", but I've had it for 6 years now and haven't regretted trading up. (And it goes longer between repair/tune-ups than the 62.)
I dunno, the 62 sounded brighter to me, but more focused. The 82z was a bit darker, but bigger sound, imho. You sounded great on both. That sax has more variety in finishes. A matter of preference, really. If I were to buy a new tenor, I'd be happy with the 62. I'd probably get it in either Silver Plated (like my current YAS-62III) or Amber. Those look gorgeous.
Not sure about your comment about 82z more for experienced players. I'm just an amateur jazz player, not even college level. I play-tested both the 62 and 82z a decade ago, felt a huge difference and proceeded to select and purchase the 82z. If anything the customz was tons easier to play and sound. I guess it did play bright, so i did swap my ligature to darken the tone. But that was it. I've gigged a bunch and audiences generally loved the playing. So.. yeah, I don't see what's so difficult about playing the customz at all. Love it.
