I have been wondering-
Which is better, a Selmer 80 series tenor, a reference 54, a reference 36, or a series III?
Which is better, a Yamaha 82Z tenor, a Custom, or a 62II tenor?

Reference 36? I'm not familiar with those. You cannot go wrong with a super action 80.

I will say though, the reference 54 is supposed to be a very very nice horn. I haven't played on one.

I just saw a mark VI from the early 60's in mint condition on ebay. Wow.

Which is better, a Selmer 80 series tenor, a reference 54, a reference 36, or a series III?
Which is better, a Yamaha 82Z tenor, a Custom, or a 62II tenor?

ok, tenors. SeriesII(80) and III are basicly the same, but III is supposed to be a step up. It might also be a bit more classicalish, but don't quote me. I've played a reference 54 alto, and it was second to the keilwerth shadow i ended up buying, but it has a different sound and feel, so ya. can't help with the 36. I'd say it's good.

The yamahas are about the same I belive, just slightly different, or alot mroe so. I think the custom and 62II are more classical, 82z more jazz, but I don't remember for sure. Probably some yamaha hotshot will come in and help ya more. goodluck?