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10 Best Alto Saxophone For Beginners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Eastar EAX-21, Alto Saxophone, E Flat Saxophone for Beginner Students Brass Sax Full Kit, Travel Bag, Foldable Stand, Cleanning Kit, Golden Lacquer

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,477
Mouthpiece

Most important from
1689 reviews

Mouthpiece
While the included mouthpiece is substandard, upgrading to a better one like Selmer's can significantly improve performance.

The Eastar EAX-21 alto saxophone is a great option for beginner students. Made from brass and high-grade copper with lead-free soldering, it promises durability and a rich, beautiful sound. The key mechanism includes redesigned C and E flat switches, reinforced bass buttons, and an enlarged bell mouth, all contributing to stable performance.

The treble adjustment lever is a handy feature for customizing the sensitivity to suit individual playing habits. The saxophone's design is visually appealing with a shiny lacquer gold finish and muscovite inlaid keys, and the hand-carved bell mouth adds a touch of elegance. It's also practical, with a lightweight, foldable stand that fits inside the bell for easy transport.

The package is comprehensive, including the saxophone, a carrying case, mouthpiece, leather neck strap, shoulder straps, white gloves, reeds, and a cleaning kit, making it a cost-effective choice for beginners. The Eastar EAX-21 provides a blend of quality, design, and value, making it a solid choice for those new to playing the alto saxophone.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,477
Mouthpiece

Most important from
1689 reviews

Mouthpiece
While the included mouthpiece is substandard, upgrading to a better one like Selmer's can significantly improve performance.
#2

Eastar AS-Ⅱ Student Alto Saxophone E Flat Gold Lacquer Alto Beginner Sax Full Kit With Carrying Sax Case Mouthpiece Straps Reeds Stand

Rating
10.0
Key Mechanism
Mouthpiece
Reeds

Most important from
1689 reviews

Key Mechanism
Despite being lighter and less well-braced than higher-end models, the Eastar plays very well with all keys sealing perfectly.
Mouthpiece
While the Eastar's mouthpiece is substandard, upgrading to a better one significantly improves the playing experience.
Reeds
There can be issues with lower C and D notes, but these can be mitigated with better mouthpieces and reeds.

The Eastar AS-Ⅱ Student Alto Saxophone is a solid choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of music. One of its standout features is its construction from advanced copper, which not only lends durability but also contributes to the instrument's rich and warm sound. The ergonomic design and faux mother pearl keys enhance comfort during play, making it easier for new musicians to practice for longer periods without discomfort.

A major plus is the complete kit that comes with the saxophone, which includes everything a beginner might need: a carrying case, mouthpiece, neck strap, reeds, and cleaning kit. This means you won't have to make additional purchases right away, allowing you to start playing almost immediately.

However, while the saxophone offers exceptional sound quality, some beginners might find the weight of 7.04 pounds a bit cumbersome, especially during extended practice sessions. In terms of maintenance, the saxophone is designed for easy cleaning, which is a great advantage for beginners who might be unsure about how to care for their instrument. The inclusion of high-quality leather pads helps maintain air-tightness, contributing to a better playing experience.

Rating
10.0
Key Mechanism
Mouthpiece
Reeds

Most important from
1689 reviews

Key Mechanism
Despite being lighter and less well-braced than higher-end models, the Eastar plays very well with all keys sealing perfectly.
Mouthpiece
While the Eastar's mouthpiece is substandard, upgrading to a better one significantly improves the playing experience.
Reeds
There can be issues with lower C and D notes, but these can be mitigated with better mouthpieces and reeds.
#3

Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone - Golden Brass Lacquered

Rating
9.8
Neck Strap
Case

Most important from
1159 reviews

Neck Strap
The included accessories, such as the swab and neck strap, are of good quality and add to the overall value.
Case
The case is secure and functional, making it easy to transport the saxophone safely.

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone is an excellent choice for beginners and those looking to improve their skills. Built from golden brass and lacquered for durability, it offers a warm sound that many players appreciate. One of its standout features is the professional setup done by certified technicians, ensuring that the saxophone is ready to play right out of the box. This is particularly beneficial for new players who may not yet know how to make adjustments to their instrument.

The AS-400 also boasts precise intonation, which helps beginners stay in tune as they learn. The inclusion of a High F# key allows for greater musical versatility, making it easier to reach higher notes and explore different styles of music. Additionally, the durable carrying case provides good protection during transport, which is important for students who need to take their instruments to lessons or practice sessions.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing in at 4.3 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for younger or smaller players, potentially leading to fatigue during extended practice. Also, while the saxophone comes complete with essential accessories to get started, some players might eventually want to invest in higher-quality reeds or a mouthpiece tailored to their preferences as they progress.

Rating
9.8
Neck Strap
Case

Most important from
1159 reviews

Neck Strap
The included accessories, such as the swab and neck strap, are of good quality and add to the overall value.
Case
The case is secure and functional, making it easy to transport the saxophone safely.

Buying Guide for the Best Alto Saxophone For Beginners

Choosing the right alto saxophone for a beginner can be a rewarding experience. The right instrument can make learning easier and more enjoyable. When selecting an alto saxophone, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact the playability, sound quality, and overall experience for the beginner. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for the new saxophonist.
MaterialThe material of the saxophone affects its durability and sound quality. Most beginner saxophones are made from brass, which is then lacquered or plated. Lacquered brass is common and provides a warm sound, while silver or gold plating can offer a brighter tone. For beginners, a lacquered brass saxophone is usually sufficient as it balances durability and sound quality well.
Key MechanismThe key mechanism refers to the design and layout of the keys on the saxophone. A well-designed key mechanism is crucial for ease of play and comfort. Beginners should look for saxophones with keys that are easy to press and have a smooth action. This will make learning fingerings and playing notes more comfortable and less frustrating.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is where the player blows into the saxophone, and it significantly affects the instrument's sound and playability. For beginners, a standard mouthpiece that comes with the saxophone is usually adequate. However, as the player progresses, they might want to experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that suits their playing style and sound preference.
Neck StrapA neck strap supports the weight of the saxophone and helps the player hold it comfortably. A good neck strap is adjustable and padded for comfort. Beginners should ensure that the neck strap is comfortable and provides adequate support, as this will help them maintain proper posture and reduce fatigue during practice.
CaseThe case protects the saxophone when it's not in use and during transport. A sturdy, well-padded case is essential to keep the instrument safe from damage. Beginners should look for a case that is easy to carry and provides good protection, as this will help ensure the longevity of their saxophone.
ReedsReeds are thin pieces of cane that vibrate to produce sound when the player blows into the mouthpiece. The strength of the reed is measured in numbers, with lower numbers being softer and easier to play, and higher numbers being harder and producing a richer sound. Beginners should start with softer reeds (strength 1.5 to 2.5) as they are easier to play and require less effort to produce sound.
WeightThe weight of the saxophone can affect the player's comfort, especially for younger or smaller beginners. Lighter saxophones are easier to handle and less tiring to play. When choosing a saxophone, consider the player's size and strength to ensure they can comfortably hold and play the instrument for extended periods.

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