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10 Best Saxophones 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone - Golden Brass Lacquered

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Key Mechanism
Brand and Model

Most important from
1169 reviews

Key Mechanism
This sax is really nice, arriving in great condition with excellent key adjustments. It plays beautifully with a rather dark sound.
Brand and Model
After 24 years of not playing, I was in awe of this instrument's fit and finish. All notes are in tune except for a slight flatness in the D note, which is impressive for the price.

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone in Golden Brass Lacquered finish is a solid choice for both beginners and advancing players. It stands out for its professional setup, ensuring that each instrument is ready to play right out of the box. This feature can be particularly beneficial for newcomers who might be intimidated by the setup process. Engineered for precise intonation, it helps musicians maintain perfect pitch across its range, which is crucial for any player looking to improve their sound quality.

Additionally, the inclusion of a High F# key offers more versatility in playing higher notes with ease. The saxophone comes with all necessary accessories, making it convenient for immediate use upon purchase. Its durable carrying case, with a reinforced frame and high-density foam, provides excellent protection during transport, adding to its appeal for those who need to move their instrument frequently. While the brass material gives it a classic look and sound, it may be heavier compared to other materials, which might be a consideration for some users.

Weighing 4.3 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for an alto saxophone, but still something to keep in mind for younger players or those who prefer a lighter instrument. Considering its features and build quality, the Jean Paul AS-400 is a well-rounded instrument ideal for students and intermediate players looking for a reliable and affordable alto saxophone.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Key Mechanism
Brand and Model

Most important from
1169 reviews

Key Mechanism
This sax is really nice, arriving in great condition with excellent key adjustments. It plays beautifully with a rather dark sound.
Brand and Model
After 24 years of not playing, I was in awe of this instrument's fit and finish. All notes are in tune except for a slight flatness in the D note, which is impressive for the price.
#2

YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto saxophones, C key, gold

Rating
9.6
Type of Saxophone
Key Mechanism
Brand and Model

Most important from
274 reviews

Type of Saxophone
Despite being a student model, it includes beneficial features like the high F# key.
Key Mechanism
A solid and reliable saxophone, the YAS-280 delivers smooth, easy action across all registers.
Brand and Model
The YAS-280 has been compared favorably to higher-priced Yamaha models, although it's noted that they might sound richer.

The Yamaha YAS-280 is an alto saxophone designed with students in mind. It comes in a stunning gold lacquer finish which not only looks attractive but also contributes to the durability of the instrument. One of the highlights of this model is that it includes auxiliary keys for high F# and front F, which can be beneficial for beginners learning to play higher notes. The instrument is in the key of B flat and is made from high-quality materials, ensuring a reliable performance.

Yamaha, a reputable brand known for its musical instruments, manufactures this saxophone, adding to its credibility and appeal. It comes complete with a case, which is a great addition for students who need to transport their instrument frequently. The product dimensions and weight indicate that it is fairly portable and manageable for most users. Its suitability is primarily for student musicians, so more advanced players might find it limiting in terms of features and sound quality. Additionally, while the gold lacquer finish is aesthetically pleasing, it might require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. The Yamaha YAS-280 is a solid choice for beginner saxophonists looking for a reliable and well-regarded instrument to start their musical journey.

Rating
9.6
Type of Saxophone
Key Mechanism
Brand and Model

Most important from
274 reviews

Type of Saxophone
Despite being a student model, it includes beneficial features like the high F# key.
Key Mechanism
A solid and reliable saxophone, the YAS-280 delivers smooth, easy action across all registers.
Brand and Model
The YAS-280 has been compared favorably to higher-priced Yamaha models, although it's noted that they might sound richer.
#3

Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish

Rating
9.4
Type of Saxophone
Material
Key Mechanism

Most important from
51 reviews

Type of Saxophone
Upgrading to the YAS-480 from a beginner model is highly recommended; the difference in playability and tone is substantial.
Material
Even though the instrument is made in Indonesia, it adheres to Yamaha's high standards of quality.
Key Mechanism
The keys allow for easy access to both low and high notes, making it versatile for various playing styles.
Brand and Model
The Yamaha YAS-480 doesn't disappoint; the sound quality is exceptional, likened to Whitney Houston's highs and Luther Vandross's lows.

The Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone is a solid choice for advancing players. Its intermediate model design, matched with a gold epoxy lacquer finish, offers both durability and a polished aesthetic. The saxophone is equipped with advanced features such as a front F and high F# key, a 62 style neck, and a newly redesigned octave key mechanism to enhance playability and intonation accuracy.

The addition of separate key guards, hand engraving, and a custom style low Bb spatula show a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The adjustable thumb rest and key guard felts allow for personalized comfort and ease of use, important for longer playing sessions. Including a case and a 4C mouthpiece is a thoughtful addition, making it ready to play right out of the box.

At 6 kilograms (about 13.2 pounds), it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for younger or smaller players. While it may be outshone by professional models in terms of tonal nuance and advanced features, this saxophone is an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to improve their skills with a reliable and well-crafted instrument.

Rating
9.4
Type of Saxophone
Material
Key Mechanism

Most important from
51 reviews

Type of Saxophone
Upgrading to the YAS-480 from a beginner model is highly recommended; the difference in playability and tone is substantial.
Material
Even though the instrument is made in Indonesia, it adheres to Yamaha's high standards of quality.
Key Mechanism
The keys allow for easy access to both low and high notes, making it versatile for various playing styles.
Brand and Model
The Yamaha YAS-480 doesn't disappoint; the sound quality is exceptional, likened to Whitney Houston's highs and Luther Vandross's lows.

Buying Guide for the Best Saxophones

Choosing the right saxophone can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some understanding of the key specifications that differentiate one model from another. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a saxophone.
Type of SaxophoneSaxophones come in various types, including soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone. Each type has a different size and pitch range. Soprano saxophones are the smallest and have the highest pitch, while baritone saxophones are the largest and have the lowest pitch. Alto and tenor saxophones are the most common and are often recommended for beginners. Your choice should depend on the type of music you want to play and your physical comfort with the instrument.
MaterialMost saxophones are made of brass, but the finish can vary, including lacquer, silver plating, or gold plating. The material and finish can affect the instrument's durability, weight, and sound quality. Lacquered brass is common and provides a warm sound, while silver plating can offer a brighter tone. Gold plating is often used for its aesthetic appeal and can slightly enhance the richness of the sound. Consider what sound quality you prefer and how much maintenance you are willing to perform.
Key MechanismThe key mechanism refers to the design and placement of the keys on the saxophone. A well-designed key mechanism allows for smooth and comfortable playing. Beginners should look for saxophones with keys that are easy to reach and press. Intermediate and advanced players might prefer more complex key mechanisms that offer greater control and responsiveness. Try out different models to see which key mechanism feels most comfortable for your hands.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a crucial part of the saxophone that greatly influences the sound. Mouthpieces come in various shapes and sizes, and the choice of mouthpiece can affect the ease of play and the tone produced. Beginners should start with a standard mouthpiece that offers a good balance of ease and sound quality. As you progress, you might experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that suits your playing style and desired sound.
ReedThe reed is a thin piece of cane that vibrates to produce sound when you blow into the mouthpiece. Reeds come in different strengths, usually measured on a scale from 1 (soft) to 5 (hard). Softer reeds are easier to play and are recommended for beginners, while harder reeds offer more control and are preferred by advanced players. Your choice of reed strength should match your skill level and the type of music you play.
Brand and ModelDifferent brands and models of saxophones can vary significantly in quality, sound, and price. Well-known brands often have a reputation for producing reliable and high-quality instruments. Researching reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced players or teachers can help you identify reputable brands and models. Try to play-test several saxophones to find one that feels and sounds right for you.

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