10 Best Tenor Saxophones 2026 in the United States

The Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone is designed for serious musicians seeking quality and performance. One of its standout features is the ribbed body construction, which enhances durability and sound projection, making it suitable for both solo and ensemble performances. The use of Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with metal resonators contributes to excellent tonal quality and responsiveness, allowing players to express their style with ease. The saxophone comes with a Henri Selmer Paris neck mouthpiece, known for its comfortable playability, which is crucial for extended practice sessions and performances.

The black nickel finish adds a stylish touch, appealing to those who want their instrument to look as good as it sounds. It's also ergonomic, though it weighs about 21.8 pounds, which could be a consideration for players who prefer lighter instruments or need to carry it for long periods.

The Selmer brand is highly regarded, but it comes at a higher price point, which may not fit everyone's budget, especially beginners or casual players. This saxophone is an excellent choice for advanced players or professionals looking for a reliable, high-quality instrument that can handle various musical styles, particularly in jazz and classical genres. Beginners might find it more complex to manage due to its professional features. The STS711 offers outstanding craftsmanship and performance, although its weight and cost may be potential drawbacks for some users.

The P. Mauriat PMXT-66RDK Tenor Saxophone stands out with its high-quality brass material and dark lacquer finish, which not only provide a visually appealing appearance but also contribute to the instrument's durability and rich sound.

The saxophone features rolled tone holes, which are known for enhancing the instrument's tonal quality and making it easier to play. This model is designed in the key of F Sharp, catering to advanced players who appreciate precision and performance in their instruments. The ProTec case included with the saxophone ensures that it is well-protected during transport, adding to its practicality for musicians on the go.

However, this tenor saxophone is on the heavier side at 20.8 pounds, which might be a consideration for some users when it comes to ergonomics and ease of handling during long practice sessions or performances. The P. Mauriat brand is well-regarded in the saxophone community, known for producing high-quality instruments. This saxophone is a solid choice for advanced players seeking an instrument with excellent sound quality and a professional build, though beginners might find it a bit challenging due to its weight and advanced key mechanism.

The Eastar Tenor Saxophone TS-II is designed for beginners and advanced players, making it a versatile choice. Its copper material and gold lacquer finish make it visually appealing and durable. The key mechanism includes a full bounding stick gasket and blue copper needle spring, providing a quick response and easy playability. The ergonomic design with faux mother pearl inlaid keys ensures comfort during extended practice sessions and performances.

The saxophone's wider range tone allows smooth transitions across different music genres like jazz, blues, and rock, delivering rich and expressive sound quality. The advanced copper construction and lead-free welding add to the instrument's longevity and safety. High-quality leather pads ensure air tightness, and all keystroke links are lubricated to prevent rusting and sticking.

The package includes a full kit with a carrying case, neck strap, reeds, and cleaning accessories, offering everything needed to start playing right away. Weighing 19.11 pounds, it may be on the heavier side, impacting portability. Potential users should consider the weight when looking for ease of transport and comfort during long sessions.