10Best.Guide

Saxophone

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Fast shipping and good packaging
  • Well-made and plays great
  • Good customer service
  • Authentic product
  • Comes with a case and straps
Cons
  • Made in Indonesia instead of Japan
  • Some keys were bent upon arrival
Bottom Line
The Yamaha YAS-280 alto saxophone is a good quality instrument that produces beautiful notes. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with shipping, warranty, and customs duty.
Pros
  • Can practice without bothering anyone
  • Low C# is elevated for quick playing
  • Mouthpiece is the size of an alto sax
  • Lightweight
  • Good for experimenting with alternate sounds
Cons
  • Some keys don't always trigger a note-on
  • Volume isn't the loudest even on the highest setting
Bottom Line
The Yamaha YDS-150 is a lightweight and quiet alternative to traditional saxophones, making it a good option for those with noise issues or who want to practice without disturbing others. However, it has some technical issues and is expensive for what it offers compared to other models. Buyers should consider their specific needs before purchasing.
Pros
  • Good sound quality
  • Classy looking sax
  • Reasonable price
  • Great value for the money
  • Easy to carry
Cons
  • Not the best quality saxophone
  • No serial number
Bottom Line
This saxophone is a great value for beginners who want to learn how to play the saxophone without spending too much money. However, it may not be the best quality saxophone and may require some upgrades to improve the sound quality.
Pros
  • Can be used as a cake topper or decoration
  • Screw-on stand is useful for keeping it standing up
  • Can be hung as an ornament on a Christmas tree
  • Plays well and is fun to use
  • Makes a great gift for saxophone players or enthusiasts
Cons
  • Not very accurate up close
  • Not very durable
Bottom Line
This saxophone figurine is a versatile decoration that can be used as a cake topper, ornament, or standalone display. While it may not be very durable and lacks accuracy up close, it is a great gift for saxophone players or enthusiasts and plays well.
Pros
  • Good quality and sound.
  • Easy to play.
  • Comes with a decent mouthpiece.
  • Great customer service.
  • Fast shipping.
Cons
  • Octave key not working properly.
  • Neck screw found twisted.
Bottom Line
The Jean Paul Alto Saxophone is a well-made product with great sound and easy to play. It comes with a decent mouthpiece and has excellent customer service. However, some customers have experienced issues with the octave key, neck screw, and missing cleaning swab.

The Ultimate Saxophone Buying Guide: Types, Features, Prices, and Tips

Overview

Saxophone is a popular musical instrument that has been around for centuries. It is a versatile instrument that can be used in various genres of music, including jazz, classical, and pop. If you are looking to buy a saxophone, this buying guide will help you make an informed decision by providing you with all the information you need.

Types

There are four main types of saxophones: alto, tenor, baritone, and soprano. Each type has its unique sound and is suitable for different genres of music. The alto saxophone is the most popular type and is ideal for beginners. The tenor saxophone is commonly used in jazz music, while the baritone saxophone is often used in classical music. The soprano saxophone is the smallest and has a higher pitch than the other types.

Key Considerations

When buying a saxophone, there are several key considerations to keep in mind, including your skill level, budget, and the type of music you want to play. Other factors to consider include the brand, quality, and durability of the instrument.

Features

Saxophones come with various features, including the number of keys, the type of mouthpiece, and the material used to make the instrument. The number of keys determines the range of notes the saxophone can play, while the mouthpiece affects the sound quality. The material used to make the instrument can also affect the sound quality and durability.

Prices

Saxophones can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price depends on several factors, including the brand, quality, and type of saxophone. Beginner saxophones are typically less expensive than professional models.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you choose the right saxophone:

- Try before you buy: Play the saxophone before purchasing it to ensure it feels comfortable and sounds good.

- Consider buying used: Used saxophones can be a more affordable option for beginners.

- Invest in quality: A high-quality saxophone will last longer and produce better sound quality.

- Take lessons: Taking lessons from a professional saxophonist can help you improve your skills and get the most out of your instrument.

FAQs

Q: Is it better to buy a new or used saxophone?

A: It depends on your budget and preferences. Used saxophones can be more affordable, but they may require more maintenance.

Q: How do I clean and maintain my saxophone?

A: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your saxophone in good condition. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the instrument after each use and take it to a professional for regular maintenance.

Q: How long does it take to learn how to play the saxophone?

A: Learning how to play the saxophone takes time and practice. It can take several months or even years to become proficient.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Good beginner saxophone
  • Cheaper than renting
  • Nice sound for a first saxophone
  • Solid horn for the price
  • Good for someone who hasn't played in a while
Cons
  • Reed issues
  • High G doesn't come out easily
Bottom Line
The Eastar AS-II alto saxophone is a good beginner saxophone for those who are just starting out or haven't played in a while. It has a nice sound and is solid for the price. However, there are some issues with reeds, sticking buttons, and the need for repairs after a short time. Experienced players may want to look elsewhere.
Pros
  • Affordable price.
  • Good for beginners and those getting back into playing.
  • Comes with everything needed to start playing.
  • Decent tone for the price.
  • Well-packaged for shipping.
Cons
  • Cheap materials that can bend and break easily.
  • Inconsistent sound quality.
Bottom Line
The Glory Alto Saxophone is an affordable option for beginners or those getting back into playing, but it may not be the most durable or consistent option on the market. It is important to be aware of the potential issues with the materials and sound quality before making a purchase.
Pros
  • Great value for the price
  • Beautiful design and craftsmanship
  • Good for beginners
  • Surprisingly good quality
  • Fast shipping
Cons
  • Low-quality reeds
  • Heavy compared to name-brand instruments
Bottom Line
This saxophone is a great value for beginners or those looking for a budget option. It has a beautiful design and surprisingly good quality, but may have some issues with sound and customer service. It is recommended to purchase separate reeds and be aware of the instrument's weight and potential repair issues.
Pros
  • Good sound quality
  • Inexpensive
  • Fast shipping
  • Good for beginners
  • Great for the cost
Cons
  • Equipment may look used
  • Cheap neck strap
Bottom Line
This saxophone is a great option for beginners and high school students on a budget. It has good sound quality and a nice design, but may have some minor issues such as sticking pads and unsanitary reeds. It is important to note that additional accessories such as a better mouthpiece and cork grease may need to be purchased separately.
Pros
  • Great protection for the saxophone during shipping.
  • Well crafted and sounds great.
  • Surprising quality for the price.
  • Beautiful instrument.
  • Great value compared to renting.
Cons
  • Case fell apart during shipping.
  • Some stitching was incomplete.
Bottom Line
This saxophone is a great value for its price, with surprising quality and sound. However, buyers should be aware that the case may not survive shipping and may have some incomplete stitching.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}