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10 Best Saxophones 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Yamaha YAS-26 Alto Saxophone
The Yamaha YAS-26 is an alto saxophone designed primarily for students and beginners who want a reliable instrument to start or continue their saxophone journey. It is made with a clear baked epoxy lacquer finish and nickel-plated keys, which not only look good but also provide durability and resistance to wear. The saxophone’s key of E-flat is standard for alto saxophones, making it suitable for most learning environments and music styles.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,396
Type of Saxophone
Mouthpiece
Most important from
18 reviews
#2
Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone 52JU - Lacquer
The Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone (52JU) is a professional-level instrument made from brass and finished in a gold tone lacquer. This finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides a warm, resonant sound which is highly valued by musicians. The S80C mouthpiece included with this saxophone is known for its dynamic acoustics, making it suitable for various musical styles.
Rating
9.1
Brand and Model
Most important from
2 reviews
#3
Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel
The Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone in Black Nickel is a high-quality instrument that caters to professional musicians. One of its standout features is the ribbed body construction, which adds durability and ensures a robust sound. The use of Pisoni Pro leather pads with metal resonators is a significant advantage, providing a reliable seal and excellent sound projection.
Rating
8.8
Key Mechanism
Mouthpiece
Reed
Most important from
4 reviews
Top 10 Best Saxophones 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Yamaha YAS-26 Alto Saxophone
Yamaha YAS-26 Alto Saxophone
Type of Saxophone: alto saxophone
Material: Nickel
Key Mechanism: floating octave mechanism
Mouthpiece: included
Brand and Model: Yamaha YAS-26
Chosen by 1396 this week
Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone 52JU - Lacquer
Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone 52JU - Lacquer
Type of Saxophone: Alto Saxophone
Material: Brass
Key Mechanism: Redesigned octave key
Mouthpiece: S80C
Brand and Model: Selmer Paris Series II 52JU
Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel
Selmer STS711B Professional Tenor Saxophone Black Nickel
Type of Saxophone: Tenor Saxophone
Material: Black Nickel
Key Mechanism: Blued steel springs
Mouthpiece: Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece
Brand and Model: Selmer STS711
Yanagisawa AWO1 Alto Saxophone Lacquered
Yanagisawa AWO1 Alto Saxophone Lacquered
Type of Saxophone: Alto Saxophone
Material: Brass
Key Mechanism: Teflon octave system
Brand and Model: Yanagisawa AWO1
Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone - Gold Lacquer with 2-piece Bell
Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone - Gold Lacquer with 2-piece Bell
Type of Saxophone: Tenor
Material: Gold lacquer
Key Mechanism: Integrated posts
Brand and Model: Yamaha YTS-62 III
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Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series Alto Saxophone Lacquer
Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series Alto Saxophone Lacquer
Type of Saxophone: Alto Saxophone
Material: Metal
Key Mechanism: Adapted keywork
Mouthpiece: Henri SELMER Paris S80 C*
Brand and Model: Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series
Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone - Gold Lacquer
Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone - Gold Lacquer
Type of Saxophone: Alto Saxophone
Material: Lacquered gold
Key Mechanism: Integrated key posts
Brand and Model: YAMAHA YAS-62II
Yamaha YSS-475II Intermediate Soprano Saxophone - Gold Lacquer
Yamaha YSS-475II Intermediate Soprano Saxophone - Gold Lacquer
Type of Saxophone: Soprano
Material: Yellow brass
Key Mechanism: High F# key
Mouthpiece: 4C
Brand and Model: Yamaha YSS-475II
YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto Saxophones, Eb, Gold Lacquer
YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto Saxophones, Eb, Gold Lacquer
Type of Saxophone: Alto
Material: Gold lacquer
Key Mechanism: Auxiliary keys for high F#
Brand and Model: Yamaha YAS-280
#10
Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish
Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish
Type of Saxophone: Intermediate Eb Alto
Material: gold epoxy lacquer
Key Mechanism: front F, high F#, 62 style neck
Mouthpiece: 4C mouthpiece
Brand and Model: YAMAHA YAS-480
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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.