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10 Best Alto Saxophone Prices 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone - Gold Lacquer

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Brand Reputation
Key Mechanism

Most important from
48 reviews

Brand Reputation
The Yamaha YAS-62 is very playable and well-built, offering a smooth experience right out of the box.
Key Mechanism
Upgrading to this saxophone is a significant improvement over beginner models, with smooth finger keys and no unwanted squeals or hisses.

The Yamaha YAS-62 Professional Alto Saxophone is a well-regarded choice in the saxophone world, especially for those looking for a professional-grade instrument. Its gold lacquer finish not only adds an elegant touch but also provides durability for long-term use. The saxophone features a 62-style neck that is designed to enhance playability, giving musicians better control and ease when performing.

Integrated key posts are a significant advantage, offering a solid and reliable key mechanism that ensures smooth operation during play. The professional neck receiver is another highlight, contributing to its precise sound quality and making it a suitable instrument for advanced players. At 14 pounds, the saxophone is reasonably weighted, which could be comfortable for most users during extended playing sessions.

Yamaha's reputation as a reliable and respected brand in musical instruments adds an extra layer of assurance in terms of quality and customer satisfaction. Potential drawbacks include its higher price point, which might not be suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget. Nonetheless, for musicians seeking a professional and trustworthy saxophone, the Yamaha YAS-62 presents a strong option with its robust features and Yamaha's brand backing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Brand Reputation
Key Mechanism

Most important from
48 reviews

Brand Reputation
The Yamaha YAS-62 is very playable and well-built, offering a smooth experience right out of the box.
Key Mechanism
Upgrading to this saxophone is a significant improvement over beginner models, with smooth finger keys and no unwanted squeals or hisses.
#2

Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone 52JU - Lacquer

Rating
9.4
Material
Key Mechanism
Weight

Most important from
2 reviews

Material
The high-quality brass construction paired with a rich gold lacquer finish offers both durability and elegance.
Key Mechanism
The redesigned octave key mechanism feels lighter and much more comfortable during extended play.
Weight
While the instrument is on the heavier side, its superior build quality justifies the weight.

The Selmer Paris Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition alto saxophone stands out for its high-quality brass construction with a rich gold lacquer finish, which gives it a warm and vibrant sound. Selmer is a well-respected brand known for making professional-level instruments, so this saxophone is a strong choice for serious players. It features an S80C mouthpiece designed to enhance sound resonance and aesthetics, alongside a redesigned octave key mechanism that is lighter and more comfortable to use. The engraving adds a classy touch without affecting playability.

At about 15.45 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, which might be noticeable during long playing sessions. The saxophone’s versatile musical style fits various genres, making it suitable for professionals seeking a reliable and elegant instrument. Due to its higher price point, beginners or casual players might find it less accessible compared to more affordable models.

Rating
9.4
Material
Key Mechanism
Weight

Most important from
2 reviews

Material
The high-quality brass construction paired with a rich gold lacquer finish offers both durability and elegance.
Key Mechanism
The redesigned octave key mechanism feels lighter and much more comfortable during extended play.
Weight
While the instrument is on the heavier side, its superior build quality justifies the weight.
#3

Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish

Rating
8.5
Material
Key Mechanism
Weight

Most important from
51 reviews

Material
Despite concerns about the origin, the YAS-480 maintains Yamaha's high standards, with many produced in Indonesia yet delivering exceptional quality.
Key Mechanism
The saxophone's lightweight design and smooth key operation make it accessible for both novices and seasoned players.
Weight
The saxophone's lightweight design and smooth key operation make it accessible for both novices and seasoned players.
Brand Reputation
Despite concerns about the origin, the YAS-480 maintains Yamaha's high standards, with many produced in Indonesia yet delivering exceptional quality.

The Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone is a solid choice for intermediate players looking to enhance their skills. Crafted from metal with a gold lacquer finish, it offers durability and an attractive appearance that can stand out on stage. The saxophone features a 62 style neck and a newly redesigned octave key mechanism, which should provide improved playability and smoother transitions between notes. The separate key guards and tapered pivot screws enhance the instrument's longevity, ensuring it withstands regular use.

The inclusion of a 4C mouthpiece and an adjustable thumb rest adds to the player's comfort, allowing for more extended playing sessions without discomfort. At 13.2 pounds, the saxophone is reasonably lightweight, which makes it easier to handle, especially for younger or smaller players. Yamaha's reputation in the musical instrument industry is strong, known for producing reliable and high-quality instruments, which could be reassuring for buyers.

However, the price point might be a consideration for those on a budget, as Yamaha instruments are generally on the higher end. Additionally, while the saxophone comes with a case, additional accessories such as a neck strap or cleaning kit might not be included, potentially adding to the overall cost. The saxophone's best sellers rank and customer reviews suggest it's a well-regarded model, but it's worth noting that music is subjective, and preferences can vary. This saxophone would likely be best suited for serious students or hobbyists committed to advancing their skills.

Rating
8.5
Material
Key Mechanism
Weight

Most important from
51 reviews

Material
Despite concerns about the origin, the YAS-480 maintains Yamaha's high standards, with many produced in Indonesia yet delivering exceptional quality.
Key Mechanism
The saxophone's lightweight design and smooth key operation make it accessible for both novices and seasoned players.
Weight
The saxophone's lightweight design and smooth key operation make it accessible for both novices and seasoned players.
Brand Reputation
Despite concerns about the origin, the YAS-480 maintains Yamaha's high standards, with many produced in Indonesia yet delivering exceptional quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Alto Saxophone Prices

Choosing the right alto saxophone can be a rewarding experience, whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player. The key to making the best choice is understanding the various specifications and how they align with your needs and playing style. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting an alto saxophone.
MaterialThe material of the saxophone affects its sound and durability. Most alto saxophones are made from brass, but the finish can vary. Lacquered brass is common and provides a warm sound, while silver-plated saxophones offer a brighter tone. For beginners, a standard lacquered brass saxophone is usually sufficient. Intermediate and advanced players might prefer experimenting with different finishes to find the sound that best suits their style.
Key MechanismThe key mechanism refers to the design and layout of the keys on the saxophone. A well-designed key mechanism allows for smooth and fast finger movement, which is crucial for playing complex pieces. Beginners should look for a saxophone with a simple and ergonomic key layout to facilitate learning. Intermediate and advanced players might seek out saxophones with more advanced key mechanisms that offer greater precision and speed.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a critical component that greatly influences the sound and playability of the saxophone. Mouthpieces come in various shapes and sizes, affecting the ease of play and the tone produced. Beginners should start with a standard mouthpiece that is easy to play and produces a consistent sound. As players advance, they can experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that complements their playing style and desired sound.
NeckThe neck of the saxophone connects the mouthpiece to the body and plays a significant role in the instrument's sound and response. Some saxophones come with interchangeable necks, allowing players to customize their instrument's feel and tone. Beginners typically do not need to worry about this feature, but intermediate and advanced players might appreciate the ability to fine-tune their instrument with different neck options.
WeightThe weight of the saxophone can impact comfort and playability, especially during long practice sessions or performances. Lighter saxophones are generally easier to handle and are a good choice for younger or smaller players. Heavier saxophones might offer a richer sound but can be more challenging to manage. Consider your physical comfort and endurance when choosing the weight of your saxophone.
Brand ReputationThe reputation of the brand can be an indicator of the quality and reliability of the saxophone. Established brands with a history of producing high-quality instruments are often a safer choice, especially for beginners who may not have the experience to evaluate the instrument's build and sound. Researching reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced players or instructors can help you choose a reputable brand.
AccessoriesAccessories such as a case, neck strap, reeds, and cleaning supplies are essential for maintaining and playing the saxophone. Some saxophones come with these accessories included, which can be convenient for beginners. Intermediate and advanced players might prefer to select their own accessories to match their specific needs and preferences. Ensure that you have all the necessary accessories to keep your saxophone in good condition and to enhance your playing experience.

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