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Yamaha YAS-280 Alto Saxophone
- Complete with Case
- Made by Yamaha - World Leaders in Guitars and Keyboards
- Yamaha Alto Sax, YAS-280
The YAMAHA YAS-280 is the editor’s pick for the finest beginner saxophone because of its high-quality design, which makes learning the instrument a breeze for beginners. The YAMAHA YAS-280 alto sax is known to be good enough for professionals and presents a superb value purchase, despite its high pricing thanks to Yamaha’s world-leading product design.
Yamaha is a massive international firm that produces motorcycles, audio equipment, and athletic products, in addition to the famed Yamaha range of musical instruments. When it comes to student alto saxophone models, Yamaha Alto Saxophone 280 to give it its full name) is considered a gold standard. It’s at the top in its class in terms of build quality and longevity.
What makes the YAMAHA YAS-280 so simple to play is its high-quality construction. The adjustable thumb rest and polyester key buttons, for example, make it easier to find what you’re looking for. The instrument’s gold lacquer finish gives it a classic alto sax look, which will appeal to those looking for an authentic-looking saxophone. The two-piece bell and 280 style neck are two qualities that provide the YAMAHA YAS-280 a professional edge.
When it comes to repair and maintenance, the detachable bell makes life considerably easier because it allows easier access to the more difficult to clean places inside the bell. The realistic feel is enhanced by the 280 style neck. This neck style is necessary for any novice who wants to imitate some of the most well-known jazz artists. The generous warranty agreement is another outstanding feature. In comparison to other alto saxophones on the market, this one comes with a 5-year limited guarantee. Make sure you read the fine print to understand what is covered by the guarantee.
Selmer SAS280 La Voix ll Alto Saxophone
- SAS280R incorporates the right features to deliver a rich French sound piquing the interest of musicians of all kinds
- Designed to withstand the demand of musicians in a lighter weight body, this alto saxophone was created for expression
- The acoustic response of the Selmer LaVoix ll offers fluidity throughout all registers, combined with a specially designed neck with slight...
Look no farther than the Selmer SAS280 La Voix II alto saxophone if you’re seeking for a super cool, stylish alto saxophone that will catch attention. The black nickel plating on this intermediate saxophone gives it a considerably edgier look than standard brass or silver-plated saxophones.
This Selmer saxophone also has a conventional bell size and fluent keywork with superb intonation. With the SAS280 La Voix II, you’ll get a concentrated tone with a well-balanced sound. This excellent alto saxophone is ideal for the student who wants to progress to a more professional sounding instrument or the semi-pro player who wants the quality of a professional instrument without the price tag.
It’s well-made, with high-quality and sensitive key motions that provide precise intonation. The bell is the standard size and contributes to a warm, rich sound. It generates a constantly balanced tone, but it requires some control while shifting registers. This could make it unsuitable for a first-year student. It’s made with an F# key that’s quite high. Its construction is quite light, weighing only 6 pounds.
It may not be of the same calibre as the Selmer Super 80, but it performs admirably and has numerous advantages. It is manufactured in Taiwan and shipped to the United States for final inspection. It also includes a mouthpiece, mouthpiece cap, and ligature, as well as an imitation leather bag style case. There’s no neck strap or maintenance equipment, so it’s a little short on accessories.
Although it is a well-made sax, the price for a student sax will make some students run a mile. If you can afford it, though, you’ll be getting one of the best Selmer Saxophones on the market.
Mendini by Cecilio MAS-L
- All Levels Welcome: You don't have to be a pro to jam on this sax for adults that also works great as a kids musical instrument. For beginners and...
- Sleek Design: The lacquered body and high F# key will ensure that these brass instruments will have you looking great and sounding better
- Craftsmanship: These saxophones come with a large bore, ribbed construction, quality leather pads and metal tone boosters. The contoured keys with...
If you’re just getting started and have a limited budget, the Mendini by Cecilio is an excellent choice. At a fraction of the cost, it features everything a good alto saxophone for beginners should have. It is sold as a kit, which includes all of the necessary equipment for playing the sax.
Cecilio is a well-known instrument manufacturer that makes a wide range of beginner instruments. These instruments are known by the Mendini brand name. Although the company is established in the United States, the most, if not all, of the Mendini products are made in China. They are subsequently transported to the United States, where they are inspected before being distributed.
With an easy-to-grip shape, this incredibly economical device is developed with an emphasis on comfort. It has a ribbed design and tone boosters made of stainless steel. The low B flat spatula keys feature a tilted shape to make them easier to play.
The Cecilio Mendini comes in a variety of quirky colours that can appeal to younger students, such as purple, red, and green, as well as a more traditional gold finish. It comes with a chromatic tuner and an accessory box, which is a lovely touch for a full novice saxophonist. It comes with 10 2.5″ reeds and is packaged in a box. In addition to the protective case, a cleaning cloth, a set of cleaning gloves, a neck strap, and a mouthpiece are provided.
This saxophone is a fantastic, budget-friendly instrument to start making lovely music with if you’re just starting out as a saxophonist. It’s crucial to keep in mind that the user will outgrow it. That’s why the price is so low: you can still save up for that amazing saxophone you’ll use to enchant the crowd at that underground jazz bar.
Eldon ETS420LN Tenor Saxophone
- Fully ribbed construction, lacquered Yellow brass body and adjustable nickel silver right hand thumb hook
- Nickel/silver power forged keys provide greater durability and integrity. High F3 key provides alternative fingerings - a professional feature
- Beautifully engraved detachable bell improves serviceability. Durable dual protected collegiate case with shoulder and Backpack straps for ease of...
The Eldon ETS420LN is one of the best beginner tenor saxophones. This tenor saxophone has a fully ribbed structure and is made of brass with a yellow lacquer finish for a classic authentic look. The instrument is also not overly hefty for younger performers, weighing only 4 pounds. T
The inclusion of tunable nickel silver components is one of the best design characteristics of the Eldon ETS420LN. These pieces, from the right-hand thumb hook to the forged keys, are extremely sturdy and can resist strong pressure for an extended amount of time. Professional players will appreciate the high F3 key, which allows for different fingerings.
The Eldon ETS420LN’s removable bell has a beautiful engraving that provides it an advantage over lesser tenor saxophones. Because the bell is detachable, it may be serviced without having to transport the entire instrument. Eldon’s ETS420LN comes with a small carry case with shoulder and backpack straps. This makes the Eldon ETS420LN extremely portable, especially on public transportation, which is ideal for beginners who must travel to practise sessions or concerts.
The Eldon ETS420LN comes with a mouthpiece and ligature set, a neck strap, cork grease, and a polishing cloth in addition to the case. It includes everything you’ll need to keep the instrument in good working order. Despite its high price, the Eldon ETS420LN is an excellent choice for beginning tenor sax players.
Jean Paul USA AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone
- Silver Plated
- Rico H Ligature & Cap
- Bari Mouthpiece
The Jean Paul AS-400SP is a stunning silver-plated alto sax that is ideal for novice and intermediate musicians who want to make a statement. It is priced in the middle of the beginner saxes’ price range. The AS-400 student alto saxophone from Jean Paul USA Student alto saxophones are a fantastic option for students who have a little more money to spend than the Medini by Cecilio alto saxophone. For people who are still learning to play the alto saxophone, this is a wonderful instrument. 1 Rico reed, carrying case, cork grease, gloves, cleaning cloth, swabs, and sax mouthpiece are included in the kit. The lacquer finish on the lovely yellow brass body gives it a gleaming sheen that will undoubtedly stand out in performances.
The silver-plating helps generate a warm resonant tone, the keywork is fluid (meaning less resistance for a beginning player), and the intonation is well-rounded, as you’d expect from an entry-level cheap option. All of this can assist a new player in making faster progress. When you consider that the Jean Paul AS-400 is made by a famous international saxophone manufacturer that has a generous parts and labour warranty, it could be a sensible investment for the serious beginner.
Conn-Selmer Prelude Student Model AS711 Alto Saxophone
- Brand: Prelude
- Product Code: AS711
- Affordable option for beginning band students
Conn-AS711 Selmer’s is a Prelude student model and the ideal alto saxophone for beginners. The body is finished in a yellow brass with a clear lacquer finish and is specifically designed for students to develop proper and comfortable hand posture and key fingering methods.
Conn-Selmer is a name that can be trusted to make high-quality alto saxophones for beginners and students. Some customers have complained about air leaks, delayed shipping from China, and tone difficulties, but for a student instrument, the price and quality are unbeatable.
It has a yellow brass body with ribbed structure that is well-made. The body and keys have been given a black lacquer finish. The bell has a wonderful etched design. The keys are well-designed for playing comfort. For a student, this is critical. Nice technique will be aided by having a good and comfortable hand position. It’s important on all instruments, but especially on those that need blowing.
There are a few nice features included into the game. It has a high F#, a C# adjustable screw, and a left-hand key rocker system. Because the pads are made of leather, they will provide a good seal and will last a long time. Metal resonators are used. The thumb rest on the right hand is adjustable, as is customary.
This entry-level alto saxophone, which blends value and performance, is an affordable option for students. The AS711 is also a lightweight device, weighing only 3 pounds. A moulded mouthpiece with ligature and cap, as well as a neck strap, are provided. Two half-inch reeds are also included, all of which are housed in a hardshell case.
It’s a simple instrument to learn and play, with a pleasant tone. It’s also a fantastic value for money. It’s safe to say that this is the greatest alto saxophone for beginners.
Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK
- Includes molded case, complete mouthpiece and ligature set, polishing cloth, cleaning rod, gloves, lubricant for mouthpiece.
- Built using quality solid yellow brass which enhances tonality comparing to any other types of materials. Advanced sensitive response, premium steel...
- Professional leatherette pads offer maximum intonation control and comfort; Kaizer 1000 Series Soprano Saxophone in the key of B flat (Bb) is designed...
Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK is one of the best soprano saxophones for students. A moulded case, entire ligature and mouthpiece set, as well as a complete set of cleaning and maintenance materials are included with the instrument. With its straight shape and black lacquer finish, the Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK may look more like a clarinet to those unfamiliar with soprano saxophones. However, the instrument produces high-register notes tonally.
Thousands of dollars on a sax is simply unattainable for a beginner. These low-cost saxophones are ideal for exploring the world Adolphe Sax created and appreciating the sound’s beauty.
The Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK is built mostly of yellow brass, which gives it a richer tone than other saxophone composite materials. The addition of highly sensitive response and superior steel springs provides exceptionally quick springs from the keys, making transitioning between notes even easier for beginners.
The Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK comes with a 45-day free trial, which is one of the nicest features. This gives you 45 days to play and test the instrument, and if you don’t like it, you can return it for free. This is excellent consumer protection, and it appeals to a wide range of people. A hassle-free lifetime warranty is also included. If the Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK has any manufacturing faults, Kaizer will provide replacement parts free of charge.
For those interested in learning the soprano saxophone, the Kaizer SSAX-1000BKGK is an excellent alternative. It’s ideal for beginners who want to join an orchestra or a school band. It’s a terrific deal because of the low price and high-quality design.
Jupiter Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone JAS1100SG
When you’re ready to advance from student to intermediate alto saxophonist, you’ll need an instrument that can deliver the wonderful jazz tones you’re seeking for.
This instrument is most likely not intended for complete beginners. It is better suited to players who have learned the fundamentals and desire to advance to a higher instrument grade. It might also be used as a practise instrument by a more advanced player.
The Jupiter JAS1100SG intermediate alto saxophone features a silver-plated Sona-Pure neck with artisan tooling and annealing for a dark, vintage tone. The silver-plated brass body is extremely playable, featuring curved left-hand table keys and a tilting Bb rocker arm for extra comfort and agility.
The left-hand keys are curved to help with finger control and stability. A slanted B flat rocker arm is present. The gold lacquer finish on all of the keys contrasts with the silver-plated body’s colour. A high F#, a tilting G#, and a front F are among the instrument’s other unique features. Blued steel is used for the springs. The bell is etched to add to the style.
Jupiter has been manufacturing musical instruments since the 1930s and is one of the world’s largest distributors of school instruments. Jupiter belongs to the KHS group. They have been delivering brass and woodwind instruments to schools and student organizations since 1979. They specialise in sturdy, dependable, and simple-to-learn woodwind and brass instruments. Jupiter’s intermediate Eb alto saxophone is ideal for advanced students and semi-pro adult musicians.
Levante LV-BS4105 Eb Baritone Saxophone with Soft Case
- Levante Series Saxophone
- High F# key & A key
- Gold Lacquered body and keys
The Levante LV-BS4105 is the greatest starter baritone saxophone for individuals who desire to create a band or symphony with booming low saxophone tones. The Levante LV-BS4105 is a high-end saxophone with a brass body, bell, and neck that requires a large investment. The investment yields the greatest baritone sound possible. Every component of the instrument has been meticulously developed.
The Levante LV-BS4105 features excellent musical engineering from the adjustable thumb rest to the etched body. When it comes to sound quality, the Levante LV-BS4105 will set your mind at ease because each instrument has been sound workshop tested. The wonderful rich deep tones of this instrument are ready to be shown from the moment of purchase. The keys of the Levante LV-BS4105 range from high F# to A key, as it is a baritone. When you buy the Levante LV-BS4105, you’ll get a whole mouthpiece and ligature set, as well as a cleaning kit with swabs, gloves, resin, and oil.
The Levante LV-BS4105 is convenient because it eliminates the need to purchase additional maintenance equipment. The Levante LV-BS4105 also comes with an adjustable playing stand and a flight case with wheels. The wheeled case is a huge plus, as few starter saxophones come with one. Purchasing the Levante LV-BS4105 is a long-term investment in quality. This instrument offers high levels of performance in terms of look, feel, and sound quality, making it one of the most popular baritone saxophones for beginners.
Etude EAS-100 Student Alto Saxophone Lacquer
- Excellent tone production
- Easy to play
- Mechanically reliable
The Etude EAS-100 is a very affordable instrument that will be highly accepted by any student. It’s well-made of solid metals and feels and appears to be authentic. The body and kets are lacquered for a nice look. A mouthpiece, ligature, and cleaning cloth are included. A beautiful protective case is also included. The mouthpiece is quite basic, and after the pupil has grasped the fundamentals, an upgrade will almost certainly be required.
It’s designed to be simple to play and only weighs 10 pounds. The reeds are included, as well as a neck strap. They are, however, rather basic, just like the mouthpiece. New ones will almost certainly be required soon after purchase. The note sustain is adequate, and the large bore size makes it simple to get a good sound at the beginning. Even the lowest octaves are affected. It’s important to note that this is a budget-friendly instrument with a reasonable price tag. If you’re seeking for Yamaha-like quality and performance, you’ll have to search elsewhere. Not at this price, at any rate.
Prelude AS711 Gold Lacquer Alto Saxophone
- Brand: Prelude
- Product Code: AS711
- Affordable option for beginning band students
Selmer’s Prelude saxophone line is essentially their entry-level model. China is where they’re made. The majority of large manufacturers who have been creating and manufacturing instruments for a long time offer a budget range.
This has always been a good notion, and it usually results in good instruments being available at reasonable prices. They’re a notch or two below the top of the line in terms of quality. They can, however, make use of the same production procedures and know-how as the more expensive variants. The Prelude series is an excellent example of a student-friendly instrument.
It has a yellow brass body with ribbed structure that is well-made. The body and keys have been given a black lacquer finish. The bell has a wonderful etched design. The keys are well-designed for playing comfort. For a student, this is critical. Nice technique will be aided by having a good and comfortable hand position. It’s important on all instruments, but especially on those that need blowing.
There are a few nice features included into the game. It has a high F#, a C# adjustable screw, and a left-hand key rocker system. Because the pads are made of leather, they will provide a good seal and will last a long time. Metal resonators are used. The thumb rest on the right hand is adjustable, as is customary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is the Alto Saxophone the Best Type of Saxophone for Beginners?
The alto saxophone is the most common saxophone, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Alto saxophones come in a variety of brands and types, making it simple to pick the right one for you. Furthermore, most middle and high school students are expected to begin on the alto saxophone.
How Much Should You Spend on an Alto Saxophone?
The quantity you should spend is largely determined by your budget. A good starting saxophone will cost between $300 and $700, but intermediate and professional saxophones can easily cost over $2,000. A $1,000 budget is a decent upper limit for students purchasing their first alto saxophone.
It’s worth noting that lower-cost saxophones are typically made of lower-quality materials that decay more quickly and don’t sound as good. If you buy a saxophone for less a hundred dollars, expect it to survive only a few years.