How to Choose the Best Saxophone for Beginners
Katherine Dvoskin, Co-Founder of K&M Music School
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Author: Katherine Dvoskin | Co-Founder of K&M Music School
Published December 18th, 2024
Learn how to pick the best saxophone for new players. Covers budget, popular models, trusted brands, materials, and playtesting tips.
Learning to play the saxophone is exciting. Its smooth sound is important in many music styles, from jazz to rock. Choosing the right saxophone is key to learning, enjoying, and improving. Think about your budget, type of sax, trusted brands, and materials, and try out a few options. This will help you pick the best sax to start your musical journey.
| Brand | Key Features | Price Range | Model | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha | Reliable, top beginner choice | $999 - $1,200 | YAS-280, YAS-275 | Known for high-quality instruments |
| Jean-Paul | Affordable, well-made | $599 - $799 | JP-051, JP-071 | Popular student brand |
| Selmer | High-quality, excellent tone | $859 - $900 | Prelude, Bundy II | Renowned for professional saxophones |
| Conn-Selmer | Durable, good for students | $799 - $800 | Bundy, Prelude | Parent company of Selmer |
Determine Your Saxophone Budget
Saxophones can cost from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000 for pro models. As a beginner, you don’t need an expensive one. Student saxophones usually cost $500 to $1,000+. They are good quality, easy to play, and last through lessons and school bands.
You’ll also need to account for extra expenses like:
- Reeds: Sax reeds cost $25+ per box of 10 and need regular replacing
- Maintenance: Yearly servicing costs around $80+ depending on repairs
- Accessories: Essentials like cork grease, swabs, and straps add $50-100+
Considering these additional costs, set a realistic budget before shopping. An all-in estimate would be:
- Saxophone: $500 to $1,000
- Accessories: $50 to $100
- Year 1 supplies/maintenance: $150+
Cheaper saxophones are available but may not last or stay in tune. Spending more at first ensures a sax that works well for years of practice and performance.
Extra Costs to Factor In
Besides the saxophone, you’ll need a few other things. Here are the main items and costs to consider:
Reeds
Saxophone reeds make a sound by vibrating on the mouthpiece. These thin reeds wear out over time. Players need new reeds every few weeks or months, depending on how much they play. Some options include:
- Box of 10 reeds: $25 to $40
- 3-pack sample: $10 to $15
- Synthetic reeds (more durable): $20 to $30
Over a year, a student may easily spend $150+ keeping stocked on reeds.
Neck Strap
Saxophones hang from a strap around the neck while playing. Quality straps feature:
- Comfortable padding
- Adjustable length
- Secure hardware
Prices range from $15 to $50+ for premium materials like leather.
Maintenance
Yearly maintenance, like pad replacements and cleaning, keeps your sax in good shape. Costs depend on what needs repair, but we plan to spend about $80+ each year.
Accessories
Essential accessories include:
- Cork grease: $5 to $10
- Cleaning swab: $15 to $20
- Mouthpiece patch: $5
- Reed guard: $10
Music Stand
Home practice requires a sturdy wire or metal stand to hold sheet music. Simple folding models start around $25. Heavy-duty stands cost up to $75+.
Metronome/Tuner
Staying on tempo and in tune is critical. Digital metronome/tuner combos provide both functions for $25+. Dedicated tuners with enhanced microphone accuracy run $30 to $120.
Between supplies, maintenance, and other gear, tack on at least $150 to $200 per year to your playing budget.
Choose Between Alto Sax vs. Tenor Sax
The saxophone family has many sizes, from small to large. For beginners, the most common are the alto and tenor sax.
Alto Saxophone
The alto sax is the quintessential beginner instrument for a few key reasons:
- Smaller and lighter body more comfortable for younger students
- Easier to control air and tone production
- Fits smaller hands well; the keys are closer together
- The most common band instrument after clarinet and trumpet
The curved neck and smaller mouthpiece also make the alto more ergonomic for new players. While the alto can play complex pieces, its nuanced tone lends itself well to jazz and wind ensembles.
Alto Saxophone Pros:
- Light and compact size
- Easy for young students to hold
- Simple fingerings across a range
- Bright, versatile tone
- Most popular sax for beginners
Alto Saxophone Cons:
- Smaller keys crammed together
- Limited volume and projection
- The less resonant lower register
- Reeds can be finicky
Tenor Saxophone
While less common as a first sax, the tenor offers some advantages:
- Larger body and mouthpiece allow bigger sound
- Easier to control pitch and overtones
- Keys are slightly more spread out
- Popular in jazz and rock/pop music
The tenor sax needs more air and finger stretch, so altos are better for small kids. However, adult learners may like the tenor’s rich, full tone.
Tenor Saxophone Pros:
- Bigger sound with more projection
- Spacious key layout
- Deep, warm tone
- Easier to control intonation
- Iconic in jazz and pop music
Tenor Saxophone Cons:
- Large and heavy for children
- More air is required to play
- Extra finger stretch on keys
- Costs more than alto models
Ultimately, both make excellent beginner saxophones. Try both in person and see which feels and sounds best for your needs.
Rare and Unusual Saxophone Types
Alto and tenor saxophones are the most common for beginners. However, there are also other, less common saxophones.
Soprano Sax
The soprano sax has a straight neck and is small in size. Its high pitch and tight embouchure take time to master. The soprano is great for fast passages and cutting through groups with a sharp, nasally sound.
Sopranino/Soprillo Sax
The tiny sopranino sax reaches sky-high Eb pitches. Its shrill tone is a novelty for experienced players. The similar soprillo dips to F#.
Baritone/Bass Sax
At the opposite end, baritones and bass saxes rumble in the lowest registers. The large, curved horns require extreme air support best left to pros.
Contrabass Sax
The giant of the family, these behemoths stand over 8 feet tall! Only a handful of virtuosos attempt the contrabass.
For most beginners, an alto or tenor sax is the best choice. They are easy to play, versatile, and affordable. Later, if you want to try something different, used sopranos or bari saxes are good options.
Select a Trusted Saxophone Brand & Model
There are many saxophone models from different makers. While most are good, some brands are better for beginners. When choosing your first sax, go with these trusted manufacturers.
Trusted Student Saxophone Brands
Yamaha
Yamaha is known for making high-quality musical instruments, like guitars and pianos. They also offer reliable student saxophones.
- YAS-280: Top beginner model, around $1,200
- YAS-275: Step down, $999
Jean-Paul
Popular student brand Jean Paul offers affordable but well-made beginner saxophones like:
- JP051: $599, solid construction
- JP071: $799, improved pads/keys
Selmer
Selmer Paris is known for making top saxophones, like the Mark VI, used by jazz legends. Their student saxophones are also made of high quality.
- Selmer Prelude: $859, excellent tone
- Bundy II: $799, made by Selmer
Conn-Selmer
Parent company Conn-Selmer also produces the Bundy and Prelude student models.
This list includes trusted brands that make good, durable saxophones. They are perfect for new players and fit a $500 to $1,000 budget.
Intermediate Saxophones
After a year or two of lessons, students may want to upgrade to an intermediate sax. This model has features that help improve skills.
- Better keywork and intonation
- Increased projection and tonal clarity
- Higher-quality materials and craftsmanship
- More complex keywork (extra palm keys, adjustable thumb hook)
Intermediate models from leading makers include:
- Yamaha YAS-480: $1,600+
- Selmer AS500: $2,500+
These horns will carry advancing students through high school and college. Serious players may eventually upgrade again to professional instruments costing $3,000+.
Saxophone Materials Impact Sound & Feel
Saxophones are made of metal pipes, rods, and keys that need to last. Most student models use brass for the body and metals like nickel or silver for the keys. This mix keeps the cost low, sounds good, and is durable.
Saxophone Body Materials
Brass forms the basic shell for most sax bodies and bells. Offering decent density and tone vibration, brass is affordable and durable. Models may feature yellow, gold, or lacquered brass.
Bronze produces a complex, nuanced tonality perfect for classical and jazz. But costs more than brass.
Stainless steel is very durable, making it good for marching bands. However, it creates a bright, sterile tone.
Plastic ultra-affordable models exist for young beginners. While nearly indestructible, they sound quite poor.
For beginners, brass strikes the best balance of cost, sound quality, and durability. More advanced players may opt for bronze.
Keywork Materials
For keywork, most manufacturers opt for nickel-plated metals. Nickel offers a smooth feel and is rust-resistant. However, it can wear over time with extensive playing.
More expensive models feature keywork made from:
- Sterling silver: Complex tone, wears slowly
- Bronze: Strong, clear tone. Ages well from use.
- Blue steel: Extremely durable. Heavyweight.
Silver looks beautiful but needs extra care. It can get dents and scratches easily.
Lacquer vs. Unlacquered Saxes
Many saxophones feature a clear lacquer finishing the body. Lacquer protects against corrosion and adds beauty with a lustrous look. However, it can chip over years of use, requiring more repairs.
Unlacquered saxophones have a raw brass look. They can get dents and rust, but they produce a warm, clear sound. They are also easier to care for since the finish won’t chip.
Lacquered Saxophones
Most student saxophones feature a clear, plastic lacquer layer. Benefits include:
- Resists corrosion and tarnishing
- Attractive gloss finish when new
- Provides some protection from dings/dents
However, lacquer breaks down over time:
- Can crack, bubble, and peel
- Loses luster as finish degrades
- Requires stripping/lacquering
Music Lessons in San Diego with K&M Music School
Expert Music Lessons
We offer Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons for students of all ages and skill levels.
Why Choose Us?
- 🎶 Boosts focus and self-discipline
- 🎵 Strengthens cognitive skills
- 🎼 Enhances cultural understanding
- 🎤 Builds confidence through recitals and performances
We Welcome Adults Too!
Book Your Free Lesson NowUnlacquered Saxophones
“Bare brass” saxes showcase the natural golden hue of brass metal. Pros and cons:
- The warmer, more resonant sound
- Ages beautifully from use
- No finish issues down the road
- More prone to corrosion if uncleaned
- Dents and scratches show clearly
Ask about recent maintenance. Also, check the pad seal and key action while testing the sax.
Try Saxophones Before Buying
After setting your budget and picking a few models, you still need to try the saxes. Things like comfort, key action, and tone can be different between models. Here are some tips:
- Ask your band director to borrow school-owned instruments
- Attend local music shop trial events
- Rent an instrument for a month before committing
When play-testing saxes, evaluate:
- Key action: No sticking, fast springback
- Comfort: Good hand, arm, neck alignment
- Intonation: In-tune across the full range
- Tone quality: Strong projection, warmth
- Craftsmanship: Quality materials, precision keyword
Test saxophones in your price range from brands like Yamaha and Selmer. If possible, bring your teacher to help check playability and sound.
Take your time choosing a sax. A good instrument will make you want to practice and last a long time.
Questions to Ask Before Buying
To find the best sax for your needs and budget, prepare questions about key details.
| Question | Details |
|---|---|
| What is the brand and model? | Stick to reputable makers like Yamaha, Selmer, Jean-Paul, and Conn-Selmer for beginner instruments. Jot down the specific model too. |
| What is the body material? | Most student models use brass. More expensive pro versions may use bronze or other alloys. |
| What metals are used for keys/pads? | Nickel and stainless steel are common. Sterling silver sometimes appears in high-end models. |
| Is the instrument lacquered or unlacquered? | Most student saxes feature a clear lacquer finish. Advanced models often have bare brass bodies. |
| What is the level of the saxophone? | Ensure it is marketed as a student, intermediate, or step-up model suitable for new players. |
| Does it come with a case, mouthpiece, or accessories? | Many new saxes include a molded case, a basic mouthpiece, and supplies like cork grease. |
| When was it last serviced? Do pads/keys work well? | Ask about recent maintenance. Also, check the pad seal and key action while testing the sax. |
| What is the return policy if not satisfied? | In case the instrument doesn't meet expectations after purchase. |
Answering these questions first helps you understand features and options. This way, you can make an informed choice when picking your first sax.
Caring for Your Saxophone
Once you pick your ideal sax, you need to take care of it. Regular maintenance keeps it playing well.
Daily Playing: Swab inside the horn after playing to absorb moisture. Run the cleaning cloth through the body several times.
Clean your sax weekly with a cleaning rod and soft cloth. This polishes the inside from the mouthpiece to the bell, keeping it clean.
Monthly Oiling: Put a few small drops of key oil on joints. Oil the cork too.
Yearly Servicing: Professional tune-up with pad replacement, key fitting, and deep cleaning.
Prevent Dents/Dings: Always store in a case and use a neck strap to avoid drops. Never place on stands without support.
Control Oxidation: Wipe the exterior regularly with a microfiber cloth. Remove grime before it builds up. If lacquered, watch for finish cracks.
Replace Pads: Have a repair tech install new pads when air leaks through old ones. Catch this early before damage spreads!
If keys don’t seal well, a technician can adjust the key height. This helps the pads close tightly for better sound.
Use a hard sax case, not a soft gig bag. This will protect your sax from being crushed when not in use.
Taking care of your sax keeps it playing like new. This lets you enjoy music for many years.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beginner saxophone sets the stage for a rewarding musical journey. By focusing on trusted brands, proper materials, and your unique preferences, you’ll find an instrument that inspires practice and progress. Whether you choose an alto or tenor, the right saxophone will grow with you as you develop your skills.
Call to Action
Start your saxophone journey today! Visit a music store, test out trusted brands, and find the perfect instrument for your needs. Don’t forget to factor in accessories and maintenance for long-term enjoyment. Invest in the right saxophone and watch your musical potential soar!
Music Lessons in San Diego with K&M Music School
Expert Music Lessons
We offer Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons for students of all ages and skill levels.
Why Choose Us?
- 🎶 Boosts focus and self-discipline
- 🎵 Strengthens cognitive skills
- 🎼 Enhances cultural understanding
- 🎤 Builds confidence through recitals and performances
We Welcome Adults Too!
Book Your Free Lesson NowFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand for a beginner saxophone?
Yamaha, Selmer, and Jean-Paul offer quality student models between $500-$1,000. Key options are the Yamaha YAS-280, Selmer Prelude, and JP-051.
Should I get an alto or tenor sax?
The smaller alto sax is better for young beginners. Adult learners may prefer the larger tenor for its fuller tone. Test both to decide.
What accessories do I need?
Essentials like reeds, a neck strap, cork grease, a cleaning swab, and a stand. Budget $150+ per year for supplies.
How often will a student saxophone need servicing?
Plan on a yearly tune-up plus occasional pad replacements. Budget around $100 annually for maintenance costs.
What should I look for when trying different saxes?
Check how smoothly the keys work and if the sax feels comfortable to play. Also, listen for good intonation and tone quality across the range.
How can I make my saxophone last longer?
Clean it after each use, oil the keys monthly, and store it in a rigid case. Annual servicing also extends its playability.
When should I upgrade from a starter sax?
After 1-2 years of lessons, students can upgrade to an intermediate model. This gives a better response and more sound projection.
Katherine Dvoskin, Co-Founder of K&M Music School
She is co-founder of K&M Music School in San Diego, and is a passionate music educator with over 25 years of experience. She offers expert piano lessons in San Diego. At K&M Music School, we teach Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons. Katherine's blog shares insights on music education, covering topics from toddler music group lessons to adult music lessons. Whether you're seeking private music lessons or group music lessons for toddlers near you, welcome to K&M Music School.
