Best
Overall Sax for Beginners
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Overall: Easier Response From Lower Notes With The Improved, Stronger B-C# Mechanism
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Best Feature: Beautiful Look And Rich Tone With A Gold Lacquer Finish
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Saxophone
for Kids
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Overall: Waterproof Design For Easy Maintenance
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Best Feature: The New Mouthpiece Can Use Standard Saxophone Or Clarinet Reeds
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TedScore™: 6.5/10
Best
High-End Sax for Beginners
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Overall: Underslung Octave Key Offers A Faster Response
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Best Feature: Luxurious Metals Offer A Direct And Pure Sound
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TedScore™: 7.5/10
Hearing the sweet sounds of a saxophone is like a dream come true. Fancy taking up the challenge to play one? Make sure you’ve got the **right sax** fit for you.
The Alto saxophone is by far the best choice of saxophone for a beginner and the one musicians and music teachers typically recommend for a great learning experience!
In this guide, I’ll tackle the best alto saxophone for beginner on the market individually to help you figure out the best value for you!
And right at the end, I’ll let you know which sax I recommend to my students.
What is an Alto Sax
The alto saxophone is an E-flat instrument that falls into the family of woodwinds. You’ll find it with a curved body shape and many variants, and it’s the second-highest member of the saxophone family pitched in F or E-flat.
Patented in 1846, the alto sax is the most common type of saxophone on the market and can be heard in school bands, marching bands, orchestras and much more.
An alto sax’s warm yet reedy timbre blends well with other instruments like Bb clarinet and horn. Plus, its pitch range is higher than a tenor saxophone’s but not quite as high as the soprano.
A Short Guide on the Other Types of Saxophone
Soprano Sax
The soprano saxophone is a reedy, higher-register woodwind instrument made of brass. It has a softer sound than other saxophones but is similar regarding key configuration.
Tenor Sax
The tenor sax is a medium-sized member of the saxophone family. It’s a woodwind instrument made of metal and has a range of at least two and a half octaves from Bb to G.
Baritone Sax
The baritone sax is the lowest-sounding member of the saxophone family. It has a deep, voluptuous register that can’t be achieved with any other instrument. Its construction consists of two sections: the neck and the body, with a single-reed mouthpiece attached to it.
Bass Sax
The bass saxophone is larger and lower than the more common baritone saxophone. It’s popular for providing big jazz bands with low-end sound and for providing dramatic background music in film scores. While playing, it’s usually supported on a stand.
Should a Beginner Sax Player Choose an Alto Saxophone?
The alto sax is an excellent instrument to start learning to play. It’s pitched in E♭, which is slightly lower than a tenor saxophone but higher than a soprano. This makes it the perfect middle ground for learning.
Benefits of Playing an
Alto Saxophone
Playing an alto saxophone can help you become a more well-rounded musician. It can help improve your coordination and dexterity and strengthen your lung capacity.
It’s also an incredibly versatile instrument that can be used to play solo or with a larger ensemble. Furthermore, learning to play the alto sax can make it easier to learn other woodwind instruments. Not only that, but it’s also a beautiful instrument with its own unique charisma.
The alto sax also has the ability to boost your cognitive skills and give you the opportunity to express your creativity in new ways.
How to Choose the Best Alto Saxophones For Beginners
Choosing your first beginner alto saxophone doesn’t need to be a daunting experience. As a general rule, if you are an absolute saxophone student player, then either the Alto or the Tenor is the best choice.
Here’s a quick guide to help you out with your best beginner saxophone, so you’ll be ready to play in no time!
Top 11 Best
Saxophones for Beginners
Yamaha YAS-280
The Yamaha YAS-280 is an excellent choice for beginners. It has an adjustable thumb rest with smooth action, allowing you to play easily. The price is also very reasonable, making it an affordable option if you’re just starting out.
Plus, the quality craftsmanship ensures that this nice-sounding instrument will last for many years of practice and performance.
PERFECT FOR: Student saxophone players
FEATURES: Beautiful look and rich tone with a gold lacquer finish
OTHER INFO: Easier response from lower notes with the improved, stronger B-C# mechanism
Yamaha YAS280 Student Alto Saxophone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Register for a 5-year extended warranty and 3-month Tomplay Premium
- Includes case & high-quality 4C mouthpiece
- Yamaha quality creates the best student saxophone
- You might want to upgrade as you advance your playing skills
JAS-500
The JAS-500 is highly recommended by teachers and is one of the most trusted and reliable manufacturers of wind instruments. It has a lighter body, making it easier to handle. With its high-quality craftsmanship and durability, you can be confident that this alto saxophone will get you off to a great start.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner players
FEATURES: Produce a full tone with high-quality brass and attractive gold lacquer
OTHER INFO: Experience maximum precision with stainless steel springs
Jupiter JAS500 Alto Saxophone Outfit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes with a styled gig bag case
- Travel in comfort with the included case's backpack straps
- Quite expensive for a beginner sax
Gear4Music Alto Sax
Aside from offering a wide range of musical brands on its website, Gear4Music also produces its very own instruments and accessories. They offer an entry-level alto saxophone pitched at a good value, making it accessible to anyone who wants to try playing the saxophone.
PERFECT FOR: Student sax players
FEATURES: Produces smooth tone with an easy-blowing response
OTHER INFO: A small, lightweight body is comfortable to hold
Gear4Music Alto Sax
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Adjustable thumb rest and fully ribbed body
- Includes mouthpiece, hard case, reed and strap
- Sleek and smart design with pearl-effect key-tops
- You may want to upgrade to other reputable brands as you advance your skills
Trevor James Alphasax Alto Saxophone
The Trevor James Alphasax is designed for smaller hands, making it easier to play than other alto saxophones. It is built with quality materials and comes with a 5-year warranty, so you can be sure it will last.
Plus, Alphasax is much more affordable than its other Japanese counterparts, making it a great option for someone on a budget.
PERFECT FOR: ABRSM Grades 1-3
FEATURES: Lightweight and enables smaller players to start at a younger age
OTHER INFO: 33% lighter than the original TJ alto saxophone
Trevor James Alphasax Alto Saxophone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Keywork has been redesigned and some removed to aid learning
- Includes case, mouthpiece, reed & support strap
- Recommended by teachers
- Its yellow brass body may affect the instrument's tone
Nuvo jSax
The Nuvo jSAX is the perfect saxophone for younger players. It’s made of durable plastic and has a 100% waterproof construction. It has good sound quality and a reasonable price tag, making it an excellent choice for learning.
Plus, it’s lightweight, making it suitable for use in the classroom or on the go.
PERFECT FOR: Younger saxophone learners
FEATURES: The new mouthpiece can use standard saxophone or clarinet reeds
OTHER INFO: Waterproof design for easy maintenance
Nuvo jSax
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Uses traditional saxophone fingering
- Available in a range of bright colours
- Includes everything you need to get started
- Has a few different fingerings from the standard sax
- Reeds are made of plastic
Odyssey OAS700 Premiere Alto Saxophone
The Odyssey OAS700 Premiere Alto Saxophone is a professional-grade instrument designed to meet the expectations of teachers and experienced players in both sound and playability.
The accuracy and fluidity of this saxophone offer players a glorious purity of tone and the ability to create an ‘edge’ to their sound.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to pro saxophone players
FEATURES: Rose brass produces a luxuriously smooth tone
OTHER INFO: Dazzling finish thanks to the gold trim
Odyssey OAS700 Premiere Alto Saxophone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Will comfortably take you to a Grade 5 standard.
- Best for producing warm and rounded tones
- Includes all the accessories you need to get started
- None!
Elkhart 100 Series
The Elkhart 100 Series Alto Saxophone is a student-model saxophone manufactured by the Conn-Selmer Corporation. It’s a popular choice among music educators and budget-conscious students, offering robust construction and a good-quality finish.
It also comes with a free set-up in their store prior to dispatch.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner sax players
FEATURES: The redesigned brace keeps the weight down
OTHER INFO: Yellow brass produces a versatile tone
Elkhart 100 Series
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A robust and reliable alto saxophone
- Includes lightweight case and mouthpiece
- Also available in a number of bright and exciting colours
- Has a more restricted tone compared to other beginner saxes
Jean Paul USA AS-400SP
The Jean Paul USA AS-400SP is the perfect saxophone for beginning and intermediate music students. It’s highly rated by professional musicians and has earned a global following due to its quality construction and sound.
It’s also affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners students
FEATURES: Boasts a superior level of build quality, ergonomics and tone quality
OTHER INFO: Features a gold lacquer finish
Jean Paul USA AS-400SP
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Jean Paul is a reputable brand for beginner saxes
- Comes with all the accessories you need with the saxophone
- May come with a 2.5-strength reed which can be too strong for a beginner
Mendini by Cecilio
The Mendini by Cecilio alto saxophone is a great choice for beginner musicians looking to start quickly. It includes a large bore for a rich, deep tone. It also features leather pads, and engravings on the bell, and comes in multiple colours.
This is a great investment for any musician’s collection.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and advanced players
FEATURES: Has a lacquered body and high F# key for a great look and sound
OTHER INFO: Comes with a large bore, ribbed construction, quality leather pads and metal tone boosters
Mendini by Cecilio
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes a complete set to get you ready for playing
- Creates a good solid sound when played properly
- Some users noted that pads could come off easily
Buffet 100 Series
The Buffet 100 Series Alto Saxophone is specially designed for beginning band players, providing superior quality at an affordable price. It offers good intonation across the entire spectrum, making it an ideal choice for students and beginning players.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and students
FEATURES: Ribbed body for great airflow for good intonation and centred tone
OTHER INFO: Consistent intonation and free blowing
Buffet 100 Series Alto Saxophone Pack, Lacquer
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes as a pack, including case and accessories
- Gives students a flavour of professional saxophone sound
- You might want to upgrade as you advance your playing skills
Yanagisawa AWO37 Alto Saxophone
The Yanagisawa AWO37 offers improved sound quality due to its re-engineered bore and tone holes, as well as its solid silver construction, which vibrates better than traditional brass.
It also features an improved underslung octave key for easier access to higher notes and comes complete with a mouthpiece and case for added convenience.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and advanced students
FEATURES: Luxurious metals offer a direct and pure sound
OTHER INFO: Underslung octave key offers a faster response
Yanagisawa AWO37 Alto Saxophone, Solid Silver
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Double-arm bell keys prevent distortion
- Unparalleled Japanese build quality
- Includes a wood shell case and mouthpiece
- Very expensive for a student alto saxophone
Tips for Saxophone Playing
When playing the saxophone, ensure you use air correctly by taking deep breaths and using your diaphragm. This will ensure that you get the best sound possible out of your instrument.
Your saxophone sling is the key to a comfortable playing experience. Make sure that it’s adjusted correctly for your size and that it provides adequate support for your instrument.
Reeds are the soul of the saxophone and give it its distinctive tone. Experimenting with different reeds can help you find the perfect sound for your music.
Practising with a metronome ensures that you play on time, which is essential for your musicality and performance.
If you’re just starting out on the saxophone, consider getting some help from a professional instructor who can provide personalized guidance and help improve your technique.
Are Accessory Bundles Worth It?
Accessory bundles can be a great way to get the most bang for your buck! Not only will you get the basic items like a mouthpiece, reeds, and cleaning supplies, but you may also get extras like cases and even extra mouthpieces.
By getting all of these items together in one package, you can save money compared to buying them separately. Additionally, purchasing higher quality accessories in a bundle than you could have bought individually can help your instrument play and sound better.
The Must-Have Sax Accessories
Saxophone Mouthpiece
Saxophones are great instruments, but they require some essential accessories. With the right accessories, you’ll surely get the most out of your saxophone experience.
Without the right mouthpiece, your saxophone won’t sound as good as it could. It helps produce the sound from the instrument and vibrates when you blow air into it, creating a unique and unmistakable sound.
PERFECT FOR: Any alto saxophone players
FEATURES: Has a 1.80mm tip opening
OTHER INFO: Designed with a semi-rounded face
Alto Saxophone Metal No 7 Mouthpiece by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes complete with a screw ligature and metal cap
- Ideal for Jazz playing that offers an impressive bright tone
- A popular choice for professionals and advancing players
- A customer claims that it can be a little tight with a Yamaha saxophone
Sax Reeds
Reeds come in different sizes or strengths to suit your playing style. It’s a thin piece of cane that vibrates when it comes into contact with the mouthpiece, creating sound waves that pass through the neck and out of the instrument.
PERFECT FOR: BEGINNERS
FEATURES: Aids development of tone and technique
OTHER INFO: Long-lasting with no wearing required
Juno by Vandoren Alto Saxophone Reeds
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Designed with a special cut for an extra response, making it easier for students to learn faster
- Comes in individual humidity-balanced packs
- Vandoren reeds are meticulously tested to ensure the best playing experience
- None!
Sax Case
A saxophone case is designed to protect your instrument from wear and tear while also providing convenience for storage and travel. A hard ‘shaped’ case offers the highest level of protection for your horn, as well as convenience for storage and transportation.
Without the right mouthpiece, your saxophone won’t sound as good as it could. It helps produce the sound from the instrument and vibrates when you blow air into it, creating a unique and unmistakable sound.
PERFECT FOR: Travelling musicians
FEATURES: Made of hard-wearing quilted polyester outer
OTHER INFO: Comes with reinforced padded handles, adjustable padded straps, hard foam moulded plush interior and an integrated accessory pocket
Deluxe Alto Sax Hard Foam Case by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Perfect for carrying everything you need comfortably on your back
- Offers high protection against the inevitable bumps and knocks
- No claimed waterproof features
Neck Strap
The neck strap helps keep the instrument firmly in place while you play, so you can focus on playing easily and comfortably. It prevents the instrument from sliding off your shoulder and falling to the ground, which could cause damage or even breakage.
Without the right mouthpiece, your saxophone won’t sound as good as it could. It helps produce the sound from the instrument and vibrates when you blow air into it, creating a unique and unmistakable sound.
PERFECT FOR: Most saxophones
FEATURES: A durable strap made of high-quality materials
OTHER INFO: Includes a padded neck pad for maximum comfort
Deluxe Saxophone Strap by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Minimum length of 44cm and can extend up to 60cm
- Keeps your sax in the perfect position for any performance
- A budget-friendly brand without compromising quality
- None!
Cork Grease
Cork Grease is used to improve the moisture of the corks of your instrument so they last longer and don’t crack or break. It provides protection from moisture and provides ideal lubricating properties.
Without the right mouthpiece, your saxophone won’t sound as good as it could. It helps produce the sound from the instrument and vibrates when you blow air into it, creating a unique and unmistakable sound.
PERFECT FOR: All saxophone musicians
FEATURES: Made solely from organic ingredients
OTHER INFO: Perfectly cares for the cork on your instrument
D'Addario All-Natural Cork Grease
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Convenient 'lipstick' style applicator
- Works better than synthetic greases
- An organic and environmentally friendly product
- None!
Best Alto Saxophone for Beginners
Summary
Learning to play the alto saxophone is a great way to explore your creativity and express yourself musically, so finding one perfect for you is essential.
With so many quality student alto saxophones to choose from, I hope the article did a great job of helping you make the best decision.
What would I recommend to my pupils? Well, it’s always been the Yamaha YAS-280. It’s well built, easy to fix when something goes wrong (which doesn’t happen very often), and is really sturdy. I have over half of my pupils learning on a YAS-280, and I think the sound it makes is pretty nice for the price point.
So if you’re still undecided, give the Yamaha a try.
Now go and get started on your journey to sax stardom! And don’t forget to take a look at my article, ‘Best Alto Saxophone Reeds‘
I gotta say, not sure why everyone always leans towards the alto sax for beginners. In my book, the tenor sax has a richer sound that’s way more fitting for those bluesy tones I love. Plus, it’s not that much harder to handle than the alto. Beginners shouldn’t shy away from starting with a tenor if that’s the sound they’re after. Got started on a tenor myself and it wasn’t a mistake. Too much focus on the alto might steer folks away from finding the right fit for what they really wanna play.
The article on alto saxophones for beginners is quite informative, and I appreciate the detailed analysis on the different types of saxophones. However, I believe it would be beneficial if there was also a discussion about instrumental rental options for parents unsure about making an immediate purchase. In my experience, the option of renting before buying has tremendously helped my students’ parents make informed decisions about such a significant investment.
SaxDad78, there are several reputable music stores that offer rental programs. I would suggest contacting local music shops in your area for more information about their offerings.
That’s a great point! Anyone know good places to rent these saxophones?
Solid list, Elaine . Got my start on a JAS-500 and it’s been smooth sailing. For anyone new, trust this guide. Quality materials and finish really make a difference in the sound.
Hey, was wondering if the Yamaha YAS-280 is really the top pick for beginners? Got friends swearing by it, but I’m on the fence. Thoughts?