Best
Overall Intermediate Tenor Sax
-
Overall: With Easier Response From Lower Notes With The Improved, Stronger B-C# Mechanism
-
Best Feature: Has A Beautiful Look And Rich Tone With A Gold Lacquer Finish
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Tenor Saxophone for Jazz
-
Overall: With Double-Braced Bell Keys To Make A Better Seal
-
Best Feature: Comes With Quality Pisoni Pads With Metal Resonators
-
TedScore™: 7/10
Best
Tenor Saxophone Accessory
-
Overall: With A 533mm Maximum Length Suitable For Standard Use
-
Best Feature: Designed With A Swivel Hook To Carry A Large Load
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Choosing the best intermediate tenor saxophone can feel like navigating a dense forest with a map drawn by a mischievous jazz musician. You’re not alone in this adventure; I’ve been there, too, lost among a parade of shiny brass instruments and dazzling reviews.
Imagine nailing those smooth jazz solos or rocking the band performance confidently. That’s what the right intermediate tenor saxophone can do for you! The Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor Saxophone is the top choice for its exceptional build and playability.
Ready to make some music and find your perfect sax? Let’s dive in and explore the options together so you can pick the sax that sings to your soul!
5 Best Tenor Saxophones For Intermediate Players
As an intermediate saxophone player, investing in a high-quality and great-sounding instrument that can handle your skill level and needs is crucial. Fortunately, there are some excellent options available.
Take your music to the next level with these great tenor sax recommendations!
Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor Saxophone
This tenor saxophone’s brass body and keywork provide excellent durability, while its relatively lightweight and ergonomic shape makes it perfect for student players. With great sound, sturdy build quality and excellent intonation, this almost professional tenor saxophone is a reliable investment for both students and professionals.
You’ll be able to easily complete all grades, and it’s a great option for doublers looking for good quality on a budget.
PERFECT FOR: student sax players
FEATURES: Has a beautiful look and rich tone with a gold lacquer finish
OTHER INFO: With easier response from lower notes with the improved, stronger B-C# mechanism
Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor 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!
- Yamaha quality creates the best student saxophone
- Includes a case and a high-quality 4C mouthpiece
- Slightly pricier compared to other student brands (but worth the price!)
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jupiter JTS1100Q Tenor Saxophone
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality tenor saxophone, the Jupiter JTS1100Q fits the bill. This sax has an incredibly warm and full sound, thanks to the Sona-Pure neck and metal resonators. Plus, with its separated key guards, it has great flexibility that allows you to play with authority and control.
The gold-lacquered brass body and keywork give it an elegant and well-crafted appearance, making it perfect for both students and professionals.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate students or practising professionals
FEATURES: Produces vintage tenor tones from Sona-Pure neck and metal tone boosters
OTHER INFO: Highly adjustable for custom set-up and easy maintenance
Jupiter JTS1100Q Tenor Saxophone, Gold lacquered
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!
- Outfit comes included with the case, mouthpiece, ligature, and more
- Gives huge projection, perfect intonation, and slick playability
- Higher price range tenor sax brand
- This brand is best known for their beginner models
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Conn-Selmer PTS380 Premiere Tenor Saxophone
The Conn-Selmer PTS380 features an excellent design and build quality and also offers a beautiful evenness across the full range, making it a pleasure to play. The sax’s key work is well-balanced, allowing for ease and fluidity when playing your favourite pieces.
You’ll also appreciate the slightly higher resistance through the neck and body, which provides better control during performances. Plus, the gorgeous lacquered finish is sure to turn heads.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate and advanced players
FEATURES: Designed with an unlacquered finish which reveals the character of the metal
OTHER INFO: Has adjustable mechanisms and keys
Conn-Selmer PTS380 Premiere Tenor Saxophone, Vintage
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!
- With dark pearl keytops
- Perfect for jazz ensembles
- Includes a professional ebonite mouthpiece, rectangular case, cap, ligature, and cork grease
- The vintage style may not suit everyone's taste
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trevor James Classic II Tenor Saxophone
This amazing instrument is at an affordable price, yet built to last with excellent build quality. It’s a great option for student players, with a larger bore size that doesn’t demand an overly taxing embouchure.
You’ll feel right at home with its comfortable and responsive playing experience, making it a great first tenor for any student. The evenness across the range is extremely good, giving you a sense of being very assured and stable. This ‘Horn’ is the perfect balance between quality and affordability.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and intermediate players
FEATURES: Produces rich, resonant and thicker sound
OTHER INFO: Built with an easy-blowing design suitable for student players
Trevor James Classic II Tenor Saxophone, Black Frost
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!
- Fits into any ensemble
- Includes mouthpiece, reed and case
- Arguably one of the best student instruments available
- May not be able to keep up with your advancing playing skills
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rosedale Tenor Saxophone By Gear4music
This saxophone is an excellent value for money and produces a versatile, centered tone. It’s perfect for small ensembles and horn sections alike and can even be used for blues and rock’n’roll gigs.
While some parts may need upgrading over time, this saxophone works straight out of the box and has consistent intonation and easy response.
PERFECT FOR: advancing players
FEATURES: Can perform up to high F#
OTHER INFO: Hand-engraved with mother-of-pearl keypads
Rosedale Tenor Saxophone, Rose + Gold, 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!
- Produces sound that can sweep from the huge dark sound of Coltrane to the relatively bright tone of Sonny Rollins
- Allows a comfortable performance regardless of playing skills
- Designed with a rose-lacquered body with traditional gold lacquered keywork
- Not so popular brand
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3 Intermediate Tenor Saxophones for Jazz
If you want to make your mark in the world of jazz music, you’ll want an intermediate tenor sax that can keep up with your growing skills.
These instruments offer a little more flexibility and resistance than beginner models, allowing you to build on your technique and explore the depths of the jazz genre.
Buffet 400 Series Tenor Saxophone
The 400 Series has exceptional response and intonation, making it a great choice for jazz musicians. The keys, posts, and rods are stout, giving you a solid feel when playing. Plus, the double arms on the low C provide additional stability, allowing you to play with confidence.
The Buffet 400 is also an affordable step-up instrument for advancing student players.
PERFECT FOR: both jazz and classical playing
FEATURES: Comes with quality Pisoni pads with metal resonators
OTHER INFO: With double-braced bell keys to make a better seal
Buffet 400 Series Tenor Saxophone, 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!
- Includes a case, mouthpiece, and ligature
- Features premium hand engraving on the cups, bell, bow, body, and neck
- May have intonation issues due to its design
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Grassi TS210 Master Series Tenor Saxophone
This saxophone is designed and made with professional build techniques, providing optimum stability and immediate, powerful sound – perfect for jazz performances. The ergonomic action, blue steel springs, and quality pads make fast playing very easy, allowing you to easily keep up with the fast-paced nature of jazz music.
Plus, the TS210 is part of the Master Line of Ida Maria Grassi instruments, so you can trust the quality of this saxophone.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate sax players
FEATURES: Made with quality mechanics
OTHER INFO: With blue steel springs for creating great key action
Grassi TS210 Master Series Tenor 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!
- Includes leather pads for excellent air seal and durability
- Already comes with a case, mouthpiece and reed
- Produces a classic, bright sax sound
- Its quality leans more toward student models than professional tenor saxophones
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Odyssey OTS3700 Symphonique Tenor Saxophone
The Odyssey OTS3700 has an amazing, warm, rich tone perfect for jazz music. Plus, its light and free-blowing response means you’ll have no trouble bringing your musical ideas to life easily. The excellent intonation and stability throughout the registers will give you the confidence to play your heart out.
And with Italian-made springs and pads, you can trust that this instrument will also have a great seal and smooth action.
PERFECT FOR: advancing musicians
FEATURES: Designed with a vintage distressed look
OTHER INFO: Comes with quality Italian pads and springs
Odyssey OTS3700 Symphonique Tenor 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!
- Not only looks good but plays brilliantly
- Includes a carrying case, mouthpiece, strap & accessories
- The vintage finish can be quite delicate and prone to wear and tear
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
How to Choose a Tenor Saxophone
The first thing to consider is your level of expertise as a musician. If you’re starting out, there are great options for beginners. The tenor sax is bigger and heavier than other saxophones, but playing it is the same. Remember that the tenor sax plays in a mid-to-low range and has a deeper, mellow sound that is different from the alto.
Be sure to purchase a reputable brand of a good quality instrument constructed with musicality and playability in mind. Mouthpieces are interchangeable, so you can use most of them on any neck, but if the cork is too loose or too tight, it can be shaved for a better fit.
And finally, keep in mind that the price range for intermediate and professional saxophones can vary greatly, so choose accordingly
Player Level and Comfortability
Considering these two factors is important when choosing your next tenor sax. As an intermediate player, you may want something that’s a step up from a student horn but not quite as advanced as a professional model. Make sure to try out different models to see which one feels most comfortable to play.
You don’t want an instrument that’s too heavy or difficult to play, which may hinder your progress.
Sound Quality
When looking to buy a tenor saxophone, it’s important to consider the sound quality before making a purchase.
Tenor saxophones sit between the alto and baritone on the saxophone range, producing a lower and deeper sound that can resemble a male voice.
Material
Most tenor saxophones are made of brass, bronze, or a combination of both. Brass is the most popular choice and provides a bright sound with plenty of projection. Bronze, on the other hand, offers a warm tone that has more depth than brass. The combination of brass and bronze gives you the best of both worlds, allowing for a wide range of tonal possibilities.
In addition to considering the material, it’s important to look at the construction quality of the instrument. A well-made intermediate tenor saxophone will have good playability, intonation, and response.
Size and Weight
One of the most important is the size and weight of the instrument.
A tenor saxophone is typically about three feet long and weighs a little over six pounds, but the size can vary depending on the brand and model. It’s important to choose a size that is comfortable for your body type and playing style.
Key
The key is one of the most important factors to consider, as intermediate tenor saxophones typically come in the keys of Bb and Eb.
Bb models are easier to play and are better suited for jazz or pop music, while Eb models are better for classical music.
Durability
Another important thing to think about is durability. You don’t want to invest in an instrument that won’t last for years to come. Look for brands and models known for their durable instruments, and check reviews or talk to other sax players for their thoughts.
Choosing an instrument that can withstand the wear and tear of travel and regular use will give you peace of mind and ensure that your investment lasts.
Included Accessories
Checking the package for included accessories before purchasing a new tenor saxophone can help you determine the overall value of the purchase. Some accessories included with a tenor saxophone purchase, such as a carrying case or neck strap, may increase the price.
Buying a used tenor saxophone with additional accessories may slightly increase the price, but can also provide added value. It’s important to note that some accessories included may not be of the highest quality but can always be replaced if desired.
Brand
High-quality brands are known for their durability and excellent sound quality. Yamaha and Selmer are only two of the well-known sax brands that produce intermediate tenor saxophones that are widely regarded as some of the best on the market.
When choosing a tenor saxophone, it’s important to research the specifications of each model and compare them before making a purchase.
Tenor Saxophone Maintenance and Care Tips
Taking care of your instrument is crucial in keeping it in excellent condition and sounding great. To help you out, here are the five best tips for tenor saxophone maintenance and care:
Tip #1: Ensure that you completely remove moisture from the pads after playing by using an absorbent material like chamois or microfibre.
Tip #2: Clean your saxophone with a lukewarm soap solution using a ratio of 1:10 brass soap to water.
Tip #3: Don’t forget to oil the keys to keep them lubricated.
Tip #4: Make sure to clean the mouthpiece and neck using a soft, lint-free cloth.
Tip #5: Use a high-quality pull-through or mop for cleaning the inside of your tenor sax, but ensure that it is heavy enough to keep it taut.
Recommended Accessories for Intermediate Tenor Saxophone
An intermediate tenor saxophone bundle should include everything needed to start playing. The right accessories can improve the player’s user experience and the instrument’s longevity. Here are some of the recommended accessories for your tenor saxes!
1. Tenor Sax Reeds
Reeds are fundamental to producing the sound that comes out of your saxophone. When you blow into the mouthpiece, the reed sets into motion, vibrating and creating sound waves that pass through the neck and out of your instrument. Also, they come in a variety of strengths, which are often described by a number.
PERFECT FOR: beginners to professionals
FEATURES: With a quick response and crisp articulation
OTHER INFO: Feature the thinnest reed tip with the thickest heart of Vandoren reeds
Vandoren Traditional Tenor Saxophone Reeds, 2.5 (5 Pack)
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!
- Produces a full, dark sound
- Comes with sealed-in moisture and temperature-resistant Flow Pack packaging
- Meticulously tested to ensure the best playing experience for musicians
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. Saxophone Stand
A saxophone stand is a piece of equipment that allows you to keep your saxophone upright and ready to play at a moment’s notice. The stands are adjustable to fit your instrument perfectly, ensuring that it stays in place and doesn’t fall over. They’re also portable and lightweight, making them easy to transport to gigs or rehearsals.
PERFECT FOR: all saxophonists
FEATURES: Made with a secure yoke grip system
OTHER INFO: With two extra peg holes for other instruments
Hercules DS630BB Tenor Saxophone Stand With Bag
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 swivel legs with a lock pin
- Includes carry bag
- Adjustable to secure both alto and tenor saxophones
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3. Mouthpiece Cushions
A mouthpiece cushion is a little pad that you put on your sax mouthpiece to protect it from your teeth marks. Not only does it preserve your mouthpiece, but it also makes playing more comfortable. The vibrations from your mouthpiece can sometimes be irritating, but the cushion helps reduce that sensation.
There are even different thicknesses available to suit your personal preference.
PERFECT FOR: all saxophone players
FEATURES: Helps development of embouchure and tone production
OTHER INFO: Removal is easy and leaves no residue
Rico by D'Addario Reserve Mouthpiece Patches, 0.35mm (5 Pack)
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!
- Protects mouthpiece by preventing biting and teeth sliding
- Ideal for educational purposes
- Text
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
4. Saxophone Swabs & Cloths
Saxophone swabs and cloths are typically included in cleaning kits specially designed to ensure your saxophone stays in fantastic condition. This is ideal for taking care of your instrument, and it comes with everything you need to clean and maintain your saxophone properly.
PERFECT FOR: all tenor saxophones
FEATURES: Includes swabs, brushes and oils to complete any sax player's accessory hoard
OTHER INFO: Comes as a compact set of essential materials for maintaining your saxophone
Alfreds Complete Tenor Saxophone Care Kit
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!
- This is ideal for taking care of your instrument
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
5. Saxophone Strap
A saxophone strap is worn around your neck to help support the weight of your saxophone while you play. This can be really important for musicians who play for extended periods of time because holding up the weight of a saxophone for that long can be pretty tiring.
Saxophone straps come in different materials and designs, from leather to neoprene and even ones with padded cushions.
PERFECT FOR: all saxophonists
FEATURES: Designed with a swivel hook to carry a large load
OTHER INFO: With a 533mm maximum length suitable for standard use
Neotech Soft Sax Strap, Regular, Swivel Hook, Black
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!
- Made of neoprene material for long-lasting durability
- Wide bearing for an even weight distribution
- Available in black colour for a classic look
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
6. Saxophone Mute
Saxophone mutes can help you play your instrument quietly without disturbing others. The way it works is by using a soundproof tool that is installed in the bell, neck, and/or mouthpiece of your saxophone. Some mutes are even made of foam or plastic and can be easily inserted into your saxophone’s neck or bell.
1Not only can mutes help reduce the volume of your sax, but they can also manipulate the sound of your instrument.
PERFECT FOR: Quiet practice and backstage use
FEATURES: Provides 50% less volume from your saxophone
OTHER INFO: Includes mouthpiece, neck & bell mutes
GEWA Saxmute Tenor Saxophone Mute
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!
- Easy to insert and remove
- Retains upper-end clarity
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Intermediate Tenor Saxophone
Summary
With so many good quality instruments out there, make sure to choose a tenor saxophone that resonates with your taste and musical goals.
An intermediate tenor saxophone is a fantastic choice because you’ll have a wider range of options than a beginner would.
You can choose based on your preferences and desired features while staying within a reasonable budget.
I hope that the curated list of some of the best intermediate tenor saxophones I’ve provided and all the factors you need to consider helped you make a better choice. I’m happy to standby any of these products, and really enjoyed testing them.
Happy saxophone shopping!
And don’t forget to take a peak at our brand new article, Top 9 Best Tenor Saxophones.
Super helpful guide! been looking for a good tenor sax to level up. cheers!
It’s interesting to see how different materials and sizes can affect a saxophone’s sound quality and playability. I’m curious, though, how significant these factors are compared to a player’s skill level. Surely, a highly skilled player could produce a beautiful sound from any of these intermediate models, right? Or do the instrument’s characteristics really make that much of a difference as you progress?
Wow, never knew there were saxophones specifically better for jazz. That Buffet 400 series sounds cool, wonder how it compares to the others for classical music too.
Hey there Elaine , I’ve been eyeing the Yamaha YTS280 for a while since I’m trying to level up from my beginner sax. I noticed it’s first on your list for intermediate players, which is awesome! But I’m kind of stuck on whether it’s the best choice in terms of long-term use and versatility. Could it handle more complex pieces as I improve? Also, does it adapt well to different music styles, or is it more genre-specific? I tend to dabble in everything from jazz to pop.
It’s decent for a wide range, but remember, no sax is perfect for every style. Experimenting is key.
MiaCooks, the YTS280 is a great pick! Yamaha saxes are known for their versatility. It’ll definitely grow with you as you explore different genres. Just make sure you pair it with the right mouthpiece and reeds for the style you’re playing.