Best
Beginner Soprano Saxophone
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Overall: Two options for the crook
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Best Feature: Beginners who want the best model to start on
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Intermediate Soprano Saxophone
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Overall: Saxophonists looking for a pro brand at an intermediate price
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Best Feature: Curved neck
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional Soprano Saxophone
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Overall: Serious soprano saxophone players and specialists
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Best Feature: Access to Tomplay with your purchase
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TedScore™: 8/10
If you want to play the higher notes of the saxophone’s range, you should get the best soprano saxophone. There are tons of models to choose from, so it can be overwhelming.
Read on to learn what goes into choosing an musical instrument that works for you and gives you the tone you desire.
What is a Soprano Saxophone?
A soprano saxophone is the highest-pitched of the four most common saxophones (we have a dedicated article here on the Different Types of Saxophones). Its range means that it’s smaller than the alto saxophone as well as the tenor saxophones and baritone saxes. Many models come with a straight neck, so they look almost like brass clarinets.
However, you can also play a curved soprano saxophone, which looks like any other member of the saxophone family.
The written range of a soprano saxophone is the same as other saxophones. But some more advanced models have a high G key to make that note easier to play.
The Sound of a Soprano Sax
A soprano saxophone sounds very similar to other soprano saxophones except that its range is a perfect fifth above the alto saxophones and an octave above the tenor saxophone.
The instrument can also sound like an oboe or clarinet due to the overlapping ranges. Like any musical instrument, you’ll sound better with practice and experience.
Why Choose a Soprano Sax than Other Soprano Type?
If you already play the alto saxophones or tenor saxophones, you may want to add the soprano saxophone to your arsenal. You can use the basic fundamentals of saxophone playing, from the fingerings to the embouchure.
I started on the alto saxophone before learning other soprano instruments, like the clarinet. The switch wasn’t that bad, but I imagine switching to the soprano saxophone would have been much easier.
5 Factors To Consider Before Buying the Best Soprano Saxophone
Before you buy the first soprano saxophone you find, consider if it’s actually the best fit for you. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Build Quality and Weight
You can find a lot of cheap saxophones online. Sure, they may work okay, but the build quality isn’t going to be great, and low-cost instruments can break fairly easily. Stick to more reputable brands to ensure you get a soprano saxophone that will last.
Most soprano saxophones weigh about the same. However, you can look into the center of gravity and weight distribution. For example, the weight of a straight soprano sax is spread out over a larger space, so holding it can feel different from a curved soprano saxophones.
Sound Quality and Key
Another thing to keep in mind is how the soprano saxophones sounds when you play it. Different factors can affect the sound, such as the materials of the instrument. You also need to consider the mouthpiece, ligature, and reed that you use.
More expensive musical instruments don’t always offer a better excellent sound. Trying a saxophone is the best way to determine if it works for you.
When it comes to the key, most soprano saxophones are in the key of B flat. But some have more specs, like a high G key.
Accessories
Some models come with accessories, such as a mouthpiece and ligature. At the beginner level, it’s also not uncommon to find saxophones that come with at least one reed. You may also want a neck strap to help hold the musical instrument.
If you choose a sax that comes with accessories, you won’t have to spend more money on essential gear. But if you’re more advanced, you may want to buy things separately. That way, you can use the mouthpiece and reed that you like.
Warranty
When buying a new soprano saxophone, you may find it comes with a warranty. So if anything happens due to manufacturer defects, the company will repair or replace your saxophone for free.
Some warranties only last for a year while others may last up to five years. Unfortunately, warranties don’t generally cover damage due to normal use. Still, it can be nice to know that if the musical instrument breaks, the company will help you out.
Brand Reputation
You can find the best soprano saxophones from tons of brands. For better or worse, some brands are much better than others.
If you’re not sure if a brand is a good choice, check out some reviews. Then, you can learn if the brand has a history of making good quality saxophones or not.
Best for Students or Beginners Soprano Saxophones
Nuvo jSax
Young kids can play the saxophone too.
DESIGNED FOR: kids who are too small for standard saxophones
FEATURES: traditional saxophone fingerings
OTHER INFO: it comes in different colors
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 clarinet or saxophone reeds
- Easy to play
- Affordable price
- Great for young kids
- Not for adults
- Not the best quality
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™.
Gear4music Soprano Saxophone
An affordable choice for students
DESIGNED FOR: beginners on a tight budget
FEATURES: all of the accessories you need to start playing
OTHER INFO: you can buy this saxophone with a music stand
Gear4music Soprano 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!
- Comes with multiple accessories
- Professional features
- High G key
- Gold lacquer
- Not a super well-known brand
- No neck strap
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™.
Elkhart 100SS
A good student soprano saxophone to try.
DESIGNED FOR: beginners who want the best model to start on
FEATURES: two options for the crook
OTHER INFO: makes it easy to get a good tone
Elkhart 100SS
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 mouthpiece and ligature
- Has a high F# key
- Good range
- Easy to play
- Uses a soft shell case
- Not the most affordable
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 for Intermediate Players Soprano Saxophones
Conn-Selmer DSS180
A good curved soprano saxophone for advancing players.
DESIGNED FOR: saxophonists looking for a pro brand at an intermediate price
FEATURES: curved neck
OTHER INFO: uses gold brass to provide a warm tone
Conn-Selmer DSS180
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 professional mouthpiece
- Easy to get a nice sound quality
- Gold and silver plating options
- Includes a case
- Not the most affordable
- Not for absolute beginners
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 Intermediate Soprano Saxophone
An alternative to many other intermediate models.
DESIGNED FOR: saxophone players who have a tight budget
FEATURES: all of the essential accessories included
OTHER INFO: has a bronze body
Rosedale Intermediate Soprano 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!
- Good tone
- One-piece body
- Easy to play
- Decent price
- Not for advanced players
- Not the best quality
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 'The Horn'
Get a great saxophone from a brand that specializes in woodwinds.
DESIGNED FOR: players who need both necks
FEATURES: a reliable design
OTHER INFO: UK technicians look at the sax to make sure it plays well
Trevor James 'The Horn'
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 play
- Good value
- Robust sound
- Plays up to high G
- Not the most professional
- Lesser-known 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™.
Best for Professional Players Soprano Saxophones
Yanagisawa SWO1U
It’s an unlacquered saxophone for professional players.
DESIGNED FOR: advanced players who perform classical music
FEATURES: different lacquer options, including no lacquer
OTHER INFO: uses premium keys
Yanagisawa SWO1U
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!
- Great build quality
- Easy to play
- New design
- Fixed neck
- Somewhat expensive
- Not the best for jazz players
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™.
Yamaha YSS 475III
If you’re looking for a premium professional soprano saxophones from one of the best brands, this is a great choice.
DESIGNED FOR: serious soprano saxophone players and specialists
FEATURES: access to Tomplay with your purchase
OTHER INFO: comes with a long warranty
Yamaha YSS-475III
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!
- Silver plating that looks good
- Based on custom professional saxophones
- Great sound
- Relatively affordable
- Not for beginners
- Can be hard to play at first
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™.
Theo Wanne Mantra
This is one of the best models for jazz players.
DESIGNED FOR: use in jazz bands or as a soloist
FEATURES: a triple strap hook so that you can choose from multiple playing angles
OTHER INFO: it has a unique finish
Theo Wanne Mantra
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!
- Premium saxophone pads
- Good saxophone tone
- Handmade model
- Detachable neck
- Pretty expensive
- Not for classical playing
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™.
Tips for Playing Soprano saxophones
The best thing you can do is to learn the alto saxophone first. It’s more forgiving, so you can learn the fingerings and other basics.
After you master the fundamentals, you can switch to the soprano saxophones. It will be much easier to get a good sound on the smaller musical instrument.
I’d also recommend practising the soprano saxophones every day. You don’t have to practice for hours, but playing consistently will help you improve your sound.
5 Recommended Accessories for Every Soprano Saxophone Player
Sax Strap
A saxophone strap can take the weight off your hands while you play.
DESIGNED FOR: beginners who don't have a neck strap they like
FEATURES: a good solid amount of padding for your neck
OTHER INFO: the strap is adjustable in length
Gear4music Deluxe Saxophone Strap
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!
- Good design
- Works with different types of saxophones
- Feels comfortable
- Great price
- Not the best quality
- Could feel tough before you break it in
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™.
Saxophone Case
DESIGNED FOR: serious players who need an upgraded case
FEATURES: backpack straps to help you carry your case
OTHER INFO: the case is super lightweight
BAM Stage Soprano Saxophone Case
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!
- Great for travel
- Works for a straight sax
- Amazing quality
- Good zipper
- Very expensive
- Not for beginners
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™.
Saxophone Stand
Don’t lie your saxophone on a chair or the floor.
DESIGNED FOR: players who practice and perform in different locations
FEATURES: a set of legs that fold up into the stand
OTHER INFO: the stand is lightweight
K&M 15290 Soprano Saxophone Stand
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!
- Quick to assemble
- Good support
- Uses minimal space
- Very affordable
- Only holds one saxophone
- Not the most durable
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™.
Mouthpiece Cushion
A mouthpiece patch or cushion can help keep your teeth from doing too much damage.
DESIGNED FOR: players who bite into their mouthpieces easily
FEATURES: a set of six patches in one single piece.
OTHER INFO: the patches work on saxophones and clarinets
Yamaha Mouthpiece Patch
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 use
- Comes with more than one
- Not too thick
- Good value
- Not the cheapest
- Not for all players
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™.
Saxophone Cleaning Kit
A good cleaning kit allows you to keep your saxophone in great shape after every rehearsal or gig.
DESIGNED FOR: beginners who don't know where to find cleaning supplies
FEATURES: mouthpiece and body swabs
OTHER INFO: the kit can help extend the lifespan of your saxophone
Stagg Saxophone Cleaning 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!
- Comes with multiple types of swabs
- Easy to use
- Great price
- Includes cork grease
- Not the best quality supplies
- Not for professionals
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 Soprano Saxophone
Summary
The best soprano saxophones vary from player to player. Be sure to consider popular brands and find models at the level and price point for you.
Then, give a few saxophones a try to see which you like the best. I’d recommend trying brands like Yamaha and Conn-Selmer to start. Soon enough, you’ll be able to choose a sax that you love.
