Top-10 Starter Saxophone
Loved in the USA

The Yamaha YAS-62 Professional Alto Saxophone is a solid option for those looking to take their saxophone playing seriously. Designed primarily for professional use, it features a lacquered finish that not only looks appealing but also enhances sound quality. One of its standout attributes is the 62-style neck, which contributes to a rich tone and excellent intonation, making it enjoyable for players who value sound clarity. The integrated key posts offer added durability, ensuring that this saxophone can withstand regular use without compromising performance.

Weighing in at 14 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for newer players, especially during extended practice sessions. The professional nature of this saxophone also means it comes with a higher price point, which may not be justified for someone just starting out.

The Yamaha YAS-62 is an excellent instrument for those ready to commit to learning the saxophone at a higher level. It offers great sound and build quality, making it a worthy investment for serious musicians. For beginners or casual players, it may be wise to consider a more lightweight and budget-friendly model until they've developed their skills further.

The Jean Paul AS-400SP is a silver-plated alto saxophone designed with beginners in mind. It features a durable combination of silver and brass materials, giving it a classic look and reliable build quality. The instrument plays in B flat, which is standard for alto saxophones, making it suitable for most beginner lessons and band settings. It comes with a Bari mouthpiece and a Rico H ligature and cap, which are decent components for new players starting out, although more experienced players might eventually want to upgrade these parts for better sound quality.

The saxophone includes a professional carrying case, a quality neck strap, and a care kit, which add value and make it easier to maintain the instrument. Weighing about 12 pounds, it is somewhat on the heavier side for a student model, which might be a consideration for younger players regarding comfort during extended practice. The key mechanism and ergonomics are generally well-regarded, offering smooth playability for beginners. The high customer rating (4.6 out of 5) suggests most users find it reliable and good for learning.

Since it is made in China, some may be concerned about long-term durability compared to higher-end brands. This saxophone represents a solid choice for someone starting to learn, providing good accessories and build quality at an affordable price, but it might feel a bit heavy and could require mouthpiece upgrades as a player advances.

The Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series Alto Saxophone is a solid choice for beginner saxophonists aiming for a high-quality instrument. Made from metal and finished with a colorless lacquer, this saxophone is as durable as it is visually appealing. Its ergonomic design and specially adapted keywork provide a comfortable playing experience, which is essential for new players still developing their technique.

The inclusion of leather pads and metal resonators contributes to a rich, resonant sound, enhancing the playing experience. Weighing 15.12 pounds, it is slightly on the heavier side, but the weight is generally well-distributed, making it manageable during practice and performance sessions. The Henri SELMER Paris S80 C* mouthpiece is a reputable choice, aiding in producing a consistent sound, while the included SeleS case ensures the saxophone is well-protected during transport.

However, the price point may be on the higher side for some beginners, and its weight might be challenging for younger or smaller players. Despite these minor drawbacks, the AXOS Series offers great mechanical reliability and playing comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for serious beginners who are committed to mastering the saxophone.