10 Best Saxophones 2026 in the United States

The Selmer STS711 is a professional-level tenor saxophone crafted mainly from brass with nickel plating, which offers a classic look and durability. It features a ribbed body construction and uses Pisoni Pro leather pads with metal resonators, enhancing sound quality and response. The Henri Selmer Paris neck mouthpiece included is a high-quality choice, helping to deliver a rich tone favored by experienced players. Bluing steel springs add to the instrument’s reliable key action, which is important for smooth playability.

Weighing 21.4 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, which might be noticeable during long playing sessions or for younger players. The instrument comes with a lacquer finish and a protective case, making it ready for gigging or practice. While the product has very strong customer reviews, its sales rank suggests it is somewhat niche, likely best suited for dedicated or professional saxophonists rather than beginners.

This saxophone provides solid build quality and components that meet the demands of serious players looking for a dependable tenor sax with excellent sound and craftsmanship.

The Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series Alto Saxophone is a high-quality instrument designed for both intermediate and professional musicians. It features a durable metal construction and comes in a variety of colors including gold, white, and black. The saxophone is finished with a colorless lacquer and engraved, giving it a polished and elegant look. The Henri SELMER Paris S80 C* mouthpiece included is well-regarded for its playability and tone quality.

The leather pads with metal resonators enhance the instrument's responsiveness and sound projection, making it a reliable choice for performance settings. The specially adapted keywork provides comfortable playing, which is essential for extended practice or performance sessions. Additionally, the accompanying SeleS case ensures the saxophone is well-protected during transport.

The saxophone is relatively heavy at 15.12 pounds, which might be a consideration for younger or smaller players. With a Best Sellers Rank of #43 in Saxophones, it’s clear that this model is well-liked among its users. Despite its higher price point, the Selmer Paris SeleS AXOS Series offers great value through its superior build quality and playability, making it a solid investment for serious musicians.

The Yamaha YAS-62 Professional Alto Saxophone is a well-crafted instrument designed for serious musicians, particularly those looking to step up their performance. One of its standout features is the professional neck receiver, which contributes to improved sound quality and intonation, making it ideal for advanced players. The integrated key posts enhance durability and ease of maintenance, allowing for smooth playability over time. The lacquered gold finish not only gives it an elegant appearance but also provides a nice tonal quality that many musicians appreciate. Additionally, the 62-style neck helps in achieving a rich tone, which is essential for expressive playing.

Weighing in at 14 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy for some players, especially during long practice sessions or performances. The price point, while reflective of its professional quality, could be a limiting factor for beginners or casual hobbyists who might not want to invest heavily in an instrument at this level.

This saxophone stands out as a solid choice for intermediate to professional musicians seeking to enhance their playing experience. Beginners might want to consider starting with a more affordable option before investing in a high-end model like this one.