10 Best Starter Saxophone 2025 in the United States

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 Yamaha YAS-26 is an alto saxophone designed mainly for beginners stepping into the world of saxophones. It features a clear baked epoxy lacquer finish with nickel-plated keys, which helps protect the instrument and keeps it looking nice. The material choice and build quality reflect Yamaha’s reputation for durability and reliability, making it a solid pick for students. It has an intermediate-style neck receiver and an adjustable thumb rest, which can make holding and playing the instrument more comfortable, especially for younger players still developing their technique.

The key mechanism includes features like a front F key and a floating octave system, which help with smoother playability and better control over notes. The saxophone weighs about 11.66 pounds, which is on the heavier side for starters, so it might feel a bit bulky for smaller or younger players during long practice sessions. The package includes a case and mouthpiece, but it doesn’t come with reeds, so you’ll need to get those separately.

For those looking for a beginner saxophone that can grow with their skills, the Yamaha YAS-26 offers a good balance of quality and playability. However, its weight and price might be important considerations for some players.

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.