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10 Best Tenor Saxophones 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yamaha YTS-875EX Custom Tenor Saxophone Lacquer

The Yamaha YTS-875EX Custom Tenor Saxophone is designed for professional musicians who seek quality and performance. Its brass and plastic construction, combined with an epoxy lacquer finish, not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its durability. One standout feature is the advanced neck and bore design, which ensures superior response, intonation, and projection—key elements for any saxophonist looking to perform at their best.

The key mechanism is well-engineered, featuring improved key levers and a design that includes both ribbed and flanged post construction. This can lead to a smoother playing experience, making it easier for players to navigate their music with confidence. Additionally, the inclusion of a high F# key and an adjustable front F key further adds to its versatility, enabling players to explore a wider range of musical expressions.

The Yamaha YTS-875EX does come with a weight of 22.6 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some musicians, especially those who perform for extended periods. Its professional-grade nature also means that it may be priced higher than entry-level saxophones, making it less accessible for beginners or hobbyists who are just starting out.

#2

Eastar Tenor Saxophone Student Tenor Saxophone Bb Tenor Sax B Flat Gold Lacquer Beginner Saxophone With Cleaning Cloth,Carrying Case,Mouthpiece,Neck Strap, Reeds, Full Kit, TS-Ⅱ

The Eastar Tenor Saxophone TS-II is designed for beginners and advanced players, making it a versatile choice. Its copper material and gold lacquer finish make it visually appealing and durable. The key mechanism includes a full bounding stick gasket and blue copper needle spring, providing a quick response and easy playability. The ergonomic design with faux mother pearl inlaid keys ensures comfort during extended practice sessions and performances.

The saxophone's wider range tone allows smooth transitions across different music genres like jazz, blues, and rock, delivering rich and expressive sound quality. The advanced copper construction and lead-free welding add to the instrument's longevity and safety. High-quality leather pads ensure air tightness, and all keystroke links are lubricated to prevent rusting and sticking.

The package includes a full kit with a carrying case, neck strap, reeds, and cleaning accessories, offering everything needed to start playing right away. Weighing 19.11 pounds, it may be on the heavier side, impacting portability. Potential users should consider the weight when looking for ease of transport and comfort during long sessions.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Mouthpiece
Synthetic reeds and upgraded mouthpieces significantly improved the Eastar's performance, particularly in the upper fingerings.
Weight and Ergonomics
The saxophone's ergonomic design and comfortable keys made extended practice sessions enjoyable.
#3

Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone - Gold Lacquer with 2-piece Bell

The Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone is designed for serious musicians and offers some impressive features. One of its standout strengths is its professional neck receiver, which enhances the instrument's playability and sound quality. The integrated key posts contribute to its durability and tuning stability, making it a reliable choice for performances. Its construction from high-quality materials, paired with a gold lacquer finish, not only provides an elegant look but also contributes to a warm and rich tone, essential for tenor saxophonists.

The bore size and 62-style neck design are tailored for great intonation and responsiveness across different registers, catering well to both advanced players and professionals. Weighing in at 20 pounds, it is relatively manageable for a tenor saxophone, although it may still feel heavy during extended playing sessions.

This instrument might be on the pricier side, which could be a drawback for beginners or casual players who are not ready to invest heavily. The complexity of the key mechanism might require some time for less experienced players to get accustomed to, potentially making it less appealing for those just starting out.

Buying Guide for the Best Tenor Saxophones

Choosing the right tenor saxophone can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some understanding of the key features and specifications that differentiate one model from another. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a tenor saxophone.
MaterialThe material of a tenor saxophone affects its durability, weight, and sound quality. Most saxophones are made from brass, but the finish can vary, including lacquer, silver plating, or gold plating. Lacquered brass is common and offers a warm sound, while silver plating can provide a brighter tone. Gold plating is often used for its aesthetic appeal and can slightly enhance the richness of the sound. Choose a material based on the sound you prefer and the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to.
Key MechanismThe key mechanism refers to the design and layout of the keys on the saxophone. A well-designed key mechanism ensures smooth and comfortable playability. For beginners, a simpler key mechanism with fewer adjustments is ideal, while advanced players might prefer a more complex mechanism that allows for greater control and customization. Test the key action to ensure it feels comfortable and responsive to your touch.
Bore SizeThe bore size of a tenor saxophone affects the instrument's resistance and the ease of producing sound. A larger bore typically offers a fuller, more robust sound but may require more air support, making it suitable for experienced players. A smaller bore is easier to play and control, making it a good choice for beginners. Consider your playing level and the type of sound you want to achieve when selecting the bore size.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a crucial component that greatly influences the saxophone's sound and playability. Mouthpieces come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each affecting the tone and ease of play. Beginners should start with a standard mouthpiece that offers a balanced tone and is easy to play. Intermediate and advanced players might experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that complements their playing style and desired sound.
Neck DesignThe neck design of a tenor saxophone can impact the instrument's intonation and response. Some necks are designed to offer better tuning stability and ease of play, while others might enhance the tonal quality. Beginners should look for a neck that provides good intonation and is easy to play, while advanced players might seek out specific designs that match their playing style and sound preferences.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of a tenor saxophone are important for comfort and playability, especially during long practice sessions or performances. Heavier saxophones can produce a richer sound but may be more challenging to handle, particularly for younger or smaller players. Look for a saxophone that feels comfortable to hold and play, with well-placed keys that suit your hand size and playing posture.
Brand ReputationThe reputation of the brand can be an indicator of the quality and reliability of the saxophone. Established brands with a history of producing high-quality instruments are often a safer choice, especially for beginners who may not have the experience to evaluate the finer details of a saxophone. Research different brands, read reviews, and consider recommendations from teachers or experienced players to help guide your decision.

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