If you’re looking for the best intermediate saxophone, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase. The quality of the instrument will be a determining factor in your sound quality and overall playing experience. A saxophone made of high-quality materials will produce a more resonant sound and last longer.
It’s also important to consider what type of music you will be playing and the level of performance you hope to achieve. The size and weight of the saxophone should be taken into account, as well as the ergonomics of the design. This will ensure that you are comfortable while playing and can focus on your performance.
Are you an aspiring saxophonist looking to upgrade your instrument? Or perhaps you’re a music educator looking for the perfect saxophone for your intermediate students. Whatever your situation may be, finding the best intermediate saxophone can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help guide you in your search. In this article, we’ll explore the factors you need to consider when searching for the perfect intermediate saxophone, so you can make an informed decision and find the saxophone that fits your unique needs.
10 Best Intermediate Saxophone
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for playing the tenor saxophone and producing quality sound with precision control.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for saxophonists looking for a durable and responsive reed with a warm tone.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for beginner or intermediate saxophone players who want a complete set with accessories and a carrying case.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
The product is ideal for beginner, student and intermediate players looking for a complete package of saxophone accessories.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
This product is ideal for saxophone players who prefer a medium-soft reed strength and need a pack of 10.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality tenor saxophone with gold lacquer finish, leather pads, and complete accessories.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
It is ideal for learning how to play the alto saxophone, with helpful instructional material and a CD-ROM for practice.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The product is ideal for intermediate-level tenor saxophonists who desire a high-quality lacquered instrument.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
This product is ideal for baritone saxophone players who prefer a medium strength filed reed.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
It is ideal for musicians playing soprano saxophone looking for a long-lasting, consistent sound and easy playability.
|
|
1. Yamaha Yac 1293 Standard Series 6c Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece (Yac1293)
This clarinet is made out of top-of-the-line phenol resin, ensuring high quality and durability. Its design is based upon the Custom Series, which is known for its exceptional sound quality and playability.
This particular model has a 1.9mm tip opening, making it easier for beginning students to produce a rich, characteristic sound. It also boasts powerful volume and rich tonal variations, making it an excellent choice for experienced players who demand the highest level of performance.
Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience playing the clarinet, this instrument is sure to impress. Its expertly crafted design and use of top-quality materials make it a reliable and versatile choice for any musician.
2. Harry Hartmann Fiberreed Carbon Classic Reed Alto Saxophone Medium
The Fiberreed Carbon Classic Reed for Alto Saxophone, created by Harry Hartmann, boasts a unique design that combines a superior hollow fiber with carbon fiber. The result is a product that offers a superior playing experience for musicians.
One of the standout features of the Fiberreed Carbon Classic Reed is its thicker classic cut. This design element creates a warm, dark low end that is perfect for those smooth jazz tunes. Additionally, the reed is able to produce a brilliant high register and altissimo range.
It is important to note that this product was created using top-quality materials. The carbon fiber and hollow fiber used in the construction of the reed ensure that it is durable and long-lasting. Musicians can rest assured that their investment in this product is well worth it.
3. Mendini By Cecilio Alto Saxophone – E Flat Saxophones W/case, Mouthpiece, Stand, Reeds & Cloths
This gold lacquered alto saxophone boasts of a perfect design with its ribbed construction, leather pads, and contoured keys, ensuring that you get the perfect sound. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this instrument is perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Cleaning up your alto saxophone is made easy with the cleaning kit that comes with the instrument. You can conveniently polish your saxophone using the cleaning cloths and rod included in the kit.
In addition to the alto saxophone, you will also receive a hard shell case with backpack straps, mouthpiece and cushions, 10 reeds (2.5"), pocketbook, neck strap, stand, cleaning cloths, rods, mouthpiece brushes, and gloves.
To help beginners get started, a helpful music book with basic songs, fingering charts, and solos is included with the alto saxophone instrument.
4. Curved Black Soprano Sax For Intermediate Players
Experience the beautiful sound and high-quality craftsmanship of EASTROCK's saxophone. This musical instrument is made from selected h68 copper material and features a multi-layer painted transparent lacquer in black, ensuring its durability and non-fading appearance. The appearance is further enhanced by hand-carved details and high-quality shell buttons, making the saxophone an outstanding instrument in terms of quality and appearance.
EASTROCK's saxophone has been professionally adjusted before leaving the factory to ensure that it produces a good sound without any noise. The buttons also provide good feedback and look perfect when the fingers are pressed down, making it easy to play and control.
The advanced design of EASTROCK's saxophone is evident in its upgraded quality leather, which provides higher air tightness, and the upgraded quality copper needle spring, which makes the instrument smoother to play. Choosing EASTROCK's saxophone is the best investment for any level player, as it will never disappoint.
This saxophone is suitable for students, beginners, schools, concerts, and any level player. It produces a Tone-bb-Flat and comes with a portable lightweight hard case, mouthpiece, neck strap, reeds, mouthpiece cushion pads, cleaning cloth and cleaning rod, white gloves, and alcohol pads. It offers absolute value for money.
EASTROCK musician instruments come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty against defects. If there are any problems, customers can contact the manufacturer for satisfied solutions. With EASTROCK's saxophone, players can enjoy excellent sound quality and a beautiful instrument that will last for years to come.
5. D’addario Woodwinds La Voz Alto Sax Reeds, Strength Medium-Soft, 10-Pack – Rjc10ms
La Voz reeds in Medium-Soft strength are designed to provide professional saxophonists with a full and powerful tone, thanks to their traditional tip thickness and stronger spine. These reeds are crafted from premium cane, ensuring consistent response and playability.
La Voz reeds are unfiled, which means that they have a deeper and more resonant sound compared to filed reeds. They are the top choice of many world-renowned jazz musicians who seek to achieve a rich and complex sound.
Each box of La Voz reeds comes with ten high-quality reeds, providing musicians with a reliable and long-lasting supply. These reeds are available for saxophones and clarinets, and come in a range of strengths from Soft to Hard.
As part of the Rico brand, La Voz reeds benefit from the expertise of Rico's state-of-the-art reed research center in Southern California. This research center employs a team of agronomists, scientists, and musicians who collaborate to produce top-quality reeds, including the Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone.
Rico reeds are designed to meet the needs of musicians of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Many of the world's finest woodwind players perform with Rico reeds, including Mark Nuccio, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Henri Bok, Richie Hawley, Eric Alexander, and many more.
6. Apollo Student Tenor Saxophone In Gold Lacquer With Leather Pads, Complete With Case And Accessories
The Standard-class Tenor Saxophone is a top-of-the-line instrument perfect for both beginner and professional musicians alike. Made with high-quality materials, it is designed to provide excellent sound quality and durability for years to come.
This saxophone is designed, tested, and supported in the United States, ensuring that each instrument is crafted with the utmost care and precision. The yellow brass neck, body tube, bow, and bell are finished in a beautiful honey gold lacquer, giving it a classic and elegant look. The yellow brass keys are also finished in honey gold lacquer, completing the instrument's overall aesthetic.
In addition to its stunning appearance, this saxophone is equipped with blued steel springs and premium leather pads with metal resonators, ensuring smooth and accurate key action. It also comes with a protective 2nd generation neck plug to keep the instrument in top condition.
To further enhance the playing experience, this saxophone comes with a high-quality plastic mouthpiece, complete with cap, ligature, and Rico reed. The purchase also includes a backpack-style protective case with a shoulder strap and an Apollo premium accessory package, including a neckstrap, cork grease, and cleaning swab.
7. Hal Leonard Essential Elements 2000 Alto Saxophone Book 1 With Cd-Rom
The product being offered comes with a range of features that cater to a comprehensive learning experience. Each book includes access to My EE Library, which is an online platform designed to help learners enhance their skills. The start-up video provides an introduction to the basics of the instrument, providing an overview that aids in learning.
The play-along mp3 feature is an excellent tool that enables learners to practice their instrument with a professional player. This feature helps learners to improve their skills and develop an ear for music. The duets and trios print and play parts with friends feature encourages group learning, which can be a fun and effective way to enhance one's skills. This feature allows learners to practice with others, which can help them improve their timing and coordination.
Finally, the music listening library provides access to a vast collection of great pieces for band. This feature allows learners to listen to and appreciate different musical styles, which can help broaden their understanding of music. It is an excellent tool for learners who wish to explore and discover new music.
8. Selmer Sts411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone – Lacquer
Introducing the Bb Ten Saxophone, a top-of-the-line instrument perfect for both beginners and professionals. This saxophone is designed with ribbed construction, ensuring durability and longevity, perfect for those who need an instrument that can withstand regular use. The ribbed construction also helps improve the instrument's tone quality, allowing for a more resonant and full-bodied sound.
One of the key features of this saxophone is the adjustable thumb rest, which allows players to customize the instrument's ergonomics to fit their individual playing style. This feature is especially helpful for those who struggle with hand or wrist pain, as it can help reduce strain and discomfort during extended playing sessions.
The Bb Ten Saxophone comes equipped with Pisoni Pro Pads, renowned for their high-quality materials and superior performance. These pads ensure a precise and stable seal, resulting in a consistent and reliable sound.
This saxophone also includes a durable and protective case with a sleek lacquer finish, making it easy to transport and store. The case is designed to keep the instrument safe from scratches, dents, and other types of damage, ensuring that it stays in excellent condition for years to come.
9. Jazz Up Your Baritone Sax With Rico Select!
The Select Jazz reeds in strength 3M by Rico are a must-have for any serious woodwind player. Boasting a thicker spine and blank, combined with a traditional tip, the result is a balanced and round sound with enhanced projection. The Select Jazz cut features a longer vamp and well-defined heart, giving players unprecedented projection and a clear, fat tone.
These reeds are available in both filed and unfiled models, with or without a French file. They come in 1/3rd strengths, allowing players to fine-tune their exact strength preference. This feature ensures that musicians of all levels can benefit from using these reeds, whether they are beginners or seasoned professionals.
Rico, the global leader in woodwind reeds and accessories, has strengthened its position even further since being acquired by D'Addario & Co. The company's state-of-the-art reed research center in Southern California employs agronomists, scientists, and musicians to produce top-quality reeds. The Rico Reserve premium reeds for clarinet and saxophone are just one example of the exceptional quality that Rico offers.
Players around the world trust Rico reeds, including renowned artists such as Mark Nuccio, Jerry Bergonzi, Chris Potter, Benny Golson, Ernie Watts, Bob Sheppard, Henri Bok, Richie Hawley, and Eric Alexander.
With strength options ranging from 2 to 4, in S (Soft), M (Medium), and H (Hard), the Select Jazz reeds are perfect for any music genre. The box includes five reeds, making it a great value for the price.
Experience outstanding control and projection with Rico's Select Jazz reeds. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, these reeds are a game-changer.
10. Légère Reeds Premium Synthetic Woodwind Reed, Soprano Saxophone, Classic, Strength 2.50 (Ss2.50)
The Classic saxophone reeds by Legere are an ideal choice for any saxophonist, whether a professional or a beginner. These reeds are designed to be easy to play and are extremely durable, making them a great investment for those looking to save time and money in the long run.
The Classic reeds are based on the first prototype and produce a darker, focused sound. The thicker tip of these reeds makes them perfect for projecting sound and providing a full, rich, and percussive tone.
One of the most significant advantages of these reeds is that they are made of synthetic material, which makes them highly durable and long-lasting. Unlike traditional reeds, Legere synthetic reeds are not affected by environmental conditions such as high humidity, which means they are less prone to warping or cracking.
Another great feature of Legere reeds is that they come ready to play right out of the box, with no need for preconditioning or soaking. This saves saxophonists valuable time, and ensures that they get the perfect pitch every time they play.
For added convenience, these reeds come with a carry case that makes it easy to store them safely and keep them protected from the elements.
If for any reason customers are unhappy with their purchase, Legere offers a no-risk 30-day exchange policy. Customers can contact the company, and they will replace the reed free of charge.
Best Intermediate Saxophone FAQs
Are there any specific models of intermediate saxophones that are highly recommended?
Yes, there are several models of intermediate saxophones that are highly recommended by professional musicians and music educators. Here are a few examples:
1. Yamaha YAS-480/62: This saxophone is a popular choice for intermediate players due to its high-quality construction, excellent intonation, and rich tone.
2. Selmer AS42: The Selmer AS42 is another great option for intermediate players. It features a beautiful sound, easy playability, and a durable construction.
3. Yanagisawa WO20 and WO30: These saxophones are known for their exceptional sound quality and excellent craftsmanship. They are suitable for both classical and jazz styles of playing.
4. Jupiter JAS1100: The Jupiter JAS1100 is a versatile saxophone that is suitable for players of all levels. It features a warm sound, responsive action, and a comfortable playing experience.
Ultimately, the best intermediate saxophone for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to try out several models before making a final decision to ensure that you find the one that best fits your needs.
How do I know if I am ready to upgrade from a beginner to an intermediate saxophone?
The decision to upgrade from a beginner to an intermediate saxophone depends on various factors. Firstly, evaluate your level of proficiency in playing the saxophone. If you have been playing for a while and feel comfortable playing basic songs, then it may be time to upgrade to an intermediate saxophone.
Secondly, consider the quality of your current saxophone. If you have been playing on a beginner saxophone for a while, you may have noticed that it doesn't produce the sound quality you desire. An intermediate saxophone will have better sound quality, intonation, and overall playability.
Thirdly, think about your musical goals. If you plan to continue playing the saxophone and wish to pursue more advanced techniques and genres, then upgrading to an intermediate saxophone is a good idea.
Finally, consult with a music teacher or saxophone professional. They may be able to assess your playing level and recommend a suitable saxophone upgrade.
Ultimately, upgrading to an intermediate saxophone is a personal decision based on your playing level, instrument quality, musical goals, and professional advice.
How do intermediate saxophones differ from beginner and professional models?
Intermediate saxophones are designed to bridge the gap between beginner and professional saxophones. They are typically more advanced than beginner models, but not as advanced as professional models. Intermediate saxophones are designed to meet the needs of players who have outgrown their beginner saxophone but are not ready for a professional level instrument.
One of the key differences between intermediate saxophones and beginner models is that intermediate saxophones often have more advanced features. For example, they may have more keys, a better quality mouthpiece, and more advanced mechanisms for better intonation and tone.
Intermediate saxophones also typically have a better overall build quality than beginner models. They are often made from higher quality materials and have more attention to detail in their construction. This can result in a more comfortable playing experience and better sound quality.
Overall, intermediate saxophones are a great choice for players who are looking to take their playing to the next level, but are not quite ready for a professional-level instrument. They offer a good balance of quality and affordability, making them a popular choice for many intermediate players.
What are the benefits of upgrading to an intermediate saxophone?
Upgrading to an intermediate saxophone can offer a number of benefits for intermediate or advancing players. First and foremost, an intermediate saxophone typically has better build quality and materials than a beginner saxophone, which can result in a richer, more nuanced sound and greater durability. Additionally, intermediate saxophones often have more advanced keywork and mechanisms, allowing for greater flexibility and ease of playing.
Intermediate saxophones also often feature a wider range of tone and sound options, allowing players to explore different styles and genres more fully. Finally, intermediate saxophones can help prepare players for the transition to a professional-level saxophone, offering a stepping stone between beginner and advanced levels of play. Overall, upgrading to an intermediate saxophone can help intermediate players to continue to develop their skills and sound, and to better express themselves musically.
What are the best intermediate saxophones on the market?
There are many great intermediate saxophones available on the market, each with their own unique features and advantages. Here are a few of the best intermediate saxophones to consider:
1. Yamaha YAS-480 – This saxophone is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and excellent sound quality. It is durable and easy to play, making it a great choice for intermediate players.
2. Selmer AS42 – This saxophone is made with a professional-style neck and has a warm, rich tone. It is also easy to play and has a comfortable key layout.
3. Yanagisawa A-WO20 – This saxophone has a beautiful, resonant sound and is made with high-quality materials. It is also very responsive, making it a great choice for intermediate players.
4. Jupiter JAS1100 – This saxophone is known for its excellent intonation and easy playability. It is also very durable and has a great sound quality.
Ultimately, the best intermediate saxophone for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It is a good idea to try out different saxophones before making a purchase to find the one that feels and sounds the best for you.
What are the key features to look for in an intermediate saxophone?
When looking for an intermediate saxophone, there are a few key features that you should consider. Firstly, you should look for a saxophone with a high-quality build and durable materials, such as brass or nickel silver. This will ensure that your saxophone will last for years to come and can withstand the demands of intermediate players.
You should also look for a saxophone that has a responsive and versatile tone, which will allow you to play a variety of musical styles and genres. This can be achieved through features such as a larger bore size and a more sophisticated key system.
Another important consideration is the ergonomics of the saxophone. An intermediate saxophone should have a comfortable and ergonomic design that will reduce strain on your hands and fingers, allowing you to play for longer periods of time.
Finally, it is important to consider the brand and reputation of the saxophone maker. Look for a well-established brand with a proven track record of producing high-quality saxophones. This will ensure that you are getting a reliable and well-crafted instrument that will meet your needs as an intermediate player.
What is the average price range for a high-quality intermediate saxophone?
The average price range for a high-quality intermediate saxophone can vary depending on the brand, model, and features. Generally, intermediate saxophones are designed for players who have progressed beyond the beginner level and are looking for an instrument with more advanced features and better sound quality.
On average, a high-quality intermediate saxophone can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. However, there are also more expensive options available that can cost upwards of $5,000 or more. It's important to note that the price of a saxophone doesn't always guarantee its quality and performance, so it's crucial to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Some popular brands that offer high-quality intermediate saxophones include Yamaha, Selmer, and Yanagisawa. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to try out different models and brands to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
What types of music are best suited for intermediate saxophones?
Intermediate saxophone players have likely developed a solid foundation in their playing technique and are ready to explore different styles of music. There are several types of music that are well-suited for intermediate saxophone players.
1. Jazz: Jazz is a popular genre for saxophonists of all levels. For intermediate players, it’s a great opportunity to work on improvisation and playing in different keys.
2. Blues: Blues is another genre that’s well-suited for the saxophone. It’s a great way to work on phrasing and playing with feeling.
3. Pop: Many pop songs feature saxophone solos or sections. These songs can be a fun way to work on playing in a band setting and working on dynamics.
4. Classical: Classical music is a great way to work on tone and technique. Intermediate players can explore different classical pieces and work on their interpretation and expression.
Ultimately, the best type of music for intermediate saxophones is the one that they enjoy playing the most. It’s important to find music that’s challenging but also fun to play.
Where can I find reliable reviews and recommendations for intermediate saxophones?
When it comes to finding reliable reviews and recommendations for intermediate saxophones, there are several resources that can be useful. One of the best places to start is online music stores, such as Woodwind & Brasswind, Musician's Friend, and Sam Ash. These sites often have customer reviews and ratings for the various saxophones they offer, which can give you a good idea of what other players think of a particular model.
Another option is to check out saxophone forums and discussion boards, such as Sax on the Web or Cafe Saxophone. These online communities are made up of sax players of all levels, and they can be a great source of information and advice. You can ask for recommendations or search through past threads to see what others have said about specific saxophone models.
Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out to local music stores or saxophone teachers for recommendations. They may have firsthand experience with certain saxophones and can offer valuable insights and advice. Ultimately, the key is to do your research and gather as much information as possible before making a purchase.
Which brands make the best intermediate saxophones?
There are several brands that make great intermediate saxophones, each with their unique features and qualities. Yamaha, Selmer, and Yanagisawa are some of the top brands that produce high-quality intermediate saxophones.
Yamaha saxophones are widely popular for their consistent sound quality, excellent intonation, and durability. They are known for producing versatile and reliable saxophones that are suitable for both classical and jazz music.
Selmer saxophones are also a popular choice among intermediate players, especially the Selmer AS42. These saxophones are known for their smooth and rich tone quality, making them ideal for classical music and ballads.
Yanagisawa saxophones are another great choice for intermediate players. These saxophones are handmade in Japan and are known for their excellent craftsmanship, precise intonation, and bright sound quality.
Ultimately, the best intermediate saxophone brand depends on the individual's playing style, preferences, and budget. It is recommended to try out different saxophone brands and models before making a final decision.