10 Best Saxophones 2026 in the United States

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 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 Series II Model 52 Jubilee Edition Alto Saxophone (52JU) is a professional-level instrument made from brass and finished in a gold tone lacquer. This finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides a warm, resonant sound which is highly valued by musicians. The S80C mouthpiece included with this saxophone is known for its dynamic acoustics, making it suitable for various musical styles.

The instrument's elegant design is highlighted by intricate engraving from the bell to the bow and Henri Selmer's signature, adding a touch of sophistication. The redesigned octave neck key improves the playability with a lighter mechanism and subtle outlines, which can benefit players who seek a responsive and comfortable experience.

However, at a weight of 15.45 pounds, this saxophone may be heavier compared to some other models, which could be a consideration for younger or smaller players. This saxophone is particularly well-suited for professional musicians looking for a top-quality instrument with a classic sound and elegant design. Beginners or casual players might find it more than they need, both in terms of features and cost.