10 Best Tenor Saxophones 2026 in the United States

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.

The Yamaha YTS-26 Standard Tenor Saxophone is a solid choice for those either beginning their journey with the tenor saxophone or looking to upgrade from a beginner model. Made from durable horn material with nickel-plated keys, its clear baked epoxy lacquer finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also ensures long-lasting durability. The newly redesigned intermediate style neck receiver enhances playability by providing better airflow and ease of use, making it more comfortable for users, especially those who are still finding their footing with the instrument.

The adjustable thumb rest and screws on the upper and lower stacks further add to the comfort and customization, making it easier to adapt to individual playing styles and preferences. Weighing 19.84 pounds, it might be slightly heavier for some, but the ergonomic design helps distribute the weight evenly, making long practice sessions more manageable. Yamaha is a reputable brand in the musical instrument industry, often praised for their reliability and quality, which adds a layer of trust and confidence for potential buyers.

The included mouthpiece and case offer good value, as they are essential accessories that new players would otherwise have to purchase separately. The high-quality build and professional design might be more than what absolute beginners need, and the price point could reflect that. For those with a little more experience or commitment, this tenor saxophone is likely to meet and exceed their needs.

The Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone is crafted with a combination of brass and nickel, giving it a durable and attractive lacquer finish that many players appreciate for both looks and sound quality. Its ribbed body construction adds strength without making it overly heavy, although at 21.4 pounds, this saxophone is on the heavier side, which might be a consideration if you plan to play for long sessions or carry it frequently. The key mechanism features blued steel springs that provide reliable action and durability, enhancing the responsiveness while playing. It comes equipped with Pisoni Pro leather pads with metal resonators, known for good sealing and sound clarity, which is important for consistent tone and intonation.

The Henri Selmer Paris neck mouthpiece is a standout feature, as it offers excellent control and contributes significantly to the instrument’s rich, warm sound. When it comes to ergonomics, the saxophone is well-designed but its weight may impact comfort for some users. Selmer, as a brand, has a strong reputation among professional musicians, ensuring solid build quality and trustworthy performance.

This tenor saxophone delivers professional-level sound and build with quality materials and components, but its weight and complexity might require some getting used to. It tends to be better suited for intermediate to advanced players rather than absolute beginners.