10 Best Tenor Saxophones 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone is designed for serious musicians seeking quality and performance. One of its standout features is the ribbed body construction, which enhances durability and sound projection, making it suitable for both solo and ensemble performances. The use of Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with metal resonators contributes to excellent tonal quality and responsiveness, allowing players to express their style with ease. The saxophone comes with a Henri Selmer Paris neck mouthpiece, known for its comfortable playability, which is crucial for extended practice sessions and performances.

The black nickel finish adds a stylish touch, appealing to those who want their instrument to look as good as it sounds. It's also ergonomic, though it weighs about 21.8 pounds, which could be a consideration for players who prefer lighter instruments or need to carry it for long periods.

The Selmer brand is highly regarded, but it comes at a higher price point, which may not fit everyone's budget, especially beginners or casual players. This saxophone is an excellent choice for advanced players or professionals looking for a reliable, high-quality instrument that can handle various musical styles, particularly in jazz and classical genres. Beginners might find it more complex to manage due to its professional features. The STS711 offers outstanding craftsmanship and performance, although its weight and cost may be potential drawbacks for some users.