10 Best Tenor Saxophones 2025 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 BetterSax Tenor Saxophone is a well-crafted instrument that suits both beginners and more experienced players. Its metal body with a dark gold lacquer finish gives it a classy, vintage look, enhanced by detailed hand-engraving that adds a personal touch. The saxophone is designed to be lightweight and comfortable, making it easier to handle during practice or performances. It features a professional bore design, which helps produce a consistent and pleasant tone across all notes, an important feature for players looking to develop or refine their sound. The included BetterSax Classic mouthpiece and underslung octave key design contribute to its playability and classic appeal. The package comes with a softshell case and neckstrap, so you get everything needed to start playing right away.

While the brand BetterSax might not have the widespread reputation of some long-established manufacturers, it receives positive feedback for delivering good value. Weighing around 16.7 pounds, it is on the heavier side compared to some other models, which might affect comfort during long sessions for younger or smaller players.

This saxophone offers a blend of attractive design, solid performance, and beginner-friendly features at an affordable price point, making it a strong choice for those starting out or seeking a reliable secondary instrument without a premium cost.

The Selmer TS44 Professional Tenor Saxophone is a well-regarded instrument in the professional saxophone community, known for its reliable craftsmanship and quality sound. The saxophone is made from horn material which offers a traditional and resonant tone, fitting well with classical and professional playing styles. The instrument key is A, which is standard for tenor saxophones and ensures it can play a wide range of music effectively.

Selmer is known for producing ergonomic designs that are comfortable to play for extended periods, despite the relatively heavy weight of 19 pounds. This weight might be a drawback for younger or smaller players who may find it cumbersome to manage. On the other hand, the robust construction can handle rigorous use in professional settings.

Selmer, as a brand, has a strong reputation in the musical instruments industry, especially for saxophones, assuring that this model lives up to high expectations. The TS44 has been available since 2014, and it ranks moderately in sales for saxophones. The Selmer TS44 is an excellent choice for professional musicians looking for a reliable and high-quality tenor saxophone, though its weight might be a consideration for some players.