Best professional tenor saxophones

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Oct 8, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best professional tenor saxophones one can find on the market today. We've analyzed about 78 of professional tenor saxophones and selected the 29 top options by KONIX. We took the time to do a thorough research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the products we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend numerous hours searching for the ideal model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Yamaha YTS-26 Standard Tenor Saxophone Lacquer
#TOP 1
Yamaha YTS-26 Standard Tenor Saxophone Lacquer
ftb score rating icon 10
PBM Score
Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Bb Tenor Saxophone Lacquer
#TOP 2
Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Bb Tenor Saxophone Lacquer
ftb score rating icon 10
PBM Score
Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone
#TOP 3
Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone
ftb score rating icon 10
PBM Score

Top 29 Best professional tenor saxophones Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Yamaha YTS-26 Standard Tenor Saxophone Lacquer

Yamaha

Features

  • New neck receiver
  • Quality horn
  • Low price
  • Adjustable thumb-rest
  • Improved Low B-C# connection
#TOP 2

Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Bb Tenor Saxophone Lacquer

Yamaha

Features

  • Quick response
  • Compatible with other necks
  • Warm tone
  • New key guard
  • Hand engraving
#TOP 3

Yamaha YTS-62 III Professional Tenor Saxophone

Yamaha

Features

  • Case - Gold Lacquer
  • Integrated Key Posts
  • Professional Neck Receiver
  • Bb Ten Saxophone
  • with 62-style Neck
#TOP 4

Vandoren SM823EL V16 Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece

Vandoren

Features

  • This chamber is perfect for the player searching for the 'vintage' Sound
  • It offers a full, rich and darker sound alternative
  • Also available in T6, T8, 5 and T9l
  • It is responsive and easy to play throughout the range of the instrument
  • Made from hard rubber/ebonite
#TOP 5

6Pcs Yootones Saxophone Thumb Finger Rest Palm Key Risers Compatible

Yootones

Features

  • Protect your saxophone. Sax palm key risers protect your instrument. Softness and environmental friend.
  • Saxophone thumb finger rest risers. Made by high quality rubber. Soft and environmental, comfortable and durable in use.
  • 6Pcs/set in a package and is easy to install and use. It is suitable for soprano alto tenor sax wind instruments.
  • Protect your fingers. It can solve the problem of finger fatigue, discomfort, protection keys, keys to adjust the level of increased comfort.
  • It is a wonderful term to rest your fingers and bring you better playing performance.
#TOP 6

Futheda 3PCS Saxophone Thumb Rest Hook Gel Cushion Pad Saver Cover Sax Rubber Finger Protector Cushion Wind Musical Instruments Accessories

Futheda

Features

  • The Saxophone Thumb Rest is made of high quality rubber, soft and environmental, comfortable and durable in use.
  • Ergonomic Design, Cupped design supports thumb position and it can alleviate the fatigue of long-term playing a musical instrument.
  • Saxophone gel thumb rest has non-slip surface. Non-slip surface is helpful to maintain the correct finger position, soft gel cushion gives you a comfort using experience.
  • Saxophone finger guard is a great accessory for saxophone enthusiasts, easy for carry and storage with compact size.
  • Easy to install, simply fit it onto the thumb rest on the back of the saxophone, then it offers better protection for your fingers.
#TOP 7

Dselvgvu Copper Miniature Saxophone

Seawoo

Features

  • Material:Copper
  • Very detailed miniature replica of Saxophone(Non Playable Simulate Instrument)
  • Nice gift for families and friends.Also fit for Action Figures and Dolls.
  • Approx.Size:3.16"x1.69"x0.63"
  • Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
  • Including: 1x Saxophone Miniature,1x Stand,1x Case.
#TOP 8

GapCap Tenor Saxophone end plug flex fits in your sax

Key Leaves

Features

  • Flex spring wall gives a perfect fit in any tenor saxophone. No more loose-fitting end plug or sax cap!
  • Flex wall absorbs shock impact that can bend saxophone keys or body tube.
  • Vented at top and side for more air flow to dry the sax and leather pads after you play.
  • Replaces traditional saxophone end plugs or sax caps that trap moisture inside the sax.
  • Extend it to safely hold the sax in a loose fitting case and protect the octave key.
#TOP 9

Jean Paul USA Intermediate Tenor Saxophone TS-400

Jean Paul USA

Features

  • Comes with robust contoured carrying case for ease of use transportation
  • Beautiful yellow brass body construction with lacquer finish
  • Key of BB with power forged and tapered pivot keys for easy playability
  • Lovely engraved bell pattern for and extra touch of quality and class
  • Included accessories: one Rico reed, carrying case, cork grease, cleaning Cloth and mouthpiece
#TOP 10

3Pcs Saxophone Rubber Thumb Rest

KAIY

Features

  • CAN NOT MISS: Wonderful term to rest your fingers and bring you better playing performance.
  • HIGH QUALITY: Saxophone palm key risers are made of soft rubber, comfortable and durable, high-quality, and environmentally friendly, they are definitely the best choice for your saxophone.
  • EASY TO INSTALL: 3Pcs Sax Key Pads in a package and are easy to install and use, stable and comfortable, not falling. Palm key risers help to maintain the correct finger position.
  • COMFORTABLE WEARING FEELING: Finger Protector fits onto the thumb rest on the back of the saxophone to alleviate the finger fatigue caused by long-term playing.
  • APPLICATION: Black rubber thumb rest cushion palm key risers are comfortable and suitable for soprano alto tenor sax wind instruments.
#TOP 11

Dselvgvu Copper Miniature Saxophone

Seawoo

Features

  • Including: 1x Saxophone Miniature,1x Stand,1x Case.
  • Material:Copper
  • Nice gift for families and friends.Also fit for Action Figures and Dolls.
  • Very detailed miniature replica of Saxophone(Non Playable Simulate Instrument)
  • Approx.Size:6.22"x3.07"x1.12"
#TOP 12

Selmer STS280 La Voix II Tenor Saxophone Outfit Copper Body

SELMER

Features

  • The new La Voix II instruments return to a more traditional bell size that offers the player a tone with more focus and ease of blending
  • Ideal for concert band and solo playing
#TOP 13

Apollo Student Tenor Saxophone in gold lacquer

Apollo

Features

  • Premium leather pads with metal resonators
  • Yellow Brass Neck, Body tube, Bow and Bell finished in Honey Gold Lacquer
  • Blued Steel Springs
  • Yellow Brass keys finished in Honey Gold Lacquer
  • Standard-class Tenor Saxophone in key of Bb
  • High quality plastic mouthpiece, complete with cap, ligature and Rico reed
  • U.S. designed, tested, and supported
  • Protective 2nd generation neck plug
  • Purchase includes backpack-style protective case with shoulder strap and Apollo premium accessory package including neckstrap, cork grease and cleaning swab
#TOP 14

Selmer STS711 Professional Tenor Saxophone

SELMER

Features

  • Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece
  • Blued Steel Springs
  • Bb Ten Saxophone with Ribbed Body Construction
  • Case - Matte
  • Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with Metal Resonats
#TOP 15

Mendini by Cecilio Tenor Saxophone

Mendini by Cecilio

Features

  • Quality Sound: Whether you're a pro, a student, or just a hobbyist, you won't be disappointed with the top tier quality of this horn's sound! Plus, you can make sure you're playing at your best with the included saxophone tuning device.
  • Bonus: You don't just get an instrument with us - you get the case, a mouthpiece with a cap, a tuner, 10 reeds (2.5"), a polishing cloth, a cleaning rod, AND a pair of white gloves keep your sax spot-free!
  • Travel Safely: Our nylon case ensures that your sax stays safe, even on the go. It includes a backpack strap for easy carrying, PLUS zippered pockets to keep extra reeds or your tuner in!
  • Multiple Colors: Looking to stand out musically AND visually? We've got several color options to choose from! Gold, nickel, black - take your pick and get creative!
  • All Levels, All Ages: Thinking of picking up a tenor sax? Or maybe you're a professional in need of a replacement? Either way, our saxophones are the answer! They're great for players of all ages and skills levels.
#TOP 16

Eastar Tenor Saxophone Student Tenor Saxophone Bb Tenor Sax B Flat Gold Lacquer Beginner Saxophone With Cleaning Cloth

Eastar

Features

  • Please Rest Assured to Buy -- Eastar TS -Ⅱ Tenor saxophone, Carrying Case ,Mouthpiece Set, Real Leather Strap (110lb limit), Shoulder Strap x 2,White Gloves, Resin Practice Reed x 1, Advanced Bulrush Reeds (Strength 2.5 ), Soft Swab, Soft Cloth, Cleaning Brush. If you are not satisfied with the product you received, please contact us directly and we will replace it or give you a full refund. 12 months warranty.
  • Practical Design -- Full bounding key stick gasket for longer life and better pressing feel. Keystroke link: all being applied oil for debugging before leaving the factory , preventing the link from rusting and getting stuck.Setting the F# key to suit the performance.The U-tube of the bass is adopted: Eastar has accumulated crafts experiences for many years to improve the stability of the bass and achieve a stable feeling of playing and resistance.
  • Top Material -- instruments dedicated copper, lead-free welding green craft, feel free to use. Advanced imported leather pads, high air tightness, Imported blue copper needle spring, moderate elasticity, not aging, high feedback when finger pressing.
  • Beautiful Sound -- professional tone adjustment before leaving factory , excellent sound quality without noise, pleasant surprise. No pressure from low to high gamut range transition.Improved saxophone flute head, as a regular jazz visitor, this saxophone features a smooth response and a deep, refined sound full of rich colors.
  • Amazing look -- Eastar TS -Ⅱ: Transparent Anlique Red Brass , multi-layer painted ,durable and barely to fade color. Faux mother of pearl inlaid keys are simple and generous. The handcrafted carvings of the bell mouth makes TS -Ⅱ perfect even more perfect.
#TOP 17

Jean Paul USA Intermediate Tenor Saxophone TS-400GP

Jean Paul USA

Features

  • Included accessories: one Rico reed, Premium Carrying Case, Cork Grease, Cleaning Cloth, Swabs, and Mouthpiece
  • Engraved bell pattern for and extra touch of quality and class
  • Beautiful yellow brass body construction with lacquer finish
  • Key of Bb with power forged and tapered pivot keys for easy playability
  • Includes robust contoured Premium Carrying Case with contoured ABS molded padded interior and reinforced hardware
#TOP 18

2Pcs Yootones Black Artificial Leather Saxophone Mouthpiece Sax Ligature Fastener Compatible

Yootones

Features

  • Compatible with standard hard rubber and tenor saxophone mouthpiece, not suitable for metal mouthpiece.
  • With adjustable screws, help to adjust the diameter of the instrument.
  • Help to hold the reed to the mouthpiece, helping to make the sound a lot better and the tone more even.
  • Mouthpiece leather ligature durable and works well. Will not scratch your mouthpiece.
  • Pack of 2. Durable and practical, good quality of processing,smooth finish.
#TOP 19

EASTROCK Tenor Saxophone B Flat Gold Laquer Sax Students Beginner With Updated Carrying Case

EASTROCK

Features

  • Top MaterialOur beautiful instrument used selected h68 copper material and multi-layer painted transparent lacquered gold,durable and non-fading and Hand carved on the appearance and high-quality shell buttons make the sax more perfect.EASTROCK saxophone is definitely an outstanding musical instrument in terms of quality and appearance.
  • 100% Money BackEASTROCK musician instrument have 1 year manufacture warranty against defect.Any problems,please feel free to contact us,we must give you satisfied solutions.
  • Excellent SoundThe EASTROCK saxophone have been professionally adjusted before leaving the factory to ensure that have good sound without noise, and the buttons have good feedback and look perfect when the fingers are pressed down.
  • Advanced DesignEASTROCK saxophone used upgraded quality leather so that make the saxaphone have higher air tightness,used the upgraded quality copper needle spring make the instrument more smooth.Choose EASTROCK must be your best investment,NEVER let you disappoint.
  • Suitable For Any Level PlayerEASTROCK saxophone is suitable for students,beginners,school,concert,gifts and any level players.Tone B-Flat to High F.Package included one tenor saxophone,portable updated hard case,Mouthpiece,neck strap,Reeds,Mouthpiece Cushion Pads,Cleaning Cloth&Cleaning Rod,White Gloves,Alcohol Pads.Absolute value for money.
#TOP 20

80 Pieces Yootones Mouthpiece Cushion 0.8 mm Mouthpiece Patches Compatible

Yootones

Features

  • This soft rubber pad with adhesive, which allows the teeth firmly fixed to the mouthpiece without slipping, no residue/ adhesive will be left on the instrument while peeling off.
  • The alto saxophone mouthpiece cushion is made of good quality rubber, which will not harm to your health; It's a good accessory of saxophone and clarinet.
  • After using these mouthpiece pads, please place it in a ventilated area and avoid direct sunlight.
  • The alto mouthpiece pad can protect the saxophone flute head and protect the teeth of the players, compatible with the alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, and clarinet.
  • The size of alto mouthpiece pad is about 27 x 20mm(LxW)/1.06in x 0.78in, 0.8 mm in thickness. which is a great accessory for alto/ tenor saxophones beginners.
#TOP 21

Miniature Tenor Saxophone

ViaGasaFamido

Features

  • SURPRISE GIFT- The miniature alto saxophone with a outstanding appearance,is a perfect Christmas and birthday gift for your children or musician friends.This is the most suitable gift to choice.
  • HIGH QUALITY - The miniature alto saxophone is made of brass with gold plating technique, durable and anti-rust.Our saxophone model with exquisite craftsmanship, the surface is carefully polished, comfortable hand feeling and perfect lines.
  • EXCELLENT CRAFT & NOVEL DESIGN - This miniature saxophone has incredible attention to detail from neck to bow, brass keys to wood reed in the mouthpiece. It is a lovely furnishing article to be placed in bedroom, home, bars, cafes, restaurants, wedding, party or other romantic places for decoration.
  • CUSTOMER SERVICE - We are committed to providing our customers 100% satisfaction with the products and shopping experience. Please feel free to contact us if there any problems or needs.
  • CONVENIENT TO STORE - This saxophone model comes with a stand, it can be placed on the bookcase, desk, beside table and music room as decoration.Also,the package comes with a nice wooden gift case to storage the miniature trumpet.
#TOP 22

Selmer TS411 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone

SELMER

Features

  • Case - Lacquer
  • with Ribbed Construction
  • Bb Ten Saxophone
  • Adjustable Thumb Rest
  • Pisoni Pro Pads
#TOP 23

Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone

Yamaha

Features

  • with 62-style Neck
  • 4C Mouthpiece
  • Bb Ten Saxophone
  • Case - Clear Lacquer
  • Professional Neck Receiver
#TOP 24

JodyBlues Tenor Saxophone Bb JTS-802 Professional Black lacquered Tenor Sax

Jody Blues

Features

  • High cost performance, made in China, suitable for beginners and professional people
  • Note: This tenor does not support return and exchange without reason. Except for quality problems, the buyer need pay the return freight.
  • INCLUDES- durable hard-shell case,rubber mouthpiece,neck strap,reeds (Size 2.5",10pieces), cleaning cloth & rod, and a pair of gloves
  • Professional SAXOPHONE-Black Matte Bb Tenor Saxophone
  • FINE WORKMANSHIP-Carved design,Black Matte Lacquered, Rubber Mouthpiece,good leather cushion, enamel needle, lacquer gold process, imitation of pearl shell button, large bore
#TOP 25

OPUS USA by Ktone Professional Black Gold Tenor Saxophone Sax Brand New

OPUS USA by Ktone

Features

  • Bb Key with High F# key
  • French Super Style
  • U.S.A. Mouth Piece
  • Durable Body & Keys
#TOP 26

LovermusicQJ-902 Tenor Saxophone Reed Trimmer Woodwind Instrument Tool Silver

Lovermusic

Features

  • Made of high-quality metal and plastic, strong and durable.
  • A useful accessories for Tenor saxophone lovers.
  • Easy to use, with knobs, easy.
#TOP 27

Professional Saxophone Tenor Saxophone B Flat Tenor Saxophone Beginner Professional Playing Brass Sax Beginners Kit

SHUNTIAN

Features

  • Luggage material: Luggage is made of waterproof canvas fabric, and the inside is made of foam liner, which has a strong impact resistance. It can be used for multi-functional use. It can be used on double shoulders, single shoulders, side backs, portables, etc.
  • Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
  • Using high-quality materials, lead-free welding and environmental protection technology, safe use, high air tightness, moderate elasticity, no aging, and high finger pressure feedback.
  • Precision mouthpiece: Inheriting the classic mouthpiece, integrating it into integrated manufacturing, after the curved neck is inserted, it is tightly fitted and firmly secured without any looseness.
  • This saxophone is easy to play, and has a pleasantly energetic feel and a good center sound. Saxophone is suitable for many forms of music, including jazz, rock and all kinds of classical forms on the surface.
  • Special brass alloy, the service life is greatly increased, and the service life is as long as eight to fifteen years
#TOP 28

Jody Blues JTS-803 Black Lacquer Carving B Tenor Saxophone Professional Grade

Jody Blues

Features

  • Black lacquered body Tenor sax
  • 1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects
  • Includes: Durable hard-shell case, mouthpiece, neck strap, reeds (Size 2.5",10pieces), cleaning cloth & rod, and a pair of gloves
  • Fine workmanship, carved design, dragon pattern,French leather cushion, enamel needle, lacquer gold process, imitation of pearl shell button, large bore
  • High cost performance, made in China, suitable for professional and grading
#TOP 29

1Set Yootones Saxophone Repair Parts Screws Springs Leather Pads Compatible

Yootones

Features

  • 1 set of tenor saxophone replace parts, includes 13 kinds of maintenance parts. Great musical instrument accessory for woodwind saxophone enthusiasts.
  • Tenor Sax replacement kit is used for tenor saxophone maintenance.
  • Used for tenor saxophone maintenance, and replace the damaged, old or dirty parts.
  • You can enhance your hands-on ability and have better knowledge of tenor saxophone.
  • Made of metal,plastic, a necessary replacement kit to make your old saxophone to be a new one with these parts.

professional tenor saxophones Buying Guide: What You Need to Know

What strength Reed does Kenny G use?

D'Addario Hemke Alto Saxophone Reed #3.0.

How old does a saxophone have to be to be considered vintage?

The term vintage saxophone has been used to describe everything from 100+ year-old horns—which would really be considered antiques in the truest sense of the word—to modern horns with a faux vintage finish. For example, this is my Evette & Schaeffer HP baritone from 1886.

Do you need big hands for tenor sax?

You do not need big hands to play the saxophone. While you do need hands large enough to fit around the instrument, it is more common to have hands which are too large for the saxophone and necessitate adjustments on some keys.

How much does a professional tenor saxophone cost?

Tenor saxophones: $700-$8000. Electric saxophones: $400-$800. Alto saxophones: $250-$5000. Baritone saxophones: $2500-$7500.

What saxophones do professionals use?

Although there are many saxophone brands used by professional saxophonists, the two most popular are Selmer and Yamaha. Selmer saxophones have a long tradition as being the favorite of many professional performers, especially the Selmer Mark VI model, which was manufactured from 1954 through 1973.

What is a good brand of saxophone?

The top 11 best saxophone brands are:
  • Henri Selmer Paris.
  • Yanagisawa.
  • Keilwerth.
  • Yamaha.
  • Jupiter.
  • P. Mauriat.
  • Borgani.
  • Trevor James.

Editor's Notes

In total, our editorial team spent 41 hours on the research before they come up with the list of the 29 best professional tenor saxophones out there. We've read 1873 reviews, on 22 different trusted resources and made this compilation of the customers' favorites. The selected products got the average rating of 243, and, we've also considered the price range: on average, these professional tenor saxophones are available at $5575.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.