AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Selmer Alto Saxophones 2026
The top pick is Selmer Axos Alto Sax ($3,580). Selmer Supreme Alto Sax SE-ASUB leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight2.5 kg
The Selmer Axos is a thoughtfully designed student/intermediate horn, delivering a Selmer pedigree at a more accessible price point. It's a fantastic choice for serious students and advancing players who appreciate a reliable, focused sound and comfortable feel—especially those prioritizing ease of high register playing. The included S80 mouthpiece is a solid starting point, though experienced players will likely swap it out eventually.
Pros
- Brass body provides a warm, focused core tone.
- Narrow scale facilitates easier high register playing for many.
- Handmade engraving adds a touch of refined craftsmanship and detail.
Cons
- The weight (2.50 kg) might be tiring for younger or smaller players.
- Narrow scale limits versatility for extended range jazz or experimental playing.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,580 now$3,580€3,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Selmer SA80 II Goldlac is a fantastic step-up horn—a true workhorse. It nails that classic Selmer sound with a refined feel and excellent build quality, making it perfect for serious students and gigging professionals looking for a reliable, professional-grade instrument.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the range, thanks to refined bore design
- Gold lacquer provides a warm, responsive, and focused tone
- Durable, nickel silver body ensures longevity and resilience
Cons
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for most players
- The included S80 C* mouthpiece might not suit all playing styles
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,724 now$5,724€5,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious step up, designed for the discerning pro or advanced student. The S-bow design offers a remarkably centered and powerful sound, while the adjustable features let you dial in your perfect intonation. It's a beautifully crafted instrument that excels in a variety of musical styles, particularly classical and jazz, demanding a player who can truly appreciate its nuances.
Pros
- The S-bow bore delivers exceptional projection and a focused tone.
- Nickel silver adjustable sleeve allows for precise intonation fine-tuning.
- Directly coupled F#/F key improves response and speed for advanced players.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many aspiring saxophonists.
- The complex ergonomics may require a period of adjustment for some players.
37AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$8,406 · Aug 17$7,846 now$7,846€6,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer’s Signature Alto is a serious upgrade on the Super Action, retaining that classic Selmer feel while refining the upper register and adding some real visual flair. This is a top-tier instrument perfect for advanced students and professional saxophonists seeking a refined, responsive, and beautiful horn – a true workhorse for any genre.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the entire range, a Selmer hallmark.
- Art Deco engraving elevates the instrument's aesthetic appeal significantly.
- New S-bow bore delivers a richer, more focused tone than previous models.
Cons
- The gold lacquer, while beautiful, requires meticulous care to prevent wear.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,576 now$7,576€6,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer’s Signature is a beautifully refined update to the Super Action 80, delivering a powerful, focused sound with exceptional intonation across the range. It’s ideal for serious intermediate to professional players seeking a top-tier instrument with a classic Selmer feel and enhanced projection—a real workhorse for jazz, classical, and beyond.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation, noticeably improved in the upper register.
- Art Deco engraving elevates aesthetics and feel.
- New S-bow bore delivers a richer, more responsive low end.
Cons
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for most players.
- The gold-lacquered keys may require more frequent polishing.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,070 now$8,070€7,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer really knocked it out of the park with the Signature – it's a refined Super Action 80 II, delivering a richer, more focused sound and improved upper register intonation. This is a top-tier horn for serious players and professionals who want that classic Selmer feel with modern refinements and a touch of class.
Pros
- Art Deco engraving adds visual elegance and subtle heft.
- New S-bow bore delivers improved projection and warmth across registers.
- Teflon-bearing octave key offers exceptionally smooth and reliable action.
Cons
- The patinated finish might not appeal to players preferring a bright, unadorned look.
- Premium-priced, making it inaccessible for many student or intermediate players.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,070 now$8,070€7,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer really knocked it out of the park with this one. It's a modern reimagining of the Super Action 80, retaining that familiar Selmer sound while addressing some of the older models’ intonation quirks. This is an exceptional choice for serious students and professionals seeking a refined, responsive, and beautiful alto sax.
Pros
- Art Deco engraving adds a touch of elegance and exclusivity.
- S-bow bore delivers improved responsiveness and tonal color.
- Optimized intonation in the upper register allows for confident high playing.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible for many students or hobbyists.
- Matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may show wear more visibly.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,070 now$8,070€7,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer has clearly listened to the criticisms of the Super Action 80 II and addressed them with the Signature. It’s a beautifully crafted horn with noticeably improved intonation and a darker, more focused tone, making it ideal for serious students and professional players seeking a refined Selmer experience. It's a significant upgrade, but the price reflects that.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation, especially in the upper register, addresses a common SA80II issue.
- The new S-bow bore delivers a noticeably richer, more focused lower register tone.
- Art Déco engraving adds a level of aesthetic refinement rarely seen on saxophones.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag places it far beyond the reach of many aspiring players.
- The patinated finish, while visually appealing, might not appeal to players preferring a brighter, more modern look.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,519 now$8,519€7,589 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious upgrade, clearly aimed at the professional or advanced student. The new bore and key design make it incredibly responsive and comfortable, with a warm, focused tone that's perfect for classical, jazz, and everything in between. It's a top-tier instrument built for demanding players.
Pros
- Patinated body offers unique aesthetic and subtly alters tonal color.
- New S-bow bore delivers improved projection and a richer lower register.
- Optimized ergonomics reduce fatigue, crucial for extended performance sessions.
Cons
- The premium-priced nature puts it out of reach for many aspiring saxophonists.
- Patinated finish requires diligent care to prevent unwanted tarnishing.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,641 now$8,641€7,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious step up, designed for the advanced player who demands precision and a rich, resonant tone. The new bore and keywork really elevate the feel and response – it's noticeably more refined than previous models. This is perfect for jazz soloists and studio musicians who want a saxophone that can truly sing.
Pros
- S-bow bore delivers exceptional projection and a focused tone.
- Newly designed tone hole net improves response and intonation consistency.
- Ergonomic keywork reduces fatigue, especially during extended playing.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many aspiring saxophonists.
- Black lacquered body might show fingerprints and require more frequent cleaning.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,968 now$8,968€7,989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 12 alto saxophones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Alto Saxophones by the numbers
Measured across all 105 models we track, not a sample.
Median $8,070 — half of all alto saxophones here cost less.
median of 24 models · 1 kg–2.6 kg
How to choose the best alto saxophones
Heritage & Legacy
Selmer's history isn't just marketing; it's baked into the instruments. The evolution of their designs, from the early Series III to the modern V, reflects decades of refinement based on player feedback and a constant pursuit of tonal excellence.
Tonal Character
That Selmer 'sound' - it's a complex thing. Think warm, centered, with a responsive low end that doesn't get muddy, and a focused upper register that can cut through a big band without becoming brittle. It's a tone that lends itself to both lyrical ballad playing and gritty, bluesy solos.
Keywork & Ergonomics
Selmer's keywork is generally renowned for its smooth action and reliability, though older models can sometimes feel a bit stiff until they've been properly serviced. The neck profile, too, plays a huge role in comfort and control, and Selmer's designs have consistently prioritized a player-friendly feel.
Build Quality & Materials
Selmer consistently uses high-quality brass alloys, and their craftsmanship is generally top-notch. This translates to excellent intonation, good resonance, and a horn that can withstand years of gigging - assuming it gets proper maintenance, of course.
Response & Articulation
A Selmer alto should respond evenly across the range, allowing for incredibly nuanced articulation. The ability to control the horn's dynamics, from a breathy whisper to a full-throated roar, is a hallmark of a well-made Selmer.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Selmer altos. If you're serious about saxophone, you're going to bump into a Selmer at some point - they're the gold standard, no question. But 'Selmer' isn't just a brand; it's a lineage of craftsmanship and tonal character that's shaped jazz and beyond for generations. Knowing which Selmer is right for you is more than just checking the model number; it's about understanding what you're really buying into.
Finding a Selmer is only half the battle; condition is everything. Older horns, especially, need a good overhaul to bring them back to their prime - leaky pads, worn corks, and sticky keywork will ruin the experience. Don't chase the 'vintage' mystique if you're not willing to invest in proper servicing; a well-maintained modern horn will often outperform a neglected vintage one.
And be prepared to pay a premium - Selmers hold their value, and for good reason.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 15 alto saxophones from the Thomann catalogue (of 105 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a Selmer Mark VI and a Mark VII?
The Mark VI is the holy grail, obviously, but the Mark VII attempted to modernize the design. Many players find the Mark VII's tone a little too bright and lacking the depth of the VI. It's a matter of preference, but the VI commands a higher price for a reason.
Are Selmer Series III horns any good?
Absolutely! They're often overlooked because they're not as flashy as the later models, but a well-maintained Series III can be a fantastic player. They tend to have a darker, more mellow tone, which some players prefer.
I've heard Selmers can be 'too much' horn. What does that mean?
It means they can be responsive and complex to a fault. It takes skill and control to really harness the full potential of a Selmer; they can be unforgiving of sloppy technique.
Can I get a Selmer alto for under $1000?
It's tough, but possible. You'll likely be looking at an older Series III or a Selmer Copy (like Yanagisawa) in less-than-perfect condition. Factor in the cost of an overhaul - it's almost always necessary.
What's the best Selmer alto for a beginner?
Honestly, a newer, less expensive horn from a reputable brand like Yamaha or Jupiter might be a better starting point. A Selmer is a serious investment, and a beginner might not have the technique to fully appreciate it.
