AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Saxophones for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Keilwerth SX 90R Shadow Baritone Sax ($14,533). Yamaha YBS-62II Professional Eb Baritone Saxophone gives you the most for the money at $9,619. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 26 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight5 kg
The Keilwerth SX 90R Shadow Baritone is a truly exceptional instrument—built for the serious professional or dedicated student who demands the absolute best. Its precision intonation, responsive action, and rich, focused tone make it a joy to play, particularly suited for classical, jazz, and concert band settings where tonal clarity and stability are paramount.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the range, minimizing tuning headaches.
- Hydraulically formed neck offers incredible stability and responsiveness.
- Silvered keys and leather pads provide a smooth, exceptionally quiet action.
Cons
- The substantial weight (5 kg) can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$14,689 · Aug 14$14,533 now$14,533€12,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YBS-62II Professional Eb Baritone Saxophone
YBS-62II Baritone Sax - NEW · Yamaha
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The YBS-62II is a serious step up for the intermediate to professional baritone sax player. Yamaha’s refined keywork and shorter bell provide excellent intonation and playability—it’s a workhorse instrument capable of handling a wide range of musical styles, from jazz to classical, with a modern, focused sound.
Pros
- Improved ergonomics significantly reduce hand fatigue during long sessions.
- The shorter bell design demonstrably improves intonation across the range.
- New key designs offer a smoother, more responsive action, crucial for advanced players.
Cons
- The instrument’s weight will be a factor for players with smaller builds or limited stamina.
- The detachable peg is an optional extra, adding to the overall investment.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$9,619 now$9,619€8,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Yanagisawa B-WO20 is a serious instrument for the seasoned baritone sax player. Its bronze body delivers a rich, resonant tone and the impeccable keywork feels incredibly responsive. It’s ideal for professional jazz musicians and orchestral players seeking a top-tier, expressive voice.
Pros
- Exceptional projection and warmth thanks to bronze body construction
- Brass keywork offers a responsive, vintage-inspired feel
- High F# and Low A keys extend range for complex passages
Cons
- The bronze body requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and patina
- Significant weight makes extended playing sessions physically demanding
38AudioFu
Index↑ 2.0%since Aug 14$11,186 · Aug 14$11,410 now$11,410€10,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YBS-82 is a serious step up for the dedicated baritone player. Yamaha’s nailed the ergonomics and tonal focus here; it's a joy to play, offering a powerful, resonant sound that excels in jazz and orchestral settings. This is for the pro or serious student wanting top-tier quality and a comfortable, modern feel.
Pros
- Ergonomic key layout reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions.
- One-piece bell construction delivers a remarkably focused and resonant low end.
- Gold lacquer finish provides a warm tone and excellent protection against wear.
Cons
- The weight, typical of baritones, can be tiring for less experienced players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$12,305 now$12,305€10,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This saxophone looks stunning with its gold lacquer and hand engraving. The leather pads and metal resonators promise a solid, tight sound. It comes with a case but you must buy a mouthpiece separately. This instrument is great for players who want that classic deep baritone tone, even though the price is steep.
Pros
- Gold lacquer finish adds bright visual appeal
- Hand-engraved detailing shows exceptional craftsmanship
- Leather pads with metal resonators ensure tight response
Cons
- Price is very high for most musicians
- Includes case but no mouthpiece in the box
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,200 now$13,200€11,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Selmer SE-B3L is a serious instrument, delivering that iconic Selmer tone with modern ergonomic improvements. It’s perfect for professional players and advanced students who demand top-tier performance and are willing to invest in a horn that will last a lifetime. The build quality and sound are truly exceptional.
Pros
- Exceptional Selmer build quality ensures decades of reliable performance.
- Gold lacquer provides a warm, rich tone with excellent projection.
- Ergonomic design minimizes fatigue during extended playing sessions.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- Weight can be a challenge for smaller players or those with limited stamina.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$14,935 now$14,935€13,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Yanagisawa B-WO10 is a truly elite baritone sax. It’s built for serious players—jazz soloists, orchestral musicians—who demand the best possible response, intonation, and tonal complexity. The build quality is simply superb, and it's a joy to play.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the full range, even in the low register.
- The brass body provides a warm, resonant core tone, ideal for jazz.
- Precision-engineered keywork ensures lightning-fast response and minimal resistance.
Cons
- The substantial weight can be fatiguing for players with smaller builds.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$10,012 now$10,012€8,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Rampone & Cazzani R1 is a serious instrument for the discerning baritone player. The unlacquered brass gives it a gorgeously vocal, vintage tone that's perfect for jazz, blues, and soulful styles. It's a premium-priced investment, but the build quality and unique voice are truly exceptional.
Pros
- Unlacquered gold brass delivers a uniquely warm, complex tone.
- Hand-hammered body and bell enhance projection and resonance.
- Vintage finish provides a beautiful aesthetic and aging character.
Cons
- High-end price point makes it inaccessible for many players.
- Lack of high F# key limits upper register versatility.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$9,955 now$9,955€8,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The B-WO2 is a serious contender for the discerning baritone saxophonist. It offers a fantastic combination of warmth, projection, and responsiveness, making it ideal for jazz, classical, and any genre demanding a rich, powerful low end. This is a top-tier instrument designed for the experienced player who values exceptional build quality and tonal character.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the range, even in the low register.
- The bronze body delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Robust brass keywork ensures smooth, reliable action and durability.
Cons
- The weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions, particularly for smaller players.
- The premium-priced nature puts it out of reach for many aspiring baritone players.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$9,117 now$9,117€8,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Forestone SX is a serious contender for the intermediate to advanced player looking for a well-built, responsive baritone. The hand-engraving and Pisoni pads really elevate the feel and tone, giving it a professional edge. It’s a great option for jazz, concert band, or anyone wanting a rich, powerful baritone sound.
Pros
- Hand-engraved bell adds visual flair and sonic complexity.
- Pisoni padding delivers exceptional response and resonance.
- Hybrid post construction enhances key stability and ergonomics.
Cons
- Baritone saxes are inherently heavy; this one will be a workout.
- Gold lacquer, while beautiful, requires diligent care to prevent tarnish.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$9,172 now$9,172€8,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 26 baritone saxophones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Schagerl 66FV Baritone SaxophoneSchagerl · 2 finishes44Stable$8,043€7,189$8,043€7,189Check ↗
- 12
Yanagisawa B-WO1 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$8,277€7,398$8,277€7,398Check ↗
- 13
Thomann TBS-150 Baritone SaxThomann57Stable$2,123€1,898$2,123€1,898Check ↗
- 14
Startone SBS-75 Baritone SaxStartone · 2 finishes46↓ 3.8%$1,452€1,298$1,452€1,298Check ↗
- 15
Thomann BariPRO L Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,137€3,698$4,137€3,698Check ↗
- 16
Thomann lowJAZZ L Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,137€3,698$4,137€3,698Check ↗
- 17
Thomann BariPRO VD Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,249€3,798$4,249€3,798Check ↗
- 18
Thomann BariPRO VG Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,249€3,798$4,249€3,798Check ↗
- 19
Thomann lowJAZZ PB Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,473€3,998$4,473€3,998Check ↗
- 20
Thomann BariPRO BS Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,585€4,098$4,585€4,098Check ↗
- 21
Thomann BariPRO PB Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,697€4,198$4,697€4,198Check ↗
- 22
Thomann BariPRO S Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,754€4,249$4,754€4,249Check ↗
- 23
Yamaha YBS-480 Baritone SaxophoneYamaha38Stable$7,382€6,598$7,382€6,598Check ↗
- 24
Rampone & Cazzani Performance Line Baritone SaxRampone & Cazzani36↑ 2.9%$7,829€6,998$7,829€6,998Check ↗
- 25
Jupiter JBS1000 Baritone SaxJupiter35Stable$4,137€3,698$4,137€3,698Check ↗
- 26
BetterSax Classic Baritone SaxophoneBetterSax35Stable$4,352€3,890$4,352€3,890Check ↗
Baritone Saxophones by the numbers
Measured across all 28 models we track, not a sample.
Median $7,597 — half of all baritone saxophones here cost less.
How to choose the best baritone saxophones
Keywork Ergonomics
Advanced players need a key system that feels intuitive and allows for complex passages without fighting the horn. Look for well-placed thumb keys, comfortable bell keys, and a generally smooth action - sloppy mechanics will kill your speed and accuracy.
Tonal Complexity
A bari shouldn't just be 'low and loud.' We're talking about a full spectrum of overtones, a warm low-end thump with enough bite in the midrange to cut through, and the ability to shape your tone with subtle embouchure adjustments. This is about nuance, not just volume.
Response and Articulation
A responsive horn speaks instantly to your breath, allowing for crisp articulation and dynamic control. A sluggish response makes fast passages feel muddy and limits your expressive range. Check the horn's response across all registers, not just the comfortable middle range.
Neck Profile and Action
The neck is critical. A comfortable, consistent neck profile is essential for consistent intonation and ease of playing. Action needs to be low enough for comfortable playing without feeling buzzy or sharp - finding that sweet spot is key.
Bell Design & Material
The bell dictates a huge amount of the horn's tonal character. Thicker brass tends to have a darker, more focused sound, while lighter materials can offer more projection. Consider how the bell design interacts with the overall tonal goals for your playing.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the beginner horn and you're actually pushing the baritone sax. You're not just looking for something that makes noise; you want response, articulation, and a tonal palette that can handle everything from smoky jazz ballads to screaming funk. Finding a bari that delivers that at an advanced level isn't easy - they're big, complex instruments, and the little compromises that fly on a student horn become glaring weaknesses when you're trying to really play.
Don't be fooled by flashy finishes or inflated marketing. Advanced baris are expensive for a reason - the craftsmanship and materials matter. Pay attention to the keywork - if it feels cheap, it will sound cheap.
Used horns can be a great value, but get a tech to check the pads and key seating before you commit. And remember, a bari is a commitment; it's a big instrument, and it takes time to truly master.
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 28 baritone saxophones from the Thomann catalogue. 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 deal with different brass alloys?
Generally, yellow brass is brighter and more projecting, while red brass is darker and more mellow. Some horns use a mix to try and get the best of both worlds, but it's often a compromise.
Should I get a bari with a detachable bell?
Detachable bells are more for experimentation than essential functionality. They let you swap bells to alter the horn's tone, but it's a rabbit hole that isn't necessary for most players.
How important is a good mouthpiece?
Crucially important. The mouthpiece shapes the tone more than almost anything else. Experiment! Don't be afraid to try different facings and materials to find what works best with your horn and your playing style.
What's the learning curve like upgrading to a higher-end bari?
It's not just about technical proficiency. You'll need to re-learn how to play the horn, adjusting your embouchure and breath support to take advantage of its capabilities. It can be frustrating, but the payoff is significant.
Are vintage baris worth the hype and the cost?
Some are, some aren't. Vintage horns can offer unique tonal qualities, but they often require significant repairs and maintenance. Do your research, play before you buy, and factor in the cost of a good tech.
