AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Saxophones for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Thomann TBS-150 Baritone Sax ($2,123). Startone SBS-75 Baritone Sax gives you the most for the money at $1,452. Keilwerth SX 90R Shadow Baritone Sax leads the high end. 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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- Weight6 kg
The Thomann TBS-150 is a surprisingly capable baritone sax, offering a full, round tone for a budget-friendly price. It’s a great starting point for serious students or players seeking a dependable, resonant horn without premium price tag. The build is decent, though a bit stiff out of the box.
Pros
- Solid brass construction lends a warm, resonant tone.
- Low A key expands the range for advanced players.
- Adjustable thumb rest improves comfort and ergonomics.
Cons
- The weight (6.0 kg) can be tiring for extended playing sessions.
- Mouthpiece is likely entry-level, may need upgrading for pros.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$2,123 now$2,123€1,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Startone SBS-75 is a surprisingly capable baritone sax for the price. It offers a full, rich tone that's great for jazz, blues, or even orchestral work. This is a solid choice for students or intermediate players looking for a dependable, affordable baritone without sacrificing too much in terms of build quality.
Pros
- Solid brass body delivers a warm, resonant low-end tone.
- High F# key extends range for complex passages and improvisation.
- Adjustable thumb holder provides customizable comfort for various hand sizes.
Cons
- Lacquered finish, while attractive, may be prone to wear with heavy use.
- Weight can be a challenge for less experienced or smaller players.
46AudioFu
Index↓ 3.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,509 · Aug 14$1,452 now$1,452€1,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann BariPRO L is a surprisingly capable baritone sax, delivering a rich, full sound at a premium-priced point. It's a great option for serious students and gigging musicians who want a solid, well-built horn without the stratospheric price tag of the major brands. Just be prepared for the weight!
Pros
- Solid brass construction yields a warm, resonant, and powerful tone.
- Italian pads offer exceptional responsiveness and a comfortable feel.
- High F# and low A keys expand range and versatility for advanced players.
Cons
- The substantial brass body makes it noticeably heavy, demanding stamina.
- Lacquered finish, while beautiful, requires diligent care to prevent wear.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,137 now$4,137€3,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann lowJAZZ L is a surprisingly capable baritone sax for the price. It offers a solid foundation for student or intermediate players looking for a full, resonant sound with extended low range. While not a professional-grade horn, the build quality and included features make it a great value for those starting or expanding their baritone journey.
Pros
- Hand-engraved details elevate the aesthetics and feel of the horn.
- Italian pads offer a responsive and consistent action across the range.
- Brass body delivers a warm, resonant tone suitable for jazz and beyond.
Cons
- The lacquered finish, while attractive, can be prone to wear with heavy use.
- Baritone saxophones are inherently heavy; this one will require a strong player.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,137 now$4,137€3,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The BariPRO VD is a serious contender for intermediate to advanced baritone sax players seeking a full, vintage-inspired sound without a premium-priced tag. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and the inclusion of a low A key expands its versatility. It’s a great option for big band, jazz, or anyone wanting a powerful, resonant low end.
Pros
- Solid brass construction delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful tone.
- Italian pads offer exceptional responsiveness and a comfortable feel.
- Presence of high F# expands upper register possibilities for advanced players.
Cons
- The bariPRO's weight, typical of brass instruments, will be tiring for extended playing.
- Vintage Dark finish, while attractive, may show wear more readily than a gloss finish.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,249 now$4,249€3,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann BariPRO VG is a surprisingly capable baritone sax, offering a vintage-inspired aesthetic and solid build quality. It's a great option for serious students or gigging musicians wanting a premium instrument without the exorbitant price tag of a Selmer or Yanagisawa. The included accessories are a nice touch, but expect to upgrade the mouthpiece to truly unlock its potential.
Pros
- Solid brass construction provides a warm, resonant tone.
- Italian pads offer excellent responsiveness and a secure seal.
- High F# and low A keys expand range for complex passages.
Cons
- The weight will be noticeable for less experienced players.
- Dark lacquer can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,249 now$4,249€3,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Jupiter JBS1000 is a really well-built bari, striking a great balance between affordability and professional features. It's a fantastic option for serious students, gigging musicians, or anyone looking for a reliable and versatile instrument with a warm, full sound. The adjustability makes it especially comfortable for various hand sizes.
Pros
- Solid brass body and neck offer a warm, resonant tone.
- Blue steel springs provide responsive, consistent key action.
- Adjustable keywork caters to a wide range of player comfort.
Cons
- The weight can be a challenge for younger or smaller players.
- Gold lacquer finish may require careful maintenance to prevent wear.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,137 now$4,137€3,698 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
The Schagerl 66FL is a serious instrument for the discerning baritone sax player. Its robust build and rich tone really cut through a big band setting, and the high F# key gives you serious soloing options. This is for the pro or advanced student looking for a European-made horn with excellent projection and a traditional feel.
Pros
- Schagerl's hand-hammered body offers exceptional resonance and projection.
- High F# key expands the range for complex big band and solo work.
- Brass lacquer finish provides a warm, responsive feel and attractive aesthetic.
Cons
- The substantial weight demands a strong embouchure and physical stamina.
- Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for student or casual players.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 1.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$7,696 · Aug 14$7,597 now$7,597€6,790 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
Thomann lowJAZZ PB Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,473€3,998$4,473€3,998Check ↗
- 12
Thomann BariPRO BS Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,585€4,098$4,585€4,098Check ↗
- 13
Thomann BariPRO PB Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,697€4,198$4,697€4,198Check ↗
- 14
Thomann BariPRO S Baritone SaxThomann42Stable$4,754€4,249$4,754€4,249Check ↗
- 15
Yanagisawa B-WO1 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$8,277€7,398$8,277€7,398Check ↗
- 16
Yanagisawa B-WO2 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$9,117€8,149$9,117€8,149Check ↗
- 17
Yanagisawa B-WO10 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$10,012€8,949$10,012€8,949Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha YBS-480 Baritone SaxophoneYamaha38Stable$7,382€6,598$7,382€6,598Check ↗
- 19
Yanagisawa B-WO20 Baritone SaxYanagisawa38↑ 2.0%$11,410€10,198$11,410€10,198Check ↗
- 20
Yamaha YBS-82 Baritone SaxophoneYamaha38Stable$12,305€10,998$12,305€10,998Check ↗
- 21
Rampone & Cazzani R1 Jazz Baritone Sax OTRampone & Cazzani37Stable$9,955€8,898$9,955€8,898Check ↗
- 22
Selmer SE-B2L Baritone SaxSelmer37Stable$13,200€11,798$13,200€11,798Check ↗
- 23
Selmer SE-B3L Baritone SaxSelmer37Stable$14,935€13,349$14,935€13,349Check ↗
- 24
Rampone & Cazzani Performance Line Baritone SaxRampone & Cazzani36↑ 2.9%$7,829€6,998$7,829€6,998Check ↗
- 25
BetterSax Classic Baritone SaxophoneBetterSax35Stable$4,352€3,890$4,352€3,890Check ↗
- 26
Forestone SX Gold Lacquered Baritone SaxForestone35Stable$9,172€8,198$9,172€8,198Check ↗
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
Playability
A beginner needs a bari that's relatively forgiving. This means a comfortable neck profile, manageable action (not too high, not too low), and responsive keys. A stiff action will kill your articulation and make those low notes a real struggle.
Intonation
Baris are notorious for intonation issues. A beginner doesn't want to spend hours wrestling with out-of-tune notes. Look for horns with a good reputation for staying in tune, even when you're not a pro.
Durability
Let's be honest, student instruments often take a beating. Gigging, transport, and just general wear and tear - a robust build is essential. Cheap plastic parts will crack and leak, and those pads won't last.
Tone
You don't need a vintage Selmer Mark VI tone right away, but you do need something that's not offensively bad. Avoid horns with a thin, reedy sound or a harsh, ice-picky upper register. A warm, even tone, even if it's basic, will be more encouraging.
Key Mechanism & Ergonomics
The size and weight of a bari are significant. Easy-to-reach keys and a comfortable overall layout will make practicing much less of a workout. Look for a horn that feels balanced and doesn't strain your hands or back.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about tackling the baritone sax? Awesome - it's a beast of an instrument, capable of laying down some serious low-end thump that cuts through any mix. But let's be real, a bari is not the easiest sax to learn. Picking the right instrument as a beginner is crucial; a poorly designed bari will just make the learning curve steeper and more frustrating. We're here to break down which baris will actually help you get started and avoid a tone-sucking experience.
Don't chase the 'cheap' horn - you'll likely end up spending more fixing it later. A slightly higher-priced student model from a reputable brand (Yamaha, Jupiter, Selmer USA) will generally offer better build quality and playability. Be realistic about your budget; a bari is a big investment.
Used horns are a viable option, but get it checked out by a tech before you commit.
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
Are baritone saxophones really that much harder to play than other saxes?
Absolutely. The sheer size and weight require more breath support and embouchure control. The longer keys also make reaching a bit trickier, especially for smaller players.
What's 'action' and why does it matter?
Action refers to the distance between the reed and the keys. Too high, and it's hard to get a sound. Too low, and the keys stick. A good setup, or a horn with naturally good action, makes a huge difference.
Should I buy a bari with a pickup?
Not essential for a beginner. While pickups can be useful for gigging, they add complexity and cost. Focus on getting a good-sounding, playable horn first. You can always add a pickup later.
What about different neck profiles? Does it matter?
It does! A comfortable neck profile makes a world of difference in ergonomics. A neck that's too thick or too thin can cause hand fatigue and make it difficult to control your embouchure.
I'm on a tight budget. What corners are usually cut on cheaper baris?
Expect cheaper plastic key mechanisms, thinner metal, lower-quality pads, and a less precise overall build. These compromises directly impact playability and tone - it's often better to save up for something decent.
