AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Saxophones for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Schagerl 66FL Baritone Saxophone ($7,597). Thomann BariPRO L Baritone Sax gives you the most for the money at $4,137. 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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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 ↗ -
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 Thomann lowJAZZ PB is a surprisingly capable baritone sax for the price. Its solid brass build gives it a rich, warm tone, perfect for jazz ensembles and soloists who appreciate a traditional feel. It's an excellent starting point for serious baritone players looking for a premium-priced instrument without the top-tier brand name markup.
Pros
- Solid brass construction delivers a warm, resonant low-end tone.
- Italian pads offer excellent responsiveness and a comfortable feel.
- High F# key expands the range for more complex melodies and improvisation.
Cons
- The all-brass build contributes to a substantial weight, demanding physical stamina.
- While capable, the included mouthpiece is likely a stepping stone for serious players.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,473 now$4,473€3,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann BariPRO BS is a surprisingly capable baritone sax for the price. It offers a solid, brassy tone and a decent key range for a variety of genres, from jazz to funk. This is a great option for serious students or gigging musicians looking for a reliable, well-built instrument without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Solid brass construction delivers a warm, resonant low-end tone.
- High F# and low A keys expand melodic and harmonic possibilities.
- Italian pads offer reliable response and a comfortable feel.
Cons
- The matte black finish might show fingerprints and require more frequent cleaning.
- Baritone saxophones are inherently heavy; this one will be a workout.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,585 now$4,585€4,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann BariPRO PB is a compelling option for serious intermediate to advanced baritone players seeking a raw, unlacquered brass sound. It delivers a robust tone and expanded range at a premium-priced point, but be prepared for the upkeep involved with an unlacquered brass instrument. This is an excellent choice for jazz, big band, and anyone who wants a truly classic baritone voice.
Pros
- Solid brass construction yields a warm, resonant, and powerful tone.
- Italian pads offer excellent response and a comfortable feel.
- High F# and low A keys expand the instrument's range and versatility.
Cons
- Unvarnished brass requires diligent maintenance to prevent tarnishing.
- The weight, typical of baritone saxes, may be challenging for some players.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,697 now$4,697€4,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The BariPRO S is a surprisingly capable baritone sax, offering a good balance of quality and affordability. Its warm tone and expanded range make it a solid choice for serious students or gigging musicians looking for a reliable, professional instrument. The silver plating gives it a bright aesthetic, but be prepared for some upkeep to keep it looking its best.
Pros
- Solid brass body delivers a warm, resonant low end.
- Italian pads offer excellent response and airtightness for consistent intonation.
- High F# key expands range for complex melodic possibilities.
Cons
- The brass body will require diligent maintenance to prevent tarnish.
- Weight can be a factor for smaller players or extended performance periods.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,754 now$4,754€4,249 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 ↗ -
This YBS-480 is a serious step up for intermediate to professional players. The improved neck design and short bell make it surprisingly easy to play in the low range, and the overall build quality is superb. It’s a fantastic choice for jazz, big band, and classical work – a truly refined baritone experience.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation, particularly in the low register due to the short bell design.
- Neck design from the YBS-62II offers a comfortable, responsive feel.
- Durable, hand-hammered brass body ensures longevity and a warm tonal foundation.
Cons
- The weight, typical for a baritone, can be tiring for extended playing sessions.
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many student or beginner players.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$7,382 now$7,382€6,598 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
Rampone & Cazzani Performance Line Baritone SaxRampone & Cazzani36↑ 2.9%$7,829€6,998$7,829€6,998Check ↗
- 12
BetterSax Classic Baritone SaxophoneBetterSax35Stable$4,352€3,890$4,352€3,890Check ↗
- 13
Jupiter JBS1000 Baritone SaxJupiter35Stable$4,137€3,698$4,137€3,698Check ↗
- 14
Thomann TBS-150 Baritone SaxThomann57Stable$2,123€1,898$2,123€1,898Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha YBS-62II Professional Eb Baritone SaxophoneYBS-62II Baritone Sax - NEW · Yamaha66Stable$9,619€8,598$9,619€8,598Check ↗
- 16
Keilwerth SX 90R Shadow Baritone SaxKeilwerth51↓ 1.1%$14,533€12,990$14,533€12,990Check ↗
- 17
Startone SBS-75 Baritone SaxStartone · 2 finishes46↓ 3.8%$1,452€1,298$1,452€1,298Check ↗
- 18
Yanagisawa B-WO1 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$8,277€7,398$8,277€7,398Check ↗
- 19
Yanagisawa B-WO2 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$9,117€8,149$9,117€8,149Check ↗
- 20
Yanagisawa B-WO10 Baritone SaxYanagisawa39Stable$10,012€8,949$10,012€8,949Check ↗
- 21
Yanagisawa B-WO20 Baritone SaxYanagisawa38↑ 2.0%$11,410€10,198$11,410€10,198Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha YBS-82 Baritone SaxophoneYamaha38Stable$12,305€10,998$12,305€10,998Check ↗
- 23
Rampone & Cazzani R1 Jazz Baritone Sax OTRampone & Cazzani37Stable$9,955€8,898$9,955€8,898Check ↗
- 24
Selmer SE-B2L Baritone SaxSelmer37Stable$13,200€11,798$13,200€11,798Check ↗
- 25
Selmer SE-B3L Baritone SaxSelmer37Stable$14,935€13,349$14,935€13,349Check ↗
- 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
Baris are inherently physically demanding. We're prioritizing horns with manageable action - not too high, not too low - and a comfortable neck profile that won't leave your hands aching after a set. A smooth-blowing horn is essential for developing consistent articulation.
Tone & Projection
That low-end thump is what you want from a bari, but it needs to be focused, not just a muddy rumble. We're listening for a balanced response across the range, with enough 'air' to cut through a band mix without sounding harsh. It's about getting that growl without the ice-picky top end.
Keywork & Ergonomics
Intermediate players are starting to develop more complex fingerings and embouchure techniques. The keywork needs to be reliable, with good spring tension and minimal slop. A well-laid-out horn makes a huge difference in speed and accuracy.
Durability & Build Quality
Gigs are brutal on instruments. We're looking for horns with solid keywork, durable pads, and a body that can withstand the rigors of travel and regular use. Cheap corners here will cost you big time in repairs down the road.
Pickup Voicing (if applicable)
If you plan on recording or amplifying your bari, the built-in pickup's voicing is surprisingly important. Some pickups sound sterile and lifeless, while others add a pleasant warmth or a usable edge. It's a subtle detail, but it can make a big difference in your sound.
Buying guide
So, you're looking to step up to a baritone sax? Awesome. It's a beast of an instrument, and getting the right one at the intermediate level is crucial - you need something that'll let you develop your chops without fighting the horn, and that'll still sound decent when you're finally gigging. Forget about those student-model horns you started on; it's time for something with a bit more meat and some real character.
Don't get seduced by a flashy finish or a low price. Baritone saxophones are a serious investment. Be wary of horns with excessively low actions; they often mask underlying build quality issues.
Spending a little more on a horn with a good reputation and solid construction will save you headaches (and repair bills) in the long run. Try before you buy if possible - a bari is a very personal instrument.
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 difference between a 'student' and 'intermediate' baritone sax?
Student models prioritize affordability over everything else. Intermediate horns start to focus on better materials, improved keywork, and a more refined tonal character - they're built to handle more demanding playing and last longer.
My bari feels stuffy - what could be the problem?
It could be a number of things: pads needing cleaning/replacing, a leak in the body, or even just a build-up of gunk in the horn. Get it checked by a qualified repair tech - ignoring it will only make it worse.
Should I consider a vintage baritone sax?
Vintage horns can be amazing, but they often require significant maintenance and can be unreliable. Unless you're comfortable with repairs or know a good tech, stick with a modern horn - the consistency is worth it.
I'm struggling to get a good low end - what can I do?
Check your embouchure - a relaxed jaw and a good air seal are crucial. Also, experiment with your mouthpiece and reed combination. A darker mouthpiece and a softer reed can help fill out the low end.
Are baritone saxophones really that hard to transport?
They're big and heavy, no getting around that. Invest in a good, padded case and be prepared to have some awkward moments navigating doorways and stairs. Seriously, a two-handed carry is non-negotiable.
