AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritones for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Cerveny CEP 531-4 Baritone ($3,741). Thomann TBH 700 GM gives you the most for the money at $1,682. Miraphone 53 N 1100 A Baritone leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 38 models across 10 brands, 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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- Weight3.48 kg
The Cerveny CEP 531-4 is a solid, well-built baritone offering a rich, resonant tone. It’s a great choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a dependable instrument with good projection, particularly those in concert or marching bands who appreciate a responsive, reliable horn.
Pros
- Excellent projection thanks to the 260mm brass bell
- MINIBAL joints offer improved response and intonation
- Nickel silver leadpipe enhances tonal warmth and clarity
Cons
- The 3.48 kg weight can be tiring for younger or smaller players
- The clear lacquer finish may require more frequent polishing
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,741 now$3,741€3,333 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.48 kg
The Cerveny CEP 731-4R is a seriously well-built baritone. The gold brass bell gives it a beautiful, rich tone, and the MINIBAL joints make it comfortable to play. It's a great option for advanced students and professionals looking for a reliable, high-quality instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- MINIBAL joints enhance ergonomics and intonation consistency.
- Gold brass bell delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low register.
- Nickel silver mechanisms ensure smooth, reliable valve action and responsiveness.
Cons
- The 3.48 kg weight might be fatiguing for younger or smaller players.
- The 15.2 mm bore, while versatile, might lack extreme projection for some.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,263 now$4,263€3,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.6 kg
This B&S 46-L is a serious instrument—a real step up for experienced baritone players or those looking for a professional-grade horn. The German build quality and gold brass leadpipe give it a rich, focused tone with excellent projection, making it a fantastic choice for concert band, solo work, or even jazz ensembles.
Pros
- Gold brass leadpipe delivers exceptional projection and warmth.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action for years.
- German craftsmanship guarantees impeccable build quality and intonation.
Cons
- The 3.6 kg weight can be tiring for younger or smaller players.
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many student budgets.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,635 now$4,635€4,129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.74 kg
This B&S 3046-L is a serious baritone, built like a tank and sounding fantastic. The graduated bore and gold brass give it a really full, powerful tone that cuts through an ensemble. It’s perfect for experienced players and advanced students looking for a top-tier instrument with exceptional responsiveness.
Pros
- Gold brass construction delivers a rich, warm, and resonant tone.
- 4-valve system offers exceptional flexibility for complex passages.
- 3B ball bearing linkage ensures incredibly smooth and responsive valve action.
Cons
- The large bell diameter (300mm) can make it cumbersome for smaller players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,937 now$4,937€4,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann TBH 700 GM is a surprisingly capable baritone for the price. The gold brass construction gives it a pleasant, full sound, and the rotary valve action feels very responsive. This is a great option for student or intermediate players looking for a solid instrument without a premium-priced tag – especially those who appreciate a darker, warmer tone.
Pros
- Gold brass bell delivers a warm, resonant, and projecting tone.
- Conical bore enhances low-end richness and facilitates a darker timbre.
- Rotary valves with ball joints offer a smoother, quicker action than piston valves.
Cons
- The 14.7mm bore might feel a little tight for players with larger embouchures.
- Lacquered finish, while attractive, can be prone to wear with heavy use.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,682 now$1,682€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Miraphone 53 N 0700 A is a serious instrument for the dedicated baritone player. The Loimayr design and ATV system deliver a rich, focused tone and incredible intonation stability, making it ideal for soloists and section leaders seeking a professional-grade horn.
Pros
- Loimayr model delivers exceptional projection and resonance
- ATV system offers remarkably consistent intonation across the range
- Nickel silver fittings provide durability and a refined aesthetic
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
- The larger bell can feel cumbersome for smaller players or in confined spaces
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,892 now$5,892€5,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Miraphone 54L 0700A is a serious instrument for the dedicated baritone player. Its Loimayr model offers a rich, resonant tone and exceptional responsiveness – perfect for orchestral performance and demanding solo work. The build quality is superb, and the gold brass leadpipe really elevates the sound.
Pros
- Gold brass leadpipe delivers exceptional tone projection and warmth
- ATV valve system provides remarkably consistent intonation across the range
- Robust construction with nickel silver fittings ensures long-term durability
Cons
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for most players
- Size and weight can be challenging for younger or smaller players
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,284 now$6,284€5,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Miraphone 53 N 1100 A is a top-tier baritone, built for serious players needing a powerful and reliable instrument. Its gold brass construction and ATV system combine for excellent intonation and a warm, projecting sound—a great choice for lead players in concert bands and orchestras who demand professional-level performance.
Pros
- Gold brass body delivers a rich, resonant, and warm tonal character
- ATV system provides exceptional intonation and response across the range
- Loimayr model offers a focused and powerful projection ideal for large ensembles
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
- Weight can be fatiguing for younger or less experienced baritone players
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,396 now$6,396€5,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This baritone comes in gold brass with a nice nickel silver mouth pipe. It has three rotary valves and a large bell. You get a gig bag and a silver-plated mouthpiece included. It is a solid choice for players who want a bright sound.
Pros
- Built with durable gold brass for a long life.
- Includes a silver-plated mouthpiece and gig bag.
- Features three rotary valves for smooth playing.
Cons
- Lacks compensating valves for low notes.
- Weight is not listed in the description.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,535 now$3,535€3,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This baritone uses a nickel silver lead pipe and brass body for a bright, cutting sound. It comes with four smooth rotary valves and a large bell for good projection. It is a solid choice for players who want a reliable instrument without needing complex key changes.
Pros
- Solid nickel silver lead pipe ensures stable tuning and response.
- Four rotary valves provide smooth action for fast passages.
- Brass construction offers a bright and cutting tone quality.
Cons
- Lacquer finish may not suit players seeking a dark tone.
- No compensating system mentioned for complex key signatures.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,814 now$3,814€3,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 38 baritones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Josef Lidl Baritone LEP 731-4Josef Lidl39Stable$4,364€3,888$4,364€3,888Check ↗
- 12
Josef Lidl Baritone LEP 536-4Josef Lidl39Stable$4,488€3,998$4,488€3,998Check ↗
- 13
Josef Lidl Baritone LEP 736-4 RJosef Lidl39Stable$5,129€4,569$5,129€4,569Check ↗
- 14
Yamaha YEP-211 Bellfront BaritoneYamaha35Stable$3,253€2,898$3,253€2,898Check ↗
- 15
Thomann MBH-303 S BaritoneThomann · 2 finishes64Stable$1,008€898$1,008€898Check ↗
- 16
B&S 46-L Baritone SetB&S27Stable$4,712€4,198$4,712€4,198Check ↗
- 17
Thomann TBH 500 GMThomann · 2 finishes49Stable$1,120€998$1,120€998Check ↗
- 18
Thomann Little Lion Bb-BaritoneThomann57Stable$896€798$896€798Check ↗
- 19
ZO ZBH-800L Bb-Travel BaritoneZO42Stable$1,211€1,079$1,211€1,079Check ↗
- 20
Thomann EP 404 BaritoneThomann · 2 finishes57Stable$671€598$671€598Check ↗
- 21
Thomann BF-304 Bellfront BaritoneThomann49Stable$784€698$784€698Check ↗
- 22
Miraphone 54L 1100 A BaritoneMiraphone50Stable$6,733€5,998$6,733€5,998Check ↗
- 23
Miraphone 54L 1100 AG 050 BaritoneMiraphone50Stable$8,641€7,698$8,641€7,698Check ↗
- 24
Melton MAB34 BaritoneMelton44Stable$7,048€6,279$7,048€6,279Check ↗
- 25
Thomann BF-303 Bellfront BaritoneThomann42Stable$671€598$671€598Check ↗
- 26
Miraphone 56L 11000 Kaiser BaritoneMiraphone42Stable$7,070€6,298$7,070€6,298Check ↗
- 27
Miraphone 54L 1100 A100 Baritone TriggerMiraphone42Stable$7,519€6,698$7,519€6,698Check ↗
- 28
Miraphone 54L 1100 AG 010 BaritoneMiraphone42Stable$7,855€6,998$7,855€6,998Check ↗
- 29
Miraphone 54L 1102 AE10 BaritoneMiraphone42Stable$10,100€8,998$10,100€8,998Check ↗
- 30
Miraphone 54L 1102 AE30 BaritoneMiraphone42Stable$10,831€9,649$10,831€9,649Check ↗
- 31
Miraphone 54L 1102 AE40 BaritoneMiraphone42Stable$12,009€10,698$12,009€10,698Check ↗
- 32
Kühnl & Hoyer 79/4G Baritone GoldbrassKühnl & Hoyer39Stable$7,375€6,570$7,375€6,570Check ↗
- 33
Kühnl & Hoyer 78/4G Baritone GoldbrassKühnl & Hoyer39Stable$7,743€6,898$7,743€6,898Check ↗
- 34
Kühnl & Hoyer B14/15 Bariton Royal GKühnl & Hoyer39Stable$8,417€7,498$8,417€7,498Check ↗
- 35
Kühnl & Hoyer B15/16 Bariton Royal GKühnl & Hoyer39Stable$9,202€8,198$9,202€8,198Check ↗
- 36
Kühnl & Hoyer Royal Open Flow G BaritoneKühnl & Hoyer39Stable$9,977€8,888$9,977€8,888Check ↗
- 37
Melton MWB34-L BaritoneMelton37Stable$6,733€5,998$6,733€5,998Check ↗
- 38
Peter Oberrauch Machlast BaritonePeter Oberrauch35Stable$7,519€6,698$7,519€6,698Check ↗
Baritones by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
Median $4,937 — half of all baritones here cost less.
median of 15 models · 2 kg–3.74 kg
How to choose the best baritones
Playability
It's not just about intonation; it's about how effortlessly you can navigate the range. A comfortable neck profile, good valve action (if it's a valve horn), and a responsive action are essential for developing your technique. A horn that fights you won't let you explore your dynamics.
Tone & Projection
At the intermediate level, you need a horn that can cut through a band without sounding thin or brittle. We're looking for a balance - a solid low-end thump with enough upper midrange to be heard, avoiding that ice-picky harshness that gets lost in a recording.
Valve/Piston Action (if applicable)
Valve horns need smooth, consistent action. Sticky valves kill articulation and slow you down. Piston horns need to feel solid and responsive, not wobbly. This impacts your control and speed, especially when playing complex passages.
Build Quality & Durability
Gigs happen. Rehearsals get rough. You need a horn that can take a beating without falling apart. Look for solid construction, decent plating, and reliable components - corners cut here will cost you in the long run.
Intonation
Let's be honest, no horn is perfect, but a bari that's consistently sharp or flat is a nightmare. We're looking for horns that stay reasonably in tune across the range, making tuning a little less of a headache and letting you focus on the music.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner bari blues and looking to step up your game? That's awesome. A lot of players at your level are stuck on horns that feel clunky, or just don't have the chops to really sing. This isn't about the flashiest horn, it's about finding something that'll let you actually play and start developing your own voice on the baritone.
Don't chase the brand name. A well-maintained student model can often outperform a cheap, poorly-made pro horn. Pay attention to the action - a high action makes everything feel harder.
Used horns are your friend; you can often get a significant step up for your money, but factor in potential repair costs. Ultimately, play before you buy if possible; what feels great in one player's hands might be a struggle for another.
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 42 baritones 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 valve and piston baritone?
Valve baris use three rotary valves, often giving a darker, more complex tone. Piston baris use three piston valves, generally considered more responsive and easier to manage, especially for players transitioning from other instruments.
My bari feels stuffy. What could be the problem?
It's likely a combination of things - could be a high action, pads that need cleaning, or even just a build-up of grime in the leadpipe. A good tech can diagnose and fix most of these issues, but be prepared for a service bill.
Should I consider a baritone saxophone with a pickup?
Absolutely, especially if you plan on recording or playing in situations where you need to cut through a loud ensemble. Just be mindful of the pickup's voicing - you want it to be a natural representation of the horn's tone, not an artificial enhancement.
I'm struggling to get a good low-end response. What can I do?
Check your embouchure - are you supporting the low notes properly? Also, experiment with different mouthpieces. A more open facing mouthpiece will generally help with the lower register. A leaky pad can also kill low-end response.
What's a 'comfortable neck profile' and why does it matter?
It's simply the shape of the neck. A comfortable neck allows for easier movement and less fatigue during long gigs or practice sessions. A neck that's too thick or too thin can hinder your technique and limit your range.
