AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Saxophones for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSIB ($9,267). Selmer Tenor Series III SE-T3G leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 55 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Selmer's Signature is a thoughtful update to the Series III, offering a refined sound and feel. It's a fantastic choice for serious students and professional players seeking a top-tier horn with a modern, yet classic, Selmer character. The enhanced projection and keywork make it a joy to play across various musical styles.
Pros
- Art Deco engraving elevates aesthetics and perceived value.
- Improved S-bow mount enhances projection and tonal complexity.
- Teflon-bearing octave key action offers exceptional responsiveness.
Cons
- The gold-lacquered keys add to the premium price point.
- The weight, typical of Selmer horns, can be fatiguing for some players.
40AudioFu
Index↓ 9.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$10,278 · Aug 17$9,267 now$9,267€8,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Signature is a gorgeous renewal of the Series III, aimed squarely at serious players wanting that classic Parisian sound with modern refinements. The build quality is impeccable, and the adjustments to the S-bow really do open up the horn’s projection. This is a top-tier instrument ideal for professionals or dedicated students seeking a lifetime companion.
Pros
- Enhanced projection and sonority due to redesigned S-bow mount.
- Art Deco engraving adds a touch of refined aesthetic elegance.
- Teflon-bearing octave key provides exceptionally smooth and precise action.
Cons
- The increased body size can feel unwieldy for smaller players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
39AudioFu
Index↓ 9.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$10,615 · Aug 17$9,604 now$9,604€8,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious step up in build and sound. The redesigned bore and ergonomics make it incredibly comfortable and responsive, really singing with a modern, powerful tone. This sax is ideal for advanced students and professionals seeking a top-tier instrument with excellent projection and a refined feel.
Pros
- Enlarged S-bow delivers a remarkably powerful and focused projection.
- New bore and tone hole scale yields a warm, even tone across the range.
- Optimized ergonomics reduce hand fatigue, enabling longer and more comfortable playing sessions.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible to many aspiring saxophonists.
- The silver-plated finish requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
39AudioFu
Index↓ 7.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$13,357 · Aug 17$12,300 now$12,300€10,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme TSUM is a serious contender for advanced players seeking a modern, powerful sound with vintage-inspired feel. The improved ergonomics and bore design really let the instrument sing, offering excellent projection and a responsive action. It's perfect for players who demand a high-end instrument and are looking for a refined, professional experience.
Pros
- Enlarged bore delivers exceptional projection and a powerful, resonant tone.
- Optimized ergonomics and adjustable S-bow enhance playing comfort and control.
- Teflon-bearing octave key provides incredibly smooth and precise intonation.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible to many aspiring saxophonists.
- Heavier build compared to some modern saxophones might fatigue some players.
38AudioFu
Index↓ 6.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$13,131 · Aug 17$12,239 now$12,239€10,895 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer’s Signature is a modern reimagining of the Series III, aimed squarely at the serious student or pro looking for a refined, professional sound. The adjustable S-bow is a brilliant touch for customizing feel and tone, and the included Concept mouthpiece is a solid starting point. It’s a beautiful instrument, built to last, and ready to deliver a powerful, expressive voice.
Pros
- Enhanced projection thanks to enlarged S-bow and redesigned internal baffling.
- Art Deco engraving elevates aesthetics and subtly reinforces bell resonance.
- Adjustable S-bow mount allows for personalized ergonomics and tonal shaping.
Cons
- The patinated finish, while visually appealing, may require more careful maintenance.
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most players.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,278 now$10,278€9,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Signature is a seriously refined instrument, a modern take on the classic Series III. It’s built for the advanced student or pro seeking a focused, powerful tone with exceptional response and a beautiful aesthetic. This sax is truly a statement piece, designed for players who demand the very best.
Pros
- Enhanced projection thanks to the enlarged S-bow mount design.
- Art Deco engraving adds a touch of elegance and visual distinction.
- Nickel silver clamping ring offers improved stability and resonance.
Cons
- The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- Premium-priced, placing it outside reach for many student or intermediate players.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,278 now$10,278€9,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer has really knocked it out of the park with the Supreme. It’s built for the serious player seeking a modern, responsive horn with a rich, projecting tone – think professional jazz, classical, and studio work. The ergonomics are truly remarkable, making it a joy to play for extended periods.
Pros
- Enlarged bore delivers exceptional projection and a powerful, focused tone.
- Optimized ergonomics significantly improve comfort and playing efficiency, reducing fatigue.
- Teflon-bearing octave key provides incredibly smooth, reliable action and intonation.
Cons
- The dark gold lacquer, while beautiful, is susceptible to wear and requires careful maintenance.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$11,110 now$11,110€9,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious contender for the pro player looking for a modern, powerful sound. The ergonomics and keywork are noticeably improved, offering a comfortable and responsive playing experience – it's a real step up from the older models, perfect for those needing projection and a robust tone for jazz and concert settings.
Pros
- Enlarged bore delivers a remarkably powerful and resonant projection.
- Optimized ergonomics significantly reduce fatigue during extended playing.
- Directly coupled F#/F driver provides exceptional intonation and response.
Cons
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many aspiring or intermediate players.
- The larger bore might feel unwieldy for players with smaller hands or a lighter touch.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$12,345 now$12,345€10,989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Selmer's Supreme is a serious upgrade – the redesigned bore and keywork really open up the horn's potential. It’s built for the advanced player seeking a refined, powerful tone with exceptional responsiveness, and a touch of vintage character. This is a fantastic choice for gigging pros and dedicated students ready to invest in a top-tier instrument.
Pros
- Patinated body offers unique vintage aesthetic and tonal complexity.
- Enlarged bore delivers exceptional projection and powerful low end.
- Optimized ergonomics and adjustable receiver improve comfort and playability.
Cons
- The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible for many players.
- Patinated finish may not appeal to those preferring a pristine, factory look.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,244 now$13,244€11,789 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Series III SE-T3G is a truly exceptional tenor, built for the serious soloist seeking a rich, powerful, and responsive sound. The gold plating isn’t just for looks; it subtly alters the tonal character, adding a luxurious warmth. It's an investment piece, ideal for professionals or advanced players who demand the absolute best and appreciate the nuances of handcrafted instruments.
Pros
- 18K gold plating provides exceptional tonal warmth and projection
- Handmade engraving elevates the aesthetic and perceived value
- Selmer’s renowned keywork offers remarkably smooth and responsive action
Cons
- The extensive gold plating significantly increases the instrument's weight
- The premium price point puts it out of reach for many players
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$21,895 now$21,895€19,490 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 55 tenor saxophones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Keilwerth SX 90R Tenor Sax BlackKeilwerth · 4 finishes56Stable$6,626€5,898$6,626€5,898Check ↗
- 12
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSILSelmer40↓ 10.7%$8,481€7,549$8,481€7,549Check ↗
- 13
Yanagisawa T-WO30 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$9,289€8,269$9,289€8,269Check ↗
- 14
Yanagisawa T-WO35 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$11,007€9,798$11,007€9,798Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha YTS-82 ZA Tenor SaxYamaha · 5 finishes48Stable$7,412€6,598$7,412€6,598Check ↗
- 16
Rampone & Cazzani Solista Tenor SaxRampone & Cazzani32Stable$9,379€8,349$9,379€8,349Check ↗
- 17
Yamaha YTS-875 EXS Tenor SaxYamaha · 3 finishes43Stable$7,300€6,498$7,300€6,498Check ↗
- 18
Rampone & Cazzani Two Voices Tenor Sax BRSRampone & Cazzani24↑ 50.5%$16,062€14,298$16,062€14,298Check ↗
- 19
Rampone & Cazzani R1 Jazz Tenor Sax AURampone & Cazzani32Stable$8,199€7,298$8,199€7,298Check ↗
- 20
Forestone RX Red Brass GL Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$6,503€5,789$6,503€5,789Check ↗
- 21
Yanagisawa T-WO20 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$6,492€5,779$6,492€5,779Check ↗
- 22
Forestone RX Unlacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$5,784€5,149$5,784€5,149Check ↗
- 23
Forestone RX Gold Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$5,784€5,149$5,784€5,149Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor SaxophoneYTS-480 Tenor Sax · Yamaha · 3 finishes71Stable$2,806€2,498$2,806€2,498Check ↗
- 25
Selmer Axos Tenor SaxSelmer50Stable$4,604€4,098$4,604€4,098Check ↗
- 26
Startone STS-75 Tenor SaxStartone · 2 finishes49Stable$504€449$504€449Check ↗
- 27
Thomann TTS-180 Tenor SaxThomann · 6 finishes49Stable$559€498$559€498Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha YTS-280 Tenor SaxYamaha · 3 finishes43Stable$1,795€1,598$1,795€1,598Check ↗
- 29
Yamaha YTS-62 02 Tenor SaxYamaha · 3 finishes43Stable$3,930€3,498$3,930€3,498Check ↗
- 30
Thomann TTS-580 GL Tenor SaxThomann · 2 finishes41Stable$896€798$896€798Check ↗
- 31
Thomann Antique Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$623€555$623€555Check ↗
- 32
Thomann TTS-350 Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$841€749$841€749Check ↗
- 33
Thomann MK III Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 34
Thomann MK II Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 35
Thomann MK I Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 36
Thomann MK IV Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,795€1,598$1,795€1,598Check ↗
- 37
Thomann Custom Line TSBGGThomann37Stable$2,077€1,849$2,077€1,849Check ↗
- 38
Thomann Custom Line TLBGMGThomann37Stable$2,357€2,098$2,357€2,098Check ↗
- 39
Thomann Custom Line TSBBSThomann37Stable$2,414€2,149$2,414€2,149Check ↗
- 40
Thomann Custom Line TSBBGThomann37Stable$2,459€2,189$2,459€2,189Check ↗
- 41
Thomann Custom Line Bronze TLBBZGThomann37Stable$2,465€2,198$2,465€2,198Check ↗
- 42
Schagerl SuperiorPro Tenor Sax T-2LSchagerl · 2 finishes37↓ 2.1%$3,144€2,799$3,144€2,799Check ↗
- 43
Schagerl Superior Tenor Sax T-1LSchagerl · 2 finishes36Stable$2,549€2,269$2,549€2,269Check ↗
- 44
Forestone GX Gold Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$3,705€3,298$3,705€3,298Check ↗
- 45
Forestone GX Cognac Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$3,920€3,489$3,920€3,489Check ↗
- 46
Forestone GX Colors Silver Cognac TenorForestone34Stable$4,481€3,989$4,481€3,989Check ↗
- 47
Forestone GX Colors Silver Vintage TenorForestone34Stable$4,481€3,989$4,481€3,989Check ↗
- 48
Yanagisawa T-WO1 Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$4,257€3,789$4,257€3,789Check ↗
- 49
Yanagisawa T-WO2 Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$5,053€4,498$5,053€4,498Check ↗
- 50
Yanagisawa T-WO10 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$5,256€4,679$5,256€4,679Check ↗
Tenor Saxophones by the numbers
Measured across all 79 models we track, not a sample.
Median $4,257 — half of all tenor saxophones here cost less.
median of 10 models · 1 kg–3.76 kg
How to choose the best tenor saxophones
Response & Flexibility
Advanced players need a horn that reacts instantly to subtle changes in airflow. We're looking for a wide dynamic range - from a whisper-quiet ballad tone to a screaming altissimo without feeling like you're fighting the horn. A stiff, unresponsive horn will limit your expression.
Keywork & Ergonomics
Forget clunky levers and awkward thumb hooks. Smooth, reliable keywork that's comfortable for your hand size and playing style is crucial for speed and accuracy. Think about how the action feels, the neck profile, and how the horn balances - it all impacts your playing.
Tone Color & Projection
That 'fat midrange honk' is a classic tenor sound, but it's not all there is. We're evaluating the horn's ability to produce a full range of tonal colors, from warm and breathy to bright and cutting, and how well it projects without sounding harsh or brittle.
Intonation & Stability
Let's be honest, intonation can be a nightmare on some horns. Advanced players need a horn that stays consistently in tune across its entire range, even with changes in temperature and humidity. Poor intonation requires constant micro-adjustments, which slows you down.
Construction & Materials
Solid construction and quality materials translate to longevity and consistent performance. We're looking for horns built to withstand the rigors of regular gigging and touring - durable key mechanisms, a resilient body, and a neck that won't warp easily.
Buying guide
Alright, so you've been wrestling with a student horn for a while and you're ready to step up your tenor game. It's not just about a brighter sound anymore; it's about nuanced articulation, serious dynamic range, and a horn that can really cut through a loud band or hold its own in a recording. We're not talking about beginner instruments here - this is about gear that responds to your playing, not the other way around.
Don't chase the flashiest lacquer or the most endorsements. A horn that feels right is more important than any marketing buzz. Be wary of horns that promise the world but deliver a thin, anemic sound or sloppy intonation.
Spending more can get you better response and more consistent intonation, but it's not a guarantee - try before you buy, and don't be afraid to walk away.
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 79 tenor 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 vintage horns? Are they always better?
Vintage horns can be amazing, but they're also a gamble. You're dealing with potential repair needs, pads that need replacing, and often inconsistent intonation. A well-made modern horn can often outperform a beat-up vintage one, especially for a gigging musician.
I'm hearing a lot about different neck profiles. Does it really matter?
Absolutely. The neck profile significantly impacts the horn's response and feel. A thicker neck tends to offer more resistance and a darker tone, while a thinner neck is generally more responsive and brighter. It's a very personal preference.
Should I get a horn with a pickup? I mostly record.
If you record frequently, a decent pickup is a worthwhile investment. However, be prepared to spend more on a quality pickup and preamp to avoid that tinny, lifeless sound. Some horns have better pickup voicing than others - research that aspect.
What about custom mouthpieces? Do I need one?
A good mouthpiece is arguably more important than the horn itself. Don't skimp on this - a poorly chosen mouthpiece can negate the benefits of a high-end horn. Experiment to find what complements your playing and the horn's characteristics.
I'm on a budget. Where can I compromise?
You can potentially compromise on the finish - a satin or silver-plated finish won't affect the sound. However, don't skimp on the keywork or internal mechanics - those are the things that will frustrate you the most in the long run.
