AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Saxophones for Jazz 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone ($2,806). Startone STS-75 Tenor Sax gives you the most for the money at $504. Yamaha YTS-82 Z 03 Tenor Sax 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.
-
Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone
YTS-480 Tenor Sax · Yamaha
8 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The YTS-480 is a serious step up from the 475, bridging the gap between student and professional models. It delivers a remarkably focused and even tone across the range, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking a reliable, well-built horn for a variety of musical styles. The design borrows from Yamaha’s higher-end instruments, providing a taste of professional quality without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Improved neck design offers enhanced response and intonation.
- New octave key system mirrors the flagship 62 series for accuracy.
- Separate key guards minimize unwanted vibrations for a cleaner tone.
Cons
- Gold lacquer finish, while beautiful, requires diligent care to prevent tarnish.
- The included 4C mouthpiece is adequate but likely a bottleneck for advanced players.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,806 now$2,806€2,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.6 kg
The SX 90R is a serious contender for players wanting a vintage Keilwerth vibe without the extreme rarity or cost of a true '50s model. It’s got a big, powerful sound, excellent build quality, and those German mechanics feel fantastic—ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock players seeking a robust, expressive horn.
Pros
- Exceptional projection and resonance from untreated brass body
- Rolled tone holes offer improved intonation and responsiveness
- Solid, reliable keywork with precise, adjustable mechanisms
Cons
- The weight (3.6 kg) can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions
- Untreated body requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and corrosion
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,727 now$5,727€5,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.3 kg
The Selmer Axos is a fantastic entry point into the Selmer family, offering a professional feel without the premium price tag. Its narrow scale makes it forgiving for developing players, while still providing a quality Selmer tone and build. It’s a great choice for serious students or intermediate players looking to upgrade.
Pros
- Brass body offers a warm, responsive core tone.
- Narrow scale facilitates easier upper register playing for many.
- High F# key expands melodic possibilities and technical range.
Cons
- The brass construction can feel slightly heavier than some modern alternatives.
- While versatile, the narrow scale might limit extreme low-end flexibility.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,604 now$4,604€4,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.76 kg
The Startone STS-75 is a surprisingly capable tenor sax for the price. It's a great option for students or players looking for an affordable, all-around instrument with a decent sound and functional features. The solid brass construction gives it a warmth that’s often missing in budget horns.
Pros
- Solid brass construction offers a warmer, more resonant tone than cheaper alloys
- The included mouthpiece is surprisingly decent, providing a playable starting point
- High F# key expands range and versatility for more complex playing
Cons
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, is relatively soft and prone to wear with heavy use
- The included case is functional but basic, lacking robust protection for travel
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$504 now$504€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The TTS-180 is a surprisingly capable student horn that delivers a decent tone for the price. It's a solid starting point for beginners or players on a tight budget who want a tenor sax with a High F# key. Expect a good foundation, but recognize it's a stepping stone to something more refined later on.
Pros
- Solid brass construction offers a warm, responsive tone.
- Separate adjusting screws allow for precise intonation tweaks.
- Front F key improves ease of playing challenging passages.
Cons
- Lacquer finish, while clear, might be thinner than premium brands.
- The included mouthpiece will likely be a limiting factor for advanced players.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$559 now$559€498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YTS-82 Z 03 is a truly refined tenor, offering a blend of modern ergonomics and vintage-inspired tone. It’s a fantastic choice for serious intermediate to professional players seeking a saxophone with exceptional response, projection, and a warm, focused sound – ideal for jazz, classical, and contemporary styles.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bell delivers exceptional projection and tonal complexity.
- V1 neck offers a remarkably responsive and focused feel.
- Improved low B-C# connection facilitates effortless, reliable low-register playing.
Cons
- The gold lacquer finish, while beautiful, requires diligent care to prevent tarnish.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,133 now$6,133€5,459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YTS-280 is a solid, reliable step-up saxophone—a sweet spot for serious students and gigging musicians. Yamaha's addressed common issues with the neck and low-end connection, delivering a surprisingly responsive and versatile instrument. It’s a great choice if you want a professional feel without the premium-priced tag of their top-tier models.
Pros
- Improved neck attachment enhances response and intonation significantly.
- Brass body provides a warm, resonant core tone, easily adaptable.
- Separate key guards offer increased stability and a cleaner aesthetic.
Cons
- The gold lacquer finish, while attractive, can be prone to wear with heavy use.
- The included 4C mouthpiece is adequate, but a step up would unlock more tonal complexity.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,795 now$1,795€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YTS-62 02 is a fantastic step-up horn for serious students and gigging musicians. It's got a modern feel with a touch of vintage warmth, offering excellent projection and a reliable action – a great balance of professional features without the top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Improved low register response thanks to the redesigned B/C# connection.
- The '62 S-bow offers enhanced resonance and a more focused tone.
- High F# key expands upper register capabilities for complex passages.
Cons
- The gold lacquer, while attractive, requires diligent care to prevent tarnish.
- The weight can be tiring for extended playing sessions, especially for younger players.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,930 now$3,930€3,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YTS-875 EX 03 is a serious instrument for the professional saxophonist. It delivers a powerful, focused sound with incredible projection – think concert halls and big band settings. If you’re a seasoned player seeking top-tier performance and a refined feel, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Exceptional projection and dynamic range for demanding performance.
- Tempered brass body provides a warm, complex tonal palette.
- Adjustable keywork and thumb rest enable personalized ergonomics.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
- The dense construction makes it noticeably heavier than many alternatives.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,458 now$6,458€5,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The TTS-580 GL is a surprisingly capable tenor, offering a good blend of quality and affordability. The gold brass gives it a warmer tone than nickel-plated horns, and the high F# key expands your playing options. It's a great choice for intermediate players or students looking for a step up without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Gold brass body offers a warm, resonant tonal character
- Solid G#/F# keys provide reliable action and durability
- Abalone inlays elevate the aesthetic with a touch of class
Cons
- Gold lacquer can be prone to wear and tear with heavy use
- Thomann's mouthpiece likely a basic model, upgrade recommended
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$896 now$896€798 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
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSILSelmer40↓ 10.7%$8,481€7,549$8,481€7,549Check ↗
- 12
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSIBSelmer40↓ 9.8%$9,267€8,249$9,267€8,249Check ↗
- 13
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSISSelmer39↓ 9.5%$9,604€8,549$9,604€8,549Check ↗
- 14
Selmer Supreme Tenor Sax SE-TSUSSelmer39↓ 7.9%$12,300€10,949$12,300€10,949Check ↗
- 15
Selmer Supreme Tenor Sax SE-TSUMSelmer38↓ 6.8%$12,239€10,895$12,239€10,895Check ↗
- 16
Thomann Antique Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$623€555$623€555Check ↗
- 17
Thomann TTS-350 Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$841€749$841€749Check ↗
- 18
Thomann MK III Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 19
Thomann MK II Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 20
Thomann MK I Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,683€1,498$1,683€1,498Check ↗
- 21
Thomann MK IV Handmade Tenor SaxThomann37Stable$1,795€1,598$1,795€1,598Check ↗
- 22
Thomann Custom Line TSBGGThomann37Stable$2,077€1,849$2,077€1,849Check ↗
- 23
Thomann Custom Line TLBGMGThomann37Stable$2,357€2,098$2,357€2,098Check ↗
- 24
Thomann Custom Line TSBBSThomann37Stable$2,414€2,149$2,414€2,149Check ↗
- 25
Thomann Custom Line TSBBGThomann37Stable$2,459€2,189$2,459€2,189Check ↗
- 26
Thomann Custom Line Bronze TLBBZGThomann37Stable$2,465€2,198$2,465€2,198Check ↗
- 27
Schagerl SuperiorPro Tenor Sax T-2LSchagerl · 2 finishes37↓ 2.1%$3,144€2,799$3,144€2,799Check ↗
- 28
Schagerl Superior Tenor Sax T-1LSchagerl · 2 finishes36Stable$2,549€2,269$2,549€2,269Check ↗
- 29
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSIPSelmer35Stable$10,278€9,149$10,278€9,149Check ↗
- 30
Selmer Signature Tenor Sax SE-TSIMSelmer35Stable$10,278€9,149$10,278€9,149Check ↗
- 31
Selmer Supreme Tenor Sax SE-TSULSelmer35Stable$11,110€9,890$11,110€9,890Check ↗
- 32
Selmer Supreme Tenor Sax SE-TSUBSelmer35Stable$12,345€10,989$12,345€10,989Check ↗
- 33
Selmer Supreme Tenor Sax SE-TSUPSelmer35Stable$13,244€11,789$13,244€11,789Check ↗
- 34
Selmer Tenor Series III SE-T3GSelmer35Stable$21,895€19,490$21,895€19,490Check ↗
- 35
Forestone GX Gold Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$3,705€3,298$3,705€3,298Check ↗
- 36
Forestone GX Cognac Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$3,920€3,489$3,920€3,489Check ↗
- 37
Forestone GX Colors Silver Cognac TenorForestone34Stable$4,481€3,989$4,481€3,989Check ↗
- 38
Forestone GX Colors Silver Vintage TenorForestone34Stable$4,481€3,989$4,481€3,989Check ↗
- 39
Forestone RX Unlacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$5,784€5,149$5,784€5,149Check ↗
- 40
Forestone RX Gold Lacquered Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$5,784€5,149$5,784€5,149Check ↗
- 41
Forestone RX Red Brass GL Tenor SaxForestone34Stable$6,503€5,789$6,503€5,789Check ↗
- 42
Yanagisawa T-WO1 Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$4,257€3,789$4,257€3,789Check ↗
- 43
Yanagisawa T-WO2 Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$5,053€4,498$5,053€4,498Check ↗
- 44
Yanagisawa T-WO10 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$5,256€4,679$5,256€4,679Check ↗
- 45
Yanagisawa T-WO20 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$6,492€5,779$6,492€5,779Check ↗
- 46
Yanagisawa T-WO30 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$9,289€8,269$9,289€8,269Check ↗
- 47
Yanagisawa T-WO35 Elite Tenor SaxYanagisawa33Stable$11,007€9,798$11,007€9,798Check ↗
- 48
Rampone & Cazzani Performance Line Tenor SaxRampone & Cazzani32Stable$3,875€3,449$3,875€3,449Check ↗
- 49
Rampone & Cazzani R1 Jazz Tenor Sax AURampone & Cazzani32Stable$8,199€7,298$8,199€7,298Check ↗
- 50
Rampone & Cazzani Solista Tenor SaxRampone & Cazzani32Stable$9,379€8,349$9,379€8,349Check ↗
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
Tone
Jazz demands a certain warmth and complexity. We're looking for a horn with a strong fundamental, a usable overtone series without being brittle, and a willingness to 'sing' - that's a good balance of warmth and projection. Too bright and it's ice-picky; too dark and it gets lost. That fat midrange honk is your friend.
Response & Articulation
A snappy, responsive horn is key for clean, articulate phrasing. Sloppy articulation sounds sloppy, regardless of how good the tone is. It's about feeling the horn 'talk back' to your breath without feeling sluggish or resistant.
Keywork & Ergonomics
Jazz playing involves subtle nuances, so comfortable and reliable keywork is non-negotiable. We're looking for a comfortable neck profile, well-placed keys, and a mechanism that doesn't fight you. Gigs are long; your hands will thank you.
Dynamic Range & Headroom
A good jazz tenor needs to whisper a ballad and roar on a bebop solo. You need a horn with a wide dynamic range and plenty of headroom before it starts to sound choked or distorted. A horn that collapses under pressure isn't going to cut it.
Intonation
This is the boring but crucial one. Consistent intonation across the range is vital, especially when playing with a rhythm section. A horn that's consistently sharp or flat will drive you and your bandmates crazy.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a tenor sax to cut through a smoky jazz club or lay down some soulful lines in the studio? It's a big decision - a tenor's more than just metal and keys; it's about voicing, response, and how it feels under your fingers. Forget the marketing hype; we're going to break down the best options for serious jazz players, based on what actually sounds good and feels right.
Don't chase the hype. A vintage Selmer Mark VI is the dream, but those prices are insane. There are plenty of excellent horns out there for less - but be prepared to pay for quality.
Cheap horns often cut corners on keywork and intonation, and the tone can be thin and lifeless. Consider a used horn; you can often find a gem that's been well-cared for, and a good tech can often address minor issues. Get it checked 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 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 difference between a Mark VI and a Mark VII?
The Mark VI is widely considered the 'holy grail' for its tonal warmth and responsiveness. The Mark VII attempted to modernize it, but many players found it too bright and less flexible. It's a tonal preference - try both if you can.
Should I get a horn with a pickup?
It depends. If you're recording or need to amplify, a good pickup is essential. But cheap pickups can ruin the tone. Research the pickup voicing - some are brighter than others. A decent internal mic is better than a cheap clip-on.
What about Yamaha tenors? Are they any good?
Yamahas are solid, reliable horns. They tend to be a bit brighter than Selmers, but they're well-built and hold their intonation well. Great for students and gigging pros alike, but they may not have that vintage warmth some players crave.
What's a 'fast action' and why do I want it?
'Fast action' means the keys require less force to actuate. It allows for quicker, cleaner articulation and a more responsive feel. It's a matter of player preference, but most jazz players prefer a faster action.
I'm on a budget - what's the best bang for my buck?
Look for a used Yanagisawa T-901 or a Yamaha YTS-62. They offer excellent build quality and a good tone for the price. Just get it checked out by a tech first.
