AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Forestone Tenor Saxophones 2026
The top pick is Forestone GX Gold Lacquered Tenor Sax ($3,705). Forestone RX Red Brass GL Tenor Sax leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 7 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 7
Full detail for the 7 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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This tenor sax offers a warm, compact sound perfect for all styles. The hand-engraved bell and Pisoni pads give it a modern feel with solid keywork. It comes with a case, though you'll need your own mouthpiece. Ideal for players who want a reliable, versatile instrument without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Hand-engraved bell adds unique character
- Pisoni pads with metal resonators improve response
- Hybrid post construction ensures stability
Cons
- No mouthpiece included in the box
- Weight not listed in the description
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,705 now$3,705€3,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Forestone GX is a seriously well-built tenor. It's got a refined, compact tone – not overly bright, but rich and responsive. This would be fantastic for players wanting a professional-grade horn with a vintage-inspired feel, especially those in jazz, contemporary, or soul music.
Pros
- Hand-engraved bell adds visual flair and tonal complexity.
- Pisoni padding with resonators delivers exceptional response and projection.
- Hybrid post construction enhances key stability and intonation accuracy.
Cons
- The ergonomic design may not suit all hand sizes or playing preferences.
- The 'warm' sound profile might lack brightness for some genres.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,920 now$3,920€3,489 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This tenor sax has a nice modern look with its silver and cognac finish. The hand-engraved bell and Pisoni Pro pads make it feel solid in hand. It is a good choice for players who want a clear tone without extra cost.
Pros
- Hand-engraved bell adds unique visual detail to the instrument.
- Pisoni Pro pads with metal resonators ensure airtight seals.
- Blue steel springs provide stable tension for consistent response.
Cons
- No weight information is provided in the description.
- No mouthpiece is included in the package listing.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,481 now$4,481€3,989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This tenor saxophone sounds rich and powerful, perfect for players who want a modern voice. The metal resonators help the instrument cut through a band, while the hand-engraved bell gives it a special look. It comes with a nice case, but you will need your own mouthpiece to play. The silver plating feels bright and durable, though the lacquer finish needs some love to stay shiny.
Pros
- Hand-engraved bell adds unique visual detail
- Pisoni Pro pads offer fast, responsive action
- Metal resonators boost projection and volume
Cons
- Cognac lacquer finish requires careful maintenance
- Hybrid post construction lacks full brass feel
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,481 now$4,481€3,989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Forestone RX is a seriously impressive tenor – it’s built to handle everything from smooth jazz to hard-driving funk. The unlacquered finish gives it a unique aesthetic and a raw, immediate sound, but it demands a bit more care. This is a fantastic choice for the serious gigging musician or advanced student seeking a professional-grade horn.
Pros
- Yellow brass body delivers a powerful, resonant tone with excellent projection
- Flanged tone holes improve intonation and response across the range
- Hybrid post construction minimizes key wobble and ensures reliable action
Cons
- Unlacquered finish requires diligent maintenance to prevent excessive tarnishing
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many student or casual players
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,784 now$5,784€5,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Forestone RX is a seriously impressive tenor – a real step up for intermediate to advanced players. The build quality is excellent, and it's got a fantastic, modern projection that cuts through a band. It's a great choice for players wanting a professional instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Yellow brass body delivers a warm, responsive, and powerful tone.
- Mortared tone holes significantly improve intonation and consistency.
- Pisoni pads with metal resonators offer exceptional leak resistance and response.
Cons
- The gold lacquer, while beautiful, can be prone to wear and requires careful maintenance.
- The ergonomic design might feel slightly bulky for players with smaller hands.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,784 now$5,784€5,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Forestone RX Red Brass GL is a serious contender for players seeking a classic, focused tenor sound with a touch of elegance. The red brass provides a uniquely rich tone, and the build quality feels incredibly solid. It's an excellent choice for jazz, blues, and studio work where tonal complexity is key.
Pros
- Red brass offers a uniquely warm, complex tonal palette.
- Pisoni pads with resonators provide exceptional response and intonation.
- Hybrid post construction promotes smooth, reliable key action and durability.
Cons
- Red brass can be more prone to dents than yellow brass, requiring careful handling.
- The ergonomic design might not suit all players' hand sizes or preferences.
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,503 now$6,503€5,789 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Tenor Saxophones by the numbers
Measured across all 79 models we track, not a sample.
median of 10 models · 1 kg–3.76 kg
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 7 tenor saxophones from the Thomann catalogue (of 79 in the category). 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 should I look for when buying tenor saxophones?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on tenor saxophones?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive tenor saxophones worth the investment?
Higher-priced tenor saxophones typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for tenor saxophones?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy tenor saxophones online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
