{"id":4872,"date":"2022-01-27T15:32:09","date_gmt":"2022-01-27T15:32:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/gear4musicblog.kinsta.cloud\/?p=4872"},"modified":"2025-11-24T10:06:48","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T10:06:48","slug":"choosing-your-first-saxophone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing Your First Saxophone"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Which_type_of_saxophone\" >Which type of saxophone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Jargon_buster\" >Jargon buster<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Mouthpieces_and_reeds\" >Mouthpieces and reeds<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#i\" >\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Body_materials\" >Body materials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Bell_materials\" >Bell materials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Finish\" >Finish<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Product_recommendations\" >Product recommendations<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Gear4music_AS-100\" >Gear4music AS-100<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#i-2\" >\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#i-3\" >\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Buffet_100_Series\" >Buffet 100 Series<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#i-4\" >\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#i-5\" >\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Yamaha_YAS-280\" >Yamaha YAS-280<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#A_point_on_price\" >A point on price<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/choosing-your-first-saxophone\/#Find_out_more\" >Find out more<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p>So, you&#8217;re thinking of learning the saxophone. Picking out a starter instrument can feel daunting, especially with so many models on the market. We&#8217;re going to go through some of the basics, so you can figure out exactly what it is you&#8217;re looking for.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_type_of_saxophone\"><\/span>Which type of saxophone?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>saxophone family<\/strong><\/a> is enormous. From the tiniest <em>sopranissimo<\/em>, to the biggest <em>subcontrabass<\/em>, there is a saxophone for every octave of the musical scale. But if you\u2019re just starting out, which is the best type of saxophone for you?<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s generally agreed upon that the best saxophone to learn on is the alto. Larger saxes make it difficult for novices to push through enough air to sound a note, whilst smaller horns require a more developed embouchure (your facial muscles and mouth shape) in order to play in tune.<\/p>\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">alto<\/a><\/strong> sits neatly in the middle ground \u2013 it\u2019s easy to blow, easy to hold, and has a great, versatile sound. What\u2019s more, all of the skills and techniques you pick up learning the alto sax will be transferrable to the other types. You can always switch later &#8211; but learning on alto will give you the best chance of making quick and enjoyable progress.<\/p>\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\/tenor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tenor<\/a><\/strong> is also a viable and commonly picked starter sax, but it requires quite a lot more puff, it\u2019s heavier and harder to hold, and &#8211; compared to the alto &#8211; is more expensive. If you\u2019re an adult, the first two issues will pose less of a challenge, so many beginners do still set their sights on the tenor saxophone.<\/p>\n<p>We would probably recommend against choosing any other kind of saxophone as a first instrument. Besides the forementioned difficulties with blowing and technique, the other types of saxes tend to be a lot more expensive (for a good quality horn), and beginners\u2019 learning resources will be harder to come across.<\/p>\n<p>With all of that being said, if you have your heart set on a specific saxophone other than the alto, then start with that. It will be a bit harder initially, but if you\u2019re working with a sound that you\u2019re passionate about, then you\u2019ll enjoy yourself more and have better results whilst learning.<\/p>\n<p>This article will focus on the alto saxophone though, as we believe it\u2019s generally the best option for a beginner horn.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Jargon_buster\"><\/span>Jargon buster<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Don\u2019t know your ligature from your bell? Can\u2019t pick between a lacquered or plated finish? We\u2019ll go through some of the basic features which will keep popping up &#8211; so you can understand what you\u2019re reading in a product description!<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mouthpieces_and_reeds\"><\/span>Mouthpieces and reeds<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This is where the sound is generated. When blown, the <em>reed<\/em> vibrates against the <em>mouthpiece<\/em>, creating a noise which is then shaped by the body of the horn.<\/p>\n<p>Saxophone mouthpieces are detachable, and most professional players will own several, as different pieces are better suited to certain styles and genres. More advanced players might also swap out their <em>ligature<\/em>, which holds the reed against the mouthpiece.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5208 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-1080x1080.png 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>When you\u2019re first starting out, you\u2019ll only need one mouthpiece. Beginner horns generally come included with a student-style mouthpiece which will be more than suitable for your first few years of playing. If your sax of choice doesn\u2019t come with one, then buying something like the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Yamaha-4C-Alto-Saxophone-Mouthpiece\/5ED\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yamaha 4C<\/a><\/strong> would be a good option.<\/p>\n<p>Mouthpieces will almost always come with a ligature, so you needn\u2019t worry about buying one of those separately.<\/p>\n<p>One thing you <em>should<\/em> consider buying straight away is a box of <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind-accessories\/saxophones\/reeds\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reeds<\/a><\/strong>. Sax reeds are quite delicate, and chipping one is a fairly common occurrence \u2013 especially when you\u2019re just starting out! Making sure you have a few reeds in reserve will make your life a lot easier.<\/p>\n<p>Reeds are graded by their thickness \u2013 as the number gets higher, the reed gets thicker and harder. Beginners will generally want to start on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/orchestral\/woodwind-accessories\/saxophones\/reeds\/alto?page=1&amp;filters[399]=3000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2s<\/a><\/strong>, and as you develop your technique you can begin to explore harder reeds.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"i\"><\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Body_materials\"><\/span>Body materials<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5203 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-1080x1080.png 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-1280x1280.png 1280w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702.png 1500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Saxophones are most commonly made of brass. However, some higher-end models will be made with different metals. This changes the resonance, and ultimately the tone of the instrument.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Brass <\/strong>delivers the classic saxophone sound. An alloy of copper and zinc, brass comes in a few different forms, which offer different properties \u2013 and cost different amounts.<\/p>\n<p>Brass horns offer a versatile platform for tonal development, perfect for all genres and styles.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Yellow Brass<\/strong> has the least copper in its makeup, making it the least expensive form of brass.<\/p>\n<p>Commonly used for student horns, it has less innate warmth than more copper-rich brasses but offers a good blank slate for discovering and developing your own tonal colour.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Gold Brass<\/strong> has a higher copper to zinc ratio, resulting in a more resonant metal.<\/p>\n<p>Horns made from gold brass will have a brighter, richer tone than those made from yellow brass \u2013 but they also come with a bigger price tag.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Red Brass<\/strong> has the highest copper content. A sax made with red brass will have lots of natural resonance, and a highly coloured tone. However, this comes at the expense of less tonal flexibility.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Bronze<\/strong> is a denser metal than brass, and horns made from it have more presence and character in their sound. Warmer tones and a head-turning aesthetic come at the expense of a heavier, more cumbersome horn \u2013 and of course, quite a lot more money.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Silver<\/strong> is an extremely dense and soft metal; it creates a fantastically resonant sax. Favoured for classical and ensemble work, silver horns produce a darker, refined tone with less piercing, high frequencies. This makes it also popular among softer jazz or big band players. However, due to the softness of the metal, it is more delicate and prone to denting. A solid silver sax will also, unsurprisingly, cost you a pretty penny.<\/p>\n<p>For most beginners, price alone will push them towards a brass-bodied sax. This would probably be our recommendation even if you had a blank cheque though. Learning on a more transparent, uncoloured saxophone will give you a better chance to explore the way your embouchure and technique can colour the sound of your playing.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bell_materials\"><\/span>Bell materials<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>The bell is the main point of projection for the saxophone\u2019s sound. It\u2019s normally made from the same material as the rest of the sax\u2019s body. However, making the bell with a different metal is a way to colour the overall tone of the horn in a more subtle manner. It&#8217;s also much cheaper to have a silver bell, for example, than a whole solid silver saxophone.<\/p>\n<p>The bell material affects the performance of a saxophone in much the same way as body material, albeit to a lesser extent.<\/p>\n<p>As with body material, we would suggest just getting a horn with a brass bell when you\u2019re starting out. Learning on a horn with too much innate tonal colour will make it harder to see the way your playing influences the sound of the saxophone.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Finish\"><\/span>Finish<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Saxophones are commonly finished with a <em>lacquer<\/em> to prevent the metal body from tarnishing. The finish of a saxophone is largely an aesthetic choice, although it does affect the overall sound of the horn as well.<\/p>\n<p>Painting a lacquer all over the metal body of a saxophone will change the way it responds. A lacquered body will be less resonant, as the metal\u2019s vibration will be dampened. This means that a sax with lacquer will have a more focused sound with fewer overtones.<\/p>\n<p>An unlacquered instrument will have a more rounded tone, as the overtones are allowed to resonate more freely.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some of the common finishes, and how they\u2019ll affect the saxophone.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lacquered <\/strong>finishes are the most common for saxophones. Described as either \u201cclear lacquer\u201d or \u201cgold lacquer\u201d, it is a transparent seal which preserves the natural colour of the instrument and prevents tarnishing and corrosion.<\/p>\n<p>Great for both jazz and classical players, the lacquer diffuses some of the natural overtones in the instrument, creating a more tonally focussed sound.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Coloured lacquers<\/strong> have the exact same effect on a saxophone, but to a greater extent. Painting a coloured lacquer on a sax requires a thicker layer in order to attain a consistent result. This means that the metal is even less resonant, and the sound more focussed.<\/p>\n<p>Saxophones can be painted any colour, from black, to pink, to a faux vintage pattern.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Unlacquered <\/strong>instruments are left untreated, causing the metal to quickly tarnish and form a <em>patina<\/em> on the surface. The patina prevents the horn from corroding, whilst adding to a unique, vintage aesthetic over time.<\/p>\n<p>Allowed to resonate unhindered, the saxophone has a rounder, warmer sound, with the overtones adding colour. Great for jazz, but not so much for classical work.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Silver-plated <\/strong>saxes have had a layer of silver electroplated to the body of the saxophone. Silver is largely inert, which means it forms a great protective barrier between the body of the instrument and the elements. (That isn\u2019t to say a silver-plated horn is immune to tarnishing, and they in fact require quite diligent upkeep to stay looking as new!)<\/p>\n<p>The added weight of the silver reduces the resonance of the horn, giving the sound a mellower, more classical tone.<\/p>\n<p>Many horns come with multiple options for the finish. We think that you need to love both the sound <em>and<\/em> the look of your instrument, so it\u2019s important to pick something that you\u2019re going to enjoy looking at as well as playing. However, it\u2019s always worth bearing in mind the effect your desired finish will have on the sound of your horn!<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Product_recommendations\"><\/span>Product recommendations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here are three starter saxes that we think would set you off on the right foot.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5204 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-1080x1080.png 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gear4music_AS-100\"><\/span>Gear4music AS-100<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>We offer an affordable, reliable, and versatile alto saxophone in the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Alto-Saxophone-by-Gear4music-Gold\/1EX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gear4music AS-100<\/a><\/strong>. Available in a variety of finishes, this starter horn is absolutely perfect for beginners looking to work through their first few grades.<\/p>\n<p>With its easy-blowing playability and great intonation, this sax will start giving you good results from the very first session. It comes with everything you\u2019d need at the start of your saxophone journey, with a hard carry case, strap, pad saver, mouthpiece, and reed thrown in.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"i-2\"><\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"i-3\"><\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Buffet_100_Series\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5205 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-1080x1080.png 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>Buffet 100 Series<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to invest a bit more money into your first sax, the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Buffet-100-Series-Alto-Saxophone-Lacquer\/WPC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Buffet 100 Series<\/a><\/strong> is a fantastic alto with a darker, more textured sound. Buffet, known for their world-leading clarinets, are no stranger to building quality woodwind instruments. Their 100 Series Altos are made from yellow brass, finished with clear lacquer.<\/p>\n<p>Their design produces a lovely mellow tone, ideal for classical ensembles or a smoky jazz sound. The sax comes with a Buffet gig bag, mouthpiece and reed \u2013 so you can get playing immediately.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"i-4\"><\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"i-5\"><\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Yamaha_YAS-280\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5206 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-1080x1080.png 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>Yamaha YAS-280<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Considered by many to be the definitive student saxophone, the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Yamaha-YAS280-Student-Alto-Saxophone\/J21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yamaha YAS-280<\/a><\/strong> was designed from the ground up for students.<\/p>\n<p>It comes recommended by countless tutors, with beginner-friendly features such as a key guard \u2013 to protect the mechanical keywork from the inevitable knocks and bumps a sax will suffer at the hands of a new player.<\/p>\n<p>Available with a clear lacquer or silver-plated finish, this easy-blowing horn represents the absolute gold standard of beginner saxophones. It comes in at a higher price-point than many other student horns, but you\u2019re paying for the peace of mind in build quality and consistency which always comes with a Yamaha instrument.<\/p>\n<p>This horn also includes a backpack style case and Yamaha\u2019s excellent 4C mouthpiece.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_point_on_price\"><\/span>A point on price<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For most people looking to dip their toe into learning a musical instrument, budget is the primary constraint. No one wants to over-invest in a fledgling hobby that they might end up not enjoying. That\u2019s why our three product recommendations are proper student saxophones, at student price points.<\/p>\n<p>What if you have more money at your disposal though? Is it worth skipping the beginner horns and getting a professional model straight away?<\/p>\n<p>Well, as with most things, money buys quality in the saxophone world. This doesn\u2019t mean that the most expensive saxophone is always the best saxophone, but as a general rule, better horns will cost more.<\/p>\n<p>A professional-quality saxophone <em>will<\/em> play better than a student horn. Learn on a pro sax, and you&#8217;ll never be held back by your instrument &#8211; you may well progress quicker. You\u2019ll also never outgrow your horn, and so won\u2019t have to swap it out for a more expensive model.<\/p>\n<p>For these reasons, buying the best saxophone you can afford isn\u2019t necessarily a bad strategy.<\/p>\n<p>However, it\u2019s definitely worth keeping in mind that until you have some experience playing the sax, you won\u2019t know what you do and don\u2019t like. For that reason, it can be worth learning the basics on a student horn and figuring out exactly what kind of tone and style you\u2019re looking to explore in the future.<\/p>\n<p>That way, when the time comes to drop the big bucks on a pro sax, you\u2019ll be making an informed decision and buying something which suits the experienced player that you are, rather than guessing what it is that you\u2019ll end up liking.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Find_out_more\"><\/span>Find out more<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/M5yIDhtSCOI\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Now that you have a better idea of what you want out of your first saxophone, why not explore our range?<\/p>\n<p>Shop now | <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alto Saxophones<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Shop now | <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Saxophones<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>So, you&#8217;re thinking of learning the saxophone. Picking out a starter instrument can feel daunting, especially with so many models on the market. We&#8217;re going to go through some of the basics, so you can figure out exactly what it is you&#8217;re looking for. Which type of saxophone? The saxophone family is enormous. From the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":5201,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<p>So, you're thinking of learning the saxophone. Picking out a starter instrument can feel daunting, especially with so many models on the market. We're going to go through some of the basics, so you can figure out exactly what it is you're looking for.<\/p><hr \/><h3>Which type of saxophone?<\/h3><p>The <a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>saxophone family<\/strong><\/a> is enormous. From the tiniest <em>sopranissimo<\/em>, to the biggest <em>subcontrabass<\/em>, there is a saxophone for every octave of the musical scale. But if you\u2019re just starting out, which is the best type of saxophone for you?<\/p><p>It\u2019s generally agreed upon that the best saxophone to learn on is the alto. Larger saxes make it difficult for novices to push through enough air to sound a note, whilst smaller horns require a more developed embouchure (your facial muscles and mouth shape) in order to play in tune.<\/p><p>The <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">alto<\/a><\/strong> sits neatly in the middle ground \u2013 it\u2019s easy to blow, easy to hold, and has a great, versatile sound. What\u2019s more, all of the skills and techniques you pick up learning the alto sax will be transferrable to the other types. You can always switch later - but learning on alto will give you the best chance of making quick and enjoyable progress.<\/p><p>The <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\/tenor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tenor<\/a><\/strong> is also a viable and commonly picked starter sax, but it requires quite a lot more puff, it\u2019s heavier and harder to hold, and - compared to the alto - is more expensive. If you\u2019re an adult, the first two issues will pose less of a challenge, so many beginners do still set their sights on the tenor saxophone.<\/p><p>We would probably recommend against choosing any other kind of saxophone as a first instrument. Besides the forementioned difficulties with blowing and technique, the other types of saxes tend to be a lot more expensive (for a good quality horn), and beginners\u2019 learning resources will be harder to come across.<\/p><p>With all of that being said, if you have your heart set on a specific saxophone other than the alto, then start with that. It will be a bit harder initially, but if you\u2019re working with a sound that you\u2019re passionate about, then you\u2019ll enjoy yourself more and have better results whilst learning.<\/p><p>This article will focus on the alto saxophone though, as we believe it\u2019s generally the best option for a beginner horn.<\/p><hr \/><h3>Jargon buster<\/h3><p>Don\u2019t know your ligature from your bell? Can\u2019t pick between a lacquered or plated finish? We\u2019ll go through some of the basic features which will keep popping up - so you can understand what you\u2019re reading in a product description!<\/p><hr \/><h4>Mouthpieces and reeds<\/h4><p>This is where the sound is generated. When blown, the <em>reed<\/em> vibrates against the <em>mouthpiece<\/em>, creating a noise which is then shaped by the body of the horn.<\/p><p>Saxophone mouthpieces are detachable, and most professional players will own several, as different pieces are better suited to certain styles and genres. More advanced players might also swap out their <em>ligature<\/em>, which holds the reed against the mouthpiece.<\/p><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5208 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/abfd9dbb-yamaha-4c-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>When you\u2019re first starting out, you\u2019ll only need one mouthpiece. Beginner horns generally come included with a student-style mouthpiece which will be more than suitable for your first few years of playing. If your sax of choice doesn\u2019t come with one, then buying something like the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Yamaha-4C-Alto-Saxophone-Mouthpiece\/5ED\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yamaha 4C<\/a><\/strong> would be a good option.<\/p><p>Mouthpieces will almost always come with a ligature, so you needn\u2019t worry about buying one of those separately.<\/p><p>One thing you <em>should<\/em> consider buying straight away is a box of <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind-accessories\/saxophones\/reeds\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reeds<\/a><\/strong>. Sax reeds are quite delicate, and chipping one is a fairly common occurrence \u2013 especially when you\u2019re just starting out! Making sure you have a few reeds in reserve will make your life a lot easier.<\/p><p>Reeds are graded by their thickness \u2013 as the number gets higher, the reed gets thicker and harder. Beginners will generally want to start on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/orchestral\/woodwind-accessories\/saxophones\/reeds\/alto?page=1&filters[399]=3000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2s<\/a><\/strong>, and as you develop your technique you can begin to explore harder reeds.<\/p><h4>\u00a0<\/h4><hr \/><h4>Body materials<\/h4><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5203 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/4a7840f6-022a0702-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/><\/p><p>Saxophones are most commonly made of brass. However, some higher-end models will be made with different metals. This changes the resonance, and ultimately the tone of the instrument.<\/p><p><strong>Brass <\/strong>delivers the classic saxophone sound. An alloy of copper and zinc, brass comes in a few different forms, which offer different properties \u2013 and cost different amounts.<\/p><p>Brass horns offer a versatile platform for tonal development, perfect for all genres and styles.<\/p><p><strong>Yellow Brass<\/strong> has the least copper in its makeup, making it the least expensive form of brass.<\/p><p>Commonly used for student horns, it has less innate warmth than more copper-rich brasses but offers a good blank slate for discovering and developing your own tonal colour.<\/p><p><strong>Gold Brass<\/strong> has a higher copper to zinc ratio, resulting in a more resonant metal.<\/p><p>Horns made from gold brass will have a brighter, richer tone than those made from yellow brass \u2013 but they also come with a bigger price tag.<\/p><p><strong>Red Brass<\/strong> has the highest copper content. A sax made with red brass will have lots of natural resonance, and a highly coloured tone. However, this comes at the expense of less tonal flexibility.<\/p><p><strong>Bronze<\/strong> is a denser metal than brass, and horns made from it have more presence and character in their sound. Warmer tones and a head-turning aesthetic come at the expense of a heavier, more cumbersome horn \u2013 and of course, quite a lot more money.<\/p><p><strong>Silver<\/strong> is an extremely dense and soft metal; it creates a fantastically resonant sax. Favoured for classical and ensemble work, silver horns produce a darker, refined tone with less piercing, high frequencies. This makes it also popular among softer jazz or big band players. However, due to the softness of the metal, it is more delicate and prone to denting. A solid silver sax will also, unsurprisingly, cost you a pretty penny.<\/p><p>For most beginners, price alone will push them towards a brass-bodied sax. This would probably be our recommendation even if you had a blank cheque though. Learning on a more transparent, uncoloured saxophone will give you a better chance to explore the way your embouchure and technique can colour the sound of your playing.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Bell materials<\/h4><p>The bell is the main point of projection for the saxophone\u2019s sound. It\u2019s normally made from the same material as the rest of the sax\u2019s body. However, making the bell with a different metal is a way to colour the overall tone of the horn in a more subtle manner. It's also much cheaper to have a silver bell, for example, than a whole solid silver saxophone.<\/p><p>The bell material affects the performance of a saxophone in much the same way as body material, albeit to a lesser extent.<\/p><p>As with body material, we would suggest just getting a horn with a brass bell when you\u2019re starting out. Learning on a horn with too much innate tonal colour will make it harder to see the way your playing influences the sound of the saxophone.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Finish<\/h4><p>Saxophones are commonly finished with a <em>lacquer<\/em> to prevent the metal body from tarnishing. The finish of a saxophone is largely an aesthetic choice, although it does affect the overall sound of the horn as well.<\/p><p>Painting a lacquer all over the metal body of a saxophone will change the way it responds. A lacquered body will be less resonant, as the metal\u2019s vibration will be dampened. This means that a sax with lacquer will have a more focused sound with fewer overtones.<\/p><p>An unlacquered instrument will have a more rounded tone, as the overtones are allowed to resonate more freely.<\/p><p>Here are some of the common finishes, and how they\u2019ll affect the saxophone.<\/p><p><strong>Lacquered <\/strong>finishes are the most common for saxophones. Described as either \u201cclear lacquer\u201d or \u201cgold lacquer\u201d, it is a transparent seal which preserves the natural colour of the instrument and prevents tarnishing and corrosion.<\/p><p>Great for both jazz and classical players, the lacquer diffuses some of the natural overtones in the instrument, creating a more tonally focussed sound.<\/p><p><strong>Coloured lacquers<\/strong> have the exact same effect on a saxophone, but to a greater extent. Painting a coloured lacquer on a sax requires a thicker layer in order to attain a consistent result. This means that the metal is even less resonant, and the sound more focussed.<\/p><p>Saxophones can be painted any colour, from black, to pink, to a faux vintage pattern.<\/p><p><strong>Unlacquered <\/strong>instruments are left untreated, causing the metal to quickly tarnish and form a <em>patina<\/em> on the surface. The patina prevents the horn from corroding, whilst adding to a unique, vintage aesthetic over time.<\/p><p>Allowed to resonate unhindered, the saxophone has a rounder, warmer sound, with the overtones adding colour. Great for jazz, but not so much for classical work.<\/p><p><strong>Silver-plated <\/strong>saxes have had a layer of silver electroplated to the body of the saxophone. Silver is largely inert, which means it forms a great protective barrier between the body of the instrument and the elements. (That isn\u2019t to say a silver-plated horn is immune to tarnishing, and they in fact require quite diligent upkeep to stay looking as new!)<\/p><p>The added weight of the silver reduces the resonance of the horn, giving the sound a mellower, more classical tone.<\/p><p>Many horns come with multiple options for the finish. We think that you need to love both the sound <em>and<\/em> the look of your instrument, so it\u2019s important to pick something that you\u2019re going to enjoy looking at as well as playing. However, it\u2019s always worth bearing in mind the effect your desired finish will have on the sound of your horn!<\/p><hr \/><h3>Product recommendations<\/h3><p>Here are three starter saxes that we think would set you off on the right foot.<\/p><hr \/><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5204 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/b86a6744-as-100v-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/><\/p><h4>Gear4music AS-100<\/h4><p>We offer an affordable, reliable, and versatile alto saxophone in the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Alto-Saxophone-by-Gear4music-Gold\/1EX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gear4music AS-100<\/a><\/strong>. Available in a variety of finishes, this starter horn is absolutely perfect for beginners looking to work through their first few grades.<\/p><p>With its easy-blowing playability and great intonation, this sax will start giving you good results from the very first session. It comes with everything you\u2019d need at the start of your saxophone journey, with a hard carry case, strap, pad saver, mouthpiece, and reed thrown in.<\/p><h4>\u00a0<\/h4><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><h4>\u00a0<\/h4><hr \/><h4><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5205 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/c978f99b-buffet-100-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>Buffet 100 Series<\/h4><p>If you\u2019re looking to invest a bit more money into your first sax, the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Buffet-100-Series-Alto-Saxophone-Lacquer\/WPC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Buffet 100 Series<\/a><\/strong> is a fantastic alto with a darker, more textured sound. Buffet, known for their world-leading clarinets, are no stranger to building quality woodwind instruments. Their 100 Series Altos are made from yellow brass, finished with clear lacquer.<\/p><p>Their design produces a lovely mellow tone, ideal for classical ensembles or a smoky jazz sound. The sax comes with a Buffet gig bag, mouthpiece and reed \u2013 so you can get playing immediately.<\/p><h4>\u00a0<\/h4><h4>\u00a0<\/h4><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><hr \/><h4><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5206 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2022\/01\/15c4eb34-byas280s-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>Yamaha YAS-280<\/h4><p>Considered by many to be the definitive student saxophone, the <strong><a href=\"\/Woodwind-Brass-Strings\/Yamaha-YAS280-Student-Alto-Saxophone\/J21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yamaha YAS-280<\/a><\/strong> was designed from the ground up for students.<\/p><p>It comes recommended by countless tutors, with beginner-friendly features such as a key guard \u2013 to protect the mechanical keywork from the inevitable knocks and bumps a sax will suffer at the hands of a new player.<\/p><p>Available with a clear lacquer or silver-plated finish, this easy-blowing horn represents the absolute gold standard of beginner saxophones. It comes in at a higher price-point than many other student horns, but you\u2019re paying for the peace of mind in build quality and consistency which always comes with a Yamaha instrument.<\/p><p>This horn also includes a backpack style case and Yamaha\u2019s excellent 4C mouthpiece.<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><hr \/><h3>A point on price<\/h3><p>For most people looking to dip their toe into learning a musical instrument, budget is the primary constraint. No one wants to over-invest in a fledgling hobby that they might end up not enjoying. That\u2019s why our three product recommendations are proper student saxophones, at student price points.<\/p><p>What if you have more money at your disposal though? Is it worth skipping the beginner horns and getting a professional model straight away?<\/p><p>Well, as with most things, money buys quality in the saxophone world. This doesn\u2019t mean that the most expensive saxophone is always the best saxophone, but as a general rule, better horns will cost more.<\/p><p>A professional-quality saxophone <em>will<\/em> play better than a student horn. Learn on a pro sax, and you'll never be held back by your instrument - you may well progress quicker. You\u2019ll also never outgrow your horn, and so won\u2019t have to swap it out for a more expensive model.<\/p><p>For these reasons, buying the best saxophone you can afford isn\u2019t necessarily a bad strategy.<\/p><p>However, it\u2019s definitely worth keeping in mind that until you have some experience playing the sax, you won\u2019t know what you do and don\u2019t like. For that reason, it can be worth learning the basics on a student horn and figuring out exactly what kind of tone and style you\u2019re looking to explore in the future.<\/p><p>That way, when the time comes to drop the big bucks on a pro sax, you\u2019ll be making an informed decision and buying something which suits the experienced player that you are, rather than guessing what it is that you\u2019ll end up liking.<\/p><hr \/><p>Now that you have a better idea of what you want out of your first saxophone, why not explore our range?<\/p><p>Shop now | <strong><a href=\"\/woodwind\/saxophones\/alto\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alto Saxophones<\/a><\/strong><\/p><p>Shop now | <strong><a href=\"\/orchestral\/woodwind\/saxophones\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Saxophones<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[245,251,154],"tags":[102,159],"class_list":["post-4872","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-orchestral-guides","category-orchestral-learn","category-orchestral","tag-beginners-guides","tag-saxophones"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Choosing Your First Saxophone<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Don&#039;t know how to choose your first saxophone? 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