The Best Alto Saxophone for 2020

Unlike cars or mobile devices – which have newer and better models that come out every year – saxophones are more of a tried and true instrument. While new models do come out occasionally, it’s not like the instrument changes from year to year. So, if you’re looking for the best alto saxophone for 2020, you’re better off sticking with brands and models that have been time-tested by students, professionals and educators. 

Yamaha Saxophones

You really can’t go wrong with Yamaha saxophones. Whether you’re looking for a student model, an intermediate horn or a professional sax, Yamaha has been making superior saxophones for decades.

Yamaha offers excellent build quality, precise intonation and all-round beautiful instruments. The manufacturer is known for investing significant time and money into perfecting their professional instruments, and then applying that expertise to their intermediate and student horns, so no matter your playing level, you get a superior instrument.

Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone

If you’re really looking for a great alto saxophone in 2020, you can bet on the Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone. While it’s not a new model, this instrument consistently gets 5-star reviews from players and if you have a chance to play it, you’ll see why.

A favorite among band directors for decades, the 62 model saxophones (and their predecessor, the 61) have redefined the market by offering superior quality and durability at an affordable price. Introduced in 1979, the YAS-62 saxophones withstand the tests of time and competition and have been in a continual state of improvement since the launch of the YAS-61 in 1969. The new YAS-62III carries the tradition of excellence forward while introducing further refinements to the already sound design of the 62.

The neck features a slightly narrower bore which provides a faster response and greater control. It allows a comfortable flow of air so that every player can attain a solid tonal core. The engraving is elaborate with fine detail. You’ll find an improved mechanism from low B to C# which ensures a proper seal for these notes to promote a clear response throughout the low range of the instrument. Every YAS-62III comes with a semi-hard case that offers a contemporary look and greater ease of transport.

 

Give it a listen in this video as Greg Vail plays the Yamaha YAS-62III

Some features you’ll find in the YAS-62III include:

  • Free blowing
  • Redesigned for fast response
  • Beautiful tone
  • Option of lacquered or silver-plated
  • Auxiliary Keys: High F#, Front F
  • Key buttons material: Polyester
  • Bell Decoration: Hand-engraved
  • Thumb hook: Adjustable
  • Key: Eb
  • Mouthpiece AS4C and case ASC-600E included

Choosing the Best Saxophone

Choosing the best saxophone for you is always going to be a subjective activity. Be sure to try a variety of brands and models – swap out mouthpieces and reeds too! – to ensure you’re investing in an instrument that feels right and fits your playing style, so it’ll bring you years of playing enjoyment.

Don’t forget to stock up on accessories and care & cleaning products to keep your saxophone in top playing condition.

If you need help choosing the right saxophone, call us at 800.348.5003. And remember, with Woodwind & Brasswind’s satisfaction guarantee, you can be sure you’re making a smart purchase.