The price of a saxophone usually reflects the quality of that particular brand of sax. Here is a quick guide to help to know what to expect to pay for a new saxophone. This article is going to deal with the common alto sax and show the starting price only.

Gear For Music Alto Sax      $380
SMS Acadamey Alto              $418
Selmar USA                               $580
Trevor James                           $700
Earlham                                      $900
Keilworth                                   $1200
Yamaha YAS275                    $1200
Yanigasawa                              $2400
Selmar Paris                            $3200

These are only approximate prices. For a tenor sax you will want to add anywhere from $100 to $300. For soprano and higher or baritone and lower add another $300. You will have to shop around to get the best price possible. Make sure the sax you buy comes with a money back guarantee.

A used saxophone may be the way to go for you. Especially if budget is a concern. A new YAS275 is $1200 or more, but a used one could be as cheaps as $200. A general rule of thumb is that the better known models and the better quality the sax, the closer to the new price you will have to pay.

A used sax may be your only option, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy junk. Look over the pads, key action. And look for bent rods. Good luck.