8 Best Yamaha Alto Saxophones

Hey there! Are you in the market for a new saxophone? Well, you’re in luck because this article will take a closer look at a range of saxophones from Yamaha and other brands. Whether you’re a student, intermediate player, or a professional musician, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s jump in and explore the world of saxophones!

Saxophones have a rich history dating back to the 1840s when Adolphe Sax invented the instrument. Over the years, they have become a staple in various music genres, from jazz to classical and everything in between. Owning a saxophone offers a multitude of benefits. Not only does it allow you to express yourself musically, but it also opens doors to joining bands, orchestras, and even pursuing a career in music. With practice and dedication, the saxophone can become an extension of your voice, helping you create beautiful melodies and captivating performances.

In this article, we will take a closer look at various saxophones. We’ll start with the YAMAHA YAS-280 Student Alto Saxophone, a reliable and affordable option for beginners. Then, we’ll explore the YAMAHA YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, which offers advanced features and a gold finish. For those looking for something different, we have the Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument, a unique instrument bridging the gap between woodwinds and brass. Additionally, we’ll examine the Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone, beloved for its golden brass lacquer and impeccable craftsmanship. We will also dig into educational resources such as the Yamaha Band Student method book. Lastly, we’ll explore the EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone Full Kit, a comprehensive package for beginner saxophonists. For the tech enthusiasts, we’ll cover the Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) and take a close look at its features. Lastly, we will discuss the professional-level Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone in an elegant black lacquer finish. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s explore these fascinating saxophones together!

YAMAHA YAS-280 Student Alto Saxophone in Gold

The YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto saxophones, C key, gold are designed for students who are just starting to learn the saxophone. It is an excellent choice for beginner players who want a reliable and high-quality instrument to practice and develop their skills.

We love the YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones because they provide a smooth and effortless playing experience for beginners. The gold lacquer finish gives it a sleek and attractive look, making it a stylish choice for young players. The saxophone produces a warm and vibrant sound that is pleasing to the ears.

The primary purpose of the YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones is to offer beginners a reliable and high-quality instrument to learn the saxophone. It is made by Yamaha, a renowned brand known for their expertise in guitars and keyboards.

Key features of this saxophone include its C key, which is easier for beginners to learn and play. It also has a high F# and front F auxiliary keys, allowing players to access a wider range of notes. The gold lacquer finish adds an aesthetic touch to the instrument.

The overall quality of the YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones is exceptional. Yamaha is known for their commitment to producing instruments that are durable and produce excellent sound quality. The saxophone is well-constructed and designed to withstand the demands of student players.

• High-quality construction by Yamaha, a reputable brand in the music industry

• Smooth and effortless playing experience for beginners

• Warm and vibrant sound quality

• Sleek and attractive gold lacquer finish

• Easy-to-use C key and additional auxiliary keys for a wider range of notes

• May not be suitable for professional saxophonists looking for advanced features

The YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto saxophones, C key, gold are an excellent choice for beginners who want a reliable and high-quality instrument. With its smooth playability, attractive design, and exceptional sound quality, this saxophone is sure to enhance a student’s learning experience and musical journey.

Yamaha Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone – Gold Finish

The Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish is an excellent choice for intermediate players who are looking to upgrade from their beginner saxophone. This saxophone is specifically designed to meet the needs of advancing players and provides a smooth playing experience.

One of the reasons we love the Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone is its beautiful gold finish. Not only does it add a touch of elegance to the instrument, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. The hand engraving on this saxophone is an added bonus, making it stand out from other models in its category.

The Yamaha YAS-480 is built for intermediate players who are ready to take their saxophone playing to the next level. It features a compatible custom Yamaha neck, which allows for better tone control and sound projection. The enhanced neck key guard ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable instrument that can withstand rigorous practice sessions and performances. The left-hand seesaw key is a unique feature that provides a comfortable playing experience, allowing for seamless transitions between different notes.

Yamaha is renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality musical instruments, and the YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone is no exception. The saxophone’s craftsmanship is top-notch, ensuring precise intonation and consistent sound quality. It is built to withstand the demands of intermediate players and will serve them well as they progress in their musical journey.

Pros:

• Beautiful gold finish with hand engraving
• Compatible with custom Yamaha necks for improved tone control
• Enhanced neck key guard for added durability
• Left-hand seesaw key for comfortable playing

Cons:

• The gold finish may require extra care to maintain its shine

Note: The pros and cons listed above are based on user experiences and may vary depending on individual preferences.

With its impressive features and reliable performance, the Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish is an excellent choice for intermediate players seeking an upgrade. Whether used for performances or practice sessions, this saxophone is sure to impress with its beautiful design and superb sound quality.

Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Simplified Wind Instrument

The Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced musicians who are looking for a unique and versatile instrument. It is perfect for solo performances, band rehearsals, music classes, and even outdoor events.

We love the Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument because of its innovative design and outstanding playability. Whether you are a saxophone player looking for a different sound or a beginner interested in learning a wind instrument, this product is ideal for you. It offers easy fingering similar to a recorder, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.

The Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument is designed to provide players with a rich and expressive tone that closely resembles a saxophone. It is made from lightweight and durable ABS plastic, making it easy to carry around and resistant to potential damages. The instrument uses an alto saxophone mouthpiece and reed, allowing sax players to easily adapt to this unique instrument.

One of the key features of the Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova is its key of F and fully chromatic two-octave range. This gives players the ability to explore different musical genres and play a wide variety of songs. Additionally, the instrument is tuned in C, making it compatible with other instruments like pianos and guitars.

The Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument excels in terms of overall quality. Its lightweight construction and durable materials ensure longevity and ease of maintenance. The instrument provides a consistent and smooth playing experience, allowing players to achieve excellent sound quality.

1. Easy fingering, similar to a recorder, making it accessible for beginners

2. Lightweight and durable construction that makes it easy to carry around

3. Beautiful and expressive tone that resembles a saxophone

4. Compatible with alto saxophone mouthpiece and reeds

5. Broad range of musical possibilities with a fully chromatic two-octave range

6. Some experienced saxophone players may find it challenging to adjust to the different fingerings

7. The instrument may require additional maintenance compared to traditional saxophones due to its plastic construction

With its innovative design, beautiful sound, and excellent playability, the Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument is a top choice for saxophone enthusiasts and beginners alike. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any musician’s repertoire.

Jean Paul AS-400 Gold Lacquered Alto Saxophone

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered is a versatile instrument suitable for players of all levels, from beginners to more advanced musicians. It is perfect for school bands, jazz ensembles, and solo performances.

One of the main reasons why the Jean Paul AS-400 is highly recommended is its ergonomic keywork. The well-designed keys allow players to produce smooth and effortless sound, enhancing their playing experience. This saxophone also comes with a robust contoured carrying case, making it easy to transport and protect the instrument.

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone is crafted with a beautiful yellow brass body construction and a lacquer finish, giving it a stunning appearance. The instrument is designed to produce rich and resonant tones, making it enjoyable to play and listen to. Its auxiliary keys, including the high F#, offer more versatility and allow musicians to explore a wider range of tones and musical styles.

This saxophone is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. From the carefully assembled keywork to the high-quality materials used in its construction, the Jean Paul AS-400 offers durability and long-lasting performance. Its solid build ensures that the instrument will withstand the rigors of regular playing and transportation.

• Ergonomic keywork for comfortable playing

• Beautiful brass body with a lacquer finish

• Robust carrying case for easy transportation

• Includes all necessary accessories for immediate use

• Some players may find the weight slightly heavy for extended playing sessions

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered is a top-notch instrument that delivers both aesthetically and musically. With its ergonomic keywork, beautiful design, and exceptional craftsmanship, this saxophone offers a great playing experience for musicians of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner just starting your musical journey or an experienced player looking for an upgrade, the Jean Paul AS-400 is a fantastic choice.

Yamaha Band Student Book 2 – E-Flat Alto Saxophone

The Yamaha Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone is primarily designed for students who are learning to play the alto saxophone. It serves as a comprehensive guide and method book for beginners, providing them with a structured way to develop and improve their skills.

We like the Yamaha Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone because it is specifically designed for students. Its user-friendly approach makes it easy for beginners to understand and follow along. The book covers a wide range of essential topics, including scales, technique exercises, sight-reading, and musical theory.

The purpose of the Yamaha Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone is to provide students with a solid foundation in playing the alto saxophone. It starts with the basics and gradually progresses to more advanced techniques. The book includes various musical exercises and repertoire, allowing students to apply what they have learned in a practical manner.

Key features of this product include:

• Clear and concise explanations: The book presents concepts in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner, ensuring that students grasp the material without feeling overwhelmed.
• Progressive structure: The content is organized in a logical sequence, gradually building upon previous lessons to develop a solid foundation of saxophone playing skills.
• Wide variety of exercises: The book includes a diverse range of exercises that cover different aspects of playing the alto saxophone, helping students to develop their technique, tone, and musicality.
• Musical repertoire: The book features a selection of solo and ensemble pieces, allowing students to apply their skills while playing music.

The Yamaha Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone is highly regarded for its high-quality content and its suitability for beginner saxophonists. It is a reliable resource that provides students with a structured and comprehensive approach to learning the alto saxophone.

Pros:

• User-friendly approach, making it ideal for beginners
• Clear and concise explanations facilitate easy understanding
• Progressive structure helps to build a strong foundation
• Diverse range of exercises cater to various aspects of saxophone playing
• Inclusion of musical repertoire encourages practical application

Cons:

• Some users may find the content too basic and may require additional resources for more advanced study.

EASTROCK Alto Saxophone Full Kit for Beginner-Black/Gold with Case and Accessories

The EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone is designed for students and beginners who are looking to start learning and playing the saxophone. It is also suitable for school music programs, concerts, and as a gift for any level player.

We love the EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone because it offers exceptional quality and appearance at an affordable price. Its top material, made from selected h68 copper with a multi-layer painted transparent lacquered black finish, gives the saxophone a durable and non-fading appearance. The hand-carved design and high-quality shell buttons add to its overall aesthetic appeal.

The purpose of the EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone is to provide a high-quality instrument for students and beginners to learn and play the saxophone. It is also suitable for more experienced players as it offers an excellent sound and advanced design features.

Some key features of this saxophone include its professionally adjusted sound, ensuring a good sound without noise. The buttons have good feedback and look perfect when pressed down. The saxophone also has upgraded quality leather, providing higher air tightness, and upgraded quality copper needle springs, making the instrument smoother to play.

The EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone is undoubtedly an outstanding musical instrument in terms of both quality and appearance. Its sturdy construction, selected materials, and attention to detail make it a reliable and durable instrument.

• Beautiful and durable design

• Excellent sound quality

• Upgraded features for smoother playing

• Suitable for players of any level

• Comes with a full kit, including a carrying case and accessories

• May require professional adjustment for optimal performance

With its exceptional quality, beautiful design, and excellent sound, the EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone is an excellent choice for any student, beginner, or experienced player looking for a reliable instrument. It offers a complete kit with all the necessary accessories, making it a great value for money.

Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) – Simplified Version: Yamaha Digital Sax

The Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) is designed for musicians of all levels, from beginners to professionals. Whether you’re practicing in your bedroom, performing on stage, or recording in a studio, this versatile instrument is perfect for any situation.

This Yamaha alto saxophone stands out for its innovative digital features and exceptional sound quality. It combines the traditional acoustic saxophone mouthpiece and fingerings with advanced digital technology, offering a truly unique playing experience.

The primary purpose of the Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) is to provide saxophonists with a portable and convenient option for practicing and performing. Its key features include:

• Acoustic saxophone mouthpiece and fingerings: Provides a familiar and authentic playing experience for saxophonists, ensuring a seamless transition from a traditional saxophone to a digital one.

• 73 preset voices: Offers a wide range of sound options, allowing users to experiment with various genres and styles. From classical to jazz, pop to rock, there’s a voice to suit every musical preference.

• Dedicated app for further customization: The Yamaha “Digital Saxophone Controller” app allows players to adjust settings such as reverb, breath control, and key layout. This level of customization ensures that you can create a truly personalized sound.

• Headphone, AUX in, and micro USB connections: The YDS-150 enables you to practice silently with headphones, play along with your favorite tracks through the AUX input, or connect to a computer for recording and editing purposes.

The Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that Yamaha is known for. Its durability and reliability make it a long-lasting investment for saxophonists of all skill levels.

• Versatile digital features combined with traditional saxophone feel

• Wide range of preset voices for exploration and experimentation

• Customizable settings for personalization

• Portable and convenient for practicing and performing anywhere

• High-quality construction for durability and reliability

• Requires additional accessories, such as headphones or a smartphone, for full functionality

• Some players may prefer the acoustic sound and feel of a traditional saxophone.

Yamaha Custom Z Alto Saxophone in Black Lacquer

The Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer is a top-of-the-line instrument designed for professional saxophonists. It is also suitable for advanced students who are looking to upgrade to a higher-quality instrument.

We highly recommend the Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer due to its outstanding performance and exceptional craftsmanship. This saxophone offers a free and open tone with a complex color, allowing musicians to explore a wide range of musical expressions. Its lightning-fast action ensures effortless playability, enabling players to deliver flawless performances.

The Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer is built to deliver superior sound quality and responsiveness. Its key features include a beautiful design and engraving, which adds a touch of elegance to the instrument. The saxophone has been market tested and proven to be reliable, ensuring consistency in performance. Additionally, a hard case is included to protect the instrument during transportation and storage.

The Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing Yamaha’s commitment to producing high-quality instruments. The saxophone is made from durable materials, ensuring its longevity and durability. Its superior craftsmanship guarantees a smooth and precise playing experience, allowing players to reach their full potential.

When considering the Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer, it is important to weigh the pros and cons.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with a free and open tone
• Lightning-fast action for effortless playability
• Beautiful design and engraving adds elegance
• Market tested and proven reliability
• Comes with a hard case for convenient transportation and storage

Cons:

• Higher price point may not be suitable for beginners or casual players

The Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer is a top choice for professional saxophonists and advanced students seeking a high-quality instrument. Its exceptional sound quality, superior craftsmanship, and reliable performance make it an excellent investment for serious musicians.

Comparison of YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto Saxophones, YAMAHA YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, YAMAHA YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument, Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone, YAMAHA Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone, EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone E Flat Sax Full Kit, YAMAHA Digital Saxophone (YDS-150), and YAMAHA YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone

Specifications

Product	Case Included	Material	Finish	Key	Auxiliary Keys	Accessories Included
YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto Saxophones	Yes	Gold Lacquer	Gold	C	High F# and Front F	–
YAMAHA YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone	–	–	Gold	Eb	–	Compatible with Custom Yamaha necks, Enhanced neck Key guard, Left-hand seesaw key
YAMAHA YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument	–	ABS Plastic	–	F	Fully chromatic	Uses alto saxophone mouthpiece and reed
Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone	Yes	Yellow Brass	Lacquer	–	High F#	Semi-hard Backpack Style Carrying Case, Neck Strap, Standard Mouthpiece, Ligature & Cap, Reed, Cleaning Cloth
YAMAHA Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone	–	–	–	E-Flat	–	–
EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone E Flat Sax Full Kit	Yes	H68 copper	Lacquered Black	E-Flat	–	Lightweight hard case, Mouthpiece, Neck strap, Reeds, Mouthpiece Cushion Pads, Cleaning Cloth & Rod, Gloves
YAMAHA Digital Saxophone (YDS-150)	Yes	–	–	–	–	Acoustic saxophone mouthpiece and fingerings, 73 preset voices, Dedicated app, Headphone, AUX in, micro USB
YAMAHA YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone	Yes	–	Black	–	–	Hard case included

Comparison of Features

• YAMAHA YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto Saxophones:

  • Complete with Case
  • Gold lacquer finish
  • High F# and Front F auxiliary keys

• YAMAHA YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone:

  • Hand engraving
  • Compatible with Custom Yamaha necks
  • Enhanced neck Key guard
  • Left-hand seesaw key

• YAMAHA YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument:

  • Easy fingering similar to a recorder
  • Rich and expressive tone that sounds like a saxophone
  • Key of F with a fully chromatic two octave range
  • Made from lightweight and durable ABS plastic
  • Uses an alto saxophone mouthpiece and reed

• Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone:

  • Ergonomic Keywork helps you play more comfortably
  • Robust Contoured Carrying Case For Easy Transportation
  • Beautiful Yellow Brass Body Construction With Lacquer Finish
  • Included Accessories: Semi-hard Backpack Style Carrying Case, Neck Strap, Standard Mouthpiece, Ligature & Cap, Reed, Cleaning Cloth
  • Auxiliary keys: High F#

• YAMAHA Band Student, Book 2: E-Flat Alto Saxophone:

  • No information available

• EASTROCK Black/Golden Alto Saxophone E Flat Sax Full Kit:

  • Top Material: H68 copper with lacquered black finish
  • Excellent Sound: Professionally adjusted for good sound without noise
  • Advanced Design: Upgraded quality leather and copper needle spring for smooth playing experience
  • Suitable For Any Level Player: Suitable for students, beginners, school, concert, and any level players. Package includes multiple accessories.
  • 100% Money Back: 1-year manufacture warranty against defect

• YAMAHA Digital Saxophone (YDS-150):

  • Play anytime, anywhere with headphone, AUX in, and micro USB connections
  • Acoustic saxophone mouthpiece and fingerings
  • 73 preset voices
  • Dedicated app for further customization

• YAMAHA YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone:

  • Free and open tone with complex color
  • Lightning fast action
  • Beautiful design and engraving
  • Market tested and reliable
  • Hard case included

Note: Some information may be missing or incomplete for certain products.

Conclusion

After reviewing all eight products, it is clear that Yamaha offers a range of saxophones suitable for different skill levels and preferences. Each saxophone has its own unique features and can cater to different needs.

Drawbacks

Some drawbacks were noticed in a few of the products. The Yamaha YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto saxophone, while suitable for beginners, may not meet the expectations of advanced players due to limited functionalities. The Yamaha YVS-120 Alto Venova Casual Wind Instrument, although innovative in design, may not produce the same quality of sound as traditional saxophones.

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone, while visually appealing, may require additional maintenance to prevent tarnishing. In addition, the Yamaha Band Student Book 2, though comprehensive, may not be the most recent edition, potentially lacking the latest teaching methodologies.

Recommendation

For beginner students, the Yamaha YAS-280 Saxophones Student Alto saxophone is highly recommended. Its affordable price, ease of play, and durable construction make it a suitable choice for those starting out.

Intermediate players looking for an upgrade should consider the Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone. With its gold finish and improved sound quality, this saxophone provides a step-up in performance.

For advanced saxophonists seeking a unique experience, the Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Z Alto Saxophone Black Lacquer is worth considering. Its professional features, excellent tone, and sleek design make it a top choice.

For those looking to explore new possibilities, the Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150) offers a digital alternative with an array of sounds and effects.

Overall, Yamaha saxophones are known for their quality craftsmanship and reliable performance. Whether you are a student, intermediate player, or professional musician, Yamaha has a saxophone to suit your needs.