Which professional tenor saxophone to buy second-hand? Buying guide

The second-hand professional tenor saxophone: the saxophonists' smart move

A professional tenor saxophone is a significant investment: expect several thousand euros for a new instrument from a major brand. Yet most professional saxophonists and informed amateurs buy their instrument second-hand. It is a tradition in the saxophone world, driven by the exceptional longevity of these instruments and the reputation of certain manufacturing eras. A good second-hand tenor, well maintained, can serve for decades and hold its value.

This guide gives you the keys to choosing a professional second-hand tenor saxophone with confidence: the brands and models to know, the essential check points, realistic budgets and the pitfalls to avoid.

Why buy a second-hand tenor saxophone?

The saxophone is one of the instruments where second-hand is most relevant, for several reasons. First, the price: a new professional tenor saxophone from a major brand costs several thousand euros, and second-hand makes it possible to divide the bill by two or three. Then, the value: well-maintained saxophones resell well, and some older models (Selmer Mark VI, for example) gain value over time. Finally, the sound: many saxophonists believe that instruments from past years have a unique sonic character, sought after in jazz as well as in the studio. Read our article why buy a second-hand musical instrument to understand all the benefits of the approach.

The big brands of professional tenor saxophones

The professional saxophone market is dominated by a few major brands. Here they are, with their ranges and reputation.

Selmer Paris: the French reference

Selmer Paris is THE world reference for professional saxophones. The Série II, Série III and Référence 54 models are used by the greatest jazz and classical saxophonists. The Série II, produced since the 1980s, is appreciated for its warm sound and flexibility. The Série III, more recent, offers increased precision and projection. The Référence 54 pays tribute to the legendary Mark VI with a vintage sound. Selmer saxophones hold their value very well second-hand, and a second-hand Selmer tenor saxophone is a lasting investment.

Yamaha: Japanese reliability

Yamaha produces professional saxophones with impressive consistency. The 62, 82Z and 875 EX series are recognised for their precise keywork, flawless intonation and faultless build. The YTS-62 is THE professional reference model for advanced students and pro musicians, often compared to the best Selmers at a more accessible price. Second-hand Yamaha YTS models are excellent value for money: reliable, easy to maintain and virtually indestructible.

Yanagisawa: Japanese high end

Yanagisawa is the third great name in professional saxophones. The Japanese brand is renowned for its artisanal excellence, impeccable finishes and elegant sound. The WO, WO2, WO3 models and the 900 series are highly prized by classical and jazz saxophonists. A second-hand Yanagisawa is a safe investment: the brand holds its value and its instruments age remarkably well.

Other brands worth knowing

Other brands offer excellent professional saxophones: Jupiter (700 and 877 series), Antigua, Keilwerth, P. Mauriat, or Buffet Crampon. These instruments, often cheaper than the big three, can be excellent second-hand deals, provided they are in good condition. Read our guide Antigua: the complete guide to saxophones to discover one of these serious brands.

The check points before buying a second-hand saxophone

A saxophone is a complex mechanical instrument: about a hundred parts, dozens of pads, delicate keywork. Here are the points to check without fail before buying.

1. The pads and the seal

The pads (the discs that close the holes) are the first cause of problems. A worn, cracked or badly positioned pad causes air leaks and a sound that 'squeaks' or does not come out. Test every note by playing complete scales, from low to high, with soft dynamics. If some notes do not come out easily, the pads are probably tired. An instrument whose pads are more than ten years old will need a service.

2. The mechanism and keywork

Check that all the keys move freely, without excessive play or friction. The adjustment screws must be in place, and the springs must not be bent. Badly adjusted keywork makes playing tiring and imprecise. Watch out for signs of a fall: a body dented around the tone holes is a sign of an impact that can affect the seal.

3. The body and the lacquer

Scratches and lacquer wear are normal on a second-hand instrument and do not affect the sound. On the other hand, check for the absence of dents, cracks or suspicious repairs. The tenon (the connection between the body and the bell) must be clean and well fitted, without play.

4. Playability and feel

The most important thing: the instrument must please you to play. The weight, the balance, the resistance, the intonation in the low and high registers: all of this is personal. A perfectly serviced saxophone that does not suit you will not make you progress. Try the instrument if possible, or buy from a seller with a return policy.

Plain second-hand or refurbished?

For a saxophone, the distinction between second-hand and refurbished is crucial. A second-hand saxophone sold as is may need an expensive service (pads, adjustments) that you will have to cover. A refurbished saxophone, meanwhile, has passed through the hands of a technician: pads replaced, keywork adjusted, instrument cleaned and tested, often with a warranty. It is a guarantee of peace of mind, especially for such a technical instrument. Our article second-hand or refurbished: what to choose? helps you decide according to your profile.

The accessories to plan for

Buying the saxophone is only the beginning: the mouthpiece, the reeds and the maintenance are all part of the equation.

• The mouthpiece: half the sound comes from the mouthpiece. Selmer, Vandoren and Otto Link mouthpieces are the references. A good mouthpiece costs from 50 to 200 euros.
• The reeds: Vandoren dominates the market, with strengths adapted to each mouthpiece and each style. A box of reeds is a consumable to renew regularly.
• The ligature: to hold the reed on the mouthpiece. Metal or leather models change the response and the sound.
• Maintenance: swab, cloth, key oil: regular maintenance extends the life of the pads.

For mouthpieces, ligatures and accessories, see our guides Rovner: ligatures for saxophone and clarinet and explore the saxophone mouthpieces available at Green Musicians.

Mistakes to avoid

• Buying a tired legendary model: a Mark VI in poor condition is expensive to service and often sounds worse than a good recent model.
• Neglecting the trial: buying a saxophone without playing it is risky. If you cannot try it, demand detailed photos and a return policy.
• Forgetting the service budget: a second-hand instrument will almost always need a visit to the repair technician.
• Ignoring the mouthpiece: a magnificent saxophone with an unsuitable mouthpiece will sound bad. Budget for the mouthpiece and reeds.
• Buying without checking the pads: it is the number one cause of disappointment after a second-hand purchase.

FAQ: professional second-hand tenor saxophone

Which professional tenor saxophone to choose second-hand? The safe bets are the Yamaha YTS-62 (excellent value for money), the Selmer Série II (the sound reference) and the Yanagisawa (finish and reliability). The choice depends on your style and your budget.

Is a second-hand saxophone reliable? Yes, provided you check the pads, the keywork and the body. An instrument refurbished by a professional is the safest choice.

How much does a professional second-hand tenor saxophone cost? Allow from 2,000 to 4,000 euros for the big brands in good condition, less for semi-professional models.

Should a second-hand saxophone be serviced? Almost always: allow 100 to 300 euros for pads and adjustments, unless the instrument is recent or has been serviced by the seller.

Is the mouthpiece included in a second-hand purchase? Sometimes, but often you have to plan for it. The mouthpiece is personal: better to buy your own, suited to your embouchure.

Our verdict: which professional second-hand tenor saxophone?

The professional second-hand tenor saxophone is the best value for money on the market: the big brands (Selmer, Yamaha, Yanagisawa) make virtually indestructible instruments, and second-hand gives access to the high end for a fraction of the new price. The key: favour condition and service over the model, have the pads and keywork checked, and budget for a mouthpiece and accessories. For beginners in pro saxophones, refurbished with a warranty is a precious security.

Explore the tenor saxophones available at Green Musicians to find the instrument of your dreams, new, second-hand or refurbished.

And there you have it! We hope this article has helped you see more clearly when choosing your tenor saxophone. All that is left is to browse Green Musicians to find the saxophone of your dreams at the best price.

We offer a complete catalogue of musical instruments featuring brands from all over the world such as Selmer, Yamaha, Jupiter, Antigua and many more. Whether you are an amateur or professional musician, our marketplace is designed to offer you the best of music.

Green Musicians is also the music marketplace where everyone can sell or buy music gear with complete confidence: new, refurbished and second-hand instruments, as well as software, plugins, sheet music and samples.

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