8 Best Selmer Saxophones – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Selmer Saxophones – Guide & Comparison

 

If your goals and interests call for the best Selmer saxophone, yet you have little time at disposal to browse all the models available for sale, this short paragraph might help you decide on a product more easily and quickly. After examining the features of various popular saxophones by Selmer, we have concluded that the first option to consider is the Selmer STS280 La Voix II Tenor. The product makes a great choice whether you’re interested in solo playing or you’re part of a band. The unit features a traditional bell size that will help you keep your tone and enjoy greater ease of blending. What’s more, the pack includes a quality case for easy transportation, a Selmer mouthpiece, a ligature, and a cap. Should you be unable to find this product, another option you might want to try is the Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

8 Best Selmer Saxophones (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Finding the best saxophone for your needs might not be easy, given the many features that need to be considered. If a Selmer saxophone is what you have in mind, our list of Selmer saxophone reviews might be of help. Check it out for a more informed decision.

 

 

1. Selmer STS280 La Voix II Tenor

 

Built for both solo playing and band concerts, this Selmer tenor saxophone is worth adding to your list of options if you want an easy-to-use and high-performance instrument. The item was designed to make it easy for you to practice and advance your skills and thus comes with a comfortable design.

The compact and ergonomic key setup will provide you with better response time whereas the lighter body will make it easier for you to handle it. The product may thus be a good option even for beginners or young players. This also means that employing it for long sessions won’t affect your comfort.

Since practice sessions may stretch over hours, the lightweight construction gains even greater importance. The light-to-touch keys will provide you with faster finger action, a feature that renders this model ideal for more playful genres. The instrument is coupled with a durable case, a Selmer mouthpiece, a cap, and a ligature.

Thanks to the case included, you can comfortably carry the instrument from one place to another and keep it safe while doing so. Additionally, you can use it to store the saxophone when not in use. Not to mention that all the accessories make this bundle a relatively affordable option.

 

Pros

This tenor saxophone is worth considering whether you want to engage in solo gigs or play with a band as it was designed to meet such needs and keep up with extended use.

The instrument comes with a traditional bell size, so you can focus your tone and enjoy easy blending.

Based on the original La Voix saxophones, this model delivers the same noteworthy intonation and key fluidity as the first models, which will up both your performance and comfort when playing.

The clear lacquered body, bell, and neck will complete your performance with a nice visual touch.

The various accessories included in the pack make this a relatively affordable Selmer saxophone bundle; you will receive a case for easy storage and transportation, a cap, a ligature, and a Selmer mouthpiece.

 

Cons

The keys might loosen over time or if you use the instrument heavily, but they can be readjusted.

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2. Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto

 

Designed to cut a fine figure both sonically and visually, this Selmer alto saxophone is bound to help you shape your personality with sounds and do so for a long time. The instrument is built with a quality metal alloy and features an ergonomic key placement, so you can play fluidly and comfortably.

The item comes with a traditional-size bell that will help you keep your tone and blend the pitch and tones with greater ease. The unit was designed to ensure ease of use and meet the needs of an intermediate player interested in either playing in a band or as a soloist; therefore, versatility is another feature you will benefit from when employing the SAS280 La Voix II.

The black nickel also makes a nice visual addition. However, the unit is available in various color and material options, so you can find a model that meets your particular interests and preferences more easily.

This pack includes anything you need to start playing right away. You will thus get the saxophone, a quality case for safe and easy transportation, a ligature, a cap, and a Selmer mouthpiece. Considering the bundle price and all the items included, this option might prove to be relatively affordable.

 

Pros

Whether you need a tenor saxophone for your solo gigs or band concerts, this unit is worth trying as it was built to perform and last.

Thanks to the traditional bell size and the metal alloy used, the instrument will help you keep your tone with greater ease and blend the pitch and tone effortlessly.

The ergonomic key placement ensures ease of use and fluidity of movement whereas the remarkable intonation provides the player with enhanced flexibility.

The unit will cut a fine figure from a visual point of view as well thanks to its the black nickel used.

Due to the various accessories included, you can play immediately upon arrival; you will get the instrument, a quality case to store and transport the saxophone safely and easily, a cap, a ligature, and a Selmer mouthpiece.

 

Cons

The product might be a bit pricey, yet it promises to last and the pack includes various accessories.

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3. Selmer Prelude TS711

 

If this is your first instrument and you’re interested in getting a saxophone that is durable and easy to play without breaking your wallet, the Prelude TS711 might be cut out for you. The product is part of the Prelude entry-level series manufactured by Selmer and is ideal for beginning band players.

Even if it addresses musicians with little experience, the product does not disappoint in terms of durability and performance. It features a ribbed construction and a yellow brass body, which translates into many practice sessions. Moreover, it comes with a reinforced body-to-bow connection that is detachable and adds to the strength and durability delivered.

The bore was designed in such a way to enhance projection and the entire unit was built to provide comfort even when playing for hours on end. This advantage is highly important since beginners tend to spend lots of time practicing and learning the fundamentals of this instrument. An uncomfortable design might discourage the student from doing so.

The unit is paired with a molded mouthpiece, a ligature, and a cap. In addition to all that, the saxophone features a stylishly-engraved bell that will contour your performance with nice visuals.

 

Pros

In case you have little experience with this instrument and you’d like a model to help you advance your skill, this entry-level unit is worth adding to your list of options.

The saxophone promises to make it easy for beginning band players to explore its sonic capacities and engage even in long practice sessions without losing comfort.

Thanks to the bore design, you will enjoy enhanced projection, and, due to the yellow brass body and rigged construction, you will get to use the unit for a long time.

The body-to-bow connection is reinforced and can be detached, which adds to the durability and strength provided.

The engraved bell and dark lacquer keys and body will add a touch of style to your performance.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that this saxophone model is ideal for beginners and intermediate players and might not be the best option for advanced musicians.

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4. Selmer AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone

 

Featuring a quality build and a stylish design, this alto saxophone shouldn’t be left unchecked before you make your final decision as it is committed to performing beautifully for a long time. This model is the first collaboration between Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris, a collaboration that resulted in a nice unit from both a sonic and visual point of view.

The saxophone comes with an exclusive Selmer Paris mouthpiece and a custom-designed neck. Ensuring a good response due to the blue steel springs, this model can be employed for both classical and modern jazz sessions, which further translates into enhanced versatility. Given this flexibility, you can engage in various playing styles until you find your musical path.

Thanks to the metal resonators and the ribbed construction, players are provided with a good projection and a wide dynamic range. The stylish design and the hand-engraved pattern will pair your performance with nice visuals. It is also one of the features that set it apart from other models in this line of products.

What’s more, the multiple screws will enable you to make the necessary adjustments with ease. The pack includes a quality case, so you can transport the saxophone safely and comfortably.

 

Pros

Durable and stylish, this saxophone model is an option you might want to check out before you hit the order button if what you want includes high-quality sounds and a reliable instrument.

The saxophone is a product created by Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris, which translates into a unique model that will keep up with your goals beautifully and do so for a long time.

The instrument boasts a ribbed construction and metal resonators, which means that you will get to enjoy a wide dynamic range as well as impressive projection.

The unit also stands out as far as the response delivered is ensured; the blue steel springs are bound to deliver a quick response.

Given its features and the sounds it creates, the saxophone can be used for both modern and classic jazz.

 

Cons

The product falls on the expensive side, yet the way it works and the durability ensured won’t disappoint.

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5. Selmer AS42 Alto Sax Lacquer

 

This model from Selmer does not only ensure high-quality sounds but also a stylish design that will make sure your performance gets noticed both sonically and visually. The collaboration between Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris resulted in this merged design that promises to keep up with extended use and cover various musical genres beautifully.

The way this product was built and its various features render it great for both modern and classical jazz songs and provide players with versatility. Due to the ribbed construction, metal resonators, and blue steel springs, the AS42 delivers noteworthy response, projection, and dynamic range. All that is paired with high-quality sounds.

The product cuts a nice visual figure as well, so you can rest assured that it won’t go unnoticed when you engage in live sessions. The multiple screws featured are adjustable; therefore, you can easily make the necessary changes.

The instrument measures 28 x 14.1 x 9.5 inches and weighs 15.09 pounds. As far as its weight is concerned, the item is somewhere in between since there are both lighter and heavier saxophones. The pack should include a case to protect the instrument during transportation and make it comfortable for you to carry it.

 

Pros

Take your saxophone performance one step further with this model; it was built to produce high-quality sounds and last.

To make sure it covers the needs of various players, the unit was built to perform nicely whether it is employed for classical or modern jazz.

Versatility is not the only benefit you get to enjoy as the product comes with a ribbed construction and metal resonators that ensure impressive projection and dynamic range.

The blue steel rings contribute to the quick response ensured and thus to the performance quality you will get to enjoy.

Thanks to the hand-engraved pattern and the overall stylish design, your performance will be noticed from a visual point of view.

 

Cons

The unit weighs 15.09 pounds, which makes it heavier than other models in this line of products and thus less comfortable when engaging in long practice sessions and gigs.

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6. Selmer TS44 Professional Tenor Saxophone

 

Ideal for beginners or casual players interested in a reasonably-priced unit that ensures professional results, this tenor model from Selmer is an option you might want to pay attention to. The introductory professional saxophone was carefully built with quality materials so you can employ it for many sessions without losing sound quality.

This unit is a merged design created by Henri Selmer Paris and Selmer USA. That’s why the item boasts a Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece and custom neck. The rich and warm sounds it creates make it a good option for both modern and classical jazz. The enhanced versatility will enable you to explore various musical genres until you find the one that best defines you.

Moreover, the timbral and dynamic range delivered is likely to up your performance. The ribbed construction and blue steel springs add to the durability and quick response ensured by this product.

The saxophone comes with Pisoni pro pads and a BAM backpack case that will help you transport the item comfortably and safely. The leather used for the pads should enable you to use them extensively before replacing them. The unit weighs 19 pounds, so it is a bit heavier than other items in this line of products.

 

Pros

Built with both beginners and advanced musicians in mind, this saxophone will help you meet your musical goals beautifully and professionally regardless of your skill level.

To help you engage in memorable performances, the unit is packed with features more expensive models usually come with, yet with a price that will suit a greater category of buyers.

Due to the ribbed construction, blue steel springs, and materials used, you will get to enjoy a quick response and use the unit for many practice sessions and gigs.

The item is designed by Selmer USA and Henri Selmer Paris, the reason why the saxophone features a Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece and neck.

The TS44 also boasts Pisoni pro pads and the pack includes a quality backpack case for easy storage and transportation.

 

Cons

The saxophone weighs 19 pounds, which might make it a bit heavy for long practice sessions, especially if you are a beginner and thus not used to this instrument.

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7. Selmer SS600 Soprano Saxophone

 

In case your interests require a soprano saxophone, the SS600 model from Selmer might be cut out for you as it was designed to meet such needs nicely and keep up with extended use. The product makes a good option for students and players with little experience, given its design.

The saxophone features a straight body, a choice of design that many players find to be easier to handle. The one-piece body and neck contribute to the durability ensured by this model. The product comes with a hard rubber mouthpiece for extended use.

Furthermore, the metal resonators and leather pads will also make sure that employing this item for many sessions won’t be a problem and that the sonic output delivered will meet higher standards. The clear lacquered body, neck, and bell will complete your performance with nice visuals while the case included in the pack will help you transport the item safely and easily.

Since the item boasts a straight design, it is also significantly lighter than other saxophones. It weighs only 8.4 pounds and measures 29 x 10 x 6 inches, so you can add it even to your travel gear in case you want to practice on the road.

 

Pros

Boasting a carefully-built body and quality materials, this soprano saxophone was designed to help musicians discover new sonic realms and engage in countless playing sessions.

The straight body will help you play with greater ease whereas the one-piece design will make sure that durability is not a problem.

To further enhance the durability ensured, the unit comes with metal resonators, leather pads as well as a hard rubber mouthpiece.

The pack includes a quality case for easy transportation and storage, so you can reach your practice or gig destination without your comfort or the instrument integrity being affected.

The stylish clear lacquered body, neck, and bell are committed to cutting a nice visual figure and enhancing your performance from an aesthetic point of view.

 

Cons

The shape of the mouthpiece included in the pack might be a little off and you might need to buy one separately if it feels uncomfortable.

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8. Selmer SSS280R La Voix II Soprano

 

If enhanced flexibility and response are the benefits you’re interested in, this soprano saxophone shouldn’t be ignored as it was designed to ensure such advantages and even more. The various features of this instrument will help you express your personality and achieve the desired sounds beautifully.

Even if the SSS280R is reasonably-priced, it does not compromise on the quality and performance delivered. It comes packed with features that will keep up with the needs of beginners and seasoned players alike. The product ensures a nice response and is designed to be fluid no matter the register you choose.

The compact key setup and professional spring tension will make it easier for you to engage even in more lively songs. The case included will help you reach various destinations without damaging the instrument or losing your comfort. The saxophone also comes with treated leather pads, adjustable screws, and a Selmer USA mouthpiece.

The item measures 30.2 x 10.9 x 8 inches and weighs 11.9 pounds. It is lighter than other such products, so the lightweight body will help you transport it from one place to another comfortably. Keep in mind that it is a soprano saxophone, though.

 

Pros

Boasting quality materials and a thoughtfully-designed body, this saxophone is worth taking into account whether you’ve just started to study this instrument or you’re already a seasoned player.

What makes this saxophone stand out includes its superior response and enhanced fluidity through all registers; this means that you can employ it for various playing styles and genres.

The compact keys and professional spring tension ensure fast action and easy playing whereas the adjustable multiple screws featured will help you make the required changes easily.

Like many Selmer soprano saxophones, this unit is paired with a quality case, so you can transport it from one place to another easily and comfortably.

The clear lacquer finish and fine engraving add a nice visual touch whereas the mouthpiece provided will help you use the item right away.

 

Cons

The mouthpiece provided is made of hard rubber and might not be that comfortable for beginners.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Playing the saxophone, just like playing any other musical instrument, triggers many benefits, even if it might not seem so at first. The learning process might be challenging at times, yet once milestones are conquered, the various advantages of playing such a musical instrument will start to step into the picture.

If you want to embark on this journey or continue the adventure you’ve already started with a Selmer saxophone, here are a few factors you might want to consider before buying. Reading a Selmer saxophone review of the model you’ve set your eyes on is also always a good idea.

Types of saxophones

Before considering the materials used, the way the keys are designed, and other such aspects, you first need to decide on the type of saxophone that best meets your goals. The five most common saxophones include the Soprano (Bb), Alto (Eb), Tenor (Bb), Baritone (Eb), and Bass (Bb) types.

The saxophone class is not limited to these types, though. You will find a few additional models such as the Sopranissimo (Bb), Sopranino (Eb), Contrabass (Eb), and Subcontrabass (Bb) saxophones. Identify your interest and the setting of your playing. Is it part of a band or will you go for solo gigs?

Since each type is designed to fill a specific role and cover certain musical genres, you need to learn more about each saxophone type and choose accordingly.

 

Your skill level

Once you’ve considered the musical direction you’d like to approach, you need to choose a Selmer saxophone based on your skill level. Thankfully, the market now offers models for all experience levels.

As the name suggests, student saxophones are designed with beginners in mind. That’s why they are built in such a way to make it easier for a student to learn the fundamentals and produce pleasant sounds. Also, they are often lighter than other types in this class of musical instruments. Lightweight units are easier to handle and thus a better option for beginners.

In case you’ve learned the fundamentals and you need the next model in terms of skill level, an intermediate saxophone is the one to consider. Such units are built to ensure a higher level of performance and responsiveness as well as better sound quality. That’s why they come with additional features that will help players advance their skills.

If you’re already a seasoned player interested in a professional saxophone, then a model that addresses advanced musicians is the one to add to your cart. Professional saxophones are the best you can get.

They are remarkably responsive, ensure superior intonation and tone, and are built with the best materials available. Their price is on par with everything they offer, though, and thus are more expensive.

 

Materials used

Another factor you should not overlook when looking for a saxophone is the material used for its construction. Brass is one of the most common materials employed to make saxophones as it is durable and also light. This is the reason why many beginner and intermediate models feature a brass body.

The finish and plating featured hold great importance as well since they impact the weight of an instrument and the sound it produces. You will find matte and black lacquer finishes that will add weight to the saxophone but, more importantly, will shape the tones delivered and make them fuller and rounded.

In case your musical preferences call for a brighter sound, a saxophone boasting nickel plating is ideal. Silver plating stands out from the various plating options as it produces a more centered and pure tone. Bronze and copper plating models are also available and make a great choice for those interested in getting richer and darker tones.

Durability, special keys, and accessories

Even if your budget does not allow you to buy more expensive Selmer saxophones, consider the durability of the instrument you want to purchase as well. If you’re a beginner, a cheap Selmer saxophone might do as you will most probably want to upgrade to a superior model once you’ve mastered the fundamentals.

Depending on your skill level, you may want a saxophone that features additional keys. Higher-level units come with extra keys that enhance the versatility delivered. They are also pricier.

Also, in case this is your first instrument, you might want to consider getting a pack that includes the accessories needed to play. Bundles that offer reeds, mouthpieces, caps, ligatures, and cleaning products are worth taking into account. They often prove to be more affordable than if buying the items separately.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Where are the Selmer saxophones made?

Selmer saxophones have become a standard by which many other such musical instruments are measured. The quality of the materials used and the attention paid to every little detail during the manufacturing process have made this possible and turned the company’s saxophones into favorites of students and professionals alike.

Although Selmer saxophones were first developed in France, they are also manufactured in the U.S.A. and Asia. Musicians tend to choose their Selmer saxophones based on the manufacturing location since there are differences in the sounds produced. Models made in France produce a warmer sound and are often the option classical artists go for.

The ones made in the U.S.A. tend to create brighter sounds and make a great choice for jazz players. However, the materials used affect the sounds delivered, so you can choose your next saxophone based on its type and the materials used for its construction, whether it is made in France, Asia, or the U.S.A.

Q: Is Selmer a good saxophone brand?

Even if the saxophone market is quite generous when it comes to noteworthy saxophone manufacturers, the models produced by Selmer stand out. They have gained appreciation and become a favorite of beginners and advanced musicians alike thanks to their sound and construction quality.

If you’re new to saxophones and interested in getting a good instrument to help you advance, you might often hear that a Selmer saxophone is a great choice. However, many professionals also place Selmer at the top of their priority list. The variety of saxophone models offered by this company covers the needs and interests of players of different levels.

The Mark VI has become a standard in this line of products, a model by which many other such instruments are measured. The newer Selmer models have also cut a fine figure and their variety and price range have enabled musicians of different interests to easily find the right units for their needs.

 

Q: How often should you clean your saxophone?

The short answer would be as often as you use it. Moisture accumulates inside the saxophones as a result of your playing and the warm air that comes out of your mouth. If not cleaned, this moisture can reach your keypads and thus lead to air leaks. That’s why it is important to clean the instrument after each playing session you engage in.

Make sure that you clean both the inside and outside of your instrument and do so properly and carefully in order not to damage it. Removing the moisture that builds up inside will prevent air leaks and performance issues while cleaning the fingerprints from its exterior part will stop it from tarnishing.

The mouthpiece should be cleaned weekly in order to keep it sanitized. Use a mouthpiece cleaning brush and warm soapy water to do so. Don’t overlook the tenons when it comes to cleaning. Also, have your saxophone checked out by a professional for the yearly maintenance.