10 Best Soprano Saxophones Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Soprano Saxophone Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

Exploring your sonic personality with the help of a saxophone is a rewarding experience in many ways yet finding the best soprano saxophone might not be an easy task, considering the many products available for sale. To ease your shopping process, we have examined some of the most appreciated products in this line and concluded that the Yamaha Custom YSS-82Z is the first option to take into account. This professional soprano saxophone is made of a special brass alloy that gives it a pleasant feel, makes it lightweight, and ensures enhanced tonal flexibility. Furthermore, the instrument was designed to play in all ranges and provide you with great dynamics. To boost your comfort when engaging in long practice sessions, the unit features ergonomic keys. Should you be unable to find this product, a reliable alternative in terms of quality is the Kaizer Intermediate SSAX-3000LQ.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Soprano Saxophones  (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

The market is quite generous when it comes to soprano saxophones and finding the best soprano sax for your needs might thus call for lots of time and browsing. If you’re time-poor, this list of soprano saxophone reviews might be of help as it provides you with the things you need to know about popular models.

 

 

1. Yamaha Custom YSS-82Z

 

If you’re interested in tonal flexibility and a comfortable and easy-to-use soprano sax, this model might be right up your alley. The Yamaha soprano saxophone was built to help musicians take their sonic adventure one step further and explore more, which makes it a reliable instrument for sax players with different targets.

Thanks to the special brass alloy used, the YSS-82Z is committed to delivering tonal flexibility. Moreover, the instrument plays in all ranges, so you will get to enjoy great dynamics as well. The material used won’t just enhance your sonic experience but will also make it comfortable for you to use the item for long practice sessions and gigs as it makes the unit lightweight.

Due to the lower vent tube design employed, noise is reduced. The ergonomic keys will further boost your comfort when playing while the gold baked epoxy lacquer featured will add to your performance from a visual point of view.

 

Pros

Designed to cover the different needs of sax players, this unit is worth adding to your list of options if you’re interested in tonal flexibility and a durable and comfortable build.

The product features a special brass alloy that will help you explore various sonic paths and do so without your comfort being affected as it is lightweight.

Thanks to the solid key post rib plate, the item is also committed to ensuring enhanced resonance.

The instrument plays in all ranges, which means you will get to enjoy great dynamics as well and thus be able to approach various music genres.

Noise reduction is ensured by the lower vent tube design whereas the player’s comfort is enhanced thanks to the lightweight build and ergonomic keys.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that this is a straight soprano saxophone and not a curved model, which might not meet the needs of all sax players.

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2. Kaizer Intermediate SSAX-3000LQ

 

Designed to enable saxophone players to explore various sonic realms, this model from Kaizer comes with quality materials that promise to last and deliver high-quality sounds as well as a variety of accessories. Thanks to the solid yellow brass used for the construction of this unit, you will get to enjoy enhanced tonality, which will further spice up your sonic outputs.

The blue steel springs are committed to delivering faster action and ensuring an advanced sensitive response. Due to the professional Italian pads the instrument comes with, you can rest assured that employing it for long practice sessions won’t affect the instrument.

The pack includes the Eb advanced soprano sax as well as a deluxe case that will protect your instrument when traveling and also help you protect it from various elements when not in use. You will also get a complete mouthpiece and ligature set, a neck strap for comfortable playing, a polishing cloth, and a cork lubricant.

 

Pros

Created to meet the needs of orchestra and band players as well as to help single players give shape to their personality sonically, this soprano sax should not be ignored when searching for a new instrument.

To make sure you get enhanced tonality, the product was built with solid yellow brass, which is appreciated not only for its durability but also for its sonic property.

The blue steel rings were designed to deliver faster action and ensure an advanced sensitive response.

Since practice sessions can sometimes stretch over hours, the unit promises to make sure your comfort won’t be affected.

The kit is ideal if you travel a lot as it includes all the accessories you need to start playing right away as well as a deluxe case to make transportation easy and protect your instrument.

 

Cons

This is an intermediate soprano saxophone; therefore, make sure it matches your goals and level before ordering it.

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3. Lazzaro 300-BK-Black/Gold

 

Whether you’re interested in getting a straight soprano saxophone for your lessons and practice sessions or band and orchestra concerts, this unit is worth paying attention to as it was built to cover a variety of musical needs.

The instrument has Bb keys and high F# key and features quality brass that promises to withstand the test of time and help you take your sonic outputs one level higher. The product boasts leather pads that come with metal resonators, a metal rest, and screws to help you adjust the key height for a personalized experience.

What’s more, the instrument is coupled with a variety of accessories that will enable you to use the item immediately upon arrival. You will thus get the saxophone, straight and curved necks, a mouthpiece with a reed, a cleaning cloth, a neck strap, and a fabric case for easy transportation, just to name a few.

 

Pros

Built to cover a variety of musical needs, this instrument will help you create soprano sax music easily and comfortably for a long time.

To make sure that employing it for many hours of practice or gigs won’t be a problem, the unit was built with quality brass that is not only durable but also ideal for delivering superior sound quality.

Thanks to the screws featured, you will be able to adjust the height of your keys so you can enjoy a more personalized experience.

The leather pads employed are of high quality and come with metal resonators, so you can take your sonic journey one step further and do so for a long time.

The instrument comes with a bundle of accessories including a fabric case that ensures ease of storage and transportation.

 

Cons

The finish might chip and thus reveal the metal beneath; therefore, attention should be paid when using the instrument.

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4. Selmer SS600 With Case

 

In case you’ve just started to play the soprano saxophone or you need a model that will help you practice without breaking your budget, this Selmer soprano saxophone might be just what you need. The unit was designed to ensure not only high playability and intonation but also durability.

Designed to help even musicians with a limited budget explore the sonic potential of this instrument, the SS600 is an option worth considering, especially if you are an entry-level player. The straight soprano sax boasts a high F sharp key, so you can engage in your sonic journey easily.

The unit was built to make sure that employing it for extended practice sessions won’t affect your comfort or won’t damage any of its parts too soon. It thus ensures smooth playing as well as an enhanced response even when playing more challenging songs. All these features are coupled with a stylish and solid construction.

 

Pros

If you’re an entry-level professional soprano sax player on the lookout for a durable and stylish instrument, this model should not go unchecked.

The product was built to ensure high playability and cover your needs for a long time; therefore, it comes with quality materials that will withstand the test of time.

To make sure that you can employ it even for more challenging music pieces, the item is committed to delivering a great response and smooth playing.

Thanks to the stylish construction, the straight soprano saxophone will also add to your performance from a visual point of view.

The unit comes with a quality case that will make it easy for you to transport or store the instrument and will keep the item safe.

 

Cons

The product does not come with reeds or a mouthpiece, which means that you will have to buy them separately and you might thus spend more.

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5. Opus USA Black-Gold Sax

 

With this soprano saxophone, you won’t just get to learn and practice for a long time but you will also enhance your gigs from an aesthetical point of view. The unit promises to help you boost your sonic experience and do so for a long time. It thus comes with a durable body that will keep up even with extended use.

The pack includes both curved and straight necks as well as a high-quality mouthpiece with reeds. This means that you won’t have to spend extra bucks and purchase them separately. Moreover, you will get a pair of gloves and a cleaning cloth to keep the instrument in good shape.

The neck strap included ensures comfortable playing whereas the hardshell case will make sure that transporting the unit will be an easy task. The case will also protect the instrument against damages caused by impacts.

 

Pros

If durability and high playability are the things you’re interested in when it comes to your next soprano saxophone, this model is worth paying attention to.

The product was designed with materials that are committed to withstanding the test of time and enabling you to use it for countless practice sessions.

The unit comes with curved and straight necks as well as a high-quality mouthpiece with reeds, so you can start using it right away.

The item was not only designed to help you achieve your sonic goals easily but also comfortably and thus comes with a thoughtful design and a neck strap.

The hardshell case included in the pack will help you transport the instrument easily, comfortably, and safely.

 

Cons

The horn might not sit well in the case included in the pack, so you might need to use the gloves or cleaning cloth to take up the extra space.

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6. Kaizer Gold Lacquer SSAX-1000LQ

 

Beginners interested in enhanced versatility, playability, and functionality might find this model from Kaizer to be right up their alley. This soprano saxophone was designed to deliver such benefits for a long time; therefore, it is not only about high-quality sounds but also about durability.

The product was built with solid yellow brass and this choice of materials makes it possible for you to enjoy enhanced tonality when employing the unit as well as durability. The professional pads used are committed to preventing corrosion whereas the premium steel springs will provide you with greater control and a faster response.

The instrument is thus tough enough to keep up with many practice sessions and requires low maintenance. Moreover, it is lightweight, so you won’t get tired even if you employ it for long gigs or lessons. The gold lacquer will further add nice visuals to your performance.

 

Pros

Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced player, this instrument might be just what you need as it was built to last and ensure enhanced versatility and playability.

The solid yellow brass used to build this item will not only help you achieve your sonic goals and cover your needs for a long time but will also make it comfortable for you to play as it is lightweight.

Furthermore, the pads employed promise to prevent corrosion and the case included in the pack will help you protect the instrument when traveling.

The premium steel springs will provide you with greater control over the instrument and a faster response.

The pack includes various accessories such as a molded case, a cleaning rod, a polishing cloth, a lubricant, gloves, and a mouthpiece and ligature set.

 

Cons

The reed might be a bit uncomfortable and the mouthpiece might squeak, which means that, if you’re not satisfied with them, you will have to buy others separately.

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7. Yamaha YSS-475II Intermediate

 

If what you want from your next soprano saxophone is high playability, a comfortable design, and superior sound quality, this model from Yamaha might be just what you need. The product was built with such benefits in mind and, therefore, boasts quality materials and a thoughtful design that will make it comfortable for you to play even if your practice stretches over hours.

Thanks to the Bb spatula featured, the unit will help you employ the right technique. Furthermore, the adjustable thumb rest allows for a comfortable fingering position, which means that you can practice for a long time before getting tired hands.

To make sure the performance you get is flawless, the Yamaha soprano sax sports a lower vent tube that reduces noise. The body taper promises to enable you to get improved intonation as well as optimal airflow. The unit will visually add to your gigs thanks to its stylish design and laser engraving.

 

Pros

Sporting quality materials and a thoughtful construction, this unit is committed to helping you improve your technique and get your sonic adventure one step further.

To help you employ the correct technique, the instrument comes with a Bb spatula that will also increase your comfort when playing.

The thumb rest is adjustable so you can enjoy a more comfortable fingering and hand position and the keys are lighter and thus more comfortable.

Adjusting the instrument is an easy process as the product boasts bullet point headless pivot screws while getting optimal airflow and improved intonation is effortless thanks to the body taper.

Since learning how to play an instrument takes time, this model promises to withstand the test of time and thus sports quality materials as well as a key post rib plate with enhanced protection.

 

Cons

The unit might fall on the expensive side, yet the materials employed ensure durability, so you will get to use the instrument for a long time.

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8. Hawk Curved Soprano Saxophone

 

If you’re on the lookout for a curved soprano saxophone, this unit is worth paying attention to as it comes not only with a curved design but also with the features required to perform and last. Whether you’re a beginner or a more seasoned player, this instrument should thus not go unchecked.

The unit promises to ensure an even response in all registers and boasts precise key work. It also sports quality leather pads as well as metal tone boosters. To enable you to use the product right upon arrival, the pack includes a variety of accessories that will help you get started easily and rapidly.

You will thus receive a mouthpiece with a reed, a ligature, a neck strap for comfortable playing, and a swab. What’s more, the pack also provides a deluxe case that will help you store and transport the instrument easily.

 

Pros

In case your musical goals require a curved soprano saxophone, this model should not be ignored as it promises to keep up with extended use and deliver superior sound quality.

Designed to provide an even response in all registers, the product comes equipped with quality leather pads, metal tone boosters, and precise key work.

Due to the mouthpiece, reed, and ligature included in the pack, you will be able to play immediately upon arrival.

What’s more, the instrument is coupled with a neck strap for comfortable playing as well as a durable case that ensures easy and safe storage and transportation.

The ebonite mouthpiece provided comes with a reed and a cap and the pack also includes a swab.

 

Cons

The unit might be a better choice for beginners and players who don’t aim too high when it comes to saxophone playing and thus engage in this activity casually.

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9. Nuvo Black N520JBBK

 

Boasting a stylish black body, this soprano saxophone is a great choice for beginners and young players interested in enjoying the benefits of this instrument easily and comfortably. The unit was built following the design of traditional saxophones and thus comes with the fingering patterns you’d find in standard instruments.

To make saxophone lessons easier and more comfortable, the unit has an adjustable thumb rest and 5 positions to choose from in order to enjoy a custom fit. The new integral ligature featured can be easily opened with one hand.

Since it was designed with very young players in mind, the product weighs only 2.07 pounds, which makes it a lightweight and thus comfortable option. It is 100% waterproof, so you can easily take it even outdoors. The pack includes a molded case that ensures easy transportation and storage as well as protection against impacts and elements.

 

Pros

Helping your kid explore and discover the sonic potential of a soprano saxophone is bound to be a pleasant and fun activity if you go for this model.

Even if the product was built for beginners and players aged 7 and above, it follows the traditional sax fingerings.

To make it comfortable for young players to use it, the product comes with a 5-position adjustable thumb rest.

What’s more, the new integral ligature used can be open with just one hand, which makes it even easier for your little one to get accustomed to handling and playing the instrument.

The product is 100% waterproof, which makes it a great option for players who travel a lot or who prefer to explore the sonic potential of this instrument even outdoors.

 

Cons

This is recommended for children aged 7 or above and might not be an ideal choice for adults and advanced musicians.

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10. Ravel RSS301NP Nickel-Plated

 

Committed to providing players of different levels with remarkable intonation, power, balance, and quality, this product stands out not only through the way it sounds but also through its looks. It features quality materials that will keep up with countless practice sessions and gigs and a stylish design that will add to your performance from a visual point of view.

The high-quality components used for its construction ensure both durability and superior sounds. The cupronickel body and the gloss finish thus result in a durable and visually-pleasant instrument. The Bb sax comes with keys that work smoothly and ensure great projection.

This straight soprano saxophone can be employed for a variety of playing styles and musical genres including light jazz and even popular music. The instrument does not come with accessories yet it is decently priced, so even if you have to buy them separately, the final cost shouldn’t be that high.

 

Pros

Sporting high-quality materials and components, this Bb straight saxophone is an ideal option for a variety of musical genres as it promises to ensure versatility and durability.

Since practice sessions and gigs might stretch over hours, the product sports a cupronickel body that promises to withstand the test of time even if used heavily.

The keys work smoothly and the instrument is committed to ensuring great projection, tone, balance, and power.

Given its sonic capacities, the product can be employed for various musical genres such as light jazz and pop music.

The gloss finish and the great attention that has been paid to the various details of this instrument will enhance your performance from a visual point of view as well.

 

Cons

Unlike other products in this field, this unit does not come with accessories; however, considering its price, the final cost should not be too high even if you buy them separately.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

If you’ve already discovered the many benefits and uplifting feeling of playing a musical instrument or you’re just starting to explore this field and thus you’re in the market for a quality soprano saxophone, this buying guide might be of help.

Whether you’re on the lookout for an expensive or cheap soprano saxophone, there are some things you need to pay attention to before hitting the order button. As far as soprano saxophones are concerned, everything from the materials used to the way the keys are designed counts. Take the following into account to make a more informed decision.

Skill level and goals

Soprano saxophones come in a variety of models these days, which is both great and challenging since identifying the right one might take more time. Start with your skill level and your goals. If you’re a student with little experience, then getting an affordable soprano saxophone for beginners might be an inspired choice.

Spend some time playing and learning the instrument before transitioning to a more expensive model. If you can’t tear yourself away from playing the soprano sax and thus you intend to turn this hobby into a long-term adventure, then you can upgrade to an intermediate model once you’ve mastered its basics and later to a professional soprano sax if you want to take it even further.

 

Materials and finishes

The materials used for soprano saxophones hold great importance since they will affect the sonic outputs you will get, not to mention that the type of material employed counts a lot as far as durability is concerned.

Saxophone bodies are usually made of yellow brass because this material provides not only durability but also a remarkable sonic potential. However, the market now offers saxophones that are not entirely made of yellow brass. Some models feature sterling silver, copper, and bronze for the bell and neck.

Most saxophones are coated with a lacquer that protects their surface. You can now choose between different specialty finishes, though. Depending on your preferences, you can choose a sax that comes with nickel or silver plating, copper, bronze, or a matte finish.

For example, a matte finish or black lacquer will add to the instrument’s weight and give it a thicker sound whereas silver plating will not only make the instrument heavier but will increase the saxophone’s volume and projection.

Key layout, neck, and accessories

A cheap soprano sax usually comes with the standard key layout yet more expensive models have additional keys that will allow you to explore more and be more versatile when playing. A single additional soprano sax key can make a significant difference when it comes to the sounds you produce; therefore, consider your interests and what the model you’ve set your eyes on offers.

Pay attention to the neck featured as, sometimes, this is the only one that needs to be changed to improve the instrument’s responsiveness and tone. If your budget is not limited and you are thus not forced to get a cheap soprano sax, you might want to look for a kit that includes the accessories needed to start playing right away.

 

FAQ

 

Q: What is a soprano saxophone?

Invented in the 1840s, this musical instrument is a member of the saxophone family, as the name suggests, yet it is different from other models in this group of instruments because it plays a higher note range. The soprano saxophone is the third smallest instrument in this family being preceded by the sopranino sax and the soprillo sax.

This saxophone type is keyed in B flat and usually features a straight design. The woodwind instrument can be employed for a variety of musical genres including jazz and classical music. Some of the most well-known saxophone manufacturers are Yamaha and Selmer.

Q: What is the difference between alto and soprano saxophones?

The two instruments are made of similar materials yet come with differences that make them suitable for different musical needs. While the soprano saxophone has a straight design that makes it look more like a clarinet, the alto saxophone comes with a curved design.

Besides the shape difference, the two saxophones deliver different sounds as well. The soprano sax thus produces a significantly brighter sound than the alto sax. Plus, the soprano model is in the Bb key whereas the alto sax is in the Eb key and the former can play a sixth higher than the latter.

 

Q: How should I choose my saxophone?

The saxophone family includes a variety of saxophones that meet different needs. You will thus find alto, soprano, and bass and baritone saxophones, just to name a few. Since each of them has specific characteristics that cover specific musical needs and goals, you will first need to identify your sonic path and the musical genres you want to play.

Once you have chosen the type of saxophone that best suits your interest, you need to consider your skill level and choose the instrument accordingly. Other factors that have a word to say when it comes to choosing the right saxophone regard the materials and finishes used, the construction quality, and the additional keys.

 

Q: What are the best soprano saxophone brands?

Today’s market offers a rich selection of saxophones including soprano models. Throughout time, several brands have acquired a significant appreciation for delivering quality instruments that don’t just provide superior sounds but that also last and are easy and comfortable to play.

One of them is the well-known Yamaha. The company offers a generous selection of instruments including saxophones. Additionally, Yanagisawa stands out when it comes to quality saxophones designed to meet all levels and so does Mendini.

Other popular saxophone brands you might want to try are Selmer, Lazzaro, and Merano. These brands offer affordable instruments that are great for beginners, intermediate players, and even more seasoned musicians on a budget.

 

Q: What key is the soprano saxophone in?

The saxophone family includes various types of saxophones that are different from both a visual and sonic point of view. While the sopranino saxophone plays in the Eb key, the soprano plays in the key of Bb. This makes it two octaves higher than the bass saxophone and one octave higher than the tenor sax.

The Bb soprano saxophone is thus the highest-pitched instrument in this family after the sopranino. If you’re still new to music and saxophones, you can easily identify the soprano saxophone by its straight design which makes it look very much like a clarinet. However, today’s market also offers curved models that are similar to alto saxophones.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) What does a soprano saxophone look like?

2) Should beginners start with a soprano or alto saxophone?

3) Types of Saxophone

4) Soprano saxophone – description