12 best selmer alto saxophones

Selmer is a renowned brand in the world of musical instruments, particularly when it comes to saxophones. Selmer alto saxophones are highly regarded for their quality, craftsmanship, and rich, expressive sound. Here's what you need to know about Selmer alto saxophones:

  1. Legacy and Reputation: The Henri Selmer Paris company has a long and distinguished history of saxophone manufacturing, dating back to the late 19th century. Selmer saxophones are associated with some of the most iconic jazz and classical saxophonists in history.

  2. Craftsmanship: Selmer alto saxophones are known for their exceptional craftsmanship. These instruments are often handmade by skilled artisans in France, where the company is based. The meticulous attention to detail and quality control ensure that each Selmer saxophone is of high quality.

  3. Materials: Selmer alto saxophones are typically made from high-quality brass, which is then plated with various finishes, including lacquer, silver, and gold. The choice of materials and finishes can affect the saxophone's tone and appearance.

  4. Sound: Selmer alto saxophones are renowned for their warm and expressive sound. They produce a rich, full-bodied tone that is highly desirable for a wide range of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and contemporary music.

  5. Models: Selmer offers various models of alto saxophones to cater to different player preferences and skill levels. Some of the most famous models include the Selmer Mark VI, Selmer Super Action 80 Series II, and Selmer Series III. Each model may have unique features and tonal characteristics.

  6. Keywork: Selmer saxophones are known for their ergonomic keywork, making them comfortable to play and allowing for faster and more precise fingering.This is particularly important for saxophonists who need agility in their playing.

  7. Resale Value: Selmer alto saxophones, especially vintage models like the Mark VI, are highly sought after by professional saxophonists and collectors. These instruments often retain their value well and can be a good investment.

  8. Accessories: Selmer offers a range of saxophone accessories, including mouthpieces, ligatures, and cases, designed to complement their saxophones and enhance the overall playing experience.

  9. Price Range: Selmer alto saxophones are considered high-end instruments and can be relatively expensive. The price can vary significantly depending on the model, finish, and condition, with vintage models often commanding higher prices.

In conclusion, Selmer alto saxophones are respected worldwide for their exceptional craftsmanship, tonal quality, and historical significance in the world of saxophone playing. They are favored by professional saxophonists and are known for their rich and expressive sound.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best selmer alto saxophones on the market
  

Prelude Student Model AS711 Alto Saxophone by Conn-Selmer

Conn-Selmer

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The AS711 alto saxophone key design allows for correct and comfortable hand position. The yellow brass body includes ribbed construction and a detachable, reinforced body-to-bow connection for added strength and durability. Prelude bore design enhances projection. Designed as an affordable option for beginning band students, the Prelude series of entry-level instruments combines value and performance. All instruments are built to stringent specifications and supported by our ongoing commitment to service. Each outfit includes instrument, necessary accessories, and care maintenance instructions.Features: Left-hand table key rocker mechanism with articulated C# adjusting screw High F# key Molded mouthpiece with cap and ligature Engraved bell Neck strap Dark lacquer body and keys Cork grease Adjustable metal right-hand thumb rest #2-1/2 Reed Kid leather pads with metal resonators Hard-shell case

  • Brand: Prelude
  • Product Code: AS711
  • Affordable option for beginning band students
  • Yellow brass body includes ribbed construction and a detachable, reinforced body-to-bow connection for added strength and durability
  • Key design allows for correct and comfortable hand position
  • Left-hand table key rocker mechanism with articulated C# adjusting screw
  • Includes: Left-hand table key rocker mechanism with articulated C# adjusting screw, Molded mouthpiece with cap and ligature, Engraved bell, Neck strap, Dark lacquer body and keys, Cork grease, Adjustable metal right-hand thumb rest, 2 1/2 Strength Reed, Kid leather pads with metal resonators, Hard-shell case
  • High F# key

User questions & answers

Question: Where does sax ship from
Answer: The actual location it ships from depends on several factors. It depends on which seller you purchase from and also to where it is being shipped. From us, this item will ship from am Amazon warehouse within the United States.
Question: Where is the sax made in
Answer: Prelude is lower end of Yamaha this comes from China but a. Dry good quality for the price point this is a student grade model very easy to play and a work horse. thank you
Question: What does it come with? Accessories
Answer: Yes, it includes a hard case, mouthpiece, cork grease, and ligature. Thanks!
Question: Does this come with the backpack type case
Answer: Yes, it has two straps that can fold and tuck into a zippered part of the case when not needed. After about a year, one of the straps did break - but my son (who is 13) is rough on all of his things so this wasn't a surprise.

Selmer AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Black Nickel

SELMER

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Black Nickel. The Selmer AS42 is a first ever collaboration between Henri Selmer Paris and Selmer USA on an entry-level professional saxophone. Featuring a genuine Henri Selmer Paris neck custom designed for this horn, along with the exclusive AM42 Selmer Paris mouthpiece made especially for this saxophone. The AS42 is a very responsive saxophone that plays remarkably well in classical and jazz situations. Complemented with a BAM case and featuring a beautiful hand engraved pattern, the AS42 is as beautiful to look at as it is to play. Blue steel springs insure a quick response while the fully ribbed construction and metal resonators guarantee a wide dynamic range and exceptional projection. The AS42 is the only saxophone in its price range that can boast an authentic Henri Selmer Paris neck and mouthpiece.

  • Henri Selmer Paris neck
  • Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece
  • Ribbed construction
  • High F# key
  • Multiple adjusting screws

User questions & answers

Question: Is there waranty
Answer: Yes, Selmer offers a 5 year limited warranty that the instrument is free from defects in manufacturing. material and workmanship. http://www.conn-selmer.com/en-us/about/support/warranty-information/
Question: Does this item come with any accessories or a case
Answer: It comes with a very nice Selmer case which has outer pockets to hold sheet music, etc. The case also has a shoulder strap and straps that enable you to carry it like a backpack. The sax also comes with a mouthpiece with cover, cork grease and a polishing cloth.

Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone Outfit Black Nickel

Based on 40 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone Outfit Black Nickel. The Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone's fluid keywork gives it a relaxed feeling, while its perfect intonation and warm sound make it a welcome instrument both in the concert band or the hands of a soloist. The Selmer La Voix II sax' traditional-sized bell helps saxophonists keep their tone focused and makes blending easy. You'll like the price of the Selmer SAS280 La Voix alto saxophone as much as its sound. Finally you can afford a step-up sax with features like professional key styling-for accurate fingering-that you would expect to find only on more expensive instruments. Selmer has worked to make the SAS280 La Voix II an alto sax that is easy to play. Pitch is consistent without strain from the low end to altissimo. The La Voix II saxophone can really project and offers you dark jazzy sound when you need it. The Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone is a player's instrument made affordable for all musicians.

  • SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone Outfit Black Nickel
  • The Selmer SAS280 La Voix II Alto Saxophone's fluid keywork gives it a relaxed feeling, while its perfect intonation and warm sound make it a welcome instrument both in the concert band or the hands of a soloist
  • The Selmer La Voix II sax' traditional-sized bell helps saxophonists keep their tone focused and makes blending easy
  • You'll like the price of the Selmer SAS280 La Voix alto saxophone as much as its sound
  • Finally you can afford a step-up sax with features like professional key styling-for accurate fingering-that you would expect to find only on more expensive instruments

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a return policy
Answer: N/a
Question: What type of neck strap comes with this sax
Answer: Although this sax doesn't include a neck strap, it does include a wonderful lightweight backpack style case as well as a Selmer mouthpiece, cap, and ligature.
Question: I have just attempted to purchase the Selmer Sas280 Alto Sax, What kind of carring case comes with the Sax
Answer: A really nice Selmer La Voix II black leather or faux leather custom case - I can send pic if you want to actually see it.
Question: Is it a genuine Selmer or just a knock off
Answer: It isn't exactly the same level of precision as a MarkVI or a Super 80, but the La Voix II alto is most definitely a Selmer product and it plays beautifully. I have played mine regularly for nearly four years since I purchased it and it just seems to get better as it ages. The mouthpiece setup I use is a Beecher 5 hard rubber with a Rovner ligature and Rico Jazz reeds 3.5. The sound is bright and full like Eric Marienthal or Phil Woods.

SELMER CONCEPT Saxophone Alto saxophone mouthpiece

SELMER

Based on 78 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The bec Saxophone Alto Concept, the Selmer is the latest creation of the company of the same name, which marks a technological advance in the manufacturing process for the greatest happiness of the saxophonists. In effect since 1885 Selmer has begun to offer to saxophonists of a high-quality product that can meet their needs.

It is from this lineage that has been created Bec Saxophone Alto Concept, a unique combination between richness and ease of sound that gives a great acoustic precision.

In addition, the quality of sound in addition to a design of the most refined, sober but contemporrain, will know by its shape pure delight for your eyes plus your ears.

Technical characteristics:

Opening : 1.48 mm

Table length : 24 mm

Room : square

  • Bec Saxophone Bec Saxophone Alto, Innovative technology, Ease of play, High precision acoustic

User questions & answers

Question: Which Reeds will match this mouthpiece
Answer: That will depends entirely on what kind of set up you prefer. I play Legere 3s on this currently. If I was using cane reeds, I might use a Vandoren Blue box 3. A medium strength reed is probably the answer, but you will need to determine what reed works best for you with this mouthpiece and whatever ligature you’re using.
Question: How does this compare to the S80 c
Answer: Like the S80 C*, this is a classical mouthpiece. I find the intonation, response, and opening pretty comparable. The main difference, and the reason I switched from the C* to the Concept, is that the C* is so long, it was impossible for me not to play flat on my instrument. I simply couldn't push in my mouthpiece far enough.
Question: where does it make it? from paris
Answer: It is an innovative design created by combining Selmer Paris's instrument manufacturing expertise and is the latest model of easy-to-play and rich sound.
Question: Does this mouthpiece have only one size of tip openning
Answer: Yes. I’d compare it to the size between a Vandoren Optimum AL3 and an AL4.

Selmer Paris Prologue by Seles Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece

Selmer Paris

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Prologue by Seles Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece. The Prologue mouthpiece is easy to play and its response is fast and predictable. These qualities and its attractive price, make it a great choice for beginner saxophonists. Drawing on Selmer's extensive anknowledge and experience, a new material has been chosen that offers outstanding acoustic qualities, similar to the hard rubber used in the conception of the Henri SELMER Paris mouthpieces, as well as a perfect repeatability in production. Prologue mouthpiece is fitted with its ligature and cap.

  • Prologue by Seles Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece
  • The Prologue mouthpiece is easy to play and its response is fast and predictable
  • These qualities and its attractive price, make it a great choice for beginner saxophonists
  • Drawing on Selmer's extensive anknowledge and experience, a new material has been chosen that offers outstanding acoustic qualities, similar to the hard rubber used in the conception of the Henri SELMER Paris mouthpieces, as well as a perfect repeatability in production
  • Prologue mouthpiece is fitted with its ligature and cap

Jean Paul USA AS-400 Student Alto Saxophone

Based on 636 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Jean Paul AS-400 alto saxophone is the perfect sax for beginning and intermediate music students. It offers a superior tone in its class, with even key action and placement that feels just right for Band members. Its fluid key work gives it a relaxed feeling for any saxophonist, while its well-rounded intonation and warm sound make it a welcome instrument in any band. The Jean Paul alto sax features beautiful Yellow brass body construction, power forged keys, a strong bell Brace for durability, and tapered pivot keys for ease of use. You'll appreciate the value of the jean Paul AS-400 alto saxophone just as much as its sound! Jean Paul has designed the perfect saxophone that is easy to play, Durable, made affordable for All beginning and intermediate musicians.

  • The Jean Paul Alto Saxophone is in key of Eb
  • Comes with robust contoured carrying case for easy transportation.Mouthpiece cap: nickel-plated Resonators: nylon
  • Beautiful yellow brass body construction with Lacquer finish
  • Included Accessories: 1 Rico Reed, Carrying Case, Cork grease, Gloves ,Cleaning Cloth, Swabs, and Mouthpiece
  • Auxiliary keys: High F#

User questions & answers

Question: Is this brand made in China
Answer: These saxophones are made in China, yes. I believe they are set up and tuned in Florida, USA.
Question: How Heavy Is This
Answer: I haven’t put the case with sax aboard on a scale but I find it is rather heavy. My case has wheels on it and it hasa telescoping handle like a suitcase. My problem is getting a replacement silver neck for the one that is badly corroded and pitted.
Question: Does this come witb a 4 year warranty
Answer: The video included with the listing states that it comes with a one year warranty for parts and labor.
Question: May I ask - whether there are insttruments with white key buttons? I ask because as I see on photo - it looks like more cream pearl buttons
Answer: Hard to answer this question, I think what you see is what they have. I preferred the pearl buttons I think it looks a little classier with them then just white.

Product features

Jean Paul USA AS-400 Alto Saxophone

The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone is the perfect sax for beginning and intermediate music students. It offers a superior tone in its class, with even key action and placement that feels just right for band members. Its fluid key work gives it a relaxed feeling for any saxophonist, while its well-rounded intonation and warm sound make it a welcome instrument in any band. The Jean Paul alto sax features beautiful yellow brass body construction, power forged keys, a strong bell brace for durability, and tapered pivot keys for ease of use. You'll appreciate the value of the Jean Paul AS-400 alto saxophone just as much as its sound! Jean Paul has designed the perfect saxophone that is easy to play, durable, made affordable for all beginning and intermediate musicians.

Carrying Case

The Jean Paul AS-400 comes with a strong durable carrying case. Capable of being carried by hand or switched into back pack style for ease of use transportation. Comfortable straps allow the weight of the instrument to be well balanced, allowing almost any student to get where they need to go.

Easy to Use

With power forged keys and set of professional Rico reeds, the AS-400 offers a superior sound. Bench tested at the factory and quality controlled by a highly skilled technician, the AS-400 produces a beautiful and consistent sound.

Accessories

Each Jean Paul Alto Saxophone comes with its own mouthpiece, ligature, cap, and set of professional Rico reeds. The AS-400 also comes with a neck strap for playing comfort and cork grease with polishing cloth and swab cleaner for maintenance.

Selmer Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece (S412190)

SELMER

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Selmer S90 alto saxophone mouthpiece, 190.

  • package height : 7.62 cm
  • package length : 12.192 cm
  • package width : 7.62 cm
  • Product type : INSTRUMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

User questions & answers

Question: Selmer Paris S90 Series Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece 190 Facing。 I want this product
Answer: It is in stock. 190 Facing.Thanks,
Question: What is the difference between 170, 180 and 190? What is suitable for me
Answer: you will have to try them...can not answer that for you
Question: I play alto sax. What's the equivalent between the D80 and this mouthpiece
Answer: S90 has a larger chamber volume; it works better (for me) on vintage saxes. S80-D would have a slightly wider tip gap, the same facing length, but a smaller chamber volume which works better for some on modern saxes or French bore designed instruments (narrower cone profile).
Question: Would this mouthpiece be good for a selmer as42m saxophone
Answer: I have one, it does great for me, but it is a personal feel and sound....you may want to try it .... if not what you want return it

Selmer Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece (S432C1)

SELMER

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Selmer (paris) S432 soloist alto saxophone mouthpiece, C*.

  • Alto saxophone mouthpiece
  • Country of Origin: UNITED STATES
  • Item Weight: 1.0 lbs
  • Model Number: S432C1

User questions & answers

Question: What is the facing size -- photo shows C*, but many of this model show that photo but have different facing sizes
Answer: It is C*

Selmer AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Silver Plated

SELMER

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Silver Plated. The Selmer AS42 is a first ever collaboration between Henri Selmer Paris and Selmer USA on an entry-level professional saxophone. Featuring a genuine Henri Selmer Paris neck custom designed for this horn, along with the exclusive AM42 Selmer Paris mouthpiece made especially for this saxophone. The AS42 is a very responsive saxophone that plays remarkably well in classical and jazz situations. Complemented with a BAM case and featuring a beautiful hand engraved pattern, the AS42 is as beautiful to look at as it is to play. Blue steel springs insure a quick response while the fully ribbed construction and metal resonators guarantee a wide dynamic range and exceptional projection. The AS42 is the only saxophone in its price range that can boast an authentic Henri Selmer Paris neck and mouthpiece.

  • Henri Selmer Paris neck
  • Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece
  • Ribbed construction
  • High F# key
  • Multiple adjusting screws

Selmer Paris Mouthpiece, Alto Sax, S-80 , C

Selmer Paris

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mouthpiece, alto sax, s-80 Selmer Paris, C** tip opening: MED 1.80/ Facing length: MED 22.00.

  • Alto saxophone mouthpiece
  • Package Dimensions: 12.7 L x 5.334 H x 6.096 W (centimeters)
  • Made in France
  • Package Weight : 19.0 pounds

Selmer AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Lacquer

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AS42 Professional Alto Saxophone Lacquer. The Selmer AS42 is a first ever collaboration between Henri Selmer Paris and Selmer USA on an entry-level professional saxophone. Featuring a genuine Henri Selmer Paris neck custom designed for this horn, along with the exclusive AM42 Selmer Paris mouthpiece made especially for this saxophone. The AS42 is a very responsive saxophone that plays remarkably well in classical and jazz situations. Complemented with a BAM case and featuring a beautiful hand engraved pattern, the AS42 is as beautiful to look at as it is to play. Blue steel springs insure a quick response while the fully ribbed construction and metal resonators guarantee a wide dynamic range and exceptional projection. The AS42 is the only saxophone in its price range that can boast an authentic Henri Selmer Paris neck and mouthpiece.

  • Henri Selmer Paris neck
  • Henri Selmer Paris mouthpiece
  • Ribbed construction
  • High F# key
  • Multiple adjusting screws

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with a case
Answer: Yes. It comes with a great case. It can be carried like a backpack. Plenty of room, pockets on the front and provides sturdy protection.
Question: Ive read a review that newer models have the neck support brace. Mine arrived today and the neck has no support. Can we fix this? Love it otherwise
Answer: The AS42 neck does not have the brace that you are referring to.
Question: Does this sax come with a strap and care kit
Answer: It comes with a strap and a few care supplies.
Question: it's made in usa or china
Answer: Neck and mouthpiece made in France. The rest made in Taiwan

Selmer Paris Reference 54 Alto Saxophone

Selmer Paris

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Reference alto takes its inspiration from a 1958 mid-70,000 serial number Mark VI. The Reference plays and feels like a vintage Selmer, including longer bell to improve intonation and a dark, warm lacquer finish. Inspired by the Mark VI model released in 1954, the Selmer Paris 72 Reference 54 alto is a professional saxophone that integrates the Mark VI's legendary acoustic characteristics with innovative modern key work and better intonation. A major favorite among jazz saxophonists the Reference 54 alto saxophone offers a rich throaty sound that even "barks" well in the lower register. The keywork of the Selmer 72 alto saxophone is extremely fluid and reacts well to even the most wicked licks. Complete with shaped flight case, Selmer Paris Super Session mouthpiece, cap and ligature, and care products. Join the legions of jazz saxophonists that have rediscovered the sound of the legendary Mark VI and have made the Selmer 72 Reference 54 alto saxophone their horn of choice.The Reference 54 alto takes its inspiration from a 1958 mid-70,000 serial number Mark VI. It plays, feels, and looks like a vintage Selmer, including longer bell to improve intonation and a dark lacquer finish.

  • 72 Selmer Paris Reference Alto Sax Outfit

User questions & answers

Question: Hi, can you tell me the exact size of the shipping box? Is 40 x 15 x 17 inches for the cardboard shipping box? Thank you very much
Answer: Hi! Those dimensions are a little big for an alto sax. It should be more like 26X16X11. Happy Holidays!!
Question: Is this the selmer paris reference 54 alto saxophone. just making sure before i buy. and if i buy will you still include runyon mouthpiece
Answer: yes
Question: Hi please this saxophone have the case and mouthpiece selmer super session and why this price thanks ,i very intersting
Answer: This selmer reference is just one year old and it come with the case and mouthpiece , if you are really interested with it I can also give you my runyon smoothbore 8* metal mouthpiece
Question: What case--hard shell
Answer: Includes a great original case by BAM. Thanks!

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