[qinnovator]

Hello all,

I am a beginner who needs to get an alto saxophone. I came across this model (Suzuki Fundamental Alto Saxophone - Gold (FUN-AS)) on amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Suzuki-Fundam...cal-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1311510091&sr=1-1

I am not ready to buy yet. I'm getting onfused with all the different models and choices, especially since I am a beginner. If you could give me any advice on what to get, and possibly even where to get it, it would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Qinnovator

 

[saxmusicguy]

See here: http://forum.saxontheweb.net/showth...Concertino-Alto-sax-for-200-what-do-you-think
and here: http://forum.saxontheweb.net/showthread.php?163473-Quality-alto

A used Yamaha YAS-23 is a good choice for a beginner.

If you want new at a reasonable price, here are some non-Japanese Asian horns that are very popular on SOTW:

Lots of people rave about the Barone saxophones (professional quality, nice price)
http://www.philbarone.com/

Also check out Bauhaus Walstein (inexpensive pro-level horn -- highly regarded on SOTW)
http://www.russbecker.com/id18.html
http://justsaxes.com/cgi/newSaxophones-bauhaus-walstein-pricing.php
http://www.woodwindandbrass.co.uk/acatalog/yanagisawa_alto_saxophone_selmerparis_alto_saxophone.html

 

[spike421]

I would second the advice of saxmusicguy and recommend a used YAS 23 as a beginner horn, but be sure to have it checked out by someone familiar with saxes or a tech to make sure it's in good playable condition. It's best to have help with this if you are new to the saxophone.

As far as the myriad of brands and cheap offerings, for now just follow the axiom, "You get what you pay for". Although there may some great bargains out there, there's also a lot of shiny junk that'll do you more harm than good.

Most important- line up a teacher to help you learn how to play as soon as possible.