So, I've recently re-taken up Clarinet after reaching grade 4 years ago and am interesting in getting an Alto sax for more Jazz and pop styles and just to try something new. I've had my clarinet 14 years so I am hoping to keep any saxophone I get for a long time as well.
I've done a considerable amount of research into what is out there but there is a lot of choice so I'd like to some advice. Obviously the Yamahas are the most recommended beginner instruments but a new one is far out of my budget (preferably £400-£500ish) and a used one is often still out of this range if it's been refurbished my a proper shop. I was originally interested in a new instrument as it seemed a bit less gross (haha) (and I bought my clarinet new) but it seems like buying used is common in the sax world and can be good value so I'm open to both options. I would definitely consider getting a 4c mouth piece or similar for a new or used horn.
These are some of the new altos that I have found online, does anyone have any recommendation on which ones are the best from the selection? The prices sometimes vary quite a bit by site so they're just a vague guide.
John Packer JP041 (~£259)
John Packer JP045 (~£501)
Festivo 1AS (~£395)
Elkhart 100AS (~£419)
Buffet 100 Series BC8101 (~£489.86)
Artemis A1 (~£499)
J.Michael AL-500 (~£429)
Trevor James Classic II (~£585)
Vivace 3SKVA-G2 (~£496)
Montreux Sonata (~£340)
I've tried to keep to shops that are woodwind specialists that check instruments before sending them out. Are these shops reputable?
Chamberlain Music (their prices seem much lower than shops, is there a reason for this?)
Hanson Music
Dawkes (seen this shop recommended quite a bit)
Band Supplies.co.uk
For used Altos I have found the following models and prices from various retailers, again trying to stick to sites that look reputable. If I buy used I'd want to buy a refurbished instrument from a reputable shop., preferably with a warranty or good customer service to avoid issues if possible so these are probably not as cheap as used ebay etc prices.
Holton Elkhorn £450
Buffet Crampon Evette £349
Jupiter 500 Series (e.g. 567-565 £379))
Yamaha YAS280 £599 (slightly out of price range but cheaper than some I've seen)
Buffet 100AS £350
Elkhart Series II £295
Earlham Pro Series II £295
And the same question again for these shops that sell refurbished (are they any good?).
Curly Woodwind (seen this shop recommended a few times)
Playitagainuk
Dots Music Camden
The Saxophone Shop
The Sax Shack
Thanks in advance!
I've done a considerable amount of research into what is out there but there is a lot of choice so I'd like to some advice. Obviously the Yamahas are the most recommended beginner instruments but a new one is far out of my budget (preferably £400-£500ish) and a used one is often still out of this range if it's been refurbished my a proper shop. I was originally interested in a new instrument as it seemed a bit less gross (haha) (and I bought my clarinet new) but it seems like buying used is common in the sax world and can be good value so I'm open to both options. I would definitely consider getting a 4c mouth piece or similar for a new or used horn.
These are some of the new altos that I have found online, does anyone have any recommendation on which ones are the best from the selection? The prices sometimes vary quite a bit by site so they're just a vague guide.
John Packer JP041 (~£259)
John Packer JP045 (~£501)
Festivo 1AS (~£395)
Elkhart 100AS (~£419)
Buffet 100 Series BC8101 (~£489.86)
Artemis A1 (~£499)
J.Michael AL-500 (~£429)
Trevor James Classic II (~£585)
Vivace 3SKVA-G2 (~£496)
Montreux Sonata (~£340)
I've tried to keep to shops that are woodwind specialists that check instruments before sending them out. Are these shops reputable?
Chamberlain Music (their prices seem much lower than shops, is there a reason for this?)
Hanson Music
Dawkes (seen this shop recommended quite a bit)
Band Supplies.co.uk
For used Altos I have found the following models and prices from various retailers, again trying to stick to sites that look reputable. If I buy used I'd want to buy a refurbished instrument from a reputable shop., preferably with a warranty or good customer service to avoid issues if possible so these are probably not as cheap as used ebay etc prices.
Holton Elkhorn £450
Buffet Crampon Evette £349
Jupiter 500 Series (e.g. 567-565 £379))
Yamaha YAS280 £599 (slightly out of price range but cheaper than some I've seen)
Buffet 100AS £350
Elkhart Series II £295
Earlham Pro Series II £295
And the same question again for these shops that sell refurbished (are they any good?).
Curly Woodwind (seen this shop recommended a few times)
Playitagainuk
Dots Music Camden
The Saxophone Shop
The Sax Shack
Thanks in advance!