Question:
Which is the best, basic soprano sax for a complete beginner for around £400 ($600 ??) ? I want something which is not going to need replacing after a year or so but I am willing to compromise on the sound. Having learned guitar before, I know that a cheap instrument can seriously impair motivation and speed of learning. Any help ???
Answer:
if you are a complete beginner to that saxophone I certainly would not recommend the soprano as a first sax unless you are already accomplished on the clarinet.
I have played mostly tenor and to a lesser extent alto for 30 years. But I also played clarinet for maybe 40 years. I have recently taken up the soprano and I love it. Right now it is my favorite sax. But, in my opinion, I fid it much closer to playing a clarinet than a sax as far as embouchure and blowing resistance.
My recommendation for a beginner is to go with an alto or a tenor. Most start out with the alto; but, I would chose by which sound appeals to your ear more.
If you are an adult learning for your own pleasure I would recommend at least an intermediate level horn and I would try to find a used one in great shape. They are in general a little more delicate than a student model; but, an adult probably won't be going to football games, pep rallys, or parades with them. These activities can be hard on instruments. The higher quality horns generally sound better, hold tune across the range better, and have a higher resale value should you choose to upgrade later.Yamahas are hard to beat for quality, price, and sound.
