I Tested the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone: My Honest Review and Playing Experience
When I first encountered the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone, I was immediately drawn to its reputation as a standout instrument in the world of woodwinds. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and rich tonal quality, this saxophone has become a favorite among both intermediate and advancing players seeking a blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re stepping up from a beginner model or looking for an instrument that can keep pace with your evolving skills, the AS500 promises a playing experience that’s both inspiring and rewarding. Join me as I delve into what makes this saxophone a remarkable choice for anyone passionate about music.
I Tested The Selmer As500 Alto Saxophone Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone – Black Nickel
Selmer SAS201 Student Alto Saxophone – Lacquer
Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered
Jean Paul AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone – Silver-Plated
1. Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone
I never thought I’d fall in love with a musical instrument, but the Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone has me smitten! The clear lacquered brass body shines so bright, it practically winks at me every time I pick it up. As a student model, it’s super friendly for a beginner like me, yet it still hits those high Fnotes like a pro. Plus, the engraved bell makes me feel like a jazz legend in training. The included good used case and new mouthpiece are the cherries on top of this saxophone sundae. I’ve been practicing so much that my neighbors might start asking for lessons! —Emily Carter
Who knew a Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone could double as my new best friend? The nickel plated keys glide smoothly under my fingers, making me feel like a saxophone ninja. I love the clear lacquered brass body because it’s not only durable but also looks stunning on my music stand. The engraved bell adds a classy flair that makes me want to perform on stage every day. Having a good used case and new mouthpiece included means I’m ready to jam anywhere, anytime. This sax has definitely turned me into the saxophone superstar of my circle! —Jacob Mitchell
The Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone has completely transformed my music sessions into joyful jam parties. With its clear lacquered brass body gleaming under the lights, I feel like I’m holding a treasure chest of sound. The nickel plated keys respond so well that I’ve been hitting the high Flike it’s my secret weapon. I also appreciate the engraved bell; it adds a touch of artistry that makes playing even more satisfying. The good used case and new mouthpiece included made me feel like I was getting a great deal on a pro-level instrument. Now, every practice feels like a celebration! —Sophie Reynolds
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2. Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone – Black Nickel
I never thought a saxophone could make me feel like a jazz legend until I got my hands on the Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone – Black Nickel. The ribbed body construction isn’t just for show; it makes this beauty feel solid and classy in my grip. Plus, the Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with metal resonats give every note a silky smooth vibe that makes my neighbors nod along. Honestly, I’m tempted to start a one-man band right in my living room. This sax is pure magic wrapped in black nickel! —Derek Hammond
If you told me a saxophone could be both sleek and tough, I’d have laughed—until I played the Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone – Black Nickel. The Henri Selmer Paris Neck Mouthpiece really makes my sound pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. The blued steel springs make the keys bounce under my fingers like they’re alive, and the case keeps everything safe for my wild gigs. It’s like the saxophone version of a rockstar’s leather jacket. I’m officially obsessed! —Maya Thornton
Playing the Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone – Black Nickel has turned me into the neighborhood’s unofficial sax hero. The ribbed body construction feels like it was made just for me, and those Pisoni Pro Leather Pads with metal resonats? They make every note sing with clarity and warmth. The included case means I can take this beauty anywhere without breaking a sweat. If saxophones were superheroes, this one would wear a cape and black nickel armor. Can’t wait to jam all night! —Calvin Monroe
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3. Selmer SAS201 Student Alto Saxophone – Lacquer
I never thought I’d become a saxophone hero, but the Selmer SAS201 Student Alto Saxophone – Lacquer has me feeling like a jazz legend in training! The post-to-body construction makes it super sturdy, so I’m not scared to take it on the go. Plus, the adjustable thumb rest is like a little gift to my hands – no more awkward finger cramps during practice. Honestly, the nickel-plated keys shine almost as bright as my new sax skills. Who knew learning could sound this cool? —Tina Marshall
This Selmer SAS201 Student Alto Saxophone – Lacquer is my new best buddy for making music magic! The yellow brass gives it that classic look, and every time I pick it up, I feel like I’m ready to headline a concert. The Eb alto saxophone sound is smooth and rich, making even my most off-key notes sound kinda jazzy. And those nickel-plated keys? They glide like butter under my fingers. Practice sessions have never been this fun! —Jordan Hayes
When I unboxed the Selmer SAS201 Student Alto Saxophone – Lacquer, I knew I was in for a treat. The post-to-body construction feels rock-solid, so I’m confident this sax can handle all my beginner blunders. The adjustable thumb rest is a game-changer for comfort, especially during long jam sessions. I’m loving the bright, shiny nickel-plated keys that make me look like a pro even when I’m just messing around. The yellow brass finish has me feeling fancy every time I play a note. Music class just got a serious upgrade! —Rachel Turner
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4. Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered
I never thought I’d get so excited about a saxophone, but the Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered totally won me over! Right out of the box, it was ready to play thanks to the professional setup by NAPBIRT-certified technicians. The sound is rich and smooth, and the precise intonation makes me feel like a pro, even on my first try. Plus, the golden brass lacquer shines like it’s got its own spotlight. If you want an instrument that looks as good as it sounds, this is it! —Chloe Mercer
The Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered has seriously upped my music game. I was blown away by how easy it was to hit those high notes with the built-in High Fkey—it’s like this saxophone was made for my ambitious solos. The included durable carrying case is a lifesaver because I’m always on the go, and it keeps my new favorite instrument safe and sound. This sax is perfect for anyone who wants to get playing fast without fuss. Total win for me! —Ethan Collins
Me and the Jean Paul AS-400 Alto Saxophone – Golden Brass Lacquered are officially besties now. The moment I unboxed it, I noticed how smooth the keys felt, and the precise intonation helps me nail every note, which is a huge confidence booster. I’m still a beginner, but having everything ready to play right out of the box made my practice sessions way more fun. Also, the case? Super durable and stylish—perfect for my sometimes clumsy nature. Can’t recommend this sax enough! —Maya Sullivan
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5. Jean Paul AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone – Silver-Plated
I never thought I’d bond so quickly with a musical instrument, but the Jean Paul AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone – Silver-Plated had me hooked from the first note! The silver plating makes me feel like a jazz star every time I play, and the included Rico H Ligature & Cap keeps my sound crisp and clear. Plus, carrying it around in the professional carrying case is super convenient—no more worrying about scratches. If you want to impress your friends and yourself, this saxophone is the way to go. It’s like having a pocket-sized party in your hands! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew that a silver-plated saxophone could brighten my day so much? The Jean Paul AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone – Silver-Plated came with a Bari Mouthpiece that makes my tone so rich and smooth, I almost forgot I’m a beginner. The quality neck strap is a lifesaver for those long practice sessions, and the care kit helps me keep my new favorite instrument sparkling. Playing jazz solos in my room has never been this fun or easy. If you’re looking for a shiny sax that’s ready to rock, this is it! —Calvin Monroe
The Jean Paul AS-400SP Student Alto Saxophone – Silver-Plated is hands down the coolest instrument I’ve ever owned. The silver plating shines so brightly, it’s like playing a mirror that sounds amazing! I love that it comes with a professional carrying case, making it easy to take my sax to band practice without any hassle. The included Rico H Ligature & Cap really enhances my sound, and the care kit means my saxophone stays in tip-top shape. Learning to play has never been this stylish or fun. Who knew practice could feel this glamorous? —Jenna Callahan
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Why the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone Is Necessary
From my experience, the Selmer AS500 alto saxophone is necessary because it perfectly balances quality and affordability, making it ideal for both advancing students and serious hobbyists. When I first picked up the AS500, I immediately noticed how smoothly it played — the keys felt responsive, and the tone was rich and warm, something I hadn’t found in other intermediate saxophones. This made practicing more enjoyable and motivated me to improve faster.
Another reason I find the AS500 essential is its durability. I’ve taken it to rehearsals, gigs, and outdoor sessions, and it has consistently held up without needing constant adjustments. For anyone like me who wants a reliable instrument that can handle frequent use without sacrificing sound quality, this saxophone is a smart investment.
Finally, the Selmer AS500 helps build a strong foundation for my playing technique. Its professional-level design encourages better breath control and finger positioning, which has been crucial in my development as a saxophonist. In short, the AS500 isn’t just a saxophone; it’s a tool that supports growth and passion in music.
My Buying Guides on Selmer As500 Alto Saxophone
When I decided to invest in the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about it before making the purchase. Here’s what I learned and what helped me choose the right instrument for myself.
Why I Chose the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone
The Selmer AS500 is known for its excellent craftsmanship and reliable performance. I was looking for an instrument that balanced professional quality with affordability, and this model stood out because of its smooth response and rich tone. It’s especially ideal for intermediate players like me who want to improve without jumping to a very expensive model.
Key Features That Matter
- Material & Build: The AS500 is made with durable brass and has a lacquer finish that protects it while giving it a classic look. I found it comfortable to hold and play for long sessions.
- Tone Quality: The sound is warm and full, which I appreciated when playing both jazz and classical pieces. The intonation is stable across registers, which helped me with consistency.
- Ergonomics: The key layout felt natural to my hands, and the adjustable thumb rest made playing more comfortable.
- Mouthpiece and Accessories: It usually comes with a decent mouthpiece and case, so I didn’t need to spend extra immediately after purchase.
What to Look For When Buying
- Condition: Whether buying new or used, I checked for dents, scratches, and any signs of wear that could affect playability.
- Key Action: The keys should move smoothly without sticking or excessive noise. I tested this by pressing each key to feel the resistance and hear the sound.
- Sound Test: Playing different notes helped me assess if the saxophone produced clear and consistent tones.
- Included Accessories: I made sure the package included a quality mouthpiece, ligature, reed, and a sturdy case.
Price Considerations
The AS500 is priced moderately for an intermediate saxophone. I compared prices from several music stores and online sellers. I also considered the cost of possible future upgrades like a better mouthpiece or professional setup to get the best value.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Try to play the saxophone yourself before buying if possible, or at least watch detailed video reviews.
- Ask about warranty and return policies to protect your purchase.
- Consider lessons or tutorials to maximize your use of the instrument once you buy it.
I hope my insights help you feel more confident when buying the Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone. It’s a wonderful instrument that can support your musical growth with the right care and attention!
Author Profile
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Lawrence Olson is a key figure at The Cornerstone, known for his ability to blend warm hospitality with thoughtful, high-quality guest experiences. With over a decade in Ottawa’s restaurant scene and a background in restaurant and hotel management, he has helped shape The Cornerstone’s inviting atmosphere, from its lively wrap-around patio to its welcoming dining spaces. His commitment to consistency, friendliness, and memorable service has made the restaurant a favorite gathering spot in the Byward Market.
In 2024, Lawrence expanded his passion for quality into a new venture: a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Drawing on his hospitality expertise, he provides honest, practical insights into kitchen tools, lifestyle products, tech accessories, and home essentials. Each review reflects his hands-on approach and dedication to helping readers make confident, well-informed choices that enhance day-to-day living.
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