The alto and tenor saxophones are the two most popular and most played of their kind. In addition to their construction and weight, they differ primarily in their sound and range. Due to its size, the tenor sax has a lower pitch and is therefore warmer, richer in overtones and earthier in sound. The smaller alto sax is tuned higher and its sound is generally characterized by more brilliance, radiance and treble.

By choosing your mouthpiece and saxophone reed, you as an advanced player with some experience can greatly influence the sound of your instrument and adapt it to your personal taste. Especially at the beginning, the question often arises as to whether alto or tenor sax is the right instrument for you. This primarily decides what you like better in terms of sound and pitch and appeals to you more. So grab your record collection, your CD cabinet or just YouTube and listen to good music.

Great audio examples for alto, tenor and soprano sax: