Yamaha YAS-280 Alto Sax

The saxophone arrived fine out-of-box except for the octave key which was riding a little high and in released position was about 1 mm above equal height with the thumb rest. All notes in standard range respond well, in tune and clear. Altissimo range is more easily accessible as high F# key is provided. The side C and Bb seem a little undervented. The G# pad sometimes sticks closed the next day after playing as it often does on other saxophones. The neck collar jaws are much improved from earlier versions - they are beefy enough to not bend shut when the neck screw is tightened (that was an issue on YAS-23 where the neck collar jaws were much thinner). The bell when looked on from player's side, while parallel to the main body, is facing somewhat to the left which appears to be a compact design feature, as all low stack keys respond and seal properly. All in all, a well made, sturdy and easy to play instrument.

This was the first saxophone I bought and I love it. It is a great instrument, I like the feel, the gold, and the touch of the keys.
I know it is not the best saxophone in the world but it has a very good quality-price relation.
The sound is very good acording to the price I paid.
There was only one thing that I switched and that was the mouthpiece, the mouthpiece was a little too closed for me so I exchanged for a Yamaha 7C.
I also recomend the Rico jazz select 3S that go very well with this saxophone.
I have been using it in my auditions and it is being a great success, the sound is clear and everyone loves the music.
Overall you should buy this set, it helped me very much.
Thank you!

This is almost professsional quality saxophone for students. Though it is on higher end of the price spectrum, it is worth the investment. It is heavier with good quality brass and produces beautiful sound. The keys are perfectly placed. I wish Yamaha should give little better quality neck strap. But overall it is the best in the category.
In addition, I would like to thank Thomann for excellent service. It was little complicated process to get it shipped from Germany to India with customs involved at both places. They helped with the proper documents and guidance. Kudos to the team for successful delivery. Thanks to Thomann for best service.