Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,409

Budget/Beginner

$1500

$3501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Designed for budding musicians, the Selmer AS500 Student Model Alto Saxophone is a reliable companion for those beginning their journey into the world of music. Crafted with durability in mind, this saxophone provides a solid foundation for students to explore their musical potential. Its ergonomic key layout ensures comfortable playability, allowing young players to focus on honing their technique without strain. The AS500 features a sturdy brass body that produces a warm, resonant tone, making it an excellent choice for school bands and personal practice alike.

The Selmer AS500 also boasts a high F# key, expanding the instrument’s range and providing students with the ability to tackle more complex pieces as they progress. Its lacquer finish not only adds a touch of elegance but also protects the instrument from wear and tear, ensuring longevity. With its balanced response and excellent intonation, this alto saxophone is a practical and affordable option for any aspiring saxophonist.

Key Features:

  • Student model designed for beginners
  • Ergonomic key layout for comfortable playability
  • Sturdy brass body for a warm, resonant tone
  • High F# key for an extended range
  • Lacquer finish for protection and aesthetic appeal
  • Reliable intonation and balanced response
  • Ideal for school bands and personal practice

Product specs

Brand Selmer
Model AS500 Student Model Alto Saxophone
Year 2010s
Categories Saxophones

FAQs

Is the Selmer AS500 suitable for beginner saxophonists?

Yes, the Selmer AS500 is designed as a student model, making it ideal for beginners. It offers ease of playability with a comfortable key layout, which helps new players develop their technique.

What materials are used in the construction of the Selmer AS500?

The Selmer AS500 is typically made from brass, which provides a good balance of durability and sound quality suitable for student-level instruments.

How does the Selmer AS500 compare to professional saxophones?

The Selmer AS500 is a student model, which generally means it is more affordable and easier to play compared to professional saxophones. It is designed to help beginners learn, while professional models offer superior sound quality and craftsmanship.

Does the Selmer AS500 come with a case?

Yes, the Selmer AS500 usually comes with a case, providing protection and easy transport for the instrument.

Where is the Selmer AS500 manufactured?

The Selmer AS500 is manufactured in Taiwan, known for producing quality student-level saxophones.

Paul Effman Music Store

Paul Effman Music Store

Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone vs. LJ Hutchen Mark II Alto Saxophone Comparison and Review

Video thumbnail for Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone vs. LJ Hutchen Mark II Alto Saxophone Comparison and Review by Paul Effman Music Store

Selmer AS-500 Alto Saxophone vs. LJ Hutchen Mark II Alto Saxophone Comparison and Review

Paul Effman Music Store

Paul Effman Music Store

Video thumbnail for Selmer AS500 Demo and Overview by Music Lovers Shoppe

Selmer AS500 Demo and Overview

Music Lovers Shoppe

Music Lovers Shoppe

Video thumbnail for Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone with Case Sax Review and Condition Check by Fishing, Basketball, and eBay

Selmer AS500 Alto Saxophone with Case Sax Review and Condition Check

Fishing, Basketball, and eBay

Fishing, Basketball, and eBay

Reviews

PROS

  • Easy to play, great for beginners and building confidence

  • Excellent intonation with a responsive and warm tone

  • Durable build with thicker metal, ideal for student use

  • Keys are smooth and easy to press for quick play

  • Fuller, brighter sound compared to some Yamaha models

  • Good resale value, maintains quality over time

  • Reliable brand reputation among top saxophone manufacturers

CONS

  • Sound can be perceived as slightly tinny by some users

  • Scratches easily due to softer metal construction

  • Produces loud sound, may disturb others when practicing indoors

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Selmer AS500 Student Model Alto Saxophone.

Comparisons

  • Although the YAS-23 is preferred by some, the AS500 is praised for its ergonomics and build quality, particularly when priced competitively.

    Source
  • One user suggests the AS500 has decent intonation and playability, though they have encountered several altos with superior sound quality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Regular check-ups are crucial as saxophones are prone to wear; yearly visits to a technician are recommended to address pad compression and leather deterioration.

    Source
  • The instrument, despite appearing in good condition, required additional investment of $175 for setup, highlighting the need for post-purchase adjustments even in seemingly good deals.

    Source

User experience

  • One parent observed a noticeable improvement in their child’s playing when switching from the AS500 to a Yamaha YAS26, despite using the same mouthpiece and reed setup.

    Source
  • A lead alto player in a college big band uses an AS500, finding it solid but notes that the action feels less responsive after ten years without maintenance.

    Source
  • A new owner of the AS500 found a two-year-old "tuning" receipt, implying the saxophone may not have been regularly maintained or played, affecting its current state.

    Source
  • An owner noted the saxophone's initial condition included a basement odor and cobwebs, suggesting it may have been stored improperly, which could affect playability without proper cleaning.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A $400 price tag for a used AS500, including shipping, is debated as potentially not worthwhile without confirming its condition with a technician.

    Source
  • The AS500, priced at $400 used, is considered a reasonable deal by some, especially given its solid build compared to other student horns.

    Source
  • A buyer acquired an AS500 in seemingly good condition for $100, indicating potential bargain opportunities for those willing to inspect and possibly restore used models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Jazz enthusiasts are advised against using plain Rico reeds under 2.5 strength, with LaVoz mediums suggested for a better sound quality and ease of play.

    Source

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