Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$3,279.99
Guitar Center
$3,196.99
Amazon
5.0 (3)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$1,577.29 New
$1,300.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$3,279.99
Thomann
4.9 (52)
$1,899.00
Gear4Music
£1,699.00

Average Price: $2,533

Standard/Professional

$1500

$3501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Alto Saxophone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unlock your musical potential with the Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Alto Saxophone, a standout choice for aspiring saxophonists eager to elevate their sound. This saxophone embodies the perfect balance of playability, craftsmanship, and value, adorned with features usually reserved for Yamaha's professional models. The YAS-480 is a testament to Yamaha's commitment to quality, offering enhanced playability with its 62-style neck, which provides a fast response and focused intonation. This neck is not just any upgrade; it’s tailored for a seamless transition from student to more advanced playing.

The YAS-480 is designed for those who seek to cultivate their own style while enjoying superior tone and smooth action. With an improved low B to C# connection, you’ll experience consistent key closure and a clearer response in the lower register. Its separate key guards and a high F# key set you up for a professional feel and versatility. The saxophone's lightweight, durable body ensures comfortable handling, making it as reliable as it is resonant. Whether you're in a school band or a wind ensemble, this instrument is your gateway to artistic expression and technical mastery.

Key Features:

  • Post-to-body construction with yellow brass body and keys
  • 62-style neck for optimum tone and response
  • Professional neck receiver and octave key system for custom neck compatibility
  • High F# key and improved low B–C# connection
  • Separate key guards with adjustable screw cap stoppers
  • Left-hand seesaw key for improved playability
  • Adjustable plastic thumb hook
  • Hand-engraved bell for aesthetic appeal
  • Includes 4C mouthpiece, ligature, and case

Product specs

Key Eb
Level Intermediate
Auxillary Keys High F#, Front F
Neck Type 62 Style, Annealed
Neck Material Yellow Brass
Bell Decoration Hand Engraved
Key Buttons Polyester with Yellow Brass Keys
Springs Stainless Steel
Pads Leather & Wool Felt with Plastic Tone Boosters
Tone Holes Drawn
Mouthpiece 4C
Thumb Hook Adjustable, Plastic
Case/Gig Bag Backpack Case

FAQs

What level of player is the Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Alto Saxophone designed for?

The Yamaha YAS-480 is designed for intermediate players, offering advanced features and improved sound quality over beginner models, making it suitable for students transitioning from entry-level saxophones.

What are the standout features of the Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Saxophone?

The Yamaha YAS-480 features a hand-engraved bell, improved low B-C# connection, and a separate key guard for added durability and precision, enhancing both playability and sound quality.

Is the Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Saxophone suitable for jazz music?

Yes, the Yamaha YAS-480 is versatile and well-suited for jazz, offering a rich, full tone and excellent intonation that complements jazz performance styles.

Does the Yamaha YAS-480 come with a case and mouthpiece?

Yes, the Yamaha YAS-480 typically comes with a durable case and a high-quality Yamaha 4C mouthpiece, providing essential accessories for immediate use.

How does the Yamaha YAS-480 compare to professional saxophones?

While the Yamaha YAS-480 offers excellent sound and build quality for intermediate players, professional models typically provide a fuller tone and more intricate craftsmanship, catering to advanced performance needs.

dawkesmusic

dawkesmusic

Yamaha Alto Saxophone Range - Model Differences between 280 / 480 / 62

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Alto Saxophone Range - Model Differences between 280 / 480 / 62 by dawkesmusic

Yamaha Alto Saxophone Range - Model Differences between 280 / 480 / 62

dawkesmusic

dawkesmusic

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Intermediate Alto Sax YAS-480 - Video Review by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Yamaha Intermediate Alto Sax YAS-480 - Video Review

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Sax Demonstration by dawkesmusic

Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Sax Demonstration

dawkesmusic

dawkesmusic

Video thumbnail for Yamaha 480 Alto Sax Review by dawkesmusic

Yamaha 480 Alto Sax Review

dawkesmusic

dawkesmusic

Video thumbnail for Top 10 Saxophones Yamaha [2018]: Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish by Musical Instruments

Top 10 Saxophones Yamaha [2018]: Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone, Gold Finish

Musical Instruments

Musical Instruments

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Saxophone Quickview by Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Yamaha YAS-480 Alto Saxophone Quickview

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS 480 by M&A Instrument Highlights & Reviews

Yamaha YAS 480

M&A Instrument Highlights & Reviews

M&A Instrument Highlights & Reviews

Reviews

PROS

  • Smooth and rich sound, ideal for expressive playing

  • Quick key response enhances musical expression

  • Outstanding build quality for an intermediate saxophone

  • Provides a solid, well-crafted feel in hand

  • Good response across all registers

  • Produces a warm, rounded jazz sound with compatible mouthpiece

  • Ideal for musicians transitioning from student models

CONS

  • Some confusion regarding manufacturing origin (China vs. Indonesia)

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Alto Saxophone.

Build quality

  • Yamaha's intermediate saxes like the YAS-480 are made with softer metal, making them more susceptible to dents than student models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The YAS-480 includes a high F# key, which is useful for advanced music, although not essential for beginners.

    Source

Comparisons

  • There's a small price gap between the YAS-480 and professional models like the Yamaha 62, making the latter a feasible upgrade for some.

    Source
  • The YAS-62 Purple Logo is considered a long-term investment due to its status as an industry standard and better value retention compared to intermediate models like the YAS-480.

    Source

User experience

  • Users highlight the YAS-480's superior key action compared to professional models, which can be crucial for players with arthritis.

    Source
  • Some players find a subtle, yet distinct tonal edge in the YAS-62 when compared directly to the YAS-480, enhancing their performance experience.

    Source
  • Vintage Yamaha saxophones, including the older YAS-62 models, are praised for their durability and are regularly used by musicians even after 100 years if well maintained.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The YAS-480 is considered a better investment than the YAS-200ADII due to its superior sound quality and "room to grow" for advancing players.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Purchasing a saxophone online, such as the YAS-480, may require additional setup adjustments post-shipping, potentially negating initial cost savings.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Yamaha Alto Saxophones

PMSA-185

$1,664.00 - $3,199.99

# 15

Rank

 

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides