Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $4,000

High-end/Boutique

$1500

$3501+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the world of masterful sound with the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone, a top-tier instrument designed for the discerning musician. Crafted after years of research and collaboration with world-renowned saxophonists, this saxophone showcases an impressive dynamic range, stunning projection, and a powerful timbre that resonates with a beautifully defined core. Whether you're performing a solo or leading a band, the YAS-875EX promises a depth and smoothness that need to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

One of the standout features of this model is its Custom V1 neck, which enhances your performance with improved octave mechanics and optimized resistance for a more colorful and flexible sound. The saxophone's ergonomic design includes adjustable front F-flap and thumb rest, ensuring comfort during long practice sessions or performances. The addition of a high F# key provides expanded musical possibilities, allowing you to explore a broader range of notes with ease.

Enclosed in a luxurious case and accompanied by a premium mouthpiece, the Yamaha YAS-875EX not only sounds exquisite but also reflects superior craftsmanship in its construction. Its French brass neck, body, and bell are complemented by mother of pearl key buttons and blue steel needle springs, adding to its elegance and reliability.

Key Features:

  • Custom V1 neck for enhanced performance
  • Improved octave mechanics
  • Adjustable front F-flap and thumb rest
  • High F# key for expanded range
  • French brass neck, body, and bell
  • Mother of pearl key buttons
  • Blue steel needle springs
  • Includes luxury case and mouthpiece

Product specs

Available since January 2004
Gravure Yes
Resonator Pad Plastic
Case Yes
Case with Backpack System No
Mou Yes
Strap Yes
Wiper (Body) No
S Arc Wiper No

FAQs

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone?

The Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone features high-quality brass construction, offering durability and a rich, resonant sound that appeals to both classical and jazz musicians.

Is the Yamaha YAS-875EX suitable for professional saxophonists?

Yes, the Yamaha YAS-875EX is designed with professional musicians in mind, offering superior tone quality, precise intonation, and advanced features that cater to the demands of experienced players.

What type of neck does the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone have?

The Yamaha YAS-875EX comes with a V1 neck, which is known for its free-blowing nature and ability to produce a full, rich sound across the instrument's range.

Does the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone includes a protective case, though it does not feature a backpack system for carrying.

Are the pads on the Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone made of a special material?

The Yamaha YAS-875EX features plastic resonator pads, which contribute to its excellent tonal projection and durability.

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Yamaha YAS-875EX Custom Alto Saxophone - Video Review

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS-875EX Custom Alto Saxophone - Video Review by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Yamaha YAS-875EX Custom Alto Saxophone - Video Review

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Video thumbnail for Saxquest! Yamaha YAS 875EX "Custom EX" Alto Saxophone by SaxquestShop

Saxquest! Yamaha YAS 875EX "Custom EX" Alto Saxophone

SaxquestShop

SaxquestShop

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS 875EX Alto Saxophones by dawkesmusic

Yamaha YAS 875EX Alto Saxophones

dawkesmusic

dawkesmusic

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YAS875EX - Core and Intonation - Review and Demo by Alamo Music Band and Orchestra

Yamaha YAS875EX - Core and Intonation - Review and Demo

Alamo Music Band and Orchestra

Alamo Music Band and Orchestra

Reviews

PROS

  • Full, powerful sound across all registers

  • Excellent intonation suitable for both jazz and classical music

  • Easy transition between Yamaha and other brands like Selmer

  • Comfortable to play for those used to soprano and tenor saxophones

  • Responds well in the altissimo range, providing a delightful experience

  • Smooth and fluid key mechanism improves playability

CONS

  • Key venting may require professional adjustment out of the box

  • Pearls on keys lack doming and rounded edges, affecting tactile comfort

  • New style case perceived as low quality

  • Mouthpiece may need replacement for optimal performance

  • Some players needed to refine the neck joint for improved response

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone.

Features and functionality

  • The 875EX features a redesigned bell-to-body brace with a single screw and lacks a lyre holder, enhancing low-end response at the expense of sound density.

    Source
  • The EX retains the V1 neck from later EX models, known for contributing to its precise tonal qualities.

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  • The YAS-875EX's intonation is praised for making high notes feel effortless and maintaining richness, unlike the 82ZII which reportedly requires embouchure adjustments.

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Comparisons

  • The EX-II model differs significantly from the EX, with changes in key angles, palm keys, octave key, and front key, aimed at Selmer enthusiasts for improved tuning and low-end response.

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  • The YAS-875EX has been noted to maintain a richer tone across registers compared to the YAS-82ZII, which tends to get brighter in the upper register.

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  • The Yamaha YAS-875EX is generally not considered a bright horn; comparisons suggest the Selmer Series III might be brighter.

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  • Both the YAS-875EX and Selmer Series II can serve jazz and classical styles, with tonal adjustments primarily influenced by mouthpiece and reeds rather than the horn itself.

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Build quality

  • The 875EX includes slight alterations in key shapes, such as a larger "back stop" bend on the low Bb key, offering a different tactile feel.

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Use cases and applications

  • Owners highlight the 875EX's ability to produce a warm, rich tone suitable for contemporary jazz settings, which some feel the 82ZII lacks.

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  • It's noted that the right mouthpiece can adapt the YAS-875EX for jazz, even though it is marketed as a darker "classical" horn.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users recommend experimenting with different necks, like the C1 neck on the 82ZII, to achieve a darker, more focused sound closer to a vintage Yamaha 62.

    Source

User experience

  • It's noted that trying both models in an echo-enhancing environment, like a concert hall, can reveal more tonal differences than in a standard room setting.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Purchasing a second-hand YAS-875EX at around €2700 is considered a good deal, especially for those starting their saxophone journey.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha Custom 875-EX alto sax review

shwoodwind.co.uk

The Yamaha YAS-875EX Alto Saxophone strikes a chord with meticulous build quality and refined features, yet leaves some room for debate. While it offers a slightly freer blow and fuller tone compared to the YAS62, the substantial price increase for incremental gains might make some reconsider. The well-crafted body and keywork are highlights, though concerns about the low C# tonehole's durability and the noisy ball and socket link for side Bb/C trill keys mark slight blemishes. For professionals seeking subtle improvements, the EX could be a slow burn in tonal exploration, but those satisfied with a YAS62 might find little justification for the extra investment.

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