Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $2,712
Standard/Professional
$1800
$4001+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone is the perfect bridge from student to professional playing. Designed with the advancing musician in mind, this saxophone offers a blend of quality and performance that echoes Yamaha’s esteemed reputation. Its 62-style neck, inspired by Yamaha's professional YTS-62 series, is crafted to provide a faster response and greater control, helping saxophonists achieve a focused and expressive tone.
Built with a yellow brass body and keys, the YTS-480 is not only robust but also resonant, thanks to its post-to-body construction which offers a lighter feel and quicker response. This design reduces resistance, making it easier for musicians to produce a strong tonal core. The redesigned octave key system and professional neck receiver allow for custom neck compatibility, providing flexibility as your style evolves.
Aesthetically, the YTS-480 dazzles with its hand-engraved bell, a testament to Yamaha's craftsmanship. Comfort and playability are enhanced through features like the adjustable thumb hook and left-hand seesaw key, making long practice sessions more enjoyable. Whether you're in a school band or preparing for more solo performances, this saxophone is ready to support your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Yellow brass body and keys
- 62-style neck for optimal tone and response
- Professional neck receiver; compatible with Yamaha Custom necks
- Front F and High F# keys
- Improved low B–C# connection mechanism
- Separate key guards with adjustable screw cap stoppers
- Adjustable plastic thumb hook
- Hand-engraved bell
- Comes with a Yamaha 4C mouthpiece, ligature, and case
Product specs
| Key | Bb |
| Level | Intermediate |
| Finish | Gold Lacquer |
| Auxillary Keys | High F#, Front F |
| Body | Post on Body |
| Body Material | Yellow Brass |
| Neck Type | 62 Style |
| Neck Material | Yellow Brass |
| Key Buttons | Polyester |
| Bell Decoration | Hand Engraved |
| Pads | Leather and Wool Felt with Plastic Tone Boosters |
| Tone Holes | Drawn |
| Mouthpiece | 4C with Plastic Cap |
| Thumb Hook | Adjustable Plastic |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What makes the Yamaha YTS-480 Tenor Saxophone suitable for intermediate players?
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The Yamaha YTS-480 offers a warm tone and quick response, ideal for intermediate players looking to enhance their sound. Its design includes features like a hand-engraved bell and an improved Low B-C# connection, which contribute to a more professional playing experience.
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Does the Yamaha YTS-480 have any special key features?
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Yes, the Yamaha YTS-480 includes auxiliary keys such as High F# and Front F, as well as a left-hand seesaw key, which provide enhanced playability and versatility for more complex pieces.
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Can the Yamaha YTS-480 Tenor Saxophone be used with different necks?
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Yes, the Yamaha YTS-480 is compatible with other necks, allowing players to customize their instrument for different tonal qualities and playing preferences.
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What kind of material is used in the construction of the Yamaha YTS-480?
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The Yamaha YTS-480 is made from yellow brass with a gold lacquer finish, featuring leather and wool felt pads with plastic tone boosters, which contribute to its rich sound and durability.
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Does the Yamaha YTS-480 come with a case?
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Yes, the Yamaha YTS-480 comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and easy transportation for the instrument.
Videos
John Kim
Hallelujah! Yamaha Tenor saxophone yts-480. Otto link NY8
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone.
Comparisons
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The YTS-480 and YTS-62 differ in bore taper, with the 480 resembling the 875's more resistant and darker tone, while the 62 has a vibrant bore similar to the 82.
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The YTS-480 is the successor to the 475, offering newer features while maintaining similar design elements.
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The 52 model is noted to straddle the line between intermediate and professional, offering some features of higher-end models.
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Features and functionality
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The YTS-480 features a neck connector similar to Selmer Paris models, which is noted for its reliability.
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Build quality
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The YTS-480 is often made outside Japan, which may affect intonation and tuning response compared to the Japan-made YTS-62.
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User experience
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Owners describe the YTS-480's tone as a "blank canvas," indicating flexibility for various musical styles.
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Value and pricing
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A $2,000 price for a brand-new YTS-480 is considered competitive, even slightly low, compared to the typical retail price of $3,400.
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Purchasing from reputable sax shops is recommended for better after-sales service and potential free initial tune-ups.
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A used YTS-62, a professional-grade horn, can often be found for around $2,000 with diligent searching.
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Setup and maintenance
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It's crucial to budget for post-purchase maintenance, as used saxophones often require leak checks and adjustments, potentially costing $100 to $1,000.
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Regular maintenance every 12-24 months is necessary to keep a saxophone in optimal playing condition, highlighting the importance of having access to a reliable sax technician.
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