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Average Price: $1,650

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$1800

$4001+

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Description

For musicians seeking a tenor saxophone that strikes the perfect harmony between quality and playability, the Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone is an outstanding choice. Designed for the advancing player, this sax bridges the gap between beginner and professional models, offering a resonant tone and robust build that musicians can rely on. Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable playability, making long sessions feel effortless. The YTS-52 boasts a smooth response, with a sound that is both warm and powerful, allowing you to express yourself fully in any musical setting.

Whether you're weaving through smooth jazz melodies or leading the charge in a concert band, this saxophone delivers with precision and clarity. The engraved bell adds a touch of elegance, while the adjustable key guard felts and tilting style spatula keys enhance functionality and ensure customization to your playing style. It's an instrument that not only sounds great but also looks and feels refined.

Key Features:

  • Intermediate tenor saxophone
  • Resonant tone with a warm, powerful sound
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable playability
  • Engraved bell for added elegance
  • Tilting style spatula keys
  • Tapered pivot screws
  • Adjustable key guard felts
  • Baked epoxy lacquer finish

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone
Year 2000s
Categories Saxophones

FAQs

What are the key features of the Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone?

The Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone is known for its excellent intonation, smooth key action, and rich sound. It features a durable design with a gold lacquer finish, making it suitable for both intermediate and advanced players.

How does the Yamaha YTS-52 compare to other Yamaha tenor saxophones?

The YTS-52 is designed as an intermediate model, offering a balance between professional quality and affordability. It provides a more refined tone and improved playability compared to entry-level models, while being more accessible than Yamaha's professional series.

Is the Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone suitable for beginners?

While the YTS-52 is primarily aimed at intermediate players, dedicated beginners may also find it a valuable long-term investment due to its quality construction and ease of play.

Does the Yamaha YTS-52 come with a case and accessories?

Yes, the Yamaha YTS-52 typically comes with a durable case, mouthpiece, neck strap, and other essential accessories, making it ready for use out of the box.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha YTS-52?

The Yamaha YTS-52 is crafted from high-quality brass with a gold lacquer finish, providing a robust build and a classic appearance that enhances its tonal qualities.

CE Winds

CE Winds

Yamaha YTS 52 YTS-52 Tenor Sax played w/ CE Winds Silver Sho

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YTS 52 YTS-52 Tenor Sax played w/ CE Winds Silver Sho by CE Winds

Yamaha YTS 52 YTS-52 Tenor Sax played w/ CE Winds Silver Sho

CE Winds

CE Winds

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YTS 52 Tenor Sax by jgn840

Yamaha YTS 52 Tenor Sax

jgn840

jgn840

Video thumbnail for SaxMall.com Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone sax played w/ CE Winds Silver Shocka Mouthpiece by CE Winds

SaxMall.com Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone sax played w/ CE Winds Silver Shocka Mouthpiece

CE Winds

CE Winds

Video thumbnail for Saxquest - Older Yamaha 52 Tenor Sax Played by Ben Reece by SaxquestShop

Saxquest - Older Yamaha 52 Tenor Sax Played by Ben Reece

SaxquestShop

SaxquestShop

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YTS 52 tenor sax 003xxx by jgn840

Yamaha YTS 52 tenor sax 003xxx

jgn840

jgn840

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YTS 52 Purple Logo Tenor Sax 003xxx by jgn840

Yamaha YTS 52 Purple Logo Tenor Sax 003xxx

jgn840

jgn840

Video thumbnail for Yamaha. YTS-52 demo by Steve Gray

Yamaha. YTS-52 demo

Steve Gray

Steve Gray

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality, suitable for both beginners and advanced players

  • Solid build quality offers durability and long-lasting performance

  • Ergonomic design with fine intonation and even scale

  • Mouthpiece-friendly, adaptable for various musical styles

  • Great value for an intermediate model with professional features

  • Reliable Yamaha reputation for quality and durability

  • Comes with a protective and well-packaged case

CONS

  • Older model, replaced by newer Yamaha models

  • Intermediate model less desirable compared to professional options

  • Octave key mechanism might require adjustments upon arrival

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha YTS-52 Tenor Saxophone.

Build quality

  • The YTS-52's construction is generally post-to-body, which results in lighter weight compared to ribbed horns like the 62.

    Source
  • A black finish on the YTS-52 is often not genuine lacquer but paint, which can be uneven and cover engravings, indicating poor craftsmanship.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The YTS-52 lacks compatibility with Yamaha's professional lineup of necks, restricting post-purchase customization options.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report a single arm for low B and Bb keys, making them prone to bending if not handled carefully.

    Source
  • Low note issues, such as squeaky tones below E/D, might indicate leaks or embouchure challenges, especially for players transitioning from alto to tenor sax.

    Source
  • Some players transitioning from amateur to professional gigs prefer the YTS-61 for its reputation and street cred within the saxophone community.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The YTS-52 is lighter than the Yamaha 62, appealing to those who prioritize weight reduction over additional features.

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  • The YTS-61 features a left-tilting octave key mechanism, unlike the right-tilting design of the YTS-52 and 62, resembling the Yamaha 23 model.

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Value and pricing

  • A well-maintained YTS-52 from the 1980s is valued around $1,400, considered a good deal if in decent condition.

    Source
  • A $900 price for a painted YTS-52 is often seen as overpriced due to potential hidden issues, suggesting it's better to seek an instrument in original condition.

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  • A reconditioned YTS-61, despite visible wear, is valued for its professional quality, often prioritized over a newer-looking YTS-52.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Removing a painted finish can cost $500-$700 in professional labor, highlighting the need for thorough inspection before purchase.

    Source
  • Fixing leaks in pads can range from $100 to $1500, suggesting a significant potential repair investment for optimal performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The YTS-61 is favored for big band performances and tenor solos, especially by those using a Berg Larsen 100/0M metal mouthpiece.

    Source

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