Hi, Jared..I bought a Yamaha YTS61 brand new in '74. I still play this horn on a very nearly daily basis. This horn was considered as entry level pro when I bought it...ya get what ya pay for, and you can't beat quality. Hope this helps.

That is a good question Jared. A lot depends upon what you plan to do with music in the future. Will you go on and play in college? Do you plan to major in music? Are you going to teach or play professionally or just play for fun? The other part is what you are able to spend on an instrument right now. A top quality "pro" sax will usually cost more than an intermediate model, but there is a wide range of prices among the brands. Personally I feel it is important to buy from a local music store where you can try several different saxes before you buy, where they back up the instrument with a repair service and warranty, and where you can get a trade in if you move up to a better sax in the future. Most stores also support the music programs in your local area something the internet dealers don't do. The best advice I can give is to talk with your parents, music teacher, and private teacher if you have one and follow their advice about which level of sax to buy. Then try as many brands as possible and pick the one you like the best that fits your budget. John John