How to save when buying a saxophone and accessories: new or used?
It is better to buy a used saxophone together with a specialist — a teacher or technician whose professional opinion you trust. Without experience, you may not notice defects.
Can be used
Saxophone
Mouthpiece
Ligature
Cap
Neck strap
Swab/cloth
Music stand
Metronome
Should be new
Reed
Grease
Pads
What to pay attention to
When buying a used mouthpiece, make sure there are no chips.
When buying a saxophone, visually check that there are no dents, or ask for a discount to fix this with a technician.
You can check the pads — there should be no black plaque on them.
Check what accessories are included — ligature, cap, grease, strap — great, most of the time they can be used.
See what mouthpiece is included; sometimes used saxophones come with good professional mouthpieces.