The Yamaha YAS-480 is an intermediate-level E♭ alto saxophone designed as a step-up model from beginner instruments, incorporating many features from Yamaha’s professional series for enhanced playability and tone. It is well-regarded for its durable construction, responsive feel, and warm sound, making it a good investment for progressing students or adult players.
Key Features & Design
62-Style Neck: The YAS-480 utilizes a neck design derived from the professional-level YAS-62 model, which enhances tone resonance and pitch control while promoting unrestricted airflow. The redesigned neck receiver also offers flexibility to use Yamaha Custom Z and Custom EX necks (sold separately).
Ergonomics and Playability: The instrument features an ergonomic key layout, a redesigned left-hand seesaw key for increased comfort, and an adjustable thumb hook to fit various hand sizes.
Improved Connections: An improved mechanism for the low B-C# connection ensures consistent closing of the low C# key, promoting clear responses in the instrument’s lower range.
Aesthetic Touches: The saxophone includes a hand-engraved pattern on the bell and a teardrop-shaped front F key, adding a touch of class.
Auxiliary Keys: It is equipped with a high F# key and a front F auxiliary key.
Construction & Specifications
Finish: The YAS-480 is available in gold lacquer and a silver-plated finish (YAS-480S).
Body Material: Yellow brass body and key mechanism.
Pads: Silicone-treated pads.
Included Accessories: The saxophone typically comes with a lightweight case with backpack straps, a Yamaha 4C mouthpiece, ligature, mouthpiece cap, cork grease, and neck strap.
