Don't trust Amazon to sell you a good "cheap" band instrument. Nope! Some super-cheap instruments get good reviews there, but after much experience I've not been impressed by most of the instruments sold there...especially when they are abnormal colors! In general, I would stay away from most brands that are recent Chinese upstarts or that aren't in my "Good Value" or "Highest Quality" lists below. The most reliable brands have been around for 20+ years, and have a proven track record of using quality metals, long-lasting pads, springs and moving parts, and reliable welds and finishes. Interestingly, the "Good Value" musical instrument brands are mostly made as "student model" versions of the top brands in the industry, much like Toyotas are made in the same factories as Lexus automobiles. Here are brand comparisons of some of the most common instruments on the market...
Mendini, Glory, Sky, D'Luca, Lazarro, Costzon, and Many More!
Bundy, Prelude, Etude, Allora, Blessing, Amati, Better Sax
Yamaha, Selmer, Conn, King, Jupiter, Getsen, Eastman, P. Muariet
However, you don't have to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars to get an instrument that will work well for the first 2 years of middle school band. Generally, instruments sold at Sweetwater.com, wwbw.com, interstatemusic.com can be trusted. Please don't take my word for it. Browse, compare, and read reviews of many different brands (and costs) of instruments before purchasing one. Please ask questions and email me if you would like additional information before purchasing an instruments. Happy shopping, and happy playing!
Flesher Hinton - Call in purchases and delivery to MRMS available.
Boomer Music - Call in purchases and delivery to MRMS available.
Sweetwater Music - Recommended instrument rental program. High quality instruments and great customer service.
Music & Arts Center - Call in purchases and delivery to MRMS available.