Instrument Rentals Made Easy

Baritone & Bass Saxophones

What is a baritone saxophone?

A baritone saxophone (also called a bari sax) is a low wind instrument tuned to the key of E♭. Its larger cousins, the bass and contrabass saxophones, are tuned to B♭ and E♭, respectively. This puts their starting pitches a perfect fourth and full octave lower than the bari’s.

What does the bari sax sound like?

The bari sax is a staple of jazz, Motown, ska, and rock ’n’ roll. Its throaty, reedy growl works well for soloing or adding intensity to doubled bass lines. It’s been prominently featured in Martha and the Vandellas’ “Heat Wave,” Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab,” and live versions of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.”

How heavy is a baritone saxophone?

Baritone saxophones typically weigh 11–15 pounds, although weight can vary by manufacturer and materials.

Who are some famous bari and bass sax players?

Saxophonists who have left their marks on the music world include sax pioneer Adrian Rollini (bass), Berklee virtuoso Scott Robinson (bass/contrabass), DownBeat reader fave James Carter (bass/bari), Duke Ellington alum Harry Carney (bari), “Moanin’” original Pepper Adams (bari), and animated TV’s leading lady, Lisa Simpson (bari).

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About Bari Sax and Bass Saxophones


Bass and baritone saxophones are two of the lowest-pitched members of the woodwind and saxophone families. The bass saxophone is larger than the baritone and is commonly tuned to the key of B♭, a perfect fourth lower than the baritone (in E♭). Both were invented in the 1840s by Adolphe Sax. You’ll find baritone and bass saxophones in concert bands, jazz bands, and rock shows, and they’ve become increasingly popular among street and subway performers.


Shop Bass and Baritone Saxophones by Brand


Whether you’re shopping for a child’s first saxophone or expanding your own collection, Sweetwater has the horns for you. Our selection of baritone and bass saxophones includes trusted brands like Selmer Paris, Jupiter, Yanagisawa, Yamaha, and Keilwerth, so you can find the instrument that fits your playing level.


Get Started with a New Bass or Bari Sax


Ready to rent or purchase your next baritone or bass saxophone? Sweetwater makes it easy. If you’re new to the process, check out our saxophone rental/buying guide and sax quickstart manual. If you need further assistance, reach out to our knowledgeable Sales Engineers, who can help you choose the right sax for your specific needs. Prefer to shop online? Sweetwater’s website has tools to narrow your choices by level, finish, price, and more. Select your preferred specs in our convenient product filters and explore your options!

Why shop Baritone & Bass Saxophones at Sweetwater.com?


With a massive selection of Baritone & Bass Saxophones, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Baritone & Bass Saxophones, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.