“I live in an apartment, but I want to play the saxophone to my heart’s content.” “How wonderful it would be to practice at home after work.”
Many people share this dream but are held back by the fear: “What if the neighbors complain about the noise?” or “What if the police are called?” As a result, many end up hauling their heavy instruments to karaoke boxes on weekends.
The saxophone (especially Alto and Tenor) produces one of the loudest volumes among acoustic instruments, reaching 90dB to 110dB. This is equivalent to “under a train guard” or “a car horn.”
Unfortunately, it is physically impossible to play raw saxophone in a standard Japanese wooden apartment or condo without any soundproofing. It would immediately be considered noise pollution.
However, you don’t have to give up. There are modern tools and technologies designed specifically for “playing saxophone at home.” In this article, we propose three realistic solutions tailored to your budget and commitment level.
Option 1: [Budget: ¥50,000] Use a Silencer “e-Sax” (Beginner)#
For those who want the “cheapest, easiest, and immediate” solution, a box-type mute that covers the entire instrument is the best choice.
BEST BRASS “e-Sax”#
Available for Alto and Tenor, this is the most famous saxophone silencer. It looks like a large throat lozenge case where you insert your instrument and hands to play.
- Price: Around ¥50,000 - ¥60,000 (New)
- Weight: Approx. 2.3kg (Quite heavy with the instrument)
- Performance: Approx -25dB reduction
Pros: Easy to start#
The biggest advantage is ease of introduction. Even if you don’t have space for a soundproof room, you can store it in a closet. It also features an internal microphone, allowing you to hear yourself with reverb through headphones, which helps maintain motivation.
Cons: Heavy and not for “Midnight”#
A -25dB reduction brings “saxophone explosion” down to “normal conversation (TV volume)” levels. This is fine during the day; neighbors will only hear something faint like a TV.
However, using it late at night is risky. Japanese apartment walls can be thin enough to transmit even conversation, so playing at night might still be audible and annoying. Also, supporting the weight of the instrument + case with just your neck strap puts a significant strain on your body during long practice sessions.
Verdict:
- Recommended: For daytime practice, low budget.
- Note: Not for midnight use. Heavy.
Option 2: [Budget: ¥100,000 - ¥200,000] Are Budget Soundproof Booths Worth It? (Intermediate)#
Cheap assembly soundproof rooms like “Danbotchi” and “OTODASU” are popular. But do they work for saxophones?
Conclusion: Not enough on their own#
To be honest, the intense sound pressure of a saxophone can easily penetrate standard cardboard or plastic cardboard booths. They may cut high frequencies, but the rich mid-low tones of a sax will leak through to the next room.
Must be “Modified”#
If you want to use a budget booth for saxophone, you must modify it (DIY):
- Buy a Danbotchi (approx. ¥100,000).
- Cover the entire specific with Lead Sheets (Sound Insulation Sheets).
- Line the interior with Absorption Materials.
Only after this additional investment and labor will you get performance comparable to or slightly better than the e-Sax. Do not expect to just “buy and play.”
Verdict:
- Recommended: For DIY lovers, or those who find e-Sax too heavy.
- Note: “Stock” performance is insufficient for saxophone.
Option 3: [Budget: ¥500,000+] Professional Soundproof Room (Professional)#
“I want to play for the rest of my life.” “I want a 24/7 practice environment.” If this is your wish, investing in a professional unit soundproof room from the start is often cheaper and more satisfying in the long run than repeated half-measures.
YAMAHA Avitecs / KAWAI Nasaal#
Rooms made by instrument manufacturers are in a different league.
- Performance: Dr-35 to Dr-40 (Certified for Piano/Sax)
- Size: 0.8 to 1.5 tatami mats
- Price: ¥600,000 - ¥1,000,000 (New), ¥300,000 - ¥500,000 (Used)
Why is this the best?#
- Peace of Mind: With Dr-35, the sound in the next room drops to a huge “mosquito buzz” level.
- Comfort: Most models support air conditioning installation. (e-Sax and budget booths can become saunas in summer).
- Asset Value: Yamaha/Kawai rooms hold their value well and can be sold for a good price when you move. The “real cost” (Purchase - Resale) is surprisingly reasonable.
Verdict:
- Recommended: For serious players, homeowners, or renters with supportive structures.
- Note: High initial cost, heavy weight (need to check floor load capacity).
Bonus: Move to a “Soundproof Apartment”#
If you are planning to move, choosing a Soundproof Apartment (Musical Instrument Allowed) is the ultimate solution. Rent might be ¥10,000 - ¥20,000 higher than average, but considering it as a “loan for a soundproof room,” it’s rational. Plus, having neighbors who are also musicians creates a stress-free environment.
Summary#
Have you decided on your strategy?
- Cheap, Daytime only → Silencer (e-Sax)
- Medium budget, DIY spirit → Budget Booth + Modification
- Midnight practice, Lifetime hobby → YAMAHA/KAWAI Room
The saxophone is an incredibly expressive and fun instrument once you have the environment to play it. Choose the right soundproofing for your lifestyle before trouble makes you hate your instrument.