Saxophone Repairs based in London
Our North London Saxophone repair workshop offers a wide range of services to get your instrument back to good playing order, from small on-the-spot fixes to full overhauls.
How Much Does a Saxophone Repair Cost?
At Woodwind London, many players ask us: “How much does a saxophone repair cost?” Because every instrument is different, we can only give an exact price after assessing your saxophone in person. However, there are a few common factors that influence the cost.
The age of the instrument is an important one — after three to four years of regular use, the pads, springs and mechanisms will usually start to show signs of wear. How often the saxophone has been serviced also makes a big difference. Without regular maintenance, moisture can cause oils to thicken, lacquer and plating can tarnish, and the action may become stiff, all of which affect both playability and repair needs. The type of saxophone is another consideration. Student models, typically under £700, and budget instruments, under £500, are more prone to wear and bending compared to intermediate or professional saxophones, which are built to higher standards.
For an accurate quote, the best option is to book a saxophone assessment at our London workshop, where our skilled technicians can evaluate the condition of your instrument and advise on the most cost-effective repairs or servicing.
Our Services
Full Playing Order
Starting From £95
The saxophone will be thoroughly tested for leaks and vacuum pressure. This service Includes straightening bent key work, replacing key corks, replacing up to 3 pads, and regulation adjustment.
Please note these are guide prices subject to assessment and not inclusive of parts
Full Service
Starting From £135
The saxophone will have the keys stripped down, with the body cleaned and polished up, and key regulation fully re-set, including changing perished key corks and up to 3 pads.
Please note these are guide prices subject to assessment and not inclusive of parts
Full Overhaul
Starting From £350
Our Full Overhaul, is a complete and thorough, mechanical service of the instrument. All pads and corks are changed, the keys are machine-polished, with the instrument play tested for tuning.
Please note these are guide prices subject to assessment and not inclusive of parts
Please note: subject to availability, a replacement instrument can be rented at a reduced rate for the duration of your repair.
Sax Repairs FAQs
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Most issues on a saxophone can be fixed: pads, springs and corks can be replaced, regulation can be adjusted, dents can be taken out and body joint leaks can be filled. Posts can be put back in place and keys can be straightened if bent. It is, however, a question of whether the cost of the repair may not outweigh the value of the instrument.
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With proper care and regular servicing a saxophone can last almost indefinitely. We've repaired antique saxophones from 1920s which have produced a beautiful sound.
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Putting the neck in incorrectly can lead to bending and regulations issues. This is something we see on a weekly basis.
When assembling, make sure to to bent the octave mechanism, especially the octave pad on the neck. Use a twisting motion and if it doesn't feel smooth or the neck gets stuck, make an appointment to have it cleaned/re-fitted. We would advise against using vaseline or cork grease.
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The best way to prevent drops and falls is to keep the saxophone in its case. We recommend to leave it with the case opened after playing so that it can dry out.
Another good solution is to purchase a few other accessories, such as Saxophone Key Leaves or Pad Savers.
Make sure you store your instrument in a place with stable temperature and humidity. A good rule to follow is to store it where you live. Basements, garages, sheds and attics are not suitable for storing musical instruments.
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Yes, we do. We offer limited warranty on our repairs, covering consumables up to 6 months. We do not cover damage cause by misuse.