Vintage instruments are generally less expensive than new instruments, not more expensive (with a few exceptions, of course). It is definitely worth it to get a vintage horn. Here are some reliable vintage pro models. Conn 6M, Conn (Chu Berry) New Wonder Series II, King Super 20, King Zephyr, Buescher "Top Hat & Cane", "The Martin Alto", Martin Magna, Couf Superba I. I based the above suggestions on the fact that your son will be playing in the jazz band. They are more jazz-oriented horns. Most of the horns listed can be bought between $1000 and $2000, whereas almost all new pro model saxes cost over $3000. If your son does not already use a jazz mouthpiece, I suggest the following: JodyJazz Classic or HR* Phil Barone New York model Otto Link Tone Edge Meyer The prices of the mouthpieces above are approximately: JodyJazz: $127 Phil Barone: $150 Otto Link: $70 Meyer: $85 The only way for your son to figure out which sax/mouthpiece combo is right for him is to try a whole bunch of different models. They all have distinctly different feels, timbres, tone colors, etc.