I'm in the process of trying to figure that out. Saxquest suggested the good student models, but "new" they are the same cost as some used professionals at their store (over which I'm drooling at the thought of). Looking at reality of cost vs conditions of the used student models I've seen, I'm not sure which direction to go yet. I wanted to spend under $500 just to start, to have something for lessons and to play at home till I get my groove back. Need more time to visit local dealers in person.

lol, you should start with the alto sax, then move to different saxes as your skill level increases, because to be quite frank, the alto sax is the EASIEST.