The award winning pro tenor horn.

“…The ‘RAW’ XS tenor is built with an uncompromising focus on detail and intent, and delivers a level of performance that sits comfortably alongside far more expensive professional saxophones. I can’t wait to get out on the road with this horn.” Andy Snitzer

Since its introduction, demand for the TJ Signature Custom tenor saxophones has consistently outpaced production, reflecting how quickly they’ve been taken up by professional players and serious amateurs. From the outset, the aim was straightforward, work directly with saxophonists and teachers to shape an instrument that behaves properly in real playing situations.

In 2009, we began working closely with players across the UK, Europe, and the USA to understand what they expected from a professional tenor. That process led to two years of prototyping, detailed feedback, and continuous refinement. What emerged was a clear direction, a modern tenor with a centred core, controlled edge, even scale, stable intonation, and mechanism that feels balanced and natural under the fingers.

In 2011, the TJ Signature Custom tenor was introduced, built around those principles.

In a crowded professional saxophone market, the intention was not to follow trends, but to produce something that stands up immediately when played. The result is an instrument that responds cleanly, retains depth at low dynamics, and holds together when pushed, whether in section work, studio sessions, or live performance.

There is only so much that can be communicated in words. Within a few notes, most players recognise what’s there, an instrument that projects without forcing, settles quickly, and gives something back through the air column. One that feels consistent from the case, day after day, without the need for constant adjustment. That sense of reliability and control sits at the centre of every Signature Custom tenor.

Each Signature Custom tenor is built at our TJ sax workshops in Lenham, UK, with a focus on mechanical integrity, consistency, and long-term stability.

SC Tenor Options

‘RAW’
‘RAW XS’
Gold lacquer
Phosphor bronze
Silver-plated

What are the most popular models?

The ‘RAW XS’ and ‘RAW’ remain the most widely chosen models, valued for their direct response and tonal flexibility. Gold lacquer and phosphor bronze versions are also increasingly selected by players looking for a slightly different tonal colour and feel.

In this video, Jim Cheek at sax.co.uk talks about and plays the RAW and the RAW XS tenor. The same instrument but with a very different visual look.

North American Distributor for TJ Saxes Sandro Massullo with sax player Steve Kaldestad demonstrating the Trevor James RAW & RAW XS Vintage Tenor Saxophones. .

Andy snitzer on his TJ Signature custom ‘RAW XS’ model

Testimonials - Don't just take our word for it!

Andy Snitzer

"...The 'RAW' XS tenor is built with an uncompromising focus on excellence and detail, and offers amazing quality at a reasonable price point for a pro sax. I can't wait to get out on the road with this horn."...Andy Snitzer

Steve Cole

“People never thought I’d change horn! The tone quality on this instrument from the low register to the upper register is amazingly consistent. This really is the best modern day horn out there!"

Jeff Kashiwa

“This horn is a beautiful instrument. It can be sensitive one moment and then be let loose the next. Wonderfully rich colours and stunning mechanics. I love this horn!"

Jeff Kashiwa plays 'Givin In (Again)' in a sound tracking session on his TJ Signature Custom RAW XS horn