Willson 3400 FA-5 review

[GeoffC_UK]

I have had my Willson 3400 FA-5S for a while now.
Thought it time I gave an honest review.
Most of my years I have played on a Besson (B&H) Imperial or Sovereign.
This was (is) my first non-compensating front action horn.

https://willson.ch/sites/default/files/ ... A-5_en.pdf

Good looker.
Well-made.
On the heavy side.
Difficult to handle in/ out of case without practice.
Comfortable playing position (seated).
On pricey end of market.
Mouthpiece shank Euro or American standard, I found fits.
Piston action excellent.
Rotary valve action hard work, but can be improved with work.
5v operated by right-hand, not ideal.
Beautiful low register.
Tight sound. Direct.
Highly responsive, producing notes at any dynamic.

[bort]

When I had a Willson 3050 RZ (5 rotax valves), I had Martin Wilk chop the rotors down a little to make them more like regular rotors. Made a TON of difference in the action on the valves (lighter!) and the way it played (better!). I know you're in the UK, but perhaps someone there could do similar work?

[GeoffC_UK]

When I had a Willson 3050 RZ (5 rotax valves), I had Martin Wilk chop the rotors down ....

Thanks for that. I must do something because I'm getting cramp in my thumb! All the best from England.

[Jerryleejr]

The compact version is on my wishlist but for the playing I do almost any horn will do...

JJ