TubeNet

Would appreciate any information re: the playing "qualities" of the older Conn ("Constellation", 25i ?) and King 4-V front-action euphoniums. Looks like they were available with removeable upright and front-facing bells.

What to look at/for in a used instrument? #'s?

Were Conns made with both long- and "short-action" valves? I assume long-action would be preferable.

Reason I'm asking.....playing a top-action euphonium has become <<MURDER>> on my right elbow. Maybe an arthritis problem? Might switch to a front action instrument for community band if playing qualities are o.k.

Suggestions?

I have sorta the same problem . I am kinda fat and have long,big arms with long fingers . The 4-inline euph I play causes me to get cramps im my arm after about an hour of playing . I too will some consider replaceing my horn with a front action horn some day .

The Conn 25i and King 2268 or whatever they used to call them are definitely terrific horns. I recently sold my silver 2268 to buy a compensating horn. Although you may find the front action more ergonomically comfortable, they will never sound like a British styled euphonium. I thought mine sounded great. Light and very soloistic. However, it is not the current euphonium sound. Since I play euph mostly do demonstrate the sound to students, it didn't work for me. For personal joy, community band playing, and many other purposes, an American style euphonium would be great. FWIW, the pitch on my King 2268 far surpassed any other euph I have played, compensating or not.

I am not sure how close my King was to the current model... looks the same. Low end was easy to play, but not as easy as the 2280. Small shank reciever. I used a Shilke 52D.

I have 3 of these models here at my school and they play quite well. They do not have the full "euph" sound like a Besson or Willson, etc. but they do have a very full sound and great intonation. Obviously non-compensating 4th valve, but for most band literature that shouldn't be a problem. I can't imagine they sell many of these anymore unfortunately since the taste in euphoniums has gone to the british-style horn. I prefer the sound of these horns, the articulations are clearer and quite frankly, most students will sound better on these smaller bore horns than on a large bore horn.

Here is one on ebay for a buy it now price of $1695 or best offer.

http://cgi.ebay.com/BRAND-NEW-Silver-Ki ... dZViewItem

ken k