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Does anybody have experience with Wessex horns? I'm looking at different "budget" horns and I'm curious about the general opinion.

What is the quality of the construction like? How are the valves? Do they play well (for the price)?

Welcome to Tubenet. I am a long time lurker and just recently joined. First, the search function is your friend. I am not trying to be pithy, but you can probably do a search for even the specific horn you are looking for and find a nice long thread. I am personally interested in the new Wessex 5 Rotor BBb "Luzern". Here is a recently discussion on Chinese horns. And their are many others.

However, I will attempt to sum it up.
They are getting better. Some of the Asian horns are better than others. Wessex does a marvelous job of working with the factories to improve the products, as does Mack Brass, and some others. If you are within driving distance it would be a good idea to go and visit and play them and see what you like. Don't buy one off eBay to save a few more dollars. The biggest issues seems to be when folk overstate something, but on the other hand, folk don't like adding the tag " . . . for the money" as this implies a cheap horn is always a cheap horn. Which is never the case.
Then there is the issue of labor and the 'why' the horn is so cheap. This will start an entire debate all on it's own. you will have to make your peace with this part of the discussion. I'll avoid this one.

But back to Wessex, it is my understanding that they work over every horn to whip it into shape before selling. Ergo, it is a pretty safe bet.

The last issue, and I probably should have led with this one, What are you buying it for? That will also contribute to your decision.

That crazy guy from Wessex, I don't even know him but I love him for what he does to improve the low brass variety. I predict Wessex will be number one ( maybe already is?). The company's approach is remarkable, observing the details, trends etc. Eventually maybe Wessex would be able to work out a deal with China for a line of a very special, custom, higher quality finish to rival those from Europe but for way cheaper?

In the OP's defense... while its true that there are lots of posts about LOTS of horns..... When your young and searching you want a conversation not just research. There is a fount of wisdom on this board but it does seem at times as if it only is dispensed when posters feel its worthy....

I doubt that Wessex needs the constant mention considering the banner ads and posts already here. Since when did musicians become so cynical?

As to your post....I have no experience with Wessex. I do have with the Jin Bao horns and in general can tell you that If you find a dealer who will look over them with care then you can have a real winner.

I just bought a BBb from MACK Brass.... as has been posted here Tom is a great guy to deal with and his prices are really good. Im also buying an EEb from him as soon as he gets them in.... just my two cents...

KiltieTuba wrote:If you're looking for a tuba, buy used. There are a few different sponsors/music shops, as well as a whole bunch of used tubas for sale here.

Sure. And I have to pay more than the double for an old carrot... such as good F Tubas.

Sure. And I have to pay more than the double for an old carrot... such as good F Tubas.

Your words, not mine... [/quote]

Ohh...
Sorry, I am not a native speaker.