euphinizer wrote:The prestige has that interesting trigger-slide-puller-thingy and any horn that has that built in probably needs it
I've been playing the Prestige for a good handful of years now (pretty much since they were released). The horn plays very well in tune - and the "trigger-slide-puller-thingy" is WONDERFUL on the 6th partial - where its needed - where ALL of my previous euphoniums could have used one. Sure saves work on the chops! By not having to adjust the embouchure to play those pitches in tune, the tone remains steady, unaltered.
Connie Schulz
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There are people who can add an aftermarket tuning trigger, similar to the one on the Besson, so don't let that trigger be the deciding factor. I haven't done it to my horn, but when I have a spare $400 or so, I plan on doing it.
I have played Steven Mead's new horn quite a few times in my lessons.(I personally play a YEP 842) The biggest difference I notice is how SMOOTH the whole horn is. Top to bottom. The upper register pops out easily as well. This can be a big advantage when tackling some of the crazy literature that we have I think. The intonation is better than ever as well, hardly use the trigger at all compared to the older models. The horns response is much better too. I think that they are using a little different metal, and the valve assembly is different. Don't quote me on this though.
Overall, I would have to say that Besson has got a great thing going for them, and they should be back into full production come mid-January!
Yes indeed, my first Sovereign was number 200+ and a beauty, as were many I played in various bands back in the late 70's early 80's, until quality fell away.
I saw the new models at the RAH in London and visually, could not see much difference in the Prestige. The 967 however looked a dream, they've really cleaned that up this time. I did'nt get a chance to blow them.
The valves (as usual) were a bit draggy, and put to shame by the Willsons on display across the hall, and this chap here that Glyn Williams was promoting;
