Packer MKII EEb, Wessex Solo EEb or Schiller EEb

[eupho]

Are their any opinions of one of these EEbs vs the other. I know the Wessex and Schiller are built by Jinbao but I am nor sure about the Packer. Thanks

[Pat S]

I've had a Wessex Solo Eb for a few months now and absolutely love the sound. Much richer than I imagined and the low range (for an Eb) won't disappoint. I use a PT-66 mouthpiece, which really opens the horn up.

[eupho]

Thanks for the response. It's greatto have a review from an owner.Do you have any video of the horn in quintet or solo?

[eupho]

I have heard the "Solo" played by Ian Foster. I like the timbre but am concerned about the size even with the 16.5 bell. I am small build and not as strong as I used to be. Have you used it in quintet? I am considering the Bombino small EEb.

[ufonium2]

I have a Solo, and though I haven't played any of the other brands, I can say that I love mine, and part of the reason is the ergonomics. The Solo comes with the option of either a straight or curved leadpipe, which the Schiller does not (it's only available in straight, as far as I can tell). I chose the curved leadpipe because with the higher mouthpiece, I can put the bottom bow on the chair (on a thin pad) between my legs and the mouthpiece is where it needs to be. To do that with a straight leadpipe, the bottom bow would be in my lap, and thus the whole tuba (including the valves) would be a few inches higher. Since lower is better as far as my shoulder is concerned (I am female and on the small side of average height) I prefer to have the mouthpiece higher relative to the valves.

[eupho]

I assume, as with me, your being a euphonium specialist led you to choose the 3+1 EEb due to matching ergonomics, facility and timbre. Have You played euphonium as the bass in your quintet? How ABOUT THE WEIGHT AND SIZE OF THE "SOLO"?

[menroth]

Hi! I guess I might as well fill in. I've used a Wessex Solo in brass quintet and it worked out fine. We did standing gigs (and sitting rehearsals) so I used a playing stand, since there are no marching hooks on the Solo EEb. Pitch and sound worked very well. I've also played, and play, euphonium so the Solo and of course the 3+1 compensating system is very appreciated I have no experience of Packer or Schiller, so I can't compare, as your original post asked for.

[eupho]

Doyou have any video of your quintet that you could share? I would like very much to hear the "Solo" in that setting. Thanks.

[menroth]

Eupho - I sent you a PM!