Wessex California F

[Chazg]

Just wanting to know if there have been any reviews of these models? I may be looking to purchase one but before I schedule a trip to Chicago I would like others feedback.

[Kermit]

Well I'll tell you the feedback I've gotten as the sales/warranty person. Both this horn and the EP600 had really unfortunate release times for their production models. We were hoping to bring these to the regional conferences this year but then that pesky bug showed up and prevented us from showing off two excellent additions to our lineup.

Pretty much everyone who has played the California at the showroom has wanted one. They're free blowing, the notes most people have issue with are better in tune than on most other F's, and generally they're a fun horn to play. There's definitely more preference for the small bell version of the horn as the bigger one is optimized as a symphonic instrument, but if you're going to schedule an appointment with me, you will be able to try both and make that determination yourself.

If there are any complaints, they tend to be that the horns are a little sharp for some people. If you're a generally flat/in tune player, this won't really be an issue (a lot of Jake ped players are like this.) In the near future (I believe the next batch) they're going to be shipping with an additional longer tuning slide, similar to what we do for the Yorks.

As an aside, if you have one of these and want a longer tuning slide, just email me and I will order you one.

[tclements]

I haven't played the California, but I LOVE the LINZ! If the Cali is even close, it's be a FINE instrument.

[Wyvern]

The California which have been shipped out from most recent shipment all have a second longer main tuning slide. I am progressively implementing supplying second longer slide with all tubas and euphonium with shorter main tuning slide, as experience is some people play flat and some sharp.

[tobysima`]

I haven't played the California, but I LOVE the LINZ! If the Cali is even close, it's be a FINE instrument.

I'm saving up for a British F. I'll be buying it in a year or two! The Linz and Berg sound great! Never heard a California, though.

[tclements]

I love the British F (I played Will Druiett’s) but for me, it points the wrong direction.

[tobysima`]

I love the British F (I played Will Druiett’s) but for me, it points the wrong direction.

I come from Euphonium land so where things point don't concern me too much. The sound matters more for me. And funny you bring Will up - I had my first lesson with him today!