Neo Notes
I finally had the opportunity to try the Neo yesterday.
Ergonomically, although smaller than my Miraphone, it seemed to be comfortable to play sitting or standing. I liked the build and the quality of the silver plating. It has an 11.8" bell with a graduated bore size of .591"-.661"
I also like the case. It was a dark maroon leather-like exterior and had nice latches. It was a much higher quality than my Miraphone case or any of the other cases I've seen lately.
I liked the overall sound, it was full and warm, It also projected and resonated well. I used my Wick Heritage 4AL mp.
One annoying thing was that the 2nd valve tuning slide in the front (the one with the eye-lit) kept falling out as a I played. Any kind of playing would just push it out. On closer examination, it seemed too loose. I pointed out to the employee. I'm not sure if the slide was machined incorrectely or what. I would not consider it something inherent in the Neo and most likely an isolated issue with the horn I tried.
I'm not sure if I'm articulating the next point right, so please correct me. I thought the valve "throw" was longer than my Miraphone (at least visually). The valve guides seemed longer, even though the casing seemed pretty standard. I've heard this issue brought up before on another thread and this is the first time I've noticed it. It did not seem to affect my playing, although, I only spent an hour with the horn.
Overall, I'd rate this horn above light years above a student model, in the college range, and creeping into the pro-horn range. For the price ($5,500 silver, $5285 lacquer) I think it would be a great horn for any college student or part time player.
YMMV.
Euphs:
Miraphone 5050 Ambassador
Wessex Travel (Tornister) Euphonium 'Maly' ER154
Yamaha 201 Baritone
Mp: Wick SM4 Ultra X
Groups:
The San Diego Concert Band