First Glympse of New Wessex Front Valve Compensated Euphonium

[Jonathantuba]

Here is first glimpse of the new Wessex front action compensated euphonium. There may be design changes yet, as this is first prototype.

Designed so 4th valve can be operated by little finger of right hand, or by left hand as preferred.

[RickF]

That's neat! Tuba players who double on euph usually like this setup. The Willson 2975 was really popular with them as they like 4 in a row.

[aroberts781]

That looks really cool, I am excited to see how this euphonium turns out! I've been waiting to see a picture ever since catching wind of this horn. It is nice to see Wessex putting something new out there, even though I'll just have to admire it from afar!

[ufoneum]

Does the angle of the leadpipe look like it's not far enough back for anyone else. Seems like the right hand position might be a little bit uncomfortable -- but I could be wrong. I liked the Willson 2975 (?) but it was super expensive. Would be nice to have this for younger players who have trouble making the reach with the left hand.

[DaveBj]

Count me as an admirer. Would love to try one out.

[Jonathantuba]

Does the angle of the leadpipe look like it's not far enough back for anyone else. Seems like the right hand position might be a little bit uncomfortable -- but I could be wrong. I liked the Willson 2975 (?) but it was super expensive. Would be nice to have this for younger players who have trouble making the reach with the left hand.

The leadpipe angle is something we may change. Need to try as difficult to judge if comfortable from photo

[daruby]

The leadpipe angle is something we may change. Need to try as difficult to judge if comfortable from photo

Jonathan, once you go to a valve-front horn, one tends to want to hold the body of the horn closer to the body, so that the leadpipe should wrap around the bell pretty far. Look at the ergonomics of the Conn Connstellation of the 1950's-60's.

[euphdude]

That's awesome Jonathan! I've always loved the Willson 2975...it is my favorite of all the Willsons actually, but I could never justify the expense. Please keep us posted.

[davewerden]

This is an exciting development! Of course the Willson is still a current model as far as I know, but it is outside most folks' price range. Often tuba or trombone players who want a euphonium are more comfortable with 4-in-a-row valves and a lower-priced option might really hit a sweet spot.

Attached are some shots of the 2975 from ITEC 2010.

Jonathan, I recall some complaints about the 2975 have a lot of water collecting somewhere, but I can't recall where. That might be something to watch out for as you are bending tubes or deciding if/where to use water keys!

[Snorlax]

Excellent!!

[Rodgeman]

This looks interesting. I cannot wait.