Originally Posted by
BDeisinger
I'm a bit skeptical about the Chinese made instruments even though some do play well and appear to be well made. My repair guy has and still steers me clear of these instruments. There are some great European made instruments the can be bought in your price range such as Besson. Sterling, Miraphone etc. There are Sterlings on sale with Custom Tubas new around your price range. Wilson Adams are other names that come to mind. Personally I don't care for the lower range of the Yamaha. Different taste among players.
I previously shared your skepticism but have since purchased from both Mack Brass (Tuba and Euphonium) and Wessex (Tenor and Bass Trombone). I have also taken them in for cleaning at a repair shop and not heard anything but positives about the horns. Both of these manufacturers would get a spare part if needed. Frankly I've put a few miles on my instruments thus far and have found them to be as sturdy and dependable as most other horns that I have owned costing 5 times as much. I do think that there are companies that you need to be wary of but Wessex, Mack Brass, John Packer I believe make very good instruments that they stand behind. I've also heard great things about Eastman but have no first-hand knowledge. My youngest son is using the Wessex tenor trombone in jazz band at school and it works just fine with no issues whatsoever. I still remember many years ago people having issues with Yamaha and not trusting them etc. We've certainly come a long way since then and I think are turning the corner on certain Chinese instruments. Wessex and Mack in particular. I say the advice to buy Wessex and hold your money for a premiere instrument later is very very good advice. Best wishes to you.
John 3:16
Conn Victor 5H Trombone
Yamaha 354 Trombone
Conn 15I Euphonium