In my assessment, people are trying to be helpful in your instrument hunting. leisesturm's consideration of a new horn within your budget is a valid one, but your preference for a time tested classic is also valid. For the link I sent to the Besson New Standard, if you choose to watch it, the seller will likely go lower on the euphonium. I received an offer for $1550. Perhaps you can get the seller lower... The pictures tell a story of a solid instrument for your budget, and the picture of the valve pistons and slides is also very telling of a horn in decent shape. Anyhow, there is always risk when purchasing from eBay, but if I did not already have a New Standard and Sovereign, I would be all over this one.