Newbie

[JoeMin]

My thanks again to all replies! I'm a bit overwhelmed by the possibilities to get an affordable horn that would also be a quality instrument. I have to tread carefully, as I don't want
to jump into something that I'd later regret. Unfortunately, at this stage of my life, price Does come into play. I'm not trying to claim poverty, it's just that both my wife and I are careful with purchases this large. I'll mull all these possibilities over and certainly keep everyone updated.

[JoeMin]

Thank you all for your valuable input! I'm now the proud owner of an ACB Doubler Euphonium - Clear lacquer yellow brass. I can expect it in 2-3 weeks. Anxiously awaiting!
My decision was difficult with the many different options available...but I believe, for the money, I should be more than pleased with the resulting quality. ACB , by the way, was extremely helpful and knowledgeable in this process. Seems like a great company to do business with.

Joe Mintel

[Rodgeman]

Sounds like a good choice and glad you are happy. Looking forward to an update when you get the horn.

[aroberts781]

Congrats Joe! Sounds like you've made a fantastic choice

[JoeMin]

Hello everyone,
Just to update...
My new ACB is in the final stage of shipping with UPS. It's supposed arrive on Saturday! I'm thrilled, anxiously awaiting!
Thanks for all the support and encouragement!
Joe

[John Morgan]

There really is nothing quite like having a brand new instrument on the way to you. At 73 years old, I still get thrilled and anxious just like a little kid at Christmas. Some things never change! Let us know all about it, Joe!

[JoeMin]

Thanks John, I will! Saturday can't come soon enough! It really is like getting a new toy at Christmas time!
Joe

[dsurkin]

Thanks John, I will! Saturday can't come soon enough! It really is like getting a new toy at Christmas time!
Joe

I absolutely agree with John and Joe. Don't tell my wife, but the happiest day of my life was when they delivered my Steinway (that was before we started dating).

[JoeMin]

Ha! Ha!...That's great Dean!...now, I'm jealous, I want a Steinway too!
The horn is in Shrewsbury, Mass and is scheduled to be at my door tomorrow sometime before 7PM...
Joe

[John Morgan]

I absolutely agree with John and Joe. Don't tell my wife, but the happiest day of my life was when they delivered my Steinway (that was before we started dating).

I hear you, Dean. Back in 1990 when stationed at the Pentagon during my final years in the Army (retired in 1992), my wife and I purchased a brand new Steinway Model B Grand. I think, no actually I know, my first house in 1970 cost about 1/3 what we paid for that piano. What a glorious instrument though. And I was paying on it for many, many years. We almost bought a completely restored Steinway Grand that was close to a hundred years old. It was GORGEOUS!!! With real ivory keys. So close to getting that, but in the final analysis, picked the new one. Because as we moved a lot, we were really worried about moving this piano. But it was absolutely exquisite!!! And a sound to just literally die for. I don't think I have ever heard a more beautiful sound. I need to reincarnate myself because there are so many more instruments I would like to get and play and cherish. There are a couple euphoniums that I would like to have, the Sinfonico, and the Willson saxhorn. And the flugabone interests me. So many choices, so little time, alas...

[JoeMin]

Hello all,
Just got my new horn about 2 hours ago. I love it!! So far , so good. I think I'm going to be paranoid every time I lift it up! It's so shiny and perfect, I can't stand the thought of that first scratch or, God forbid, a dent. I'll be super careful ...for now, anyway
Joe

[EvanWeeks]

Congrats, Joe! Do let us know what you think after some time spent with the instrument.

[JoeMin]

Thanks Evan...I'll do that! Being so new back in the music world, I'll hold off judgement against the horn. Any squeaks or or squawcks, I'll definitely take the blame for! But like any former Blue Knight, I'll be back (just takes a little longer at my age!)
Joe

[aroberts781]

I'm sure you're enjoying the horn Joe! I was going to link to an old thread about breaking in a new horn, especially the valves, but I couldn't find it. The gist of it was give it a really good bath when you get it to wash off any residues from manufacturing. Then for the first several months or so wipe down the valves, brush out the valve casings, and oil the pistons at the end of every practice session. I did that with my horn when I got it and I'm glad I did.

Besides that play a lot and enjoy the progress!

[JoeMin]

Thanks for the good advice...I'd like this horn to last a good long time. I'm still like the kid at Christmas, don't know if I can take the time to wash it yet, but I think I'll really try to stick with your advice...in particular the special attention to the valves after each practice session. Again, thank you for the practical advice.
Joe