5 Fantastic Euphoniums – Get the Best Instrument for Your Level

Euphoniums continue to play a big role in the production of sweet soothing music. Never heard of a euphonium? Well, worry not. Euphoniums is a type of a valved brass sound instrument. It produces the tenor pitch and looks almost like a mini tuba. Finding the best euphonium is not as easy as you may think. Having many alternatives and companies producing euphoniums makes the choice even complicated. However, famous euphonists such as David Childs or Stephen Mead know the value of these instruments and only use the best.

While finding the ideal euphonium may not be an easy fete, we are pretty sure you will get something if you follow our guidelines. During our research, we sought to look at and focus on the most important features. These include the general bodywork, number of pistons and the bell and bore sizes. Other essential features are the types of material of the euphonium, accessories, keys, and valves. We also mention something about individual company warranties that you should definitely consider.

It has taken us several weeks to conduct the research, bring all the pieces together and to present you with this comprehensive review. During the research, we spoke to accomplished euphonists, music producers, and a few reputable manufacturers. In the review, you will find a comparison table that outlines the products we shall discuss followed by an in-depth review of each product. Lastly, there is a buying guide that lets you know what to consider when choosing the reviewed products.

Top 5 Euphoniums Review 2024

Getting the best – how you decide on the best horn for you

The decision on which euphonium to buy is not an easy one. Remember, everyone wants the best. It is especially important if you are a professional band which would want to beat competitors, win a Grammy Award, stay afloat, and perhaps leave a mark. To find the best horn, you have to look at all their features. No shortcut.

Euphonium vs. baritone – which is which?

Euphoniums have existed at the same time as baritone saxophones. The difference between the two is so subtle that many people, including professional saxophonists, prefer one to the other. Nonetheless, our verdict is if you want to be a good instrumentalist, you can incorporate the two. Most baritones are a lot heavier than euphoniums. That explains why some professional instrumentalists prefer a euphonium to a baritone. But the biggest difference between the two is the tubing. The baritone tends to take a cylindrical shape, while euphoniums take up a conical shape. The following video will help you get the visual distinction:

The sound of money

Money is everything. Without it, whatever you are dreaming of purchasing is just that, a dream. For this reason, you need to have at least some money, the equivalent of what is required to purchase the best euphonium. Thankfully, you can now get a euphonium that goes for as little as $530. Mendini MEP-N, one of the high-quality yet affordable euphoniums is the budget pick on our list. However, you know that having a higher budget gets you more features with almost everything on earth. Same with euphoniums.

Consider the following features to choose the best euphonium

Before spending any money on a certain brand of euphonium, we advise you to look at specific features. Euphoniums in the market do not look alike. Some take an upright design, others a different one. Every manufacturer wants to please and entice their clients; thus, be keen to see what each company offers.

Compensating or not?

It is very important to buy something that gives you value for your money. Suffice it to say some brands in the market just sell for the sake of making a quick buck. They don’t care what clients will get in return. A good policy would be to offer a quality euphonium that gets you the value you paid for. The other thing is if the manufacturer is willing to compensate in case the product is lost during the shipping period or if it has a defect.

Valves

What would be the need to buy a euphonium that does not have valves? That would not be a musical instrument. What matters most is the number of valves, the material used to make them, and how they are designed to work. Jupiter 468L’s valves are some of the best in the market. A section of the instrument’s valves is removable, allowing for easy actuation. Yamaha YEP-321S, on the other hand, the best for professionals, has high-quality nickel-plated valves.

Bell and bore sizes

The size of the bell, as well as the bore size, is a key feature of the euphonium. A bigger diameter bell is likely to produce heavy quality sound, whereas a small bell will produce a thin projected sound. The choice is yours. Ideally, you need a bigger bell size like that of Cool Wind CEU-200, which stands out at 12.2 inches. A bore size of .570” is good for you. However, if you want something good and more than the standard bore size, Yamaha YEP-321S brings it on at .571 inches.

Plating and finish

If you are a professional performer, you know why the choice of plating and finish of your musical instruments is important. The way your instruments look to the audience will either sell you or discourage the market. In most cases, having a euphonium with a clear lacquer finish, such as Ravel REP204 will make your fans want to see you more and more. If you are getting a euphonium for a child, you can try a plastic euphonium whose valve action resembles that of a brass-based horn.

Brand matters

We cannot ignore this. Some companies have built a name for themselves in the industry over the years. Clients tend to associate themselves with reputable brands in the market. Without a doubt, when we speak of the brand, Yamaha YEP-321S comes up in mind. The Yamaha Company is famed the world over for creating quality musical instruments that include trombones, guitars, violins, and many more.

Trigger and grip

You cannot have an effective if you do not have a firm grip of your euphonium. In other words, you should be able to conquer the stage with the way you hold your instruments. Ideally, your left hand should hold the horn well while the right hand operates the trigger. While some instruments have a large area, you can always find an ideal place to handle it when playing. We like the way Cool Wind CEU-200 is designed, to allow you trigger many functions and still have a firm grip of the instrument.

Sound and key

If you really want to choose your euphonium based on key alone, you must settle for Bb. It is true that most euphoniums in the market come with this key. However, when combined with a suitable sound, a euphonium with proper key articulation will go a long way. Our recommendation on this is Ravel REP204. The U.S made euphonium stands out in the balancing of key and quality sound.

Mouthpiece and water key

All euphoniums have mouthpieces. The difference is how big or small the mouthpiece is. The other major differences are if the mouthpiece or at least a section of the mouthpiece can be removed and if it is plated with any high-quality metal. Whatever the additions, a good mouthpiece should be to allow you blow the horn without difficulty. A small shank mouthpiece like that of Jupiter 468L is all you need. Although not a must, a water key is necessary. You can take advantage of Cool Wind CEU-200 which comes with four water keys.

Accessories

We bet you love a company that, apart from selling you a euphonium, gives you additional stuff that makes your instrument adorable. Our research reveals that most companies are trying to impress their clients by giving them additional accessories such as cleaning towels, valve oil, tuner, casing, and others. Mendini MEP-N is one of the most affordable euphoniums today, but it comes with many accessories.

Warranty

When it comes to warranty, it is important you look for a company that offers a generous and unconditional warranty. Many top brands around the world would likely give you a 1-year warranty that is full of conditions. Thankfully, the Yamaha YEP-321S and Jupiter 468L come with 5-year warranties.

FAQ

Our Verdict

While we had a blast reviewing the 5 top euphoniums in the market, we eventually had to choose the top three.

At first place is the Ravel REP204 that we loved due to its unique lacquer finish, nickel pistons, and large mouthpiece. It also comes with a couple of accessories.

At second place is the Yamaha YEP-321S, a great euphonium for professionals. Among the things we love about this brand are the silver-plated body, 48 mm mouthpiece, small shank, and a hard case. Besides, the euphonium has a .571-inch bore. In addition, you have 5 years warranty.

Lastly, the Mendini MEP-N was the best budget instrument if you want to save some cash. It is one of the cheapest yet comes with many accessories and features including a tuner.

That said, you can now make an informed decision when getting the best euphonium.