Baritone Horns

Jeronimo Howard
13 min readJun 9, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the top Baritone Horns available in the market today. If you are a jazz enthusiast or a brass band musician, you’re in for a treat as we present some of the finest instruments that will elevate your performance to new heights. Get ready to discover the perfect Baritone Horn for your musical journey.

The Top 8 Best Baritone Horns

  1. Jupiter Quantum MKII Silver Marching Baritone Horn — Gain unmatched precision and projection with the exceptional silver-plated Jupiter JBR1101MS Quantum Mark II Marching Baritone, equipped with durable stainless steel valves and a 0.531" bore that guarantees effortless intonation adjustment.
  2. Yamaha YBH-301M Marching Baritone Horn — Perfect for Musicians — Prepare to experience unparalleled depths of sound and superior resilience with the Yamaha YBH-301M Marching Baritone Horn — the ideal selection for every music enthusiast!
  3. Beginner B Flat Baritone with Stainless Steel Pistons — Mendini by Cecilio MBR-20 Bb Baritone Horn: A lightweight, student-friendly instrument with stainless steel pistons and easy playability.
  4. Jupiter Standard Baritone Horn: Expert Performance — Get a high-quality, nearly new Jupiter JBR700 intermediate baritone horn with a clean hard case for an outstanding bargain — perfect for serious musicians looking for top-notch brass instruments!
  5. Levante Professional Gold Trimmed Bb Baritone Horn — The Levante LV-BH5411 Professional Bb Baritone Horn offers exceptional value and superior tone for baritone players at an affordable price, including a silver plated gold trim kit and a soft case.
  6. Series 3-Valve Baritone Horn for Brass Band Enthusiasts — Embrace the deep, resonant tone of the Levante Lv-bs5605 Series Bb Baritone Horn, equipped with a brass body, advanced 3-valve rotary system, and premium performance accessories for an exceptional playing experience.
  7. Blessing BBH-1287 Lacquer Baritone Horn — Feel the convenience and instantaneousness of the BBH-1287 Standard Series Baritone Horn, meticulously crafted for novice musicians and debuting band ensembles.
  8. John Packer JP373 Sterling Baritone Horn — Discover unprecedented excellence with the JP373 Sterling Baritone Horn, a crown jewel crafted through a partnership with esteemed designer Paul Riggett of Sterling Musical Instruments.

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Reviews

Jupiter Quantum MKII Silver Marching Baritone Horn

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As a musician, I’ve always been drawn to Jupiter’s top-tier band instruments. The Jupiter JBR1101MS Quantum Mark II Silver Marching Baritone Horn definitely didn’t disappoint.

One standout feature for me was its. 531" bore and yellow brass bell — they really amped up my projection on the field. And I love the silver-plating — it gives the horn a classic, timeless look.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the slide trigger and finger ring, making tuning a bit tricky at times. Nonetheless, this marching baritone has become my go-to instrument whenever I step onto the field, and I highly recommend it to any serious band enthusiasts.

Yamaha YBH-301M Marching Baritone Horn — Perfect for Musicians

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As a passionate musician, I’ve had the pleasure of using the Yamaha YBH-301M Marching Baritone Horn in various settings. Despite its relatively compact size and lightweight feel, this horn packs quite the punch, offering well-balanced and rich tones perfect for both seasoned musicians and eager beginners.

One of the standout features of this horn is its virtually seamless 10-inch bell, which allows for a continuous, even tone and exceptional projection, ensuring every note you play stands out. Its hand-fitted valves and slides further enhance the playing experience by providing a perfect fit, contributing to easy playability and a responsive feel.

However, like any instrument that’s been through the rigors of a marching band, you can expect a few dents and scratches along the way. This particular model from Yamaha has held up remarkably well, considering the demanding environment it’s been subjected to.

With Yamaha’s renowned commitment to quality and attention to detail, the YBH-301M Marching Baritone Horn is an excellent investment for any marching band or musician seeking a reliable, versatile, and aesthetically-appealing instrument.

Beginner B Flat Baritone with Stainless Steel Pistons

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The Mendini B Flat Baritone with stainless steel pistons has become my trusty sidekick in my home orchestra. This bad boy really stands out with its sleek lacquered finish, adding just the right touch of elegance to my music room.

One of the most outstanding features of this instrument is its lightweight design. Gone are the days of lugging around bulky and heavy cases. This Mendini baritone is incredibly easy to transport and handle, a major plus for us beginners.

However, it’s not all perfect. The sound projection could use some work — it’s just not as rich as some of the more professional baritones I’ve played before. But, considering its price, it’s still a steal.

Despite the occasional quirks, overall, I am quite pleased with the Mendini B Flat Baritone. It’s a reliable, lightweight, and affordable option for anyone looking to join or start their own home orchestra.

Jupiter Standard Baritone Horn: Expert Performance

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If you’re after a top-notch intermediate brass baritone horn that’ll leave people impressed, look no further than the Jupiter JBL-700, a rare find that’s barely been used. Don’t let its affordable price fool you — this super clean, almost new instrument boasts fast, clean valves and smoothed-out slides.

You might notice a couple of small dings, but surface scratching and lacquer wear are kept minimal. What’s more, it comes with a clean hard case, and if you’re someone who prefers to play in tip-top condition, this horn has you covered — its excellent sound quality and outstanding tuning make it a dream to handle.

Levante Professional Gold Trimmed Bb Baritone Horn

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The Levante LV-BH5411 is a professional-grade Bb Baritone Horn, perfect for both intermediate and advanced players. With its 4 Monel pistons and gold trim kit, it offers an exceptional value and sound quality that stands out in a crowd. Its Silver Plated mouthpiece, combined with its gold brass leadpipe and nickel silver outer slides, give it a durable yet elegant look.

Although it weighs in at 2.1 kg, it comes with a soft case for easy transportation and storage. The Levante LV-BH5411 is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, professional Baritone Horn that won’t break the bank.

Series 3-Valve Baritone Horn for Brass Band Enthusiasts

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The Levante Lv-bs5605 series Bb baritone horn stands out with its sleek brass body, gold brass leadpipe, and 3-valve system. Its bell diameter measures 25.5 cm and boasts a bore of 13 mm for superior sound quality.

The horn also comes equipped with a water key and features nickel silver outer slides for added durability. Additionally, the instrument arrives with a clear lacquer finish and includes a case and mouthpiece for convenient storage and transportation. This professional-grade baritone horn is perfect for musicians seeking a high-quality addition to their ensemble.

Blessing BBH-1287 Lacquer Baritone Horn

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As a musician, I recently had the opportunity to try out the BBH-1287 Standard Series Baritone Horn from Blessing. The first thing that stood out to me was its ergonomic design, which made it a breeze to hold and play.

One of the most impressive features of this instrument was the rose brass lead pipe and yellow brass body. The combination of these materials made for a smooth and responsive playing experience. I also appreciated the nickel silver-plated yellow brass tuning slide, which added a touch of elegance and durability to the horn.

The stainless steel valves, equipped with plastic finger buttons, were another highlight. They were sturdy and easy to operate, which was particularly useful during long practice sessions.

Additionally, the small shank receiver was compatible with the included Blessing 6.5AL mouthpiece, which produced a rich, full sound.

One of the drawbacks of this horn, however, was its weight. Compared to other baritone horns on the market, it felt a bit heavy, which may be challenging for younger or less experienced players.

Overall, the BBH-1287 Standard Series Baritone Horn from Blessing was a pleasure to play. Its excellent craftsmanship and responsive design made it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced musicians alike.

John Packer JP373 Sterling Baritone Horn

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The JP373 Sterling stands out as a top-tier baritone horn, perfect for musicians seeking outstanding performance. Developed in partnership with renowned designer Paul Riggett, the JP373 brings a fresh perspective to the market within its price range.

Boasting a unique trademark Sterling leadpipe, this piece showcases the craftsmanship of the JP brand. With the collaboration between JP and Sterling, the JP373 takes on exceptional quality, drawing from Paul Riggett’s expertise in brass instrument manufacturing. Experience a high-quality baritone horn that pushes the boundaries of what’s expected in its price class, all thanks to the meticulous attention to detail from the collaboration’s designers.

Buyer’s Guide

Baritone horns are a great addition to any brass band or orchestra. They provide a rich, powerful sound that adds depth to the ensemble. When choosing a baritone horn, there are several important features and considerations to keep in mind. This buyer’s guide will help you make the right decision for your musical needs.

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Important Features

  1. Pitch Range: Most baritone horns cover the B flat to low E range, making them ideal for playing brass quintets, jazz ensembles, and orchestras. Make sure the horn you choose has the correct pitch range for your intended purpose. 2. Size and Weight: Baritone horns are typically larger and heavier than other brass instruments. Consider your level of physical fitness and storage space when selecting a horn. Some models may be more portable and lightweight, which can make them easier to transport. 3. Key System: Baritone horns are available in different key systems, including B flat, E flat, and F. Choose a horn that matches the key signature of the music you plan to play. 4. Valve Mechanism: Baritone horns usually have a rotary valve system, but some may have piston valves. Each mechanism has its advantages and disadvantages, so research the differences before making a decision.

Considerations for Beginners

  1. Ease of Play: As a beginner, you may want to consider a baritone horn with simpler articulation and fingerings. Look for models with wide bell bores, which can make the horn easier to play. You may also want to start with a B flat baritone horn, as it has fewer notes and a simpler range compared to other keys. 2. Sound Quality: While sound quality is subjective, it can affect your playing experience and the overall sound of the ensemble. Look for a horn with a rich, even tone across all registers. 3. Affordability: While quality instruments are worth investing in, as a beginner, you may want to start with a more affordable horn to see if the instrument is the right fit for you before upgrading.
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Tips for Advanced Players

  1. Maintenance: High-end baritone horns require regular maintenance to ensure the valves and slides remain smooth and maintain their sealing. Invest in a good cleaning kit and practice proper maintenance techniques to extend the life of your instrument. 2. Customization: Many players customize their baritone horns with different mouthpieces, mutes, and accessories to achieve their desired sound. Experiment with different options to find the combination that suits your playing style.

General Advice

  1. Test Drive: If possible, test play different baritone horns before making a purchase. This will give you a better idea of the sound and feel of each instrument, and help you make an informed decision. 2. Consult a Music Teacher or Instrument Repair Technician: They can provide valuable advice and recommendations based on your skill level, playing goals, and specific needs. 3. Research Reviews and Ratings: Online reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of various baritone horns. Read reviews from multiple sources to get a well-rounded perspective.
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FAQ

What are the top Baritone Horn options available in the market?

The article features an assortment of the best Baritone Horns available for purchase, including Yamaha YGB-312 and Yamaha YBB-622. These horns are famous for their durability, sound quality, and ease of use, making them excellent choices for both beginners and professional musicians. They are perfect for symphonic bands, orchestras, and ensembles alike.

The Yamaha YGB-312 is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels, while the Yamaha YBB-622 is a top-of-the-line professional-grade horn. Each instrument is designed with the finest materials and craftsmanship, and they come with a comprehensive warranty, so customers can have peace of mind with their investment.

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What are the benefits of playing the Baritone Horn?

Playing the Baritone Horn offers numerous benefits, not only musically but also emotionally and physically. Firstly, musicians develop strong breath control and lung capacity, which can improve overall respiratory health. Additionally, playing an instrument promotes discipline, patience, and focus, contributing to a well-rounded character. Musically, Baritone Horn players can contribute to a band’s depth and richness with their unique sound. It is also a versatile instrument, capable of playing in various musical genres, from classical to jazz.

Aside from the individual benefits, playing in a band or ensemble helps foster a sense of community and teamwork. The social connections made through music can lead to lifelong friendships and even professional opportunities. Whether aspiring for personal growth or a career in music, the Baritone Horn is an excellent instrument to consider.

Are there any particular care tips for Baritone Horns?

To ensure the longevity of a Baritone Horn, it is essential to take proper care of the instrument. Here are some basic care tips to follow: firstly, clean it regularly. Wipe down the exterior with a microfiber cloth and use a soft brush to gently remove any dust or debris from the valves and bell. Secondly, keep it dry and store it in a case or protective cover when not in use. This can prevent condensation and potential damage from humidity.

Moreover, ensure the proper maintenance of the instrument by having it serviced periodically. This may include adjustments to the valves or pads for optimal performance. Lastly, handle the Baritone Horn with care, avoiding any sudden movements or rough handling that can cause damage. Proper storage and care of a Baritone Horn will not only maintain its quality but also extend its lifespan.

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How long can I expect a Baritone Horn to last?

The lifespan of a Baritone Horn depends on various factors, including how well it is cared for and the frequency of use. With proper maintenance and a gentle handling approach, a Baritone Horn can last for several years, even through multiple ownerships. However, the bell, valves, and other essential components may eventually wear out or get damaged, necessitating replacement or repairs. To optimize the lifespan of your Baritone Horn, it is crucial to follow the recommended care tips and schedule regular servicing. Doing so will help preserve the sound quality and musical performance of the instrument.

While individual experiences may vary, a well-taken-care-of Baritone Horn can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years or more. Just remember that no instrument is indestructible, and diligent care will significantly increase the lifespan of your Baritone Horn, ensuring years of musical enjoyment and performance.

What are the different styles of Baritone Horns?

Baritone Horns come in various styles, reflecting diverse tastes, user preferences, and musical genres. Some of these styles include the traditional brass, which features a gleaming yellow brass bell and body; the silvertone, with its polished silver exterior; and the laquer, characterized by its glossy, lacquered surface. These differing appearances can impact the overall sound and projection of the instrument.

Additionally, players can choose between the rotary and piston valves. Rotary valves are more similar to trumpet valves but offer a more mellow and refined sound. Piston valves, conversely, produce a brighter and more complex tone. Each valve type has its advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the player’s personal preference and the musical context in which the instrument will be used.

What is the difference between a Baritone Horn and a Euphonium?

While they may appear similar at first glance, there are notable differences between a Baritone Horn and a Euphonium. Firstly, the Euphonium is often larger in size and has a larger bell compared to the Baritone Horn. Secondly, the Euphonium typically employs rotary valves, producing a richer, fuller tone. In contrast, the Baritone Horn often uses piston valves, known for their brighter, more complex sound.

These differences can make the Euphonium and Baritone Horn suitable for different musical contexts. The Euphonium is often found in classical ensembles or professional orchestras, with its fuller sound contributing to the overall depth of the music. Baritone Horns, on the other hand, are frequently featured in lighter genres such as jazz and marching bands, where their brighter tone and ease of play provide ideal options for these musical styles.

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