Posted by ken k on December 22, 2000 at 00:18:44:
In Reply to: Conn 5J opinions? posted by Mike on December 20, 2000 at 08:19:03:
I used to own one and our HS has two (bought on my recommendation, actually). It is a good student line type of horn and is built like a tank. If you are a band director and looking for a horn to buy, this horn will still be working for you 20 years from now. From player's standpoint, I feel they are not the most efficient horns out there. What I mean is you seem to have to work pretty hard to get the sound you want out and to slur smoothly, etc. They are a bit stuffy down in the very low 4th valve register. The overall intonation is good. The overtone series is in tune with itself, so you usually do not have to do too much alternate fingerings or slide pulling. The valve slides are in good position for you left hand to reach, if you must use them. As I mentioned I used to own one myself. I was first drawn to the horn when I heard a friend playing one. The tone is a very compact tone with lots of clarity. If you have the opportunity, try one, you might like it.
A good solid horn, nothing fancy, and full of value for the money.
ken k