Posted by Leon Smith on January 26, 2001 at 08:27:27:
In Reply to: Yamaha Compensating BBb vs Besson 992/3 posted by Big Dog on January 25, 2001 at 13:07:43:
I have owned the YBB 631, the Besson 993 and the (redesigned) Besson 994. I kept only the Besson 994 since it is clearly the superior instrument. The Yamaha, while well made, has a poorly defined center of pitch throughout most of its register. The design is based on the original Besson 994. The Besson 993 is big and clunky. I found the ergonomics unacceptable. The new (redsigned 994) is big and heavy but a great player. It has the classic British Brass Band BBb sound. The only intonation problem is the D below the register. It plays sharp so use #3. BTW, when you buy one of the Bessons, check out Bert Wiley and Bernel Music. He will sell this for dealer cost plus $200. The instrument will be drop-shipped from B&H at Libertyville, IL.