The 8 Best French Horns of 2022
Horn – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
The warmth of the sound of the horn is perhaps one of the reasons why this peculiar instrument has remained within musical taste. 200 years after its creation, it continues to star in pieces of great beauty in orchestras and giving its sound as a national emblem to countries like Switzerland. If you want to buy one and have little time to review options, the Lechgold 00054260 is a traditional Alpine horn model, tuned in B flat. On the other hand, the Lvssy 256-621-655 option may be the one indicated in case you need a valve one.
The 8 Best French Horns – Opinions 2022
Although at first glance the French horns may seem the same, there are characteristics that you must consider to choose the right one. Thinking of simplifying your search a bit, we present a selection of 8 models; which could well qualify as the best French horns of 2022 to buy online.
alpine horn
1. Lechgold Alphorn Horn of the Alps Natur Bb
If you have been captivated by the special sound of the alpine horn, do not hesitate to review this attractive model from Lechgold; a brand that specializes in good quality wind instruments at reasonable costs, and that this time surprises us with a beautiful specimen.
It should be noted that the horn is an instrument that is commonly chosen with a B-flat tuning, as this model offers, so you will be able to play many melodies if you choose it. On the other hand, its maple wood provides an attractive natural tone to its appearance, a good sound resonance and resistance to use. That is why we can say that it is a model that not only stands out for its appearance, but also for its acoustic qualities.
In addition, it is a removable horn, with anodized gold joints to add precision and prevent air loss. So you will not have problems when storing the instrument, which adds practicality, given its length.
This may not be one of the cheapest horns on our list; however, its good finishes make it a special piece. Here are its pros and cons.
Pros
Detachable: For convenience in transport, this instrument can be separated into segments.
Handmade: Its elaboration has been done by hand, so it is a handmade piece, something that adds greater value.
Quality: Every aspect of its design offers good finishes and robust materials.
Cons
Length: You must take into account that the length of the trunk is 275 cm when assembled, being quite long.
french horn
2. Lvssy Profession French Horn F/BB 4 Keys Double Horn
Many performers are concerned about the strength of the product they are going to choose and the possibility that it will show signs of corrosion over time. In these cases, the best horn could be one made of copper, since it provides good resistance to this type of situation. In addition, it can also tolerate minor accidental bumps without deforming.
This is what you could enjoy if you choose the model that we present to you on this occasion, since it is a French horn made of that material. But it also stands out for its good ergonomics and the design of its mouthpiece, with a polished cup; a quality that interpreters will appreciate in their practices and presentations.
In relation to its tuning, this horn is an instrument that you can acquire both in F and in B flat, so you can select the one of your preference. On the other hand, your purchase set includes a convenient carrying case.
We know that the objective of your search is to bring home the best horn of the moment. Next, we offer you more information about this model so that you can take it into account.
Pros
Execution: The characteristics of its pistons and its mouthpiece make it easy to obtain smooth and controlled sounds.
Design: Offers a well-finished, high-gloss appearance.
Quality: Due to the selection of materials that make up its structure, it can withstand frequent use and last for many years.
Cons
Cost: It is the most expensive horn of our selection. However, its value for money can compensate for it, as it could be useful for many years offering good sound.
Other products
3. J.Michael FH850 B flat/FA horn
Those who have just decided to learn music; They often wonder what is the best horn to start in the art of interpreting this instrument. For them, the J. Michael brand offers a wide range of horns at an affordable cost, but this is not why they are considered low quality. On the contrary, they can provide everything necessary for the student to develop their skills, without worrying about having a tight budget.
In this sense, the FH850 is characterized by having a removable hood, to facilitate its maintenance. But also, its pistons offer a comfortable touch, allowing the musician to have a comfortable and simpler performance.
On the other hand, its appearance is an aspect to highlight. Its design includes subtle decorative details on the cylinders to add beauty, a high gloss throughout its surface and different metallic tones that create contrast. Likewise, its lacquer protects the structure.
Michael has extensive experience in the manufacture of this type of instrument, so it could be the best brand of horns. Let’s take a closer look at your FH850 model.
Pros
Tuning: It is possible to choose the tuning of this horn in both F and B flat, depending on your needs.
Case: The set includes a basic case that protects the instrument for transport and storage.
Removable: It is possible to remove the bell from the tube, which facilitates maintenance and extends its useful life.
Cons
Advanced students: Advanced students may not find all the qualities they are looking for in this model.
4. Classic Cantabile Bb Horn
If you are passionate about the sound of the horn, but your budget does not allow you to invest too much money in this project, you do not have to give up on acquiring one. In the market there are cheap horns like the one we present to you, which can offer you a good sound without affecting your pocket too much.
To better understand this model, we can say that it offers a traditional double horn design, with a 125 mm diameter bell; so you can project a good sound in performances. In addition, to protect the body area from corrosion, add a cover, which will help you hold the instrument more comfortably, preventing it from slipping from your hands.
In relation to its storage and transport, it should be added that you do not have to purchase a case separately, because the manufacturer includes a bag in the purchase, so that you can carry your instrument comfortably everywhere.
Pros
Design: This French horn features a classic double-horn structure for a warm, smooth sound.
Ergonomics: The holding of the instrument is favored by its non-slip cover.
Bell: Because it has a 125 mm bell, it is a practical size horn, without losing power in the sound.
Cons
Size: Some players with very large hands may find the space to press the valves small.
5. Stagg French Horn Bb
When you are looking for a quality French horn, a good idea is to go to brands that have experience in its manufacture, as they often have a catalog that includes options for every need. This is the case of Stagg, which specializes in making orchestral instruments. This time he presents us with a horn designed for beginning students, but you should not expect a sound with little definition for this. On the contrary, its design adapts to the brand’s quality standards, so that you can achieve a round and pleasant sound in each performance.
As for its technical specifications, it is a French horn tuned in B flat, with highly sensitive valves, so you can have a precise execution. In addition, for its better conservation, the body is completely removable and due to its caliber of 11.5 mm it is considered impact resistant.
If what you are looking for is a horn that combines sound and quality, we invite you to learn more about this Stagg proposal.
Pros
Sensitivity: The brand’s technology offers good quality valves, for a pleasant performance.
Finishes: Its superior lacquer offers a high gloss to the structure, in addition to effectively preserving the instrument from corrosion.
Bell: Thanks to its diameter of 315 mm, it offers good sound projection.
Cons
Case: To preserve the instrument and protect it from dust, you will need to purchase a case, since it is not included in the purchase.
6. Eagletone Road HR200 Gold Single Horn
In its extensive catalog of instruments, the Eagletone brand has not neglected the horns, but has also sought to bring this beautiful instrument closer to musicians at affordable costs. That is why we have added one of their proposals to this selection.
It is a French horn with a 305 mm bell that, although it is not one of the largest, can provide a powerful and clear sound when played. In addition, also in relation to its sound, it offers a convenient Bb tuning, which is traditional for this type of instrument.
On the other hand, it is considered to be a tube that is robust enough to withstand frequent use, since its body has a caliber of 10.7 mm, which allows it to have good resistance, even in the face of some small unforeseen blow, so that it does not alter your sound.
If at this point you do not know which horn to buy, it is recommended that you review the highlights of this option, which is one of the cheapest.
Pros
Design: This model has a traditional design with a metallic body and a lacquered finish, to add shine and protection.
Comfort: Its 4 palettes allow convenient access to tones, for easy execution.
Beginners: It can be a good alternative to start learning this instrument, since it is focused on this group of musicians.
Cons
Decoration: The design does not include any engraved decorative details, being quite simple in appearance.
7. Karl Glaser BB French Horn gold brass mouth
The ideal of every beginner is to find the best value for money horn, to cover the needs of their initial stage without having to invest too much money, but without sacrificing sound or comfort.
The Karl Glaser brand, in response to these needs, offers the 1918 model of its line of horns, which seeks to combine good materials in an instrument capable of also generating beautiful sounds.
As for its structure, it is a horn that can withstand use due to its nickel silver construction, a material that tolerates corrosion well, but also has a brass finish, with a striking gold tone. On the other hand, the articulations offer a soft touch and its bell correctly projects the sound as it has a diameter of 310 mm. In addition, its weight of 1.8 kg makes it an instrument that will not tire you too much when you practice.
To choose the best option among all those on the market, the ideal is to review each one in detail. Below you can see our summary of features of this model.
Pros
Tuning: This instrument has a tuning in B flat, so it adapts to the wide repertoire that has been composed for French horn.
Resistance: The body of the horn has a caliber of 11.7 mm, being resistant to use and small bumps.
Protection: Thanks to the fact that a case is included in the purchase of the instrument, the horn is properly protected.
Cons
Bell: Unlike other horns, this one does not offer the possibility of removing the bell, since it is attached to the rest of the body.
8. J.Michael FH700 B flat horn
Within its extensive catalog of brass instruments, J. Michael has this horn model, which stands out for its classic and sober style without major decorative details; but that, due to its manufacturing technology, can offer good performance in terms of sound and execution.
It is characterized, among other things, by its removable hood, which adds practicality when maintenance has to be carried out, since its central section is more easily accessed.
In relation to the segment of musicians that this model is focused on, it should be noted that it can be a very good option for beginners and mid-level musicians, who want to have an instrument at hand that offers a good relationship between cost and quality.
Another advantage of this option is that it includes a semi-rigid case, very useful for keeping the horn in good condition and transporting it comfortably anywhere.
Before making a hasty purchase, it is best to review the options that have caught your attention in detail. Below is our section on the pros and cons of this model.
Pros
Tuning: The tuning of this horn is B flat, so you don’t need special transpositions in sheet music to play melodies.
Finishes: Its superior lacquer offers an attractive shine and protection against corrosion.
Execution: Thanks to the distribution of the valves and the design, it is an instrument that can be described as ergonomic.
Cons
Performance Level: Advanced-grade players may not find in this model the qualities they require for snappy response and professional sound.
French horn accessories
Easy sheet music for horn
Bruno Uetz Musikverlag Franz Strauss and his time genossen
If you lack options of pieces to interpret, it is best to look for easy scores for horn. In this way you do not have to make the adaptations for the instrument yourself and you will be able to read them more comfortably. Now, if you like smooth, classical melodies, this selection by composer Franz Strauss might be a good choice.
For easy reading the scores have a comfortable size. In addition, the edition includes the advantage of including piano accompaniment, which can be very useful for a recital or presentation, where the horn is the protagonist.
Horn mutes
LotFancy Mute Trumpet Cornet Straight Mute
Practicing an instrument like the French horn in a place where many people live can be annoying to your neighbors. But the problem is solved with horn mutes, because they are gadgets that reduce the sound power of the instrument without subtracting its pitch.
To prevent your instrument from suffering any damage, when placing this device, it includes some protective cork pads, which will allow you to fix it without problems. In addition, it is made of robust materials such as neoprene and a metal alloy, so that it can last for a long time. In the same way, it can be useful if you play other instruments such as trumpet or trombone.
French horn cover
Tom and Will 26bh 359 baritone
A French horn is not complete without its case, as it is a basic accessory to prevent its appearance from deteriorating due to scratches, accidental knocks and environmental humidity. However, these accessories are recommended to be padded and easy to open. For example, with zippers to be able to extract the trunk comfortably.
In this case, you don’t have to worry, because the model we analyzed adds a padding section, which is complemented by a soft plush, to cushion and avoid any mark on your instrument. Also, its backpack-style design makes it very easy to transport the horn and adds convenience.
Shopping guide
The French horn or French horn is a delicately made instrument, which involves applying very specific techniques in order to include all the acoustic qualities that characterize it. For this reason, when choosing a model among the many that exist, you must take into account some aspects. Our guide to buying the best French horn can provide you with more information on this, so you can take home the right option.
Types
Before choosing to acquire a horn, the first thing you should do is determine which of them is the one that has caught your attention. Although the French horn is an instrument that belongs to the metal wind group, there is a very different Swedish variation, which is also called a horn and is made of wood. Of both options you will find different options in the market.
Materials and structure
One aspect that is directly related to the cost of a horn is the materials from which it is made. Among them we can find brass, but there are also variations of alloys with copper; both can offer durability and moisture resistance, a factor that is always present when playing the French horn.
In addition, the superior bathroom will also affect its final price. This can be nickel, silver or lacquer. It is easy to imagine that a horn that includes a silver bath in its finishes will be significantly more expensive than one that has only been lacquered. But also, it must be taken into account that its maintenance will be more complex, since this metal tends to change its color because it is quite reactive. For example, the pH of our hands could easily cause dark tones if not cleaned frequently.
Another aspect that you should not overlook, when making your horn comparison, is the caliber of the instrument. This feature is important because, depending on this characteristic, the horn will be more resistant to use. In addition, it will be less likely that in the event of an accidental blow the tubes will be altered; which would noticeably alter the sound. However, as you can imagine, this quality will affect how much the instrument costs, because for its manufacture it will be necessary to use more metal.
In this sense, you will find that the calibers of the most resistant instruments are in a range of 11 – 12 mm, while the lightest ones can approach 10 mm.
sound and tuning
Unquestionably in every instrument the sound must be evaluated, the horn is quite versatile at this point, as it is capable of emitting both soft sounds and those that can be classified as rough. However, its nuance will be given by the manufacturing technique. Our recommendation is that you lean towards acquiring an option that has been made by a brand with experience in brass instruments; because it will be safer that over the years their proposals have improved in terms of sound emission and they could offer one that is good and economical.
Continuing with this point, we want to add that the projection and volume of the sound are closely linked to the size of the bell; because it will be the one that will be in charge of giving a particular nuance to the instrument. In relation to this quality, the diameters can range from 13 cm to 31 cm, but you must bear in mind that this will also affect the portability of the instrument, and probably its weight. At this point you will have to choose between practicality and sound.
Another feature that must be taken into account is the tuning of the instrument. French horns are generally designed to have an F or B flat tuning. Depending on this, you will have the possibility to execute certain tones within the chromatic scale, which affects the repertoire of musical pieces that you could interpret, or implies that you would have to adapt them to the instrument.
Ergonomics
To play the horn it is necessary to press some valves distributed in its body, so they must be placed in such a way that they can comfortably adapt to the shape of the hand. Review the user experience in relation to this aspect. Also analyze if the mouthpiece is included in the purchase set, so you do not have to look for one to start using the instrument for your practices.
Maintenance
It is normal for saliva to accumulate in the tubes of the tubes, which over time and poor cleaning can be the cause of sound failures, dull nuances or incorrect tuning. Check what parts can be disassembled to facilitate this task.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a horn?
In addition to a correct posture, the vibration of the lips is one of the most important points to be able to play the horn; That is why the apprentices dedicate several sessions to develop the correct technique, to later move on to other important points of the execution. In addition, it is necessary to acquire the ability to master the embouchure, so that the sounds emitted correspond to those of the scale that you want to play; Well, it is very easy that despite pressing the correct valves, it ends up projecting a tone that was not what was expected. At this point there is nothing left but constant practice.
Finally, for the nozzle mechanisms to work properly, it is necessary to apply oil to the pumps with certain periodicity, with the aim of correctly opening and closing the air passage. Similarly, depending on the use of the instrument, it is necessary to wash it with a solution of water and neutral soap, to remove excess oil and saliva that could be in the ducts.
Q2: How to clean a tube?
Although frequent cleaning is carried out with a cloth on the entire exterior, every so often it is necessary to clean the cylinders, for which it will be necessary to disassemble them. It is best to do this on a soft cloth on a stable surface and do it cylinder by cylinder.
It begins by removing the upper cylinder dust cover. Then it turns and proceeds to remove the screws that fix it. If the process has been correct, it can be removed without problem, to be able to pass a kitchen cloth or napkin inside and dry the section well. Now, it is necessary to assemble again to proceed to repeat the procedure with the next cylinder.
If necessary, the entire tube could also be disassembled in its entirety, but it is not recommended to carry out this process frequently, since the screws can be damaged and it is a process with a high level of difficulty, recommended for experts in the maintenance of this instrument.
Q3: How to tune a French horn?
The tuning of the horn or French horn is achieved through the pumps that are in its structure, which can be removed or inserted so that the sound adapts to the musical scale. This can be done by the instrumentalist with the help of a tuner; but in the event that, despite adjusting them, the instrument cannot be tuned, then it will be necessary to go to an expert. He will take care of trimming the bombs to solve the problem.
Q4: What family does the tube belong to?
It is an instrument that belongs to the metal wind family. However, it is one of the most versatile due to its wide repertoire of both soft and hard tones.
Q5: How to restore an old horn?
Restoration will depend on the status of the instrument. It should be verified that there are no significant dents in its structure. However, it is a delicate process that should be carried out by an expert, since he is the one who has the tools to be able to analyze the damage and change the parts or repair them, if that is the case.
