9 best french horns
French horns are brass musical instruments known for their distinctive coiled shape and rich, mellow sound. Here's some information about French horns, as well as their related accessories and mutes:
French Horn Overview:
The French horn, often referred to simply as the "horn," is a brass instrument that is a member of the horn family. It is renowned for its unique sound and is commonly used in orchestras, wind ensembles, and various other musical settings.
French horns are typically made of brass and feature a flared bell, a coiled tubing system, and a set of valves. The player produces sound by buzzing their lips into a cup-shaped mouthpiece.
Types of French Horns:
- French horns come in various types, with the most common ones being:
- Single Horn: These have a basic design with three rotary valves and are often used by beginners.
- Double Horn: More versatile, these horns have an extra set of tubing and a fourth valve, allowing the player to switch between F and B♭ keys, expanding their range and tonal options.
- French horns come in various types, with the most common ones being:
Sound and Playing Technique:
French horns are known for their warm and expressive sound. They are capable of producing both bright and mellow tones, making them versatile instruments for various genres, including classical, orchestral, and chamber music.
Playing the French horn requires skill and precision. Musicians use their right hand inside the bell to manipulate the sound and create different pitches and tones. The left hand operates the valve system to change the instrument's key.
Mutes for French Horns:
Mutes are accessories used with French horns (and other brass instruments) to alter the instrument's sound. Mutes can produce various effects, including making the sound softer, muted, or adding a unique timbre.
Common types of mutes for French horns include straight mutes, hand stopping mutes, and stop mutes. Each type has a distinct impact on the horn's sound.
Brass Accessories and Instrument Accessories:
French horn players often use a variety of brass accessories and instrument accessories to enhance their playing experience. These may include mouthpieces, valve oil, cleaning kits, and cases to protect and maintain their instruments.
Mouthpieces, in particular, play a significant role in shaping the sound of the French horn, with different designs and sizes influencing tone quality and projection.
In summary, French horns are distinctive brass instruments known for their rich, mellow sound. They come in various types, with the double horn being the most versatile.French horn players use mutes and a range of brass and instrument accessories to shape their sound and maintain their instruments. The instrument's unique sound makes it a valuable addition to orchestras and ensembles in both classical and contemporary music.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best french horns on the market
Holton Farkas French Horn Mouthpiece (H2850MC)
Holton Farkas
Product description
Holton Farkas French Horn mouthpiece - medium cup.
- French horn mouthpiece
- Country of Origin: UNITED STATES
- Item Weight: 1.0 lbs
- Model Number: H2850MC
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is there lead in this mouthpiece |
| Answer: | This lotion will be white upon dispense, but will apply to the skin sheer, similar to a moisturizer. |
| Question: | What size is it? others on amazon say size 11. i can't find the size on this listing. thanks |
| Answer: | Yes, our face sunscreens are lab tested and verified to be non-comedogenic. Thank you for your question. |
| Question: | Does the xdc fit into a h |
| Answer: | This formula does not offer a matte finish, but it does not have a shiny finish either. It is sheer and lightweight, yet hydrates all day! |
| Question: | Does this mouthpiece come with a case |
| Answer: | No it does not. Goes on clear. I’ve used this product for over 5 years. It’s great and light. As a person of color I appreciate the lack of white cast. |
Product features
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Levante LV-HR4525 Double French Horn
Levante
Product description
Levanter Double French horn with light case
- String mechanism
- Nickel silver slides
- Clear lacquer
- Light case included
ammoon French Horn B/BB Flat 3 Key Brass Gold Lacquer Single-Row Split Wind Instrument with Cupronickel Mouthpiece Case, Barbell 1
- Standard key of B/Bb Single-Row French horn.
- 3 key Lacquered finish horn plays in key of Bb.
- Beautiful Appearance -- Brass construction with premium finish: This stunning brass instrument features a durable brass construction, with a leadpipe and turning pipe both constructed of yellow brass.
- Package List -- 3-Key French Horn Bb Key with Cupronickel Mouthpiece, Cleaning Cloth, Gloves and Hardshell Case.
- Excellent for student musicians -- This french horn is an excellent choice for student, beginner and teacher and music lovers. , and those of an intermediate skill level.
User questions & answers
| Question: | I asked someone and they told me that a good french horn is like $2000, is this a good french horn |
| Answer: | This a beginners french horn. For a young student, this horn is appropriate to find out if he/ she is interested in continuing to play. Once it is apparent there is talent or interest a more expensive horn is justified. |
| Question: | Is this good for my son to start band in 6th grade |
| Answer: | Yes it would be a good starter horn |
| Question: | Is this good for my son to start band in 6th grade |
| Answer: | I would ask the band teacher. This is a Bb horn, he may prefer your son start on an F horn. Or he may not care. Considering quality, this is not great, but OK to start on. |
| Question: | Is it in F |
| Answer: | No. It's in Bb. |
3dRose French horn everyone else is just accompaniment Two Tone Mug, 11 oz, Black/White
Product description
Fill with hot liquid to transform from black to white, magically revealing image. White ceramic mug with black outer surface; image printed on both sides. Microwave-safe, hand-wash to preserve image. A perfect gift for any occasion, Fascinate them every time by revealing a secret or surprise image.
- Fill with hot liquid to transform from black to white, magically revealing image
- White ceramic mug with black outer surface; image printed on both sides
- Microwave-safe, hand-wash to preserve image
- A perfect gift for any occasion, Fascinate them every time by revealing a secret or surprise image
User questions & answers
| Question: | Audio coming out of the headphone, right ear is louder than left ear, is it expected |
| Answer: | The answer is possibly. The same is true of any mouthpiece made from brass. Brass can contain trace amounts of lead. (Same is true of your door knob or candle sticks, ie) This and other USA made products are plated so the consumer never comes in contact with the raw brass. All manufacturers are covering themselves legally for the recent California Prop 65. No lead is added to any mouthpiece I am familiar with. |
| Question: | anyone know a cable that can be used from the Aux port to a USB port for a mac? my daughter wants to record her practice sessions |
| Answer: | Farkas is the size, they only make one rim with several cup depths, this is a Medium Cup. Medium Wide rim, 16.81mm ID Cup, 25.20mm OD Cup. Holton does not use number sizes like Bach |
| Question: | Is the silent brass mute Bluetooth enabled |
| Answer: | Of course |
| Question: | What's the difference between the x2 and the xc models |
| Answer: | No, it is sold in a retail package box only |
Product features
Practice without disturbing others
Every SILENT Brass system starts with an advanced Practice Mute that reduces the sound that comes out of your horn to a whisper. You can play at night, in a dorm room or apartment, or even in a hotel without disturbing your family or neighbors.
Hear yourself playing
A microphone inside the mute captures your sound and sends it to the Personal Studio receiver. Plug in the included earbuds or your own favorite headphones to hear yourself at full volume.
Amazingly natural sound
Yamaha added digital technology to make the sound you hear in the headphones incredibly realistic, just like what you'd expect if you were playing normally. It's so natural you might even forget you're using a mute at all!
Play along with your favorite songs
Use the AUX IN jack on the Personal Studio to connect an audio player, smartphone, or other music source. You'll hear both your own playing and the music through the headphones - perfect for playing along with recordings or "minus one" practice aids.
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Display your favorite photograph on a light switch cover, desk clock, wall clock, porcelain plate,t-shirt, sweatshirt, mouse pad, mug, tote bag and other products. It makes a great gift for any holiday or occasion. Purchase it as an original gift for your loved one or keep it for yourself to enjoy as a memory keepsake. Convenient shopping cart makes it very simple to order.Our products are made utilizing unique process and high tech equipment.
Bach 33612 French Horn Mouthpiece, 12
Product description
Bach mouthpieces are designed to meet every conceivable playing need and have for nearly three quarters of a century. A Bach mouthpiece can make a good instrument play better. Volume and excellent intonation; ease of response in the high and low register; rich, uniform timbre throughout the range; resistance calculated to increase the player's endurance - these characteristics explain why the best professional artists choose Bach. This rim gives greater flexibility to players with a rather delicate embouchure. Features: Model No. 12 Medium Depth Cup Diameter: 16.50 mm Rim Shape: Narrow
- Medium cup depth
- 16.50 mm cup diameter
- Narrow rim shape
- Ideal for players with a delicate embouchure
- Cushion rim
User questions & answers
| Question: | Where is this mouthpiece made |
| Answer: | The "C" stands for "cable", the xc model has an extra cable that can be utilized to connect the STX module to an auxiliary source such as a MP3/CD player. It has a 1/8 jack on both ends of the cable. The x2 model came out when Yamaha released the SB1X Silent Brass for Tuba and SB2X Silent Brass for Euphonium models, which came out around Oct of 2016. There were some technical changes to the STX module to accommodate these two new instruments. So the âÂÂ2â basically stands for 2nd generation of the STX module. The xc units are now the obsolete item and is no longer produced. The x2 units no longer have the extra cable but have the upgraded STX module. This module change would effect a person that might consider purchasing additional mutes (primarily Tuba & Euphonium) to use with their existing STX module. |
Protec French Horn Screw Bell PRO PAC Case - Standard, Model PB316SB
ProTec
Product description
The PB316SB is designed to accomodate double & large wrap horns. It also has backpack loops to use with the optional backpack strap (model # BPSTRAP) and features a protective and lightweight styrofoam shell with an innovative interior that allows for compact storage.
- Lightweight shock absorbing frame
- Soft plush lining
- Built-in organizer to hold pens, keys, and small accessories
- Water and abrasion resistant 1680 gauge ballistic nylon exterior
- Shoulder strap
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will a 1960 karl dressel compensating horn fit? It fit in a marcus bonna 7 case but generally the horn seems to be larger than most horns |
| Answer: | Bach mouthpieces are made in the USA |
| Question: | Just to be clear this is just the case? The horn doesn't come with it |
| Answer: | Yes, that is normal. As you would hear yourself more in your right (bell side)ear. It was a bit odd at first, but you get used to it. I will sometimes only leave the right side earbud in, in case I need to hear something in the house while practicing. |
| Question: | Is there a difference between a pro-pac and an ipac? i bought an ipac but nowhere on the case does it say that. it says propac |
| Answer: | I haven't heard of one. |
| Question: | Is this for a detachable bell? Asking since I bought this for my H279 and the case I received was a big case for a fixed bell horn. Sending back |
| Answer: | The model I have is not Bluetooth enabled. |
Protec French Horn Hand Guard, Larger, Model L227
Pro Tec
Product description
Protec fine leather hand guards provide a secure grip and are nonporous to protect the finish from hand dirt and oils. Hook and loop closure allows a snug fit and easy installation and removal.
- Made of nonporous material to protect against hand dirt and oils
- Fits most double horns
- Hook and loop closure allows for a snug fit
- Large size best fits braced lead pipes where the left hand grips
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size for a Conn 8D |
| Answer: | Yes, best Double French Horn at this price. |
| Question: | what is the material its made of ? is it leather |
| Answer: | My 5th-grade son likes it and plays it everyday. |
| Question: | Will this fit a Yamaha 321 baritone horn |
| Answer: | No, not once. Works smoothly. |
| Question: | Will this fit my holton h179 double horn |
| Answer: | Made in China. |
Holton Farkas French Horn Mouthpiece (H2850DC)
Holton Farkas
Product description
Farkas mouthpieces offer the extra range, power and tonal color that have made them the single most popular French Horn mouth-pieces in the world. Whether for intricately played Symphonic work or beginner development, there's a Farkas to meet the challenge. Dc: produces very clean attacks and a large resonant, velvety tone. Popular with both high and low horn players because it plays well in all registers. Mc: round, ringing tone with a touch of velvet in all registers. Well suited for all-around Symphony or solo playing. Mdc: sensitive yet comfortable. Good response across entire range. For players who desire a slightly darker tone. Sc: extremely clear high register with clean attacks. Ringing tone but not shrill. Excellent for high baroque music or extremely high technical passages. Dc: large, Teutonic tone. Very helpful for the player who has a too-bright tone since it mellows the tone significantly. For the robust mature player. Extremely deep cup and very large bore. Dc: superior mouthpiece for the player who wishes to play in the Grand manner of the "helden" Horn players. Also produces a soft and mellow tone for the player who might have a naturally bright or shrill tone.
- French horn mouthpiece
- Deep cup
- Extra range, power, and tonal color
- Great for symphonic work or beginner development!
- Silver plated
Denis Wick DW5525 Stopping Mute for French Horn
Product description
Wick stopping mutes provide a reliable alternative to the traditional hand stopping technique for French horn players. These mutes consistently generate a perfect semitone transposition with a clean attack and a clear tone, making it the ideal solution for those seeking consistent transposition or alternative tone colors.
- Specially designed shape provides a perfect transposition
- Made from hand-spun aluminum
- Even response in all registers
- Giving consistent result with an exact semitone transposition every time
- Very helpful for players with small hands who find it difficult to play stopped notes by the normal method
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this mute require you to transpose |
| Answer: | This case is for detachable bell horns. Thanks! Rick |
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