Kessler Custom Artist Series Euphoniums
Professional Performance, Student Price

Quality

All of our Kessler Custom Artist Series Euphonium models are made side by side in the same facility. This factory partner has exceptional workmanship with tolerances of assembly that are higher than almost anything on the market. Every horn is still completely gone through in our ProShop to ensure that the instrument is in perfect working order and ready to amaze with the first note. We ensure that all tuning slides are fit properly and smooth (though we rarely have to make an adjustment as the factory fit is excellent) and that valves are setup for optimal performance. We setup all of our horns with a premium light weight synthetic oil (LaTromba T2 is our favorite) for great action and durability. Finally, each horn is paired with a German made CNC precision made FAXX 51D mouthpiece.

Affordability

This is the linchpin of the whole operation! The lineup of Kessler Custom Euphoniums offers a price point that is commonly associated with only entry level student models that do not share in the feature, performance, and in many cases the quality level being offered.

In the end, euphoniums, even student models, are not cheap. The combination of performance and quality at a student accessible price makes our lineup the most impressive value on the market.

The Professional Standard

What is a Compensating System?
The Compensating system is the “textbook” design for professional euphoniums. It solves the intonation “Math Problem” (see below) automatically. When the 4th valve is pressed, the air is re-routed through extra tubing loops to perfectly correct the pitch in the lowest register.

Which Model is “Better”? (Hint: Neither!)
Many players assume the Compensating model is “better” simply because it costs more. That isn’t accurate. Since both of our 4-valve models share the exact same Pro Bore and Bell, they offer the same professional sound quality. The choice comes down to Player Preference:

• Compensating Feel: Due to the extra tubing, this model is heavier and has more “resistance.” This gives the sound a “dense” core that many college and professional players prefer for classical repertoire.
• Standard 4-Valve Feel: Without the extra plumbing, the standard model is lighter and has a more “open” blow. This is often preferred by jazz doublers, soloists, or younger players who find the compensating model too stuffy or heavy.

Compensating or 4 Valve – Which is right for me?
We recommend the Compensating model for College Music Majors or players who need the specific mechanical advantages and “weighted feel” of the traditional British-style euphonium.

For many players however, switching to a Compensating model requires you to un-learn your current 4th-valve fingerings to play in tune. For high school and amateur musicians, this adds unnecessary frustration. Unless you strictly need the Compensating capabilities, the Standard 4-Valve model might be the smarter, frustration-free choice.

Great for Beginners

Benefits of 3 Valve Models
At the core of all euphoniums is the standard 3 valve design. This configuration is lighter, less complex, and the most affordable, making it perfect for younger students.

Why Ours Wins
Most student 3-valve models use small bores and bells that limit sound. The Kessler Custom 3 Valve model uses the same Pro Bore & 11″ Bell as our professional models. This gives the beginning student a rich, warm “Pro Sound” from their very first note.

Downside of 3 Valve Models
Like all 3-valve brass instruments, notes in the very low register will be naturally sharp due to physics (see “The Science of Intonation” below). While this can be managed by the player, it is the primary reason advanced players eventually upgrade to 4-Valve or Compensating models.