A video demonstration of this horn can be seen here.
The Conn 8D remains one of the most iconic American horns, and ones made during the classic Elkhart years continue to be set apart for their excellent build quality and classic sound. This particular 8D is an N series "transition" horn. The parts were made in Elkhart during the factory transition to Abilene, Texas and the horn was then assembled (at least partially) in Abilene. Though this horn did get completed in Abilene, key parts such as the bell and the valves were made in Elkhart. I've seen several 8Ds from the transition period. With a knowledgeable eye it is possible to tell how many of the parts were Elkhart produced and how many were Abilene produced. I have reason to think, based on the way most of the parts look, that this is an earlier transition model with most, if not all the parts being made in Elkhart before the horn was assembled.
This horn certainly plays like a classic N-series. It has a beautiful sound, it plays fantastic in all registers, and has good build quality. This is a fantastic instrument!
Another perk of this particular 8D is that it comes with a Walter Lawson bell flare. This flare is slightly heavier than a normal 8D flare, but was made with high quality nickel silver and gives the horn a slight bit of brilliance that I think is quite wonderful. It is a great addition to this horn.
The valves have decent compression (though it is not perfect), and the slides all work properly. It is unlacquered, and has been professionally cleaned and serviced in my shop. I have also heavily playtested this horn to make sure it will play great for whoever purchases it.
This horn comes with a nice ProTec Propac screw bell case. The case is used, but in good shape. No mouthpiece is included.
Feel free to contact me with any questions you have!
Classic N-series Conn 8D with Lawson Bell Flare
This instrument may be returned up to one week after the horn is delivered. If the horn is returned, the customer will be responsible for all shipping costs both to and from the buyer. If the instrument is damaged in the possession of the customer, all repairs will be the sole responsibility of the customer.
All instruments from Boyd's Brass come with free shipping to the lower 48 US states. If you are outside of this region, please contact us for a shipping quote.
See return policy for more details if the instrument is returned.