I Played a King 2280 in middle school and high school. I was alright, but I have not touched a euphonium since. 20 years later I have kids starting to play instruments (cello and cornet) and I want to start playing again so I can play with them. My kid's school's band director offers lessons for adults, so I will probably do that. I will never be a pro, but maybe in a few years I will get good enough to play in a community band or something.

Is there any reason not to buy a new Wessex Dolce? is there something else I should consider? (I do not want to pay any more than what a new Wessex Dolce costs.)

I have never played a compensating euph before, so I don't know if I need that. But I was accustomed to using the 4th valve enough that I missed it when I occasionally played 3-valve instruments.