I'll be going on a long motorcycle trip this summer. When I get back -- mid July -- I'm going to buy a new/new-to-me euphonium. I only started Playing the euphonium a year and a half ago. Although I have a music degree, I never learned to play an instrument. I did play a French Horn through 9th grade when I was forced, because of my h.s.'s scheduling to choose between choir and band/orchestra. I chose choir because I was in the all-state choir at the time.

I bought a beat up King 2280. I love this horn. Although I'll never be an advanced player in technique terms, (starting at age 67 just doesn't work in that regard) I can make very good tone and enjoy playing with the 2280. I'll be playing 3 solos in the next few weeks in church, where I'm the music director.

Here is my dilemma. I love the King 2280, but it's beat up and has a crack in the bell. I live in Michigan and have demoed the Wessex Dolce many times in all its iterations. For the same price I can buy a new Dolce or get a very nice used 2280. Buying used doesn't bother me. I'm going to buy one or the other. I'd like to hear your input in the matter.

By the way, I've got a British Baritone ordered from Wessex. (BR140 with gold brass bell) It won't be here till sometime in May. When I go to pick it up I'll take my King with me and demo it directly with the Dolce. (Sitting in their warehouse and playing instruments in a good venue for this.) So I'll have the demo part taken care of.

I know they're both good instruments -- just want some more experienced advice.

Thanks, KKORO