Unfortunately, tariffs to the US are currently in flux for products made in China, such as this euphonium. However, because this impacts all similar horns (unless you get into the Japanese/British/American made horn price range), it is an unavoidable cost. I recently returned to playing the euphonium after 27 years, so I cannot compare to a wide array of horns, but I can say I am very happy with the overall weight and tone of the horn, as well as the distinctive vintage color. There are a few minor flecks on the silver finished sections, but overall it is striking to look at.
The tuning slides move nicely, and the valves are a little sluggish out of the box - though they loosened up with some oil.
There was a note indicating the horn was inspected and serviced at Thomann before it was shipped along. Thomann was easy to order from, with the minor additional step of paying US import duties (minor but expensive step).
The weakest point of the product is the gig bag which is a padded bag that lacks internal structure and is overly snug for this large belled horn. I looked at it as an excuse to order a premium bag - something you should heavily consider when factoring the overall cost.
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