Vistech

OOOOpppps....I'm not 30 yet. But I do have hearing loss. I actually got it checked out by a doctor, and have about 20% loss in both ears..... Thought I could help. Michael

Hey, It plays like a dream. I've always been a Holton fan, and originally intended to buy an H105...the "Flagship" model with interchangeable leadpipes, etc. As horrible as this sounds, money wasn't really an issue for me....I took out a huge student loan to finance the purchase of just about any horn I wanted. I tried nearly every stock horn on the market, and even a few customs....Atkins, Paxman, Kruspe, EVERYTHING......buying my horn was a 2 year process. The people at woodwind and brasswind got REALLLLLY sick of me coming in, trying every instrument on the shelf. The millenium Merker is by far THE BEST horn I've ever played, OR even looked at. The little extras make it great. Water Key on the 3rd valve of the Bb side (where Holtons ALWAYS collect water)...the heavy valve caps keep the weight firmly in the left hand for standing solo work. The bronze bell (while admittedly heavy) adds such a beautiful, sonorous sound.....can you tell I'm in love? I actually purchased the last of the limited edition Millenium models from Ethel herself....and got quite a great deal. She tried it out and picked it herself. It's a dream. You can probably get one used for sub-$3K. I'm getting the bell cut this summer, and having a handrest added. If all goes well...I'll be taking lessons with Ethel next year, and I'm working up the rep for the Chicago Civic Orchestra auditions.......I think it would be great to have the only stock horn on stage. I'll have it on tour with me this summer, if you see Regiment around, look for the old guy playing in the parking lot. You can toot on it if you like. Gotta go Pack.... Michael

OK, Here you go. Holton Millenium Merkermatic....AHHH My BABY!!!!! Conn 8D Dynasty 3V F Mello Conn Constellation 3B Maynard Horn, 1970's. Besson 3 valve Eb Alto Horn Selmer Alto/Tenor Saxes Non-descript Metal Cello Michael