What is the main difference between the Roy Benson BH302 and the BH301?

The primary difference is the valve count; the BH302 features an extra side-action valve compared to the BH301. This addition allows for improved intonation and expanded fingering possibilities.

What material is used for the leadpipe of the BH302?

The leadpipe is constructed from gold brass. This specific material is chosen to produce a deeper and more sonorous tone suited for the baritone range.

What type of pistons are used in the BH302?

The instrument uses stainless steel pistons. These are designed to offer a frictionless action, resulting in a smoother and more responsive feel for the player.

How large is the bell on the Roy Benson BH302?

The bell has a diameter of 21cm. This size is standard for the upward-facing design and helps the instrument project effectively in ensemble environments.

Does the BH302 include a water key?

Yes, there is a water key located on the third slide. This allows the player to drain accumulated moisture from the instrument without compromising airflow.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Roy Benson BH302 typically retails for approximately £801. This makes it a competitive option for students and intermediate players.

What kind of finish does the BH302 have?

The instrument features a quality lacquer finish. This coating helps protect the metal and provides a classic appearance suitable for formal ensembles.

Are the valve joints made of plastic or metal?

The BH302 utilizes metal ball joints in its construction. This choice enhances the overall sturdiness and durability of the horn's mechanical components.

What ensemble types is the BH302 best suited for?

The classic upward-facing bell and sonorous tone make it ideal for wind bands and brass ensembles. It is designed to blend well while providing enough projection for solo passages.

Can the BH302 be used with Denis Wick mouthpieces?

Yes, players often pair baritone horns with mouthpieces like the Denis Wick Classic or Heritage series to fine-tune the tone. Compatibility depends on the shank size of the specific mouthpiece.

Is the Roy Benson BH302 considered a professional or student instrument?

It is designed for high levels of performance, making it suitable for advanced students and intermediate players. Its build quality and four-valve design offer a step up from basic entry-level models.

How does the side-action valve benefit the player?

The side-action valve provides an alternative way to trigger notes that might otherwise be out of tune or difficult to finger. It increases the technical range and versatility of the baritone horn.

Gear article

Roy Benson BH302 Baritone Horn

The Roy Benson BH302 is a traditionally shaped baritone horn designed for use in wind bands and orchestral ensembles. It is distinguished by its four-valve configuration, featuring a gold brass leadpipe and stainless steel pistons to provide a sonorous tone and reliable mechanical action.

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Overview

The Roy Benson BH302 is a standard-shaped baritone horn designed for students and advancing players seeking an instrument capable of orchestral and wind band performance. The instrument features a classic upward-facing bell design that aids in sound projection within an ensemble setting. It is constructed with durability in mind, utilising metal ball joints and a high-quality lacquer finish to ensure longevity during regular use.

Design and Key Features

A primary feature of the BH302 is its valve configuration. Unlike its predecessor, the BH301, this model includes an additional side-action valve, providing players with more versatile fingering options and improved intonation in certain registers. The instrument is equipped with stainless steel pistons, which are selected for their frictionless action and responsive feel under the fingers. Additionally, a water key is located on the third slide, allowing for the efficient drainage of moisture without disrupting the internal airflow of the pipework.

Tone and Character

The sound profile of the BH302 is defined by the inclusion of a gold brass leadpipe. This material choice contributes to a deep, sonorous tone that aligns with the traditional baritone range. The 21cm bell opening ensures that the sound projects clearly, making it suitable for both melodic passages and harmonic support within a brass section. The overall construction is designed to balance weight and resonance, providing a stable tonal foundation.

Target Audience and Comparison

The BH302 is positioned as a high-performance instrument for players who require more than a basic three-valve setup. While Roy Benson also produces instruments like the FH302 Flugel Horn, the BH302 is specifically tailored for the baritone horn repertoire. Compared to the BH301, the BH302 offers increased technical flexibility due to the extra valve. While professional-grade instruments like the Yamaha YHR671 Double French Horn occupy a different category, the BH302 serves as a robust option for those focused on the baritone horn's unique voice.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between the Roy Benson BH302 and the BH301?: The primary difference is the valve count; the BH302 features an extra side-action valve compared to the BH301. This addition allows for improved intonation and expanded fingering possibilities.
What material is used for the leadpipe of the BH302?: The leadpipe is constructed from gold brass. This specific material is chosen to produce a deeper and more sonorous tone suited for the baritone range.
What type of pistons are used in the BH302?: The instrument uses stainless steel pistons. These are designed to offer a frictionless action, resulting in a smoother and more responsive feel for the player.
How large is the bell on the Roy Benson BH302?: The bell has a diameter of 21cm. This size is standard for the upward-facing design and helps the instrument project effectively in ensemble environments.
Does the BH302 include a water key?: Yes, there is a water key located on the third slide. This allows the player to drain accumulated moisture from the instrument without compromising airflow.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Roy Benson BH302 typically retails for approximately £801. This makes it a competitive option for students and intermediate players.
What kind of finish does the BH302 have?: The instrument features a quality lacquer finish. This coating helps protect the metal and provides a classic appearance suitable for formal ensembles.
Are the valve joints made of plastic or metal?: The BH302 utilizes metal ball joints in its construction. This choice enhances the overall sturdiness and durability of the horn's mechanical components.
What ensemble types is the BH302 best suited for?: The classic upward-facing bell and sonorous tone make it ideal for wind bands and brass ensembles. It is designed to blend well while providing enough projection for solo passages.
Can the BH302 be used with Denis Wick mouthpieces?: Yes, players often pair baritone horns with mouthpieces like the Denis Wick Classic or Heritage series to fine-tune the tone. Compatibility depends on the shank size of the specific mouthpiece.
Is the Roy Benson BH302 considered a professional or student instrument?: It is designed for high levels of performance, making it suitable for advanced students and intermediate players. Its build quality and four-valve design offer a step up from basic entry-level models.
How does the side-action valve benefit the player?: The side-action valve provides an alternative way to trigger notes that might otherwise be out of tune or difficult to finger. It increases the technical range and versatility of the baritone horn.