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I've owned two YEP-321S euphoniums since 1994 or so--the first one had some defects and was replaced under warranty, but the replacement instrument Yamaha sent is simply outstanding and I consider it irreplaceable. I have played the YEP-321S through college and in many community bands through the years, and this fine instrument has served me flawlessly, always meeting any performance demands I have placed upon it. It still looks like new, as well. In addition to looking great, the silverplate gives this instrument immediate response; it speaks easier than the lacquered versions that I have auditioned. My teachers, fellow performers, and audiences have all given rave reviews to the wonderful sound of this Yamaha; you can create a tone quality ranging anywhere from melodiously dark to stridently brassy--the only limiting factor is you and your technique. While the included Yamaha 48 mouthpiece is well made and certainly adequate, the Schilke 51D really opens up the dynamic range and low register of this instrument and is highly recommended, giving the player an unmistakable and characteristic euphonium sound that's also never muddled or "woofy". Yes, the Yamaha seems pricey compared to competing models, but it's made well enough to last a lifetime--and to be enjoyed for a lifetime--in the hands of a caring player, thus making it an outstanding value.

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I am especially pleased with the overall intonation of this horn. The workmanship demonstrated by Yamaha is unsurpassed for this level of euphonium. This euphonium allows me to develop my repertoire and perform consistently. Although a non-compensating instrument, I find that the musicality of this horn at times rivals some of the compensating euphoniums on the market today.

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? after managing to coax my parents into getting it for me I took it to school. My band instructor couldn't believe it was mine! It's lasted with me through auditioning for every sort of group imaginable, and people are always amazed with the tone I can produce. All in all, an AMAZING horn that will last any serious player well beyond high school and college.

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The YEP-321 is a very good quality instrument. The 321 has great tone and ease of blowing. It easily pumps out the notes without too much effort. I have a 1969 YEP-321 #000003, and it is still a "top dog" instrument. This instrument will last you forever, as long as you take care of it. I would definitely recommend this instrument to anyone. It has a few problems with it, but is still very good. Some of the notes are a little stuffy, but time can take care of that. Overall this is a 4-5 (out of 5) instrument.

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I've had my horn for almost three years now and it is a great horn. The valves work pretty smoothly. Just oil it regularly - It does feel a little tight and isn't as free blowing as other intermediate horns, but it still is free blowing. The high range is fairly easy to obtain on this and the low range is okay....it's a little hard to control on this horn. THe biggest complaints I have about this horn is that it doesn't have a large shank receiver like some other intermediate euphoniums, and the metal is a bit thin, so it dents fairly easily. Overall, the horn is great for the High School student who plans to be a music major in college.