Paxman 23 Reviews

Paxman's interpenetration of the Geyer-style horn design, the 23 still retains some of the traditional Paxman horn design features including the "Merewether system" which allows air the flow in the same direction on both F and Bb horns. This hybrid design gives the 23 some of the best qualities of the Geyer horns while also compensating for some typical weaknesses of Geyer horns such as slippery slurring and volume limitations. The result is a horn with the typical solid, silky Paxman sound that some players may find easier to handle especially in the upper registers along with a great ability to center notes. Used professionally in many orchestras, the the 23 projects quite well without sounding sloppy at high volumes. One of its advantages is also a disadvantage for some players: the well-centered notes lock in, which may seem too limiting for the player seeking seeking more tonal flexibility. This horn comes in 3 size variations: 23M, medium; 23E, Europa; 23A, American (New World). Click here to hear a professional, Tim Thorpe, playing the 23.