Yamaha Quality and Design
Fifth rotary A/plus stop valve
The rotary A/plus stop valve eliminates the need to transpose during stopped passages. This valve also puts the horn into the key of A.
Hand-lapped rotary valves and slides
Rotary valves and slides that have been hand-lapped are airtight and have smooth action.
Articulated key levers
Articulated key levers have responsive motion.
Hammered and annealed bell
Hammering and annealing are processes so important to the instrument's acoustic characteristics that Yamaha employs computer-controlled equipment to ensure consistently superior sound. Hammering enables bells to have a rich, resonant tone that blends beautifully with other instruments. Annealing is a cooling and heating process that makes it easier to control the acoustics of the instrument.
Phosphor bronze rotors
Rotors made of phosphor bronze resist corrosion.
Cyclical bore
A cyclical bore is a perfectly cylindrical tubing assembly in combination with a conical leadpipe and bell system. This allows for consistent air flow throughout the horn.
Tonal clarity and flexibility
The tonal clarity and flexibility of the YHR-881 makes it ideal for baroque music, chamber music, and orchestral music because it overcomes the low-range difficulties typical of descant horns by additionally serving as a single Bb horn.
Long rotor valve
The innovative thumb valve configuration on the YHR-881 replaces linked valves, thereby reducing friction, promoting faster response, producing exquisite sound, and improving hand comfort.
Excellent sound in all registers
The combination of the secure high register and quick attack of the descant horn with the rich, warm timbre of the single Bb horn make the double descant horn ideal for many playing situations.