I bought my 8d nickel-silver horn Aug

The Conn 8d is a great horn! I tired a Yamaha 667 and a Farkas Holton. The horns are close in ease of playing, but after switching back and forth between the three, I chose the 8d for its sound and feel. It's a pleasure to play, soft or loud! Just an added recommendation. If you REALLY want this horn to come alive and do a happy dance, go for a Denis Wick heavy top 5N mouthpiece! This mouthpiece puts all the air to the bell, so whatever sound or feeling you want at the moment, the horn is right there with you! Awesome!