I have always valued flexibility of tone the most important element when choosing a euphonium. From the time I first played a Sterling, I was impressed with its broad repertoire of tone colors. It could sound brilliant and aggressive, or it could sound soft and mysterious, responding easily to the taste of the player. (Because of a euphonium's inherent dark tone, the capability of producing different tone shading is critically important.)
Almost at once, I became involved in the development of this instrument. We have made many improvements since the first models, which resulted in a euphonium with the finest tone quality I have ever experienced. The intonation and response are also among the best in the world. It has the optimum balance between free response and enough resistance to allow for confident playing at all dynamics.
There are several mechanical niceties in the Sterling. Perhaps the most noticeable is the design of the valves. The valves are a high-polish stainless steel design. Not only are they more durable than monel or plated brass, but they are more dimensionally stable. Each is hand lapped into its casing. The valve guides are particularly ingenious. They have a round cross section, and are made of a very hard synthetic material. They don't tend to 'mushroom' at the bottom edge the way rectangular guides do when they occasionally bump the top of the casing during oiling. They are also relatively easy to replace and adjust if the need should arise. The reach from the third valve slide to the forth valve is reduced to lessen fatigue for the left hand and wrist. The braces on the entire instrument are designed not just for strength, but also for graceful appearance. Tight bends in the tubing around the valve group were opened up for better response and intonation.
The Sterling bell has a special taper for excellent musical projection. It is made of a unique alloy that contributes to its outstanding tone quality. You may order a Sterling with the standard-weight bell (more responsive, and well suited to recital playing), or a heavy-weight bell (somewhat less responsive, but better suited to situations requiring maximum projection and a darker tone).
The Sterling euphonium has my highest endorsement and will delight either the discriminating amateur or the professional player.
-David R. Werden