AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Double French Horns 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YHR-567 Intermediate Double French Horn ($4,672). Thomann Green HORNet gives you the most for the money at $999. Hans Hoyer K10A-L Double Horn leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 19 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 30, 2026
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All Double French HornsTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha YHR-567 Intermediate Double French Horn
YHR-567D F/Bb Double Horn · Yamaha
14 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Yamaha 567D is a fantastic step-up horn—really well-built and responsive. It offers a great balance of playability and tonal versatility, making it ideal for serious intermediate to advanced players looking for a dependable, professional instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Excellent intonation across both F and Bb sides
- Yamaha’s nickel-silver valve components offer smooth, reliable action
- The detachable bell allows for tonal adjustments and experimentation
Cons
- The 12mm bore might feel slightly restrictive for some advanced players
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for students
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,672 now$4,672€4,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.4 kg
The Green HORNet is a surprisingly playable horn, especially considering its construction. The ABS body makes it incredibly light – a real boon for students or players who travel a lot. While not a top-tier instrument, it's a solid option for beginners or those needing a reliable, affordable practice horn.
Pros
- ABS plastic body significantly reduces weight for easier handling
- Gold brass/nickel silver valve stock offers a responsive, reliable action
- Detachable bell allows for some tonal adjustments and easier transport
Cons
- ABS plastic, while lightweight, lacks the resonance of traditional brass
- Plastic mouthpiece will likely be a limiting factor for advanced players
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$999 now$999€898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.4 kg
The Purple HORNet is a surprisingly solid entry-level double horn. The plastic construction keeps it light and affordable, and the gold brass valve stock offers decent response. It's a great option for beginning students or players on a tight budget who want to explore the double horn's versatility.
Pros
- ABS plastic body offers surprising durability and lightweight feel
- Gold brass/nickel silver valve stock provides good responsiveness
- Detachable bell allows for some tonal experimentation and transport ease
Cons
- ABS plastic, while durable, lacks the resonance of traditional brass
- Plastic mouthpiece will likely be a limiting factor for advanced players
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$999 now$999€898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.4 kg
The Thomann Red HORNet is a surprisingly capable student horn. The ABS body keeps the weight down, making it ideal for younger players or those on a budget. It won't replace a professional horn, but it's a solid starting point with decent intonation and a surprisingly warm tone for a plastic instrument.
Pros
- ABS plastic construction offers surprising durability and lightweight feel
- Gold brass/nickel silver stock provides a responsive, warm core tone
- Detachable bell allows for some experimentation with projection and timbre
Cons
- ABS plastic, while durable, lacks the resonance of traditional brass horns
- Plastic mouthpiece will likely be a limiting factor for advanced players
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$999 now$999€898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The 6801-L is a fantastic double horn—seriously well-made and sounds gorgeous. It’s got a rich, expansive tone with great projection, thanks to that gold brass leadpipe. This is a great choice for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional players seeking a dependable and versatile instrument.
Pros
- Gold brass leadpipe provides exceptional warmth and projection.
- 3B ball bearing linkage ensures incredibly smooth and responsive valve action.
- Nickel silver valve casings contribute to a bright, focused tone.
Cons
- The heavier brass body might be tiring for younger or smaller players.
- The fixed bell limits some flexibility in tonal shaping compared to detachable bells.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,441 now$5,441€4,889 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Hans Hoyer 801-L is a seriously well-built double horn. It’s got a rich, warm tone that really sings, thanks to that gold brass leadpipe and conical valves—a real step up for intermediate to advanced players looking for a reliable and beautiful instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag. It's a great choice for orchestral players or those seeking a refined, traditional horn sound.
Pros
- Gold brass leadpipe offers exceptional warmth and projection.
- Conical rotary valves provide a responsive and focused airflow.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action and intonation.
Cons
- The weight can be tiring for younger or less experienced players.
- The long tuning slide might require frequent adjustment for optimal tuning.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,063 now$5,063€4,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann HR-301 is a surprisingly capable double horn offering excellent value. It's a great choice for intermediate to advanced students and freelance players who want a versatile instrument with a warm tone and responsive action—perfect for both orchestral and solo work. The independent valve conversion is a neat feature, though it might require some initial adjustment.
Pros
- Gold brass bell delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Minibal valve bearings offer exceptionally smooth and fast action.
- Independent valve conversion provides versatility for different playing situations.
Cons
- The gold brass bell might be too dark for brighter orchestral settings.
- Entry-level horn players may find the independent valve conversion complex.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,333 now$1,333€1,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Hans Hoyer K10A-L is a seriously well-built double horn, designed for the serious orchestral player. The hand-hammered bell provides a beautiful, focused tone, and the 3B linkage makes playing a joy. This is an instrument built to last and perform at a high level, truly a workhorse for professionals and advanced students alike.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bell delivers a remarkably warm, resonant tone.
- 3B linkage offers exceptionally smooth and responsive valve action.
- Corrosion-resistant gold brass leadpipe enhances projection and intonation.
Cons
- The larger bell size contributes to a significant overall weight.
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many student players.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,794 now$10,794€9,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann HR-401 is a surprisingly capable double horn, offering a good foundation for students or intermediate players looking to explore both F and Bb ranges. The build quality is decent for the price point, and the included accessories make it a complete package, though seasoned professionals will likely notice limitations. It's a great entry into the double horn world without the premium-priced sticker shock.
Pros
- Solid brass bell delivers a warm, resonant tone ideal for orchestral work
- Minibal linkage offers surprisingly smooth valve action for its price bracket
- Adjustable finger hook improves ergonomics and playing comfort for varied hand sizes
Cons
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, might be a bit thin for heavy gigging and could chip
- The Bb/F switching mechanism, while functional, isn’t as refined as higher-end horns
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,556 now$1,556€1,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Geyer-style double horn sounds like a top-tier model but costs much less. It uses yellow brass with a clear lacquer coat and a wide 12mm bore for a soft, deep tone. Musicians who want that classic high-end feel without the price tag will love this.
Pros
- Traditional Geyer design offers classic playing feel
- Clear lacquer finish protects the yellow brass bell
- 12mm bore provides deep resonance and soft response
Cons
- No weight listed makes it hard to judge balance
- Bell size is missing from the official specs
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,677 now$7,677€6,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 19 double french horns
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Hans Hoyer G10A-L1 Double HornHans Hoyer37Stable$7,010€6,298$7,010€6,298Check ↗
- 12
Thomann HR- 810 Bb-/ F Double HornThomann35Stable$1,333€1,198$1,333€1,198Check ↗
- 13
Yamaha YHR-672D F/Bb Double HornYamaha34Stable$7,455€6,698$7,455€6,698Check ↗
- 14
Hans Hoyer 801-L Double Horn SetHans Hoyer31Stable$5,006€4,498$5,006€4,498Check ↗
- 15
Dieter Otto 180 K-JNMS, F/Bb Double HornDieter Otto31Stable$8,780€7,889$8,780€7,889Check ↗
- 16
Cornford Mod. 23 Double Horn BrassCornford31Stable$9,292€8,349$9,292€8,349Check ↗
- 17
Dieter Otto 201 MS, F/Bb Double HornDieter Otto31Stable$9,637€8,659$9,637€8,659Check ↗
- 18
Cornford Mod. 28 Double Horn BrassCornford31Stable$11,128€9,998$11,128€9,998Check ↗
- 19
Schagerl Double Horn G4Schagerl29Stable$3,995€3,589$3,995€3,589Check ↗
Double French Horns by the numbers
Measured across all 36 models we track, not a sample.
Median $5,563 — half of all double french horns here cost less.
median of 6 models · 0.95 kg–1.4 kg
How to choose the best double french horns
Valve Type (Piston vs. Rotary)
Piston valves are generally considered easier to learn, especially for players coming from other instruments. Rotary valves offer a smoother, more connected feel and often a richer, more complex tone-but they require more precise embouchure control. The choice is often a matter of personal preference and playing style.
Bell Taper & Material
A wider, more open bell taper will generally produce a darker, more projecting tone, ideal for cutting through an ensemble. A narrower taper yields a more focused, sometimes brighter sound. Brass is the standard, but some horns use nickel silver for a slightly different timbre - often a bit brighter and more responsive.
Tuning Slide Configuration
The placement and type of tuning slides (loop vs. U-slide) impact the horn's overall response and ease of adjustment. A well-designed slide system allows for quick and accurate tuning across the entire range, which is critical for orchestral work where you're constantly adjusting.
Horn Design (German vs. French)
German horns are typically brighter and more powerful, often preferred for solo work and louder ensembles. French horns tend to have a darker, more mellow tone, favoring a more blended orchestral sound. This isn't a hard rule, but it's a general tendency.
Action & Keywork
A light, responsive action makes the horn easier to play, especially for fast passages and complex articulation. The feel of the keys and levers is a personal preference, but a well-made horn will have a consistent and predictable action throughout the entire range.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at double French horns - good choice. It's a significant upgrade from a single horn, giving you more tonal flexibility and range, especially when tackling demanding orchestral or solo passages. But jumping into a double horn isn't just about having two horns in one; it's about understanding the nuances of valve types, bell tapers, and overall response. Let's break down what to look for to get the right horn for your needs, whether you're gigging with a wind ensemble or just practicing in your studio.
Don't fall for the shiny bells and whistles. A well-built double horn is an investment, but cheaper horns often cut corners on valve alignment and slide fabrication, resulting in poor intonation and a frustrating playing experience. Focus on the overall feel and response - can you comfortably articulate across the entire range?
Does it have a consistent tone, or does it sound 'different' in the high and low registers? Try before you buy if possible, and don't be afraid to walk away.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 36 double french horns from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a 'high F' and a 'double French horn'?
A 'high F' horn is a single horn with an additional valve that allows you to play in the key of F. A 'double French horn' has two separate horns - a high F horn and a low F horn - selectable by a valve, giving you a wider range and different tonal characteristics.
Are rotary valves harder to learn than piston valves?
Rotary valves require a bit more embouchure control and coordination initially, but many players find the smoother feel and richer tone worth the extra effort. It's less about 'harder' and more about a different feel and technique.
I'm a beginner - should I go straight to a double horn?
Not necessarily. A single horn will help you build a solid foundation in technique and embouchure. However, if you're serious about orchestral playing, a double horn is a worthwhile investment sooner rather than later.
What's the deal with different bell materials?
Brass is the most common, but nickel silver offers a slightly brighter and more responsive feel. It's a subtle difference, and often more about preference than a massive sonic shift.
Can I repair a dent in a French horn myself?
Unless you're an experienced instrument repair technician, absolutely not. French horn repair is a specialized skill. Leave it to the pros to avoid causing further damage.
