AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Parforce Horns for Professional 2026
The top pick is Dotzauer Parforce Horn Bb/Eb 18270 ($2,982). Kühnl & Hoyer 1312 L Eb-Parforcehorn Leath. gives you the most for the money at $1,109. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 15 models across 2 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 21, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
This Dotzauer Parforce Horn is a beautifully crafted instrument, built for recreating authentic 19th-century hunting calls and ceremonial music. The gold brass gives it a rich, focused sound, and the switching mechanism is remarkably smooth. It's perfect for historically informed performance specialists and collectors who appreciate traditional horn-making techniques.
Pros
- Gold brass construction delivers a warm, resonant tone, ideal for hunting calls.
- Switchable Bb/Eb allows for versatility across historical performance practices.
- Minibal ball joints ensure exceptionally smooth and reliable valve action.
Cons
- The all-gold brass construction makes it relatively heavy for extended playing.
- Parforce horns have a limited tonal palette compared to modern horns.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,982 now$2,982€2,659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Dotzauer 18265 is a beautifully crafted Parforce horn, perfect for historically informed performance or enthusiasts seeking a truly authentic sound. The gold-brass bell gives it a warm, resonant character, and the ergonomic valve action makes it surprisingly playable. It’s a high-end instrument, but the build quality and tone justify the investment for serious horn players.
Pros
- Handmade gold-brass bell delivers a rich, focused tone.
- Ergonomic valve switching provides responsive, comfortable playing.
- Nickel silver lead pipe enhances projection and clarity.
Cons
- The leather wrapping, while traditional, requires periodic maintenance.
- Eb/Bb switch limits versatility compared to single-key horns.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,163 now$2,163€1,929 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Kühnl & Hoyer Parforcehorn is a beautifully crafted instrument, offering a unique blend of traditional hunting horn sound and modern playing conveniences. It's perfect for hunters, historical reenactors, or anyone seeking a distinctive and characterful brass instrument – especially those who appreciate a warmer, more intimate tone than a full-sized horn provides.
Pros
- Genuine leather wrap adds warmth and comfortable feel.
- Quick-switch valves offer surprisingly agile response for a hunting horn.
- Eb/Bb configuration expands tonal possibilities beyond typical horns.
Cons
- The 430mm inner loop makes it somewhat unwieldy for smaller players.
- Parforce horns inherently lack the dynamic range of orchestral horns.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,568 now$1,568€1,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Dotzauer Parforce Horn nails the authentic hunting horn sound. The hammered bell gives it a really warm, projecting tone perfect for historical performance or adding unique color to recordings. It’s a premium-priced instrument, best suited for serious enthusiasts and those seeking a true period feel.
Pros
- Finely hammered golden brass bell delivers a rich, focused tone.
- Nickel silver double conical slide offers precise intonation adjustment.
- Genuine leather wrapping provides a comfortable, traditional feel.
Cons
- Parforce horns are inherently limited in range and versatility.
- The thin brass bell can be susceptible to dents with rough handling.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,603 now$1,603€1,429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Dotzauer 18220 Parforce Horn is a beautifully crafted instrument, offering a powerful and authentic sound characteristic of the traditional hunting horn. It’s a premium-priced choice perfect for serious enthusiasts, historical re-enactors, and those seeking a unique and commanding presence in orchestral or solo settings. The build quality is solid, but be aware of its specialized nature.
Pros
- Finely hammered gold brass bell delivers a rich, resonant tone.
- Double conical slide offers precise intonation control for mouthpieces.
- Robust construction ensures durability for frequent use and transport.
Cons
- The single winding design limits its range compared to double-wound horns.
- Relatively heavy, especially for extended playing sessions.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,973 now$1,973€1,759 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Dotzauer 18260 is a beautifully crafted Parforce horn, offering a rich, traditional sound and a surprisingly playable design. It's perfect for hunters, historical reenactors, or musicians seeking a unique and evocative instrument, though its specialized nature means it’s not a replacement for a modern horn.
Pros
- Solid brass construction delivers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of Parforce horns
- Ergonomic valve action allows for surprisingly agile playing, uncommon in horns of this type
- Green leather wrap provides excellent grip and a historically accurate aesthetic
Cons
- Eb/Bb switching, while convenient, can slightly compromise tonal consistency between keys
- The larger bell (31 cm) might feel unwieldy for smaller players or in confined spaces
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,051 now$2,051€1,829 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This horn lets you switch keys fast with its special valve. The big loop helps the sound travel far. It comes with a silver mouthpiece and straps, but you buy the cover extra. It looks nice with its clear finish and fake leather wrap.
Pros
- Quick switch valve changes keys instantly.
- Large 430 mm inner loop aids projection.
- Faux leather wrapping protects the horn well.
Cons
- No specific weight listed for the horn.
- Water keys are only two, not four.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,535 now$1,535€1,369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Dotzauer 18315 is a beautifully crafted Parforce horn, ideal for historical re-enactors, hunting enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to experience the unique sound of a traditional hunting horn. The robust build and comfortable leather wrap make it a pleasure to handle, and the tone is surprisingly powerful for its size. It's a premium-priced instrument offering a genuine taste of 19th-century horn playing.
Pros
- Excellent projection for hunting and outdoor calls.
- Green leather wrap offers a traditional, secure grip.
- Double loop design enhances playability and resonance.
Cons
- The large diameter (34 cm) can be unwieldy for smaller players.
- Parforce horns are inherently limited in tonal range compared to modern horns.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,255 now$1,255€1,119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Dotzauer 18215 is a beautifully crafted Parforce horn, offering a genuine historical feel and excellent projection. It's perfect for historically informed performance, hunting traditions, or players seeking a unique, focused sound—just be aware it’s not your go-to for standard orchestral repertoire.
Pros
- Excellent intonation for a natural horn design.
- The genuine leather green wrap offers a comfortable, traditional feel.
- Solid brass construction ensures durability and a warm tonal core.
Cons
- The single loop design limits dynamic range compared to double-coil horns.
- Parforce horns are inherently less versatile than modern orchestral horns.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,199 now$1,199€1,069 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This horn feels great to hold thanks to the soft leather wrap and the sturdy double loop. The silver-plated mouthpiece gives you a bright tone right out of the box. It suits players who want a classic look with easy handling, though the missing weight info makes it hard to judge comfort.
Pros
- Genuine leather wrap feels soft on the player's hands
- Double loop design helps with comfortable playing angles
- Silver-plated mouthpiece ensures a bright and clear tone
Cons
- Leather wrap can wear down quickly with heavy use
- No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,109 now$1,109€989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 15 parforce horns
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Kühnl & Hoyer 1312 KL Eb-ParforcehornKühnl & Hoyer58Stable$975€869$975€869Check ↗
- 12
Kühnl & Hoyer 1310 L Bb-Parforcehorn Leath.Kühnl & Hoyer58Stable$941€839$941€839Check ↗
- 13
Kühnl & Hoyer 1309 KL Bb-ParforcehornKühnl & Hoyer58Stable$840€749$840€749Check ↗
- 14
Kühnl & Hoyer 1310 KL Bb-ParforcehornKühnl & Hoyer58Stable$874€779$874€779Check ↗
- 15
Kühnl & Hoyer 1309 L Bb-Parforcehorn Leath.Kühnl & Hoyer58Stable$919€819$919€819Check ↗
Parforce Horns by the numbers
Measured across all 15 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,255 — half of all parforce horns here cost less.
How to choose the best parforce horns
Valve Action & Response
Forget sluggish valves - a pro needs immediate, consistent response. Sloppy valve work in a hunting horn translates to a muddy, indistinct sound, especially when playing complex passages or quick hunting calls. We look for minimal throw and a predictable feel under varying breath pressure.
Bell Flare & Projection
The bell flare dictates how the horn projects. A wider flare will give you a more diffused, 'romantic' tone, while a narrower one will focus the sound, allowing you to cut through a dense ensemble. Consider the acoustics of your usual playing environment - a small chapel versus a vast field.
Tonal Complexity & Sustain
A Parforce horn isn't just about volume; it's about depth. We're looking for a horn with a full spectrum of harmonics, offering a rich, resonant tone that sustains well without becoming brittle or thin. A lack of sustain makes fast passages feel rushed and compromises articulation.
Tuning Stability & Intonation
Hunting horns are notoriously difficult to keep in tune. We evaluate how consistently the horn responds across its range, paying close attention to the intonation of critical hunting calls and the ease of making adjustments. A horn that's consistently sharp or flat is a nightmare to work with.
Construction & Materials
Modern brass alloys can vary wildly. We assess the horn's overall build quality, including the thickness of the tubing, the quality of the valve casings, and the overall finish. Cheaper horns often use thinner brass, leading to a weaker, less resonant tone and increased susceptibility to dents.
Buying guide
So, you're serious about Parforce horns. Forget the tourist-trap stuff - this isn't about blowing a novelty horn at a Renaissance fair. We're talking about instruments demanding serious breath control, nuanced articulation, and the ability to cut through a full orchestral or hunting ensemble. Finding the right horn isn't just about tone; it's about a partnership that allows you to truly express yourself - and that takes some digging.
Don't be fooled by shiny finishes and inflated price tags. A truly professional Parforce horn is an investment, but it's an investment in your musicality. Be wary of horns with excessively 'bright' or 'aggressive' tones - those are often masking fundamental flaws in construction.
Spend time playing different models; the best horn for you will feel like an extension of your breath and a vehicle for your musical ideas.
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 15 parforce 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 'natural' and a 'valved' Parforce horn?
Natural horns lack valves and require extensive embouchure manipulation to play in different keys. Valved horns use valves to simplify tuning and allow for greater flexibility, making them the standard for professional players.
I'm a beginner - should I start with a cheaper horn?
While a budget horn might seem tempting, it will likely hinder your progress. Poor intonation and sluggish valve action will ingrain bad habits. It's better to rent a quality instrument or save up for something decent.
How important is the mouthpiece?
Hugely important. The mouthpiece is the gateway to the horn's tone. A professional horn deserves a professional mouthpiece - experiment with different sizes and materials to find what complements the horn's character.
What about maintenance? What should I be looking for?
Regular valve oiling is crucial. Also, check for signs of wear on the valve slides and pads. A professional repair tech can diagnose and fix more complex issues, but preventative maintenance is key.
Are vintage Parforce horns worth the extra cost?
Vintage horns can offer exceptional tone and craftsmanship, but they often require significant restoration and can be unreliable. Proceed with caution and have any vintage horn thoroughly inspected by a qualified technician before purchasing.
