Besson · Sovereign (professional)
Besson Sovereign 967 / 968
The classic professional Besson: a lively, open 3+1 compensating euphonium offered with either a 12-inch 967 bell or a more compact 11-inch 968 bell.
Manufactured in Germany.
Specifications
| Model | Sovereign 967/968 |
|---|---|
| Line | Sovereign (professional) |
| Tier | Professional |
| Price band | $$$ |
| Pitch | Bb |
| Valves | 4 — 3+1 |
| Compensating | Yes |
| Bore | 14.98 mm |
| Bell | 280 / 304 mm · yellow brass (hand made) |
| Valves material | stainless steel |
| Water keys | 3 |
| Finishes | clear lacquer, silver plate |
| Options | main tuning slide trigger (the 'T' models: 967T/968T) |
The verdict
The Sovereign 967/968 remains the uncomplicated professional Besson reference point: large bore, full compensation, lively response, and less weight than the Prestige. Choose the 967 for its 304 mm bell or the 968 for the more compact 280 mm bell; the rest of the core specification is shared.
Adding the T suffix brings over the Prestige main-slide trigger for more active tuning control and a slightly darker character. Players who want still more control and mass should compare the Prestige; those who want newer ergonomics and adjustable response should try the Sovereign 969. The standard Sovereign’s appeal is precisely that it stays open, direct, and familiar.
- Who it's for
- Professional and serious ensemble players who want the established Besson sound and an immediate free-blowing response without the Prestige's extra weight and standard trigger.
- Known for
- The classic Besson tone, responsive valve action, lighter feel than the Prestige, and a straightforward choice between 967 and 968 bell sizes.
- Watch out
- The 967 is the larger 12-inch bell and the 968 the 11-inch. Trigger-equipped T versions add tuning control and slightly darken the tone, so they are not merely convenience packages.