Best French Horn Mutes of 2026

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2026

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French horn mutes are essential accessories for any horn player. They are designed to alter the sound of the horn, allowing for a variety of tonal colors and effects. Different types of mutes can produce different sounds, from the soft and mellow sound of a straight mute to the metallic and bright sound of a metal mute. French horn mutes are typically made of metal or plastic and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are easy to use and can be quickly inserted or removed from the horn during a performance. Whether you are a professional musician or a student, a French horn mute is a must-have accessory for any horn player.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ProTec Vulkan French Horn Tunable Mute V101 Cover #TOP 1
ProTec Vulkan French Horn Tunable Mute V101
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PAMPET French Horn Mute Cover #TOP 2
PAMPET French Horn Mute
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Humes & Berg Stonelined Tunable French Horn Mute 134 Cover #TOP 3
Humes & Berg Stonelined Tunable French Horn Mute 134
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 French Horn Mutes

#TOP 1

ProTec Vulkan French Horn Tunable Mute V101

V101
ProTec Vulkan French Horn Tunable Mute V101 Cover
Protec Vulkan French Horn Tunable Mute (Straight), Model V101

The ProTec Vulkan Horn Mute is designed to give you excellent sound quality whether you're playing in a small chamber group or a full orchestra. Its free-blowing design helps maintain clear and balanced tones across all notes, so you can trust your intonation. The mute features a custom rubber cap that protects your horn’s bell from scratches and lets you insert the mute quietly without disturbing your performance. It also comes with a durable cork that keeps the mute securely in place, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping. Made from lightweight vulcanized fiber, this mute is easy to handle while offering long-lasting durability and precise tuning.

What We Like
Excellent intonation
Scratch protection
Secure cork grip
Lightweight durability
#TOP 2

PAMPET French Horn Mute

5263420267
Black
PAMPET French Horn Mute Cover
PAMPET French Horn Mute black

The PAMPET French Horn Mute is designed and tested to deliver even response and perfect intonation in all registers. It produces a distinct, muted sound throughout the natural range of the instrument, making it ideal for music lovers to practice or warm up quietly at home or before a performance.

What We Like
Delivers even response and perfect intonation in all registers
Produces a distinct, muted sound throughout the natural range of the instrument
Ideal for music lovers to practice or warm up quietly
#TOP 3

Humes & Berg Stonelined Tunable French Horn Mute 134

silver
Humes & Berg Stonelined Tunable French Horn Mute 134 Cover
Humes & Berg Stonelined Straight Non-Transposing Tunable French Horn Mute (134)

The Humes & Berg Tunable Horn Mute is designed to give you control over your French horn's sound. It features a straight mute shape, which is great for producing a clear and focused tone. This mute is non-transposing, making it perfect whether you're playing solo or blending within a section. One of its best features is the built-in adjustable slide, allowing you to fine-tune the mute’s tonal color to match your musical needs. With this mute, you have the flexibility to shape your sound exactly how you want it for different performances.

What We Like
Straight mute design
Non-transposing use
Adjustable tuning slide
Ideal for solo and section
#TOP 4

Denis Wick DW5524 French Horn Mute

DW5524
Silver
Straight
Denis Wick DW5524 French Horn Mute Cover
Denis Wick Straight Mute for French Horn DW5524 | Accessories for Brass Players | Mute for Lower Tone Register | Practice Mute | 7.48” x 4.53” x 4.53”

The Denis Wick DW5524 Straight Mute for French Horn is made from hand-spun aluminum, providing perfect intonation and even response in all registers. It produces a muted sound with crisp brilliance and carry power, making it a popular choice among the world's finest professionals.

What We Like
Hand-spun aluminum construction
Perfect intonation and even response in all registers
Crisp muted sound with brilliance and carry power
#TOP 5

Neotech Adjustable French Horn Hand Grip

5101382
Black
Regular
Neotech Adjustable French Horn Hand Grip Cover
Neotech French Horn Hand Grip – Adjustable, Non-Slip Grip with Genuine Leather French Horn Hand Guard & Neoprene Pad – Black, Made in USA

The Neotech French Horn Grip offers a secure, non-slip hold that helps you play comfortably without worrying about your hand slipping. Its adjustable design shifts the weight away from your little finger to the back of your hand, making it easier to control your instrument and improve your playing technique and sound. The genuine leather grip, combined with soft padding, ensures you can practice or perform for longer periods without discomfort. Plus, the neoprene pad wrapped in leather protects against moisture, keeping both your hand and your horn in great shape. This grip is a smart choice for any French horn player looking for comfort and better performance.

What We Like
Non-slip secure hold
Adjustable weight distribution
Genuine leather comfort
Moisture-resistant neoprene pad
#TOP 6

Yamaha SILENT Brass French Horn System

SB3J
Yamaha SILENT Brass French Horn System Cover
Yamaha SILENT Brass System For French Horn- Pickup Mute & Personal Studio Included (SB3J)

The Yamaha SILENT Brass System is designed to enhance your playing experience. With its new USB connectivity, you can easily record your sessions directly to a computer or smart device, making it perfect for practice or sharing your music. Attaching and removing the mute is a breeze, allowing you to switch between playing modes quickly. It fits snugly inside the bell of your horn, ensuring it won’t get in the way while you play. Plus, it's incredibly lightweight, so you might even forget it's there. The specially designed mini microphone captures your sound beautifully, providing a great recording experience.

What We Like
USB connectivity for recording
Easy attachment and removal
Lightweight design
Compact fit inside bell
High-quality microphone
#TOP 7

PAMPET French Horn Practice Mute

PAMPET TIPPER French Horn Mute
Black
PAMPET French Horn Practice Mute Cover
PAMPET TIPPER French Horn Mute Lightweight Practice French Horn Mute (Black)

The PAMPET Horn Mute is a lightweight and affordable practice tool for French horn players. It allows you to practice almost anywhere, ensuring you can hone your skills without disturbing others. The design features a bionic chamber that mimics the natural pressure and resistance of playing, making your practice sessions feel more authentic. Additionally, this mute produces less back pressure compared to other silent mutes, giving you a more comfortable experience while warming up or preparing for a performance. This makes it a perfect choice for music lovers looking to practice quietly at home.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Authentic playing experience
Reduces back pressure
Affordable for all musicians
#TOP 8

Humes & Berg 121 French Horn Mute

Red and White
Humes & Berg 121 French Horn Mute Cover
Humes & Berg 121 Stonelined French Horn Straight Mute

The Humes & Berg French Horn Mute is a straight mute designed for both solo and ensemble performances. As a non-transposing mute, it allows you to play the same "C" note as on an open horn, ensuring perfect pitch every time. This feature is especially convenient for musicians who want consistency in their sound. Additionally, Stonelined Mutes are known for their excellent tuning and ease of use, making it simple for you to achieve the desired tone without unnecessary effort. Whether you're practicing or performing, this mute enhances your playing experience.

What We Like
Perfect pitch consistency
Easy to blow
Ideal for solos and ensembles
Excellent tuning
#TOP 9

Denis Wick Booster Trompa 6183

DW6183
Denis Wick Booster Trompa 6183 Cover
Booster Trompa Denis Wick 6183

The Denis Wick Booster 6183 is designed to enhance your French horn playing experience. As a specialized mute, it helps you control and soften your sound, making it easier to practice quietly or achieve specific tonal effects. Crafted by Denis Wick, a trusted brand in brass accessories, this mute offers reliable quality and performance. The model number 6183 ensures you get a product tailored for the trompa, or French horn, providing a perfect fit and effective sound dampening. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, this mute adds convenience by allowing you to adjust your volume and tone with ease.

What We Like
Effective sound control
Trusted brand quality
Perfect fit for French horn
Easy volume adjustment
#TOP 10

Stagg Mute MHR-S3A

MHR-S3A
Aluminum
Stagg Mute MHR-S3A Cover
Stagg French Horn Mute (MHR-S3A)

The Stagg French Horn Mute (MHR-S3A) is designed with a combination of aluminum and cork, ensuring a distinct and powerful sound. This feature is particularly beneficial for players in large ensembles, as it helps them stand out while blending harmoniously with the group. Whether you play classical, jazz, or any other genre, this mute adapts well, enhancing your musical expression. You’ll appreciate its versatility, allowing you to explore different styles without compromising sound quality. It’s a great addition to your musical toolkit, making performances more dynamic and engaging.

What We Like
Distinct sound quality
Suitable for large ensembles
Versatile for various genres
Durable materials
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do French horns have mutes?

Yes, French horns can be muted by inserting a horn straight mute into the bell of the instrument. This mute changes the timbre of the sound but does not affect the pitch produced.

2. What are the different types of horn mutes?

There are three types of mutes for French horns - a stopping mute, a straight mute, and a practice mute. Each mute has its own unique effect on the sound produced by the instrument.

3. How do you play French horn quietly?

To play the French horn quietly, you can adjust the lip opening to produce maximum vibrations, avoid mouthpiece pressure, and maintain steady diaphragm pressure while controlling the airflow with the larynx to release a relatively small stream of air.

4. What are the cons of French horn?

Some cons of the French horn include its large and heavy size, making it difficult for small students to manage. It also has limited performance opportunities in advanced groups, as it is not commonly used in orchestras. Additionally, renting a French horn can be expensive compared to other instruments.

5. Why is the French horn so hard to play?

The French horn is considered difficult to play due to its mechanics and history. It requires endurance and the ability to push steady air through long tubing, sometimes up to 30 feet, all from a narrow mouthpiece. Mastering the French horn takes time and practice.

6. What is the difference between a cup mute and a Harmon mute?

A cup mute and a Harmon mute are two different types of trumpet mutes. While a cup mute has a cup-shaped design, a Harmon mute is either cylindrical or bulbous and round. Unlike the cup mute, the Harmon mute completely restricts all airflow from escaping the bell.

7. What is a Harmon mute?

A Harmon mute, also known as a wa-wa, wow-wow, or wah-wah mute, is a type of mute used in jazz for trumpet and trombone. It has a cork that blocks airflow around the mute, creating a unique sound effect.

8. Why is the French horn so loud?

The French horn, as a member of the brass family, produces a loud sound. It is essentially a long series of pipes that the musician blows into through a mouthpiece. The sound is then amplified and projected out of the flared bell at the other end, resulting in its loudness.

Editor's Notes

During our french horn mute research, we found 24 french horn mute products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,797 customer reviews through our big data system to write the french horn mutes list. We found that most customers choose french horn mutes with an average price of $42.90.

The french horn mutes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of french horn mutes, including ProTec, PAMPET, Humes & Berg, Denis Wick, Neotech. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.