Expert: Mike Pawul - 7/3/2009

Question
Looking for a step-up trumpet for daughter and getting different advice. We cannot afford much right now so watching e-bay. She is playing an old beat-up Getzen 300 or prefers her sister's old beat-up Mercedes II. We are watching some TR200 and Omega's on e-bay. Also interested in TR300hxs refurbished by Bachshop. What are these trumpets worth and which would you recommend. It was suggested we hold out for a Strad but I don't think we can afford that. The Tr300 refurb is 465.00 and I think we could maybe get the Omega or TR200 for around 500.00 or a little more. Thanks for your time.

Answer
Tim, Of the three you are looking at the order would be Omega (best) although the newer ones (the last 5 years or so) are modified TR200 models. The TR200 then the TR300. All play well and you can usually find an older Omega around $500 in nice shape. The older horns like the Selmer Signet and Bach Mercedes are intermediate also and usually a good value and under $250. I also like the Getzen Eterna II 700 model and it can be found less than $500 used in good shape (it also beats the TR300 easily). Another good buy is the King 2055 Silver Flair at under $500. It is a good intermediate level and beats the 300. In any case if you buy through Ebay ask to see a picture of the valves out of the horn. Any dark or worn spots can mean the valve has wear that will affect the playability. For the money you are spending you don't want a worn horn that doesn't play well.