Expert: Mike Pawul - 9/16/2006

Question
Hi Mike,

Thanks for your time regarding this...

My son (age 14; 9th grade) has been playing trumpet for 3 years. He's pretty good from what I understand. I would like to buy him a higher quality trumpet (He's playing his great grandfather's King from the '40s that was in storage for 30+ years.) Unfortunately I am tight on money (aren't we all) but nevertheless would like to get him an upgrade (the trumpet has a musty smell that several cleanings, acid bath, has not been able to get rid of; This trumpet has seen its better days.)

With some patience, Craigslist and ebay may present me with a deal (found a BachTr200S on craigslist for $600 obo... is this good? Also Getzen 900 S Trumpet - $450, or Yamaha Silver Trumpet Model: YTR 737 - $600, Blessing Trumpet -$400?) Problem is I don't know exactly what to look for or when I've found myself a good deal.
It seems most brands, even high quality brands, still sell low-end student models. I want to avoid this.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

-Scott


Answer
Scott, The TR200 (In My Opinion) isn't much better than the TR300. I know they usually go in the $500-700 range but I can't see the extra money buying a better horn. The Getzen is a good deal for $450 and (IMO) plays much better than the TR200. I like the Yamaha line but the 737 is the older model of the 7300 series. But if it is in nice shape the $600 would be a fair deal. The Blessing would have to be a ML1 to be worth $400. If your son is playing a KIng Liberty I would think about having it redone. I have three of them and they are great playing big band horns. Of course they really don't blend with Bach Strads very well. Hope this helped you. Really I think if they are all in good shape I would pick the Getzen. When you look at horns the biggest differences are in the valves.Getzen is noted for the best valves in the industry.