Expert: Mike Pawul - 9/29/2007

Question
QUESTION: I am in the market for a new trumpet. I have been playing a 1954 Mt. Vernon Bach Strad ML bore, no lacquer, for 24 years. I want a trumpet that is mellow, plays in tune, and freer in upper register. I mostly play in contemporary christian bands and small jazz settings. Do you know anything about the Schiller Trumpets (http://www.schillerinstruments.com/schiller/company.html) sold exclusively by Jimlaabs.com. Their designs look good with their attention to detail, rounded bend of the tuning slide and their prices are good. However, I have never seen nor heard of this company. Am I better off looking toward Getzen or Blessing and if so which one of those two is better for intonation and quality for the dollar? Thank you for your reply.

ANSWER: J, I am not sure when the original company ceased to exist, but the current Schiller horns are built in China and the one I played wasn't very good on slotting or intonation. The "O" model I played was a Bach copy that didn't play nearly as well as a Bach. For my money I would suggest a Blessing ML-1, Kanstul 1500, or a Getzen Eterna 907. They all play better than the Schiller, and I think, will last a lot longer without problems. Try each and see what you think...

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Still searching for my solution. I played a number of horns today, Getzen Eterna 700, 2 yamahas, Jupiter, and 3 Van Cleaves. Out of all of them the Van Cleave MV1 slotted the best, best centered tone, projected the best, had by far extended range, and super fast valves. It beat all the other horns hands down. It was actually fun to trill in the upper C range, where my old bach strad would make my lips work way to much. What was strange was when asked what state  was this horn made in, I was told in China. I was shocked with the quality and playability of this horn compared to all the rest. Do you know about these horns? I also have my eye on a  1954 GETZEN super deluxe cornet which is a pretty horn, but don't know its history, slotting etc. I do like that none of tubes have any abrutions and are all smooth like the Van Cleave as are the Monette and Edwards. Again, I appreciate and value your input Mike.

Answer
Well, The old Super Deluxe was the horn used to produce the Eterna 900 series. Doc made several changes to it when he worked with Getzen. They were pro horns in their day and play quite well. The bells are very thin which makes it hard to find one that the bell doesn't show old scars from removed dents. I have had several of them and I like their playing and slotting, as well as the added copper that makes the horn look completely different. The Van Cleave is a newer horn and I don't know a lot about them. I have played them and found the same sound characteristics as you. Not sure how long they would last though. Make sure you ask about their guarantee on wear. There are a few Chinese horns out there that play well. I believe those are the ones that took time to work with American and European engineers on quality and design work. There are just so many junk ones though that change their names almost monthly.