The Bb Trumpets
New models
These new Thane models are available now and ready to be placed on order. They are based on a balanced design that provides excellent stability, intonation, playability and core of sound. Built one piece at a time these instruments are truly hand made; every part assembled is closely inspected and detailed to fit each instrument with precision and without tension.
Built to order with a 6 month delivery window.
BIRCH and ALDER
Classic Taper
Classic tapered bells, 37/43, yellow brass and standard weight.
$4200 USD
SEQUOIA and WILLOW
Large Taper
Large tapered bell, 72 style, Redbrass and Goldbrass medium to heavyweight
$4200 USD
The Casing
Built on a two piece bronze and nickel Meinlschmidt valve block with monel standard style pistons. ML bore and each part fit to the highest tolerances. Valves hand lapped individually fit.
The Slides
The tuning slide is a soft D bend with slightly longer ferrels to keep the connecting brace strong. Each tube is precisely fit to each crook before it is assembled. The main tuning slide copper cross brace is a Thane signature design. Not only does it add a nice aesthetic but copper transfers sound vibration extremely well so it allows the tuning slide to vibrate with the rest of the instrument as it is being played. This helps relieve more tension and allows for an even easier playing horn. The slides are fit tightly and hand lapped for ideal movement. Amado waterkeys are standard on the main tuning slide and available on the third slide as well for easy draining. A third slide stop screw prevents unwanted damage. Every aspect of these trumpets are built with the player in mind.
The Leadpipe
The main leadpipe on the Bb’s are a modified style classic “25” style leadpipe. A great all around option for any and all styles of playing. This has the correct taper, ventura opening, mouthpiece gap, and ideal length for the best playing Bb trumpet. Each leadpipe is drawn to a mandrel for consistency, trimmed, and fit for the receiver and tuning slide. Other options for smaller or larger leadpipes are available on request for an even more custom built instrument just for you.
The Bell
The bell is one of the most important options that determine the trumpets sound. There are four main options that allow for a variety of tonal colors. Depending on your style, what you are looking for, or what you are wanting in the final product sound there will be a bell option for you!
The Alder and Birch models offer a very “in the box” classic trumpet sound. Still creating more balanced overtones and general core than a mass produced trumpet yet still easily blendable within any section. If you are looking for something outside the box and wanting to express yourself through a more and wider tonal pallet than the Sequoia and Willow models might be for you. They offer a wider taper bell with slightly larger bell. Coupled with either the Redbrass or Goldbrass material these bells offer an even broader, warmer, and more projecting sound that is second to none. If you can’t decide which to choose please reach out to me for guidance in your choice.
The braces are hand fitted, trimmed, measured, and fit to allow for no tension when soldered on.
Other bell options may be available by request in different sizes and materials.
The standard series Trumpets
Based on the Performance model design but using some more standardized parts. These are still hand fit precision built trumpets but at a more affordable price. The Standard series offers less customization but still utilizes the same techniques and build style as the higher priced trumpets. Check out the Standard Series Trumpets page for more details.
