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.
Sequoia
Built on a Meinischmidt bronze/nickel two piece valve block with standard pistons.
Large taper Redbrass bell at 5" diameter.
Classic all around leadpipe taper.
ML bore tuning slide with copper brace.
Standard with Amado waterkey on main slide and 1st slide ring.
The most popular Thane model.
Broad yet brilliant sound.
Easily malleable to suit your style.
Secure slotting
An excellent horn for someone looking for something more in the sound and an out of the box approach.
Willow
Built on a Mein|schmidt bronze/nickel two piece valve block with standard pistons.
Large taper Goldbrass bell at 5" diameter.
Classic all around leadpipe taper.
ML bore tuning slide with copper brace.
Medium weight bell and Heavy valve cap set or regular cap set available as well.
Bold and broad sound.
Excellent projection.
Secure slotting and even tone throughout registers and dynamics.
An excellent choice if you are looking for more interesting sound and something to resonate the whole room!
Birch
Built on a MeinIschmidt bronze/nickel two piece valve block with standard pistons.
Classic 37 style taper bell
Classic Bb Leadpipe for all around playing.
Semi square bell and tuning slide bends.
Tuning slide ML bore with copper brace and Amado waterkey.
Excellent all around trumpet.
Blends very well within sections.
Very "in the box" traditional sound.
Even playing characteristics throughout range and register.
Alder
Built on a Mein|schmidt bronze/nickel two piece valve block with standard pistons.
Classic 43 style taper bell
Classic Bb Leadpipe for all around playing.
Semi square bell and tuning slide bends.
Tuning slide ML bore with copper brace and Amado waterkey.
Great all around trumpet with a little more edge to the sound than the Birch model.
Extremely fast response.
Focused sound with a sparkly center.
Lively and resonant.
BIRCH and ALDER
Classic Taper
Classic tapered bells, 37/43, yellow brass and standard weight.
$4500 USD
SEQUOIA and WILLOW
Large Taper
Large tapered bell, 72 style, Redbrass and Goldbrass medium to heavyweight
$4500 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.
