Who can i send a C to, to make JUST an Eb...

Big Dave88

I will most likely be coming into some money over the next month, and I want to get a solid Eb trumpet.

Option 1 - send my kanstul meha that didnt sell to get converted to an Eb

Option 2 - just buy a solid Eb

leaning towards option 1

So, input? I have absolutely no idea what would be better, more cost effective, ect. All I do know, is that i will have this eb for a long time - at least a decade, is what im planning. Also, what i do know, is that i am *gulp* planning on an orchestral career, if that helps. From a few threads ive read and one ive posted, there really isnt too much of an 'industry standard' eb - at least much less so than orchestral Bb and C instruments.

I DO NOT want a tuning bell setup, and I dont particularly want an Eb/D, but I dont really see many true eb instrumets out there right now(used). I would much prefer JUST an Eb. Melk is the obvious choice if I go the conversion route, if he will oblige me with just an eb, non tunable bell setup.

Budget is 1500 + what I can get in sale or trade of the kanstul.
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benlewis · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 3:19 pm Post subject:

Big Dave88,

If you go the conversion route, I whole-heartedly recommend you consider a Ken Larson "S"-pipe conversion. This is the same basic design that Bob Malone developed for players such as Hakan Hardenberger and has resulted in the new Yamaha Artist series YTR-9636. It's a fixed bell configuration that retains a full-length leadpipe.

Also, if you decide that you do want a D option, it can be achieved with spacers rather than swapping the bells & slides. I have one that was made from a medium-large Bach Bb and it plays wonderfully. Ken is a true craftsman and will work with you to achieve the sound and playing characteristics you desire.

I'm sure that the other fine technicians can help you as well; I just happen to have personal experience with Ken Larson. You owe it to youself to at least check out his website.

http://www.brasswerks.com

HTH

Ben

davidkoch · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 3:29 pm Post subject:

I agree with Ben. Ken's great to work with. I have one of his Conversion Eb's (though it is a tunable bell...) and one of his Bb's. The best horns I've played.
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RandyTX · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 3:34 pm Post subject:

Not to disagree with the above, since I've not seen or played one of Ken Larson's conversions... but I have played a Eb built by Charlie Melk from a Bach donor horn, and it was a very, very nice instrument.

I think you have a few good options to consider at least.

cheiden · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 4:02 pm Post subject:

I'd contact Larson about the suitability of the Kanstul for the conversion. The few Larson made/modified horns I've tried were quite impressive.
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Brian Moon · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 4:28 pm Post subject:

Blackburn
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swingintrpt · Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2012 5:06 pm Post subject:

Call Larson and see what he thinks of your horn. I would absolutely trust whatever advice he gives you.
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jvand678 · Veteran Member Joined: 02 Apr 2007 Posts: 468 Location: TX