Wilmington Benge

richardwy · Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2007 9:58 am Post subject:

Topo, well done!
_________________
1972 Selmer Radial

KanstulBrass · Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2007 9:18 am Post subject:

What kind of salesman would I be if I didn't take this opportunity to thank Russ for his confidence and commitment to Kanstul Musical Instruments?

Thanks Russ. It was our pleasure to make this horn for you.

As well, I should take this opportunity to remind readers that Kanstul parts and processes all take place in house. We make our own parts, we do our own assembly, we do our own plating and finaling - all here in Anaheim, California, USA.

Many companies job out some or all of this work - but not so Kanstul!

Going into 2008, please know that Kanstul Musical Instruments continues to be committed to quality.

Regards,
_________________
Charles G Hargett
Brass Industry Consultant

(Kanstul, Shires, BAC, Benge)

Tom LeCompte · Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2007 11:47 am Post subject: Re: Besson

topo3man · Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2007 11:17 am Post subject:

Tom,

It says Kanstul (Model 1001) on the Bell but at heart it is a Benge!

topo3man · Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2007 2:48 pm Post subject:

I wanted to publically thank both Charles and Mr. Kanstul for the great experience I had getting my horn made. Charles took hours of time to show me around the Kanstul showroom and factory. I met Mr. Kanstul as well as many of the fine technicians/craftsman that actually worked on my horn. I wouldn't hesitate to purchase another Kanstul product and, in fact, heartily endorse their products. There is a reason their reputation is what it is. Thank you Charles and have a wonderful holiday.

Russ

plp · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:24 am Post subject: Re: Besson

richardwy · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:42 am Post subject:

Russ, I've owned a Chicago Bb, LA Bb, and my 1st teacher played a Burbank Bb.

How's the valve throw on your Wilmington (guess I'll call it that, sounds cool anyway)?
_________________
1972 Selmer Radial

topo3man · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:46 am Post subject:

Richard,
The Kanstul has short throw valves compared to my Benges. This makes trills very easy where they require some concentration with the vintage Benges. I have to say though that my Chicago Benges seem to have a shorter throw than Burbank and LAs. This is particularly evident on my large bore Chicagos. I wonder if they used a different block on those horns.

richardwy · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:58 am Post subject:

The Chicago Bb did not have long throw at all. No clue as to why it was changed. Nice to hear that your horn is more like the old ones in that respect.

You got a #5 bell on it?
_________________
1972 Selmer Radial

topo3man · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 8:09 am Post subject:

Yes I have a lightweight #5 bell on it to mimic what a Chicago 5X would have been like.

topo3man · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 8:17 am Post subject:

Richard, what I tried to do was create a 5X Chicago MLP in the same style as my Chicago 3X. Here is a comparison:

1945 Chicago Benge 3X

Wilmington Benge 5X (lightweight) MLP

richardwy · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 8:46 am Post subject:

Russ,

Super job!! I'm smiling

After some time, you'll have to tell us how she's doing what what your playing buds say.
_________________
1972 Selmer Radial

Winghorn · Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:22 pm Post subject:

What a lovely instrument! By all means, keep us apprised as you discover what your new baby can really do.
Regards
Steve Allison

shofarguy · Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2008 1:18 am Post subject:

So, Topo,
Tell us, how is the Wilminton Benge now that you've had it for awhile?

Brian
_________________
Brian A. Douglas

Flip Oakes Wild Thing Bb Trumpet in copper
Flip Oakes Wild Thing Flugelhorn in copper

There is one reason that I practice: to be ready at the downbeat when the final trumpet sounds.

topo3man · Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2008 2:07 pm Post subject:

I have to say that I was worried that I was in a honeymoon period and that I was going to regret spending the extra $$ to have the horn customized and gold plated. Nope!!!! I absolutely love the horn. The combination of a lightweight #5 bell and rather large bore (.468) give a perfect combination allowing a dark or bright sound depending on mouthpiece. I couldn't be happier. In fact I haven't looked at e bay for weeks in search of another horn on the safari. That is really saying something for the addict that I was. It is so bad that I am even considering thinning my herd!

richardwy · Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2008 11:00 pm Post subject:

Russ,

So sweet to hear that you're still cherishing your Wilmington!!

_________________
1972 Selmer Radial