Mikey:
There is a lot of info about this horn, and after careful research and trying many trumpets, I ordered one in July 03. Got the horn in Sept. 03 and have been playing it 95% of the time since.
I agree that the horn can sound dark, and can really sizzle at the same time without getting harsh.
I was rehearsing on it last night, and can't wait to play it on my gigs this weekend.
The horn is different. It does have a similar bell to the 72* Bach, but nothing else on it is "Lightweight". The Leadpipe is an open 25 that has some special tweaks that no one will tell you what they are. I personally think that they did something at the Mouthpipe receiver to smooth out the transition going into the Leadpipe to give it less turbulence and a more open feel early on in the horn. The bell blows like a big flare bell so you can get that "darker" jazz sound. Because it has thinner guage brass, you can also get it to sizzle/cut with a bit more air and the right MP match. Found a great match with a Curry MP.
I really like mine and just had Kanstul do some tweaks. This horn is a sleeper among great trumpets and one of the best values on the market for new horns. PM me if you want more info or to talk shop. Rumors that I have heard is WB is no longer playing the Kanstul so they might rename it 1600LIP
Mitch "The LIP"