| Hi Ronald,
Although I can't claim Trent's performance pedegree I do have some experience with Taylor trumpets.
I got to spend some time with a Chicago II custom when I bought my standard and it's a very fine trumpet. As has been stated it is heavy but not unmanagable (balance fore and aft is excellent) and has that thick,rich sound. Valves are excellent as with all Taylors. It is ideally suited to solo work, particularly small combo type playing.
I must admit that I needed something just a little more versatile so I chose a standard with the red brass bell which is a touch more section friendly but can still be as effective as the custom in a solo setting. It weighs about 3/4 of a pound less as well. My favourite horn while testing them was the pheonix but I suspect that's an acquired taste.
Anything else I can help with let me know.
Regards
Trevor |