| I've never owned a smaller pocket trumpet like the ones mentioned above (Jupiter, etc...) so I can't really vouche for them. But I do currently own a Kanstul and a LA Benge pocket trumpet. As a business traveler, I think they are great. The Kanstul and the Benge have full size bells and you can tell they just have some additional bends in their tubing compared to their full size cousins. I've found the tuning on them to be comparable to most very good quality trumpets and the sound to be just bit softer than a full size horn.
The Kanstul and the Benge are great for traveling and if I can't find a place to play them without a mute, I use a trumcor practice mute in my hotel room. It's been about 50/50 of finding a place to play without a mute. I definitely prefer playing the pocket trumpet w/o a mute, but a mute is fine compared to not playing at all.
The problem with the Kanstul or Benge is the price. You can find a used one for around $900, but a new one will cost you closer to $1200. If you have the extra $$$ they are great. I haven't found many place where I would rather practice or perform with them as opposed to my normal horn. But if you travel alot and can spare the $$$ I would highly recommend either one.
-Lance |