I love stuff like this...
But down to business.
I'm sure you have a pretty good idea to keep the Conn V1 for jazz, etc. However, if you want to take out some of that sterling edge in the V1 sound, and have a more versatile axe, the cheapest route is a heavy, open leadpipe modification. Less than $250 (Depending on the quality work and leadpipe brand you use), and BAM, you'll basically have what you need.
Now, another cheap-man route is to get a pre-1960 Olds Ambassador and soup it up. New leadpipe and overhauling the horn, with maybe a new plating job (24k gold bell for the intimate solo sound...), and some specialized heavy caps from Curry. Less than 800 dollars with the right guy (Not counting the gold, though). VERY good pro horn for around the price of a new intermediate. Also, its cool when someone asks you how much you payed for the horn, and answering the price was less than a grand!
ANOTHER cheap man route, and is something I am right now toying with, is FRANKENHORNING. If you have the patience to look around and keep looking, you can get some AMAZING deals of parts. If creating your own monster trumpet sounds cool to you, PM or email me, and I can really bore you with some details and what my current project is, blah blah blah...
NOW, for new horns.
PHAETON - I am about to start testing one tomorrow, so I will have a better idea about how this horn works. I just know this horn has a really good reputation as being a solid performer, and its price is between 1200-1600 dollars.
ZeuS - Again, I have not had the chance to try one of the ZueS's yet. Low price, but the product is high.
Kanstul - I own a 1503, and I love it. You can find them for a pretty good price, and they offer a darker sound even without heavy caps (I believe it has a lot to do with the heavy 3rd valve slide itself).
Van