KJaeger

Shermy:

I have a Bach 37 which was my only horn for 20-some years. A couple years ago I looked at the various Kanstuls for a very similar reason as you are - the Bach really "shut down" above high C (though Charlie Melk is fixing that for me right now), and I wanted something that I could "let my hair down" with a bit and that was more responsive. I played the 1500, 1500A and 1600 along with a couple other horns (including the Conn V1), and the 1600 just seemed perfect for what I wanted it for. It was much freer blowing than the Bach, especially in the upper register - for the first time I felt really confident above high C.

What I like about the 1600 is that it is not "laser-like" in tone quality, even going up high - it has a more broad or "phat" sound. I think it is a perfect jazz or solo horn.

I will say that in my experience my 1600 is a bit sensitive to mouthpiece selection if I am playing it in more of a "legit" setting, like orchestra or wind band. I have finally found some Karl Hammond mouthpieces that help make the horn more versatile for me for that type of music - before that, I really struggled being able to project without my tone getting too "jazzy" or breaking up too quickly.

I have not played a 1601, but you certainly might like the 1600 considering your description of the type of playing you do. I would definitely try both side-by-side if you get the chance.

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- Kevin Jaeger