Here is an old post on trumpetplayeronline 6/3/03
In answer to a question about his MercedesII:
"Andrew, your Mercedes II is the student model below the Mercedes, which I play. According to the Bach guys, the Mercedes is the equivalent of the TR200 intermediate and the Merc II is probably like the TR300. When I got my Mercedes in 1972 as a HS Senior, Bach made a Strad, Mercedes and Mercedes II. Here is a cool site for Bach info by Dave Miller, where I got some feedback on my Mercedes:
Dave's Bach Trumpet Page "
The next reply post by Kit_Carson_Montana on 3/4/04
"The Bach Mercedes II may have been sold as a student trumpet.. However it's not a student trumpet. It is an intermediate and I actually believe it was sold that way as well. The trouble is, people rate these things without trying them. I've had my hands on the Bach Mercedes and II. I tell you the difference is about zip. i did compare it to a Bundy as well at the sametime. You could tell the Mercedes II is a step up right away. Now I velieve one thing is possible here. The Mercedes I tested was not one of their better Mercedes, but doubtful. Now that Mercedes II does have a crystal dark sound to it. If it were to push the sound anymore in this direction it would start having a tinny sound. Practically produces it's own studio. It's unique. It's design doesn't lend itself easily to be a great contender in a Jazz festival but in orchestra it will definitely hold it's own even against (snob) Strads."
Someone else contributed" If you can't afford a Strad then a Mercedes or Mer.II is a good choice . These instruments used to cause fights in band because everyone wanted to play them over any of the other choices. Excellent tone quality and intonation to rival many more expensive instruments."
An opinion by Mike Pawul or allexperts on 9.9/07.
" The Mercedes was made from Strad parts with a different bell and a few different extras. They play about like a modern intermediate model, but some actually play as well as the STrad. I like their sound and have one in my collection. The newer Mercedes II is a different story. Thy played about like the current TR300 and weren't close to the Strad. Look on this website for more information on Bach"
BachLoyalist.com - Home Page "
Note, I tried that site and it wasn't working. Interesting info.