FlugelNoob

What exactly do they mean by a custom trumpet?
Does it mean you provide most of the specs, and they try their best to create the most useable, quality trumpet as close as possible to the given specs?

I was wondering about using the vertical valves from a flugelhorn and incoporating it into a regular Bb. And adding more valves, like 5 in tubas! That would make it interesting, but would cost a bomb wouldn't it?

Anyway, just wanted to find out if you order a custom trumpet, is it really worth the extra money being forked out or one would be better off getting a horn off the main manufacturing series.

Anyone with experiences with custom trumpets, please do share.

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Instruments:
Only a measly recorder and children's keyboard!
Hoping to get a brass instrument soon.

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mchs3d

Well, I have a custom C Trumpet, made by a guy named Thomas. I think it's the second one he made, because the serial number is 2. Basically, it's your typical trumpet with some tweaks here and there. A custom trumpet can be made directly from communication between the purchaser and manufacturer, such as in the case of Monette trumpets. However, I think that most "customs" are based off of a very specific design, with minute changes here and there.

As far as using valves from a flugelhorn into a Bb, I think it's safe to say that simply won't work. First off, flugelhorns have a different bore size, which means the bore of a flugel valve port will not line up with the bore of a trumpet slide. Also, every instrument has a very different construction, and if you try to mix and match valves, you'll probably end up with a valve that doesn't align properly. The ports have to line up exactly, otherwise the sound is interrupted. Just like you can't interchange Bach and Yamaha trumpet valves, you can't interchange flugelhorn or trumpet valves.

More valves are definitely a possibility, and in fact, I think there are some old Couesnon trumpets that had an ascending 5th valve. There really is no reason to do this, however, and most manufacturers would charge an arm and a leg for it, if they were willing to do it in the first place.

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Now... who in their right mind doesn't want a $3000 trumpet for free?

miles71

I have a custom Bb and my experience was talking with the designer at length about what I wanted, Him telling me what he thought, and then having it built. Felix of the NYTC was great to work with, he was very honest about some of my ideas. He was able to say "yeah I tried that and this happened".

Also, I was able to play the finished product for a while and then send it back for adjustments or changes. I dont think a good maker will let you just experiement, they will aim you in the direction you need to go. I think it is worth the money if you get what you want.

I am very happy with my horn and the experience.

TD

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NYTC Stage 1 Endorsing Artist
www.domenicomusic.com

Darthsunshine

"Custom" is a word that covers a whole lot of things. Having a manufacturer do anything out of the usual would be custom, ranging from very small things, to providing special specs for the whole horn. Then there's the sort of custom horn that is after-market modified, like my 1959 Ambassador with the Getzen Eterna bell and a first valve slide saddle. However, I'm not sure what your project would be called. Maybe crazy? And yes, you would drop a lot of money, only to have a horn that could not be played in a normal horn section. However, if you've got the dough and simply wish to amuse yourself, knock yourself out.

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Glen Ferguson

1977 LA Benge 3C
1976 LA Benge 3X+
1973 LA Benge 5x
1963 Burbank Benge Eb/D
1959 Olds Amb. cornet w/ Getzen shep crook bell