trumpetup

I found a 1951 LA Olds Ambassador trumpet (SL #66151) at a pawn shop. I haven't decided if I will buy it. They are asking $170.00 for it. It plays well up high but weak down low. The 3rd valve didn't seem to have good compression when I pulled out the 3rd slide. The piston looks to have some wear also. Does anyone know how much it cost to have a valve replated? I called a local repair shop. He said he would check on prices but it will cost more than the trumpet is worth. I've heard these play as well as some pro or intermediate horns. I don't mind investing $300.00 to have a great playing trumpet. But in reality it will still be a student model. I don't have much experiance playing a pro horn so I can't compare. Thanks

Dale Proctor

If you want an Ambassador, look for a better one. A symptom of leaky valves is a poor lower range, as you have discovered. Valve rebuilds usually cost close to $100 per valve.

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Olde Towne Brass
www.otbrass.com

Brass Band of Huntsville

"Brass bands are all very well in their place - outdoors and several miles away ." - Sir Thomas Beecham

Darthsunshine

At that price Dale's right (Isn't Dale always right?). However, if it was me, I would be willing to pay up to $50 with the understanding that I'd need to get the valves re-done... but only if the rest of the horn was in good shape: Slides, no bad dents, etc. (They all have lousy lacquer, so that's not an issue for me). They may not sell it for that, but that's what I'd pay.

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Glen

trumpetup

Thanks for the advice. I don't think Dale is an Ambassador fan, but yes he is right. I always value his opinion.

Dale Proctor

I'm not an Ambassador fan when they're touted as being as good as a pro horn, but they are good, solid horns and there's nothing wrong with owning/playing one. I tried to be objective in my advice - there are so many Ambassadors out there, you should be able to find a really nice one (other than the lacquer) for that price or less. I'm talking great valves, few if any dents, unmolested. I'd never buy a horn that a valve job + selling price = substantially more than the horn's worth. In the case of an Ambassador, a free one wouldn't be worth spending $300 on a valve job....

__________________
Olde Towne Brass
www.otbrass.com

Brass Band of Huntsville

"Brass bands are all very well in their place - outdoors and several miles away ." - Sir Thomas Beecham