Best Professional Trumpets in 2024

Written by: Ian Moore
Updated:

A professional trumpet is essential for any serious player. The craftsmanship and quality of your brass instrument ensure you perform your best. The care you put into choosing a great-sounding, easy-playing trumpet represents a passion and commitment to the craft you have cultivated throughout your lifetime.

While there are trumpets for beginners and intermediates, profession-caliber options are reserved for an elite group of players. To help unite those individuals with the perfect and reliable trumpet, we have researched and analyzed the top professional trumpets.

Quick glance at the best professional trumpets:

Related: Best Trumpets For Students

Best Professional Trumpets Reviewed

Bach 180S37 Professional Trumpet - Best Overall

Bach Trumpet-Standard, Silver (180S37)

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Smooth action values
  • Highly rated sound quality
  • Well-respected brand

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23.7” x 11.2” x 9.2”
  • Weight: 10.81 lbs. (4.9 kg.)
  • Bore: .459”

The name Stradivarius carries a legacy unchallenged by other brass instrument manufacturers. The company only hires the most experienced craftsmen to design, assemble, and test Bach Stradivarius instruments. As a result of this meticulous engineering, the models, including the Stradivarius Series Bb trumpets, are prized amongst the most technically proficient trumpet players.

Bb professional trumpet comes with a one-piece #37 bell for the ultimate resonance along the length of the instrument. The silver-plated trumpet features Monel pistons for fine-tuned tolerances and smooth action. While this model doesn't have the triggers and two-piece value casings of fancier Stradivarius trumpets, it produces excellent sound quality.

The #37 standard silver Stradivarius is one of the more common options amongst professional-level players, and deservedly so. It has a traditional weight for the body and bell and a #25 standard taper lead pipe. Additionally, you receive a Bach 7C mouthpiece.

One of the unique qualities of the Bach 180S37 Stradivarius Bb professional silver trumpet is that it is handmade. These nuances will become apparent when examining the continuity of the pipes, the silver flair, or the large bore.

Yamaha YTR-2330 Professional Trumpet

Yamaha YTR-2330 Student Bb Trumpet - Gold Lacquer

Amazon 

Key Features

  • State-of-the-art craftsmanship
  • Adjustable third valve trigger
  • Natural balance and hand placement

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23.2” x 12.2” x 7.5”
  • Weight: 5.51 lbs. (2.5 kg.)
  • Bore: .459”

Trumpets may not be the first thing you think of when you hear the name Yamaha. The multinational corporation is the largest producer of pianos globally and has an extensive line of motorcycles.

Still, the company's roots in music go back generations, and the Yamaha YTR-2330 professional trumpet is no exception. The two-piece bell offers a consistent vibration and tone with each note. Its overall playability has made it one of the top professional trumpets in the world.

The thoughtfulness and consideration taken in the design phase are evident in every curve and angle of the Yamaha YTR-2330 trumpet. There are comfortable grips and an effortless balance for intuitive and skillful play. The high-quality Monel alloy pistons, buttons, and bottoms will all stand the test of time.

It also has a second and main tuning slide like its higher-end counterparts. This overall playability makes it a great choice for a professional-level player. Best of all, it comes with one of the most reasonable price tags of any option on this list.

Kaizer C-Series 3000 Professional Trumpet - Great Value

Kaizer C-Series (3000) Standard B Flat Bb Trumpet All New 2020 Model (Gold Lacquer Rose Brass)

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Very affordable
  • Five-inch bell
  • Reliable sound quality

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 7” x 6” x 5”
  • Weight: 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg.)
  • Bore: .464”

Getzen is a legacy brand in the realm of professional-level trumpets. The company has been a household name for more than 50 years. The Getzen 900S Eterna Classic came to fruition in the early 1960s, and the American jazz trumpeter Carl Doc Severinson helped popularize the model.

This classic Bb trumpet features a .460″ large bore with a standard lead pipe made of nickel silver material. The two-piece yellow brass bell is 4.75″ and delivers excellent intonation and vibration. You'll notice a fuller and richer sound, especially when playing at higher octaves.

The 900S Eterna Classic has a high-quality sound with a smooth action. Each stroke is fast, short, and effortless on top of nickel-plated valves. Even in a professional orchestra, the Getzen 900S can cut through the noise.

The long-established credibility and influence of the 900S Eterna bb trumpet are undeniable. You can compare it pound for pound against other competing brands, like Bach and Yamaha, and come away with favorable results.

Additionally, you also get valve oil and a soft cloth cover. This trumpet is a great investment.

Getzen 900S

Getzen Trumpet-Standard (900S)

Amazon 

Key Features:

  • Outstanding action
  • Valve oil and cloth
  • Full sound despite its lightweight

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 20” x 6: x 6”
  • Weight: 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg.)
  • Bore: .460”

Getzen is a legacy brand in the realm of professional-level trumpets. The company has been a household name for more than 50 years. The Getzen 900S Eterna Classic came to fruition in the early 1960s, and the American jazz trumpeter Carl Doc Severinson helped popularize the model.

This classic Bb trumpet features a .460" large bore with a standard lead pipe made of nickel silver material. The two-piece yellow brass bell is 4.75" and delivers excellent intonation and vibration. You’ll notice a fuller and richer sound, especially when playing at higher octaves.

The 900S Eterna Classic has a high-quality sound with a smooth action. Each stroke is fast, short, and effortless on top of nickel-plated valves. Even in a professional orchestra, the Getzen 900S can cut through the noise.

The long-established credibility and influence of the 900S Eterna bb trumpet are undeniable. You can compare it pound for pound against other competing brands, like Bach and Yamaha, and come away with favorable results.

Additionally, you also get valve oil and a soft cloth cover. This trumpet is a great investment.

Yamaha YTR-8335RS - Premium Choice

Yamaha YTR-8335IIRS Xeno Professional Bb Trumpet - Silver-plated with Reversed Leadpipe

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Dynamic tonal expression
  • Balanced weight and sound
  • Outstanding responsiveness

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 26.2” x 11” x 15”
  • Weight: 14.2 lbs. (6.44 kg.)
  • Bore: .459"

Endorsements for the Yamaha YTR-8335RS Xeno Series Bb Trumpet are not hard to find. The instrument is a prominent part of world-class orchestras and is similar to the Yamaha YTR-8310Z used by award-winning trumpet player Bobby Shew. Its harmonious tone delivers a bright and warm sound that functions well as a solo instrument or part of a larger composition.

The Yamaha YTR-883RS starts with a 16C4-HGP nickel-silver mouthpiece, which locks into a relatively sturdy mouthpiece receiver. Further down the instrument are hand-lapped slides and Monel pistons that are highly receptive to finger strokes. The lightweight and durable case helps optimizing player performance.

The extraordinary quality of the Yamaha TRY-883RS is possible, in large part, to the handcrafted precision during the manufacturing process. The attention to detail is evident in the double main tuning slide braces, reverse tuning slide, and hand-hammered one-piece bell. You also have the option to select between a silver or gold lacquer finish or nickel-silver plating.

The Xeno trumpet series stands out among the trumpets reviewed because of its versatility and responsive touch. It doesn't sacrifice timber or tone with its streamlined body or redesigned bell. While the price tag approaches the highest range, the Yamaha TRY-883RS is a worthy addition to the repertoire of any serious player.

Jupiter XO Series1602RS-R

Jupiter Professional XO Series Bb Trumpet with Reverse Leadpipe 1602RS-R

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Medium-large bore size
  • Highly responsive, free blowing
  • Elliptical and rounded tuning slides

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 24.76” x 8.45” x 14.96”
  • Weight: 20 lbs. (9.07 kg.)
  • Bore: .459"

Jupiter XO Series1602RS-R Series Bb Trumpet is a mouthful. Simply put, though, it is worth the investment from any professional trumpeter. It produces a deep, rich sound that delivers a high-quality experience thanks to a lightweight and smooth action spring set.

This series Bb trumpet features a .459” large bore, hand-hammered one-piece bell, and Monel piston valve. The distinguishing features, though, are the rounded and elliptical tuning slides. Each slide offers absolute precision when it comes to finding the perfect pitch during a performance.

The Jupiter XO Series 1602RS-R is also notable for its intuitive design. The thumb saddle and fixed ring for the 3rd valve slide adjustment allow you to rest your hands comfortably along the body. This positioning not only allows for immediate action but also promotes proper playing techniques.

There are no weaknesses when it comes to the Jupiter XO Series 1602RS-R. This professional model delivers high marks across the board with smooth Monel valves, impeccable sound, and outstanding versatility.

Yamaha YTR-8345 Xeno

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Key Features

  • Robust power
  • The reputation of Xeno series
  • Dynamic playability

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 27” x 9” x 8”
  • Weight: 11 lbs. (4.99 kg.)
  • Bore: .459"

Hand-hammered one-piece bell. Hand-lapped slides. A .459” large bore. There is a lot to like about the Yamaha YTR-8335S Xeno Professional Bb Trumpet. The model is part of the Xeno series (pronounced Zeno), which offers some of the smoothest resistance and airflow among leading professional trumpet brands.

This professional Bb trumpet excels when it comes to power and performance. Yamaha's lengthy history in the music industry is directly responsible for the robust tone and sound. Even when you approach peak volumes, the caliber of the notes will remain true to pitch.

The Yamaha YTR-8335S features a yellow brass bell and body, in addition to a gold brass lead pipe and a silver or gold lacquer. It also comes with a 16C4-HGP mouthpiece for the fullest possible airflow. Additionally, each Yamaha YTR-8335S has a durable wood frame with a cloth interior for the ultimate protection.

Bach AC190

Vincent Bach Trombone Cleaning and Care Product (AC190S)

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Outstanding response
  • Pure sound quality
  • Two sets of valve guides

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 24” x 13” x 9”
  • Weight: 21 lbs. (9.52 kg.)
  • Bore: .462"

The Artisan Series marks an evolution in Stradivarius craftsmanship. Conn-Selmer, the American manufacturer responsible for Stradivarius, used it as an opportunity to blend classic quality construction with the signature Bach sound. This has resulted in the creation of a classy-looking and great-sounding trumpet.

Artisan Series Stradivarius C Trumpet draws inspired from some of Bach's earliest designs. The goal is to replicate the clean and centered sound with modern craftsmanship and features. It has a .462″ large bore and a hand-hammered one-piece bell with a flat rim.

The yellow rose brass bell and body come with Monel pistons that offer smooth action and lightning-fast response times. The stainless-steel pistons are customizable for each player and provide two sets of valve guides. Additionally, the first slide split finger ring lets professional players calibrate the trumpet with the utmost precision.

The remarkable part of the Bach AC190 offers superior intonation, even compared to standard Stradivarius instruments.

Bach LR180S-43

Bach Trumpet (LR180S43)

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Smooth action
  • Versatility
  • Hand-crafted

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23.7” x 11.5” 9.3”
  • Weight: 12.35 lbs. (5.6 kg.)
  • Bore: .459"

The association with Vincent Bach should be enough for any professional level player to consider the Bach LR180S-43 Stradivarius Professional Bb Trumpet. While the name is cumbersome, the action and performance are not. It seamlessly integrates the essential features you need to deliver timeless Bach sound.

This professional trumpet has a .459” medium-large bore along with Monel values and a 25LR reverse lead pipe. These components provide the means for well-centered tones, regardless of where the note falls in pitch. Note that Bach trumpets also come with a 3rd valve slide ring and 1st valve slide hook.

The silver-plated Bach LR180S-43 is handcrafted, which allows for a distinct flow and continuity, even among the same models. Bach only allows the most proficient technicians to handle these professional trumpets during production to ensure high-quality performance.

Kaizer TRP-2000QRC

Blessing BTRML1 Artist Series Professional Trumpet, Lacquered Brass

Amazon 

Key Features

  • Lightweight without sacrificing performance
  • Viable for concert and stage venues
  • Reasonable price tag

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 22” x 5” x 7”
  • Weight: 3 lbs. (1.36 kg.)
  • Bore: .460"

Don't let this trumpet's affordable price tag fool you. As far as cheap professional trumpets go, the Kaizer TRP-2000LQRC 2000 Series Doubled Braced B Flat Bb Trumpet – Gold Artist Series Professional Trumpet is a worthy purchase for any professional level player.

It is the brainchild of three popular professional players: Robert Dorer, Dominick Farinacci, and Buff Dillard. These trumpeters consulted with Blessing when designing the BTR-ML for maximum versatility and functionality; needless to say, this trumpet has no shortage of positive reviews. The company also uses mouthpieces from Terry Warburton and Lausmann to deliver high-quality sound.

This Artist Series trumpet features a .460” medium-large bore with a bell that measures 4 7/8” inches. You will also find all the components you know and love, including Monel pistons, a third valve stop, a first valve thumb hook, and a double-tuning slide brace. It's is only appropriate that one of the gold standards in the industry also comes with gold lacquer, as well.

How to Choose The Best Professional Trumpet – 5 Key Considerations

two men playing the trumpets

Company Reputation

Many of the options in this professional trumpet review are here, in part, because of stellar reputations. While this reason should not be the only factor in your purchasing decision, it is worth consideration. An outstanding reputation requires decades of patience and performance to earn the trust of players and retailers across the world.

Stradivarius is notable for its association with superior sound. While the Stradivarius violin is the most famous example, the company's trumpets are no slouch. Examples of other high-end brands include Yamaha, Getzen, and Jean-Paul.

Valve Action

You can have the best trumpet in the world, but it won't matter if the valve action is sluggish or sticky. Each stroke should be agile and responsive. The goal is to shape notes dexterously with rapid finger action and minimal effort.

Nickel-plated valves are a worthwhile investment, too, as the metal is durable and requires infrequent cleaning. The best trumpets, though, typically use a Monel alloy. This metal is a mixture that is primary nickel and copper and is resistant to corrosion.

Trumpet Tuning

You also need accurate tuning to ensure your skill level matches your performance. Tuning slides come in a variety of shapes and sizes. For instance, Jupiter offers rounded and elliptical tuning slides, while Bach trumpets have them linked with the 1st and 3rd valves.

You should also consider whether to purchase a Bb or C trumpet. The Bb models are known for a warm sound that pairs well with ensembles. While the Bb is more popular, the C trumpet may be a better fit for professional-level players who would like a higher tone and smaller body.

Trumpet Accessories

Mouthpieces. Mutes. Cases. These are a few of the accessories that you can add to your pride and joy. Depending on your style and preferences, you can make your performances higher quality or more manageable. However, the bottom line is that these accessories should never take away from the playability or caliber of the sound.

Trumpet Finish

Believe it or not, the exterior coating on a trumpet affects its performance and sound. Clear lacquer finishes are standard, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or professional player. There are also silver-plated options, which are thinner and let the metal produce more vibrations. Additionally, many professionals opt for gold-plating as a way to darken the overall tone of the instrument.

How to Tell If a Trumpet Is Professional or Not Before Purchasing

Tone and intonation are distinguishing features of professional trumpets. The reason professional trumpets cost so much more is their unparalleled sound. You are more likely to recognize the differences in timber the longer you play.

Trumpets for students are often affordable and come with reinforced durability. Manufacturers design them for ease of play, though the sound may be thin and relatively sporadic. Additionally, the small-bore on beginner trumpets make it simpler to get a full sound without exerting too much effort.

What Can You Expect to Pay for a Top Professional Trumpet?

a man playing the trumpet with his hands

Many professional trumpets cost upwards of $4,000. While some makes and models are only a couple of hundred dollars, a trumpet should be considered a significant investment.

Generally speaking, higher price tags come with the highest possible technical precision. Take the Bach 180S37 professional trumpet, for instance. Workers hammer the bells by hand and fit the pistons on manually. This intricate attention to detail produces a sound and model that assembly-line techniques can't match.

Are There Cheap Professional Trumpets Available on the Market?

The short answer is no. When playing the best professional trumpets, a corresponding price tag reflects the high quality you'd expect from an instrument fit for a pro. The same applies regardless of whether you are looking at professional-grade trombones, clarinets, flutes, saxophones, percussions, or string instruments.

Whether purchasing a Bach Stradivarius or Yamaha YTR 8335RS, you can expect to pay a few hundred or a few thousand dollars. That price tag returns top-end craftsmanship and performance when it comes to airflow, rich tone, vibrations, and quality materials. All these aspects make the investment well worth the price point.

This isn't to say that price is indicative of quality, though. There are options in our reviews under $500, such as the Kaizer C-Series (3000), but like all musical instruments, the price factors into the features offered, the materials used, and the instrument's craftsmanship overall. Brand recognition also plays a role in some cases.

Overall, two adages hold you get what you pay for, and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Written By:
Having been a musician for over 20 years and teaching for over 10, Ian plays the trumpet, trombone, and tuba. His other hobbies include skiing and woodworking.

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