The Best Trumpet Brands | Top Reviews

There is a theory that the guy playing the trumpet or trombone is always the coolest person in the room. While this may not be scientifically proven—or disproven— the fact remains that choosing the best trumpet is a vital part of not only playing and proficiency but your very identity as a musician.

It says a lot about what you prioritize, your preferred style, and the player you wish to evolve into. To help you on this journey, we have compiled the very best trumpet brands on the market, providing you with the tools you need to take your skills to the next level.

Our Top Pick

If you don’t have time to hang around for the final verdict, our top pick was the Mendini by Cecilio MTT-L Trumpet as it is an attractive model that is perfect for students and intermediate players alike— and comes in at an affordable price. We’ve reviewed it first below for your convenience.

Reviews from the Best Trumpet Brands

Last update on 2024-03-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mendini by Cecilio MTT-L Trumpet

Cecilio has established an excellent reputation as one of the best trumpet brands, and they are particularly suitable for beginners. This Mendini piece is no exception and offers durability and great sound for even the most amateur of players.

Key Features

  • Gold – lacquered finish
  • 46-inch bore
  • 5-inch bell
  • One-year warranty as standard
  • 1st and 3rd valve slides
  • Mother-of-pearl tops for action valves
  • Includes carry case, gloves, and accessories

What I Like

This instrument is stunning and allows for fantastic sound quality at an affordable price. It is targeted at students, but the whole package would also be suitable for more experienced players who are perhaps looking for a spare instrument.

What I Don’t Like

The valves and keys do tend to stick a little after extended playing, but regular care and maintenance can prevent this from becoming a significant issue.

Pros

  • Outstanding offering from a respected brand
  • Mother-of-pearl accents add a touch of class
  • An affordable choice for students
  • Comes with all necessary accessories

Cons

  • Valves can be tricky to use and tend to stick

As our top pick for the very best trumpet, the Mendini trumpet ticks all the boxes you need. Whether you are a beginner just finding your feet or a more experienced player looking for something different, this is a safe choice from a well-respected brand. The finish is attractive, and the sound quality on a par with more expensive options available on the market.

Overall Rating: 10/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Jean Paul TR-330 Student Trumpet

Jean Paul trumpets are something of a hidden secret within the market, but they are well worth knowing about! Their pieces are classic and elegant, perfect for players of all stages, and an excellent incentive for students to practice their instrument.

Key Features

  • Constructed from rose brass
  • Gold lacquer finish
  • Includes strong carry case to protect the instrument
  • Larger bore makes this perfect for beginners
  • One-year warranty
  • Standard taper lead pipe
  • Includes valve oil, gloves, and mouthpiece

What I Like

The sound produced by this trumpet is clean, bright, and sweet. It is a solid investment for players of any level. This brand also stands out thanks to its excellent customer service and attention to detail—a real bonus when purchasing.

What I Don’t Like

The valves are quite stiff and hard to manipulate when you first start playing, though this is something which should loosen up and improve over time.

Pros

  • Ideal for beginners thanks to the larger bore size
  • Includes a one-year warranty as standard
  • Stunning gold finish
  • A well-respected brand

Cons

  • Valves are very stiff, and this could be tricky for new players with less strength

Jean Paul is a respected name in the industry, and this model is no exception to their solid reputation. The larger bore size makes this is a perfect pick for new players and a fantastic way for them to develop skills and confidence before moving onto a more complex and expensive instrument in due course. For quality and style, this is an ideal pick for any player.

Overall Rating: 10/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Glory Brass Bb Trumpet with Case and Accessories

Another dark horse, this Glory Brass trumpet has everything a beginner needs to get started in style, and the brand is known for producing good-quality options at all levels.

Key Features

  • Made from solid brass
  • Key is Bb
  • An excellent choice for students and beginners
  • Silver-plated mouthpiece included
  • Comes with hard case
  • Variety of color choices
  • Includes lots of accessories

What I Like

If you are just starting on your trumpet-playing journey, this is an affordable instrument which offers decent quality sound in an attractive casing. It is an excellent choice for those who do not want to commit to a more expensive instrument or are playing as an occasional hobby.

What I Don’t Like

The main problem with this piece is that there are other products at a similar price, and they can offer better quality. It is ok for newbies, but those with a little experience should look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Solid brass construction for durability
  • Ready tunes
  • Variety of colors to choose from
  • Ideal beginner’s choice

Cons

  • Doesn’t stack up well compared to other products in the same price range
  • Looks and feels quite cheap

There is no doubt that this is an excellent choice for beginners, students, and those who are looking for a casual instrument to play as an additional hobby. The solid construction offers extraordinary value, and the variety of color choices add an element of fun to the whole process. For more experienced players or those looking for something higher quality, however, there are better choices available.

Overall Rating: 7/10

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kux-Y_Q72qo

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Getzen 590S-S Trumpet

Getzen has a strong history and reputation as one of the best trumpet brands for both students and experienced players alike, and this offering is no different. It offers outstanding quality, timeless elegance, and an impressive sound.

Key Features

  • Little to no air resistance makes playing easier
  • 460-inch bore size
  • 74-inch bell
  • Water keys have few moving parts
  • Option to add a customer etching
  • Includes lifetime warranty
  • Adjustable third slide ring
  • High-quality slide action

What I Like

Getzen has once again earned their stellar reputation in the trumpet world with this offering. It is a perfect choice for those who need a spare trumpet, such as gigging or traveling musicians and is a simple yet practical choice.

What I Don’t Like

Some musicians may be put off by the super sleek and simple appearance—this doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other brands. This aspect has no impact on the great sound through.

Pros

  • Very easy to play thanks to the reduced air resistance
  • Few moving parts in the water keys – less wear and tear means less maintenance is required
  • Lifetime warranty for peace of mind
  • Durable and sturdy

Cons

  • Very simple and basic appearance may be a turn-off for players who like a bit of decoration

Simple, basic, and tuneful, this is an instrument which achieves the task it sets out for very well. The sound is clear and pleasant, the design basic and functional, and the price affordable. Overall, this is a high-quality product ideal for players at any stage.

Overall Rating: 9/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

YAMAHA YTR 2330 Student Bb Trumpet

Yamaha has a solid history as one of the best brands for student instruments across the board, and this piece is no exception. With a stylish gold finish and everything you need to get started, Yamaha shows yet again why beginners continue to flock to them.

Key Features

  • Monel valves and pistons
  • 459-inch bore
  • Includes gold lacquer finish
  • Comes with a hard case for protection
  • Mouthpiece included
  • Cleaning kit and accessories included

What I Like

As with all Yamaha offerings, you can guarantee a well-made and superior-quality instrument, and this offering ticks every box. The trumpet is easy to use, simply designed and does everything you need at every level of play.

What I Don’t Like

Unlike some other instruments, there is no warranty included on this product, and this may make buyers a little uneasy when others offer such good lifetime deals.

Pros

  • A well respected and trusted brand
  • Very simple and easy to use
  • Already set up and ready to play straight away
  • Gold lacquer finish for added sophistication
  • Accessories included as standard
  • Comes with a mouthpiece

Cons

  • No warranty included – this is disappointing compared to other competitors
  • Rather basic compared to other offerings in the brand

Yamaha is famous for their high-quality student instruments, and this is an excellent addition to that range. Despite lacking some of the bells and whistles of other products, it does the job very well and offers high-quality sound in exchange for a reasonable price tag. Definitely a worthwhile student investment.

Overall Rating: 9/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Kaizer Student Trumpet Standard B Flat Bb – Purple

What Kaizer lacks in a recognizable name, they make up for in style with this unique purple-finished trumpet. Ideal for beginners or those looking to rebuild their skills after time away, this fun finish adds a whole new angle to learning to play the trumpet!

Key Features

  • Adjustable 3rd-slide valve
  • Constructed from high-quality yellow brass
  • Unique purple lacquer finish
  • Medium-to-large bore and 5-inch bell
  • Easy to grip
  • Maximum intonation control
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Range of color options

What I Like

One of the best things about Kaizer is their superb customer service. Despite their relative obscurity compared to some of the larger names, they offer fast and efficient service, which is a real benefit to their brand. The trumpet itself is also superior quality, and perfect for students and beginners.

What I Don’t Like

The valves tend to stick, and the nickel plating is quite cheap and wears and chips quickly. This model is definitely a budget option, and the quality shows it.

Pros

  • Adjustable and versatile to put the player in control
  • Very easy to grip – great for beginners
  • Very high levels of customer service at every stage
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty
  • High-quality yellow brass materials for solid construction and an attractive finish
  • Medium-large bore
  • Great purple finish will definitely attract attention

Cons

  • Nickel plating is cheap and chips easily
  • Values stick quite often

Considering the price, this is a surprisingly decent quality product which offers fantastic sound quality and unique aesthetic. Ideal for beginners who are unwilling to spend a fortune, it does provide great value.

Overall Rating: 8/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

TIC New York HTR200 Bb Trumpet

This trumpet is a versatile option and can be used by total newbies, or professionals just getting started on the gig scene. With a simple and clean appearance, a clear, smooth sound, and excellent durability, this is a popular choice amongst many players.

Key Features

  • Rose brass lead pipe
  • Adjustable 3rd – slide ring
  • Stainless steel valves
  • two water keys
  • Includes a stunning wooden carry case
  • 7C mouthpiece included
  • Key is Bb

What I Like

This is a good quality, simple instrument which seems to wear well and produce a good-quality sound. The standard is such that it would be suitable for gigging musicians as well as new students, and there are no surprises or extras to cause trouble.

What I Don’t Like

For some players, this may be too simple, and you may prefer to spend a little more money for something more substantial and high quality.

Pros

  • Versatile and flexible sound
  • Can be used by everyone from beginners to pros
  • Comes with a stunning wooden case
  • Comes ready tuned to Bb
  • Great value

Cons

  • Not really suitable for those looking for a top-quality instrument
  • Does tend to look slightly cheaper than alternatives
  • The mouthpiece is low quality

For students, gigging musicians, and those who don’t want a huge investment, this could be the ideal option. The finish is good quality, and the sound is consistently accurate and pure, and it is an affordable yet effective instrument for anyone looking to break into the world of trumpet ownership.

Overall Rating: 8/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

D’Luca 500L 500 Series Brass Standard Bb Trumpet

One of the best selling points of D’Luca is that they include a one-year warranty as standard with all their instruments, and this offers great peace of mind to new players and seasoned pros alike. The great quality of their instruments, however, hopefully, means you will never have to cash in on this!

Key Features

  • Stunning gold color
  • Range of other color options available
  • Includes 7C mouthpiece
  • Comes with cleaning kit and gloves
  • Includes a professional – standard case, including backpack straps
  • Constructed from brass
  • Key is Bb
  • 84-inch bell and 0.46-inch bore
  • Mother-of-pearl key inlays

What I Like

This is a very well-built instrument with responsive valves and a clear sound. The fingering is clear and perfect for those who are learning, and the whole thing is set in an attractive casing which looks far more expensive than it is.

What I Don’t Like

The mouthpiece on this trumpet is a little small, and slightly poor quality compared to other instruments in the price range.

Pros

  • Stunning overall design and appearance
  • Brass material for durability
  • The case has backpack straps for convenience and portability
  • Comes with everything you need to get started straight away
  • Comes ready tuned

Cons

  • The mouthpiece is quite small and uncomfortable, and poor quality, so you may have to upgrade to another brand.

This D’Luca trumpet is a gorgeous instrument, which has both close attention to detail and a rich, sweet sound in its favor. A great choice for players of all levels, the carry case is a massive bonus point when it comes to this product.

Overall Rating: 9/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Merano B003S1BBFQ Blue Pocket Trumpet

Another quirky appearance here, but Merano has long proven that their trumpets are far from style over substance. As well as the unique blue coloring, this pocket trumpet is also a great option for those looking for a smaller version of their favorite instrument, whether for personal preference or play on the go.

Key Features

  • Vivid blue lacquer color for a quirky finish
  • Pocket-sized – easy to transport
  • Key is B flat
  • Nickel-plated mouthpiece
  • Comes with velvet-lined carry case

What I Like

The fun color and pocket-sized nature of this piece were instant appeals for me, and I am glad to report that this is a good quality instrument with a decent sound—perfect for more casual players or those looking for a little bit of fun.

What I Don’t Like

This trumpet doesn’t tend to stay in tune very easily, and the quality definitely reflects the low price you pay.

Pros

  • Bold, vivid color will stand out from the crowd
  • Small size – very portable and easy to transport
  • Good, clear sound
  • Comes already tuned to a B flat key
  • Ideal for casual playing, or those looking to try out a smaller trumpet

Cons

  • Challenging to tune, and fails to hold its tune effectively

This Merano pocket trumpet is fun. It is small, sweet, colorful, and sure to be a talking point whenever you perform. It lacks the high quality of some more expensive models but is nonetheless a quirky and decent instrument which will make your playing that little more enjoyable.

Overall rating: 8/10

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Trumpet Buying Guide

Trying to find the best trumpet can be a tricky process, and it is a good idea to do as much research as possible before you commit.

Types of trumpets

By far, the most common types of trumpets are Bb trumpets, and it is easy to see why once you have heard them. They offer a warm tone, which provides a nice and natural blend with ensembles. As a result of this versatility, Bb trumpets are used across all music types, from jazz to classical.

Beginners and student usually start with a Bb trumpet—most music suits this type, and many starter trumpets are durable and affordable for those just getting started. They also offer features such as smaller bores, which make it easier to get a sound out without passing out from the effort!

For intermediate players, trumpets move up a level. Instruments designed for these players add in more advanced features to allow musicians to stretch and challenge their abilities. The sound is usually richer in tone and offers more complex tunes and options.

At the very top end are professional level trumpets, and these use the finest materials available for top-quality sound. The craftsmanship is usually very high-level and designed to be used in top-level performances and productions.

Marching trumpets

A more unusual option is a marching trumpet. Rather than being marketed at a particular level, these are specifically designed for the needs of marching bands. With this in mind, they tend to be more durable to sustain the rapid movement and potential knocking against other instruments. They also usually include larger and dynamically positioned bells to boost protection. They are made for quick movement and designed accordingly.

Bass trumpets

Bass trumpets are also unusual and are pitched at the same pitch as a trombone. They are usually tuned to C or Bb and sound an octave lower than it is written. A bass trumpet can be a wonderful challenge for slide trombone players looking to expand their skills elsewhere and adds a unique sound to any orchestra.

C trumpets

C trumpets are another option that is growing in popularity, particularly in larger orchestras. Tuned an octave higher than Bb trumpets, these tend to be slightly smaller and offer a lively and bright tone.

If C isn’t quite high enough, you can also try out an E trumpet. These are useful in pieces and compositions which require a higher tuning for accuracy and more natural fingering and can add something very unique to an ensemble.

Piccolo trumpet

Higher pitches can also be explored and practiced with a piccolo trumpet. Common in Bach pieces, and a range of baroque music, these are tuned to an octave above the standard Bb trumpet and will usually include an additional lead pipe.

This means the player has the option to tune down to an A, while a fourth valve extends the range of the trumpet down a perfect fourth. The piccolo is highly versatile, and a fun challenge for musicians looking to expand their skill set.

Picking the right type of trumpet depends a lot on your level and skill set, as well as your aspirations. There is little point in trying out a piccolo if you haven’t yet mastered the basics of a Bb trumpet, but there is also no sense in staying stuck on one type once you are a pro. Look at your own needs and preferences, and consider the direction you would like your skills to take. The trumpet world is varied, and you may surprise yourself at what you choose!

New or Used?

Once you settle on a type of trumpet, the next thing you need to decide is whether you want to buy new or used.

Used trumpets are often cheaper, and sometimes more durable, but be wary of stolen instruments or those that may be damaged. Always have the instrument inspected by a professional before you commit to ensure you’re getting your monies worth.

New, on the other hand, often includes some form of warranty and may even come bundled with accessories. Be sure to compare the cost savings of buying used and purchasing accessories separate, and new as a package deal. Bundles aren’t always cheapest, and sometimes the accessories included are low quality.

Final Thoughts

Our top pick when it comes to trumpet brands was the Mendini by Cecilio MTT-L Trumpet. This is a quality instrument from a respected brand and combines an elegant and attractive appearance with good quality sound.

The one-year warranty means you can make your purchase with the peace of mind that you are protected if anything goes wrong and is a testament to the confidence the brand has in their products.

Perfect for players of all abilities—from newbies to pros—this is a versatile and all-around great choice for musicians and will provide an excellent introduction into the instrument for those exploring the trumpet for the first time.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top