"That Benge, Once Again."
From Burbank, brought back to life by Donald Benge and Zig Kanstal: 6⭐︎Large Bore.
[Overview]
Burbank B♭ Trumpet
Bell: 122mm / 6 ☆ Yellow Brass, Lightweight
Bore: .470" / Large Bore
Finish: Silver-plated
Weight: 970g (measured)
Year of Manufacture: Circa 2000
Accessories: None / Instrument Only
*Case not included.
[Condition]
There are signs of repair from minor dents at the base of the bell, on the bell body, and on the bell flare. There are faint scuff marks and small impact marks scattered throughout the instrument, but there is no plating peeling or noticeable scratches. The screw on the stopper rod of the third slide has been replaced with a tip-lock type. The interior has been cleaned, the soft parts replaced, and the instrument has been fully serviced and adjusted.
[Features]
Burbank Trumpet is a brand launched in the mid-1980s by Donald Benge, son of founder Elden Benge, and Jig Kanstal, who was deeply involved in Benge’s manufacturing, with the aim of reviving the sound of the Benge Trumpet—a legendary instrument that remains highly regarded today.Rather than simply reviving the name, the two men—who knew the “good old days” of Benge—redesigned the instrument from scratch and created new molds, then began production at Kanstal’s factory.
This instrument features a 122mm6-star lightweight bell combined with a .470" large bore. The bell responds quickly, producing a bright and lustrous sound. While it offers the rich airflow characteristic of a large bore, it does not allow air to escape all at once—making it difficult to control—but instead responds firmly even to compact embouchures, embodying the feel characteristic of the Benge lineage.
It weighs 970g. Rather than being an extremely lightweight instrument—such as the early Burbank models that weighed under 900g—it has a moderate heft reminiscent of modern lightweight trumpets. As a result, it doesn’t rely solely on a light, nimble response; it maintains a solid core of tone from the mid to high registers, and when played with full embouchure, the sound expands with rich tonal color.6☆ Another appealing feature is its excellent balance, allowing you to enjoy the combination of a lightweight bell and large bore without feeling overly self-conscious.
While there are minor indentations from repairs and some wear marks from use on various parts of the bell, there is no noticeable plating peeling. The instrument has been cleaned internally, the soft parts replaced, and all components serviced and adjusted. Rather than strictly pursuing the essence of a vintage Benge, this instrument allows you to appreciate how Donald Benge and Jig Kanstal reimagined the “Benge character.” It is recommended for those who want to enjoy an American trumpet with a bright, lustrous, and pleasant tone.
