I'm not afraid of China-made brass instruments as a genre- I have a Mack Brass euphonium that I've owned and played for over 10 years, and I've been absolutely satisfied with it. I've been told that Jinbao makes both Mack Brass and Schiller, and then I've been told that there are various factories in the mix for both brands; I don't think anyone really knows, besides the business owners- and they (understandably) don't divulge everything. I'm sure that some of the models are better than others.
I heard someone say that (with Jinbao), you get 75% of the horn for 25% of the money. I could live with that- I just don't want to get 25% of the horn!
I presently own and play an antique King small-bore model (.447 bore), which is essentially an elongated bass trumpet. It's perfectly playable, and I don't hate it. But I'm looking for something with a bore similar to a 3B (.500-ish). I've shopped for new and used 3B valve instruments, and they're too rich for my blood, even used.
I called Jim Laabs Music and asked some specific questions about the various models. The response I got seemed vague, and I wasn't satisfied. I asked about their return policy, and was told that I could upgrade, but that they wouldn't issue a refund. For the money involved (@ $500), I'm tempted to just roll the dice and order one, but thought I'd check with y'all first.
It appears that Wessex may be using the same factory(s) as Jim Laabs- some of the models appear identical... so input from Wessex players may be helpful too.
Of course, if anyone has a nice 3B or 2166, or even a Yamaha 354V, that they would sell reasonably, I'd be happy to talk about that too!
I play slide too- but I enjoy playing valve bone in my jazz combo.
For full disclosure- I'm a 67 year old, semi-retired guy who has been playing low brass since 1967. I owned a full-service music company, with a complete repair department, for over 15 years- I'm a music- and music business- veteran. So I'm asking for actual experience/testimonials, not a lecture! Thank you!
