pBone for those jazzy bits

[samopn]

Hiya,

I have a Bach 42b that I use as my "general pupose" bone but find it a bit too "heavy" for high jazzy bits and solos etc.

I'm thinking of getting a pBone when high and bright is called for.


Opinions?

[harrisonreed]

Unfortunately, the pBone is at its worst in the upper register -- they tend to go very flat above F4. pBone slides are also very scratchy and the brass stockings don't last.

The pBone does have a decent sound. But that's about it.

[BGuttman]

You should be able to find a nice used straight tenor for the price of a new pBone which will work better. I used a Martin Imperial from 1945 for those parts (until I got a nice Holton Stratodyne). I would pair the horn with a Bach 4C mouthpiece which was reasonably close to the Bach 4G I was using on my symphonic horn at the time.

I've gotten soured on the plastic trombones since the one I have wore out the inner slide with heavy use. I like the plastic for outdoor concerts and when a brightly colored instrument is appropriate (particularly Christmas concerts).

[samopn]

Thanks guys

Good points. I guess I was taken in by the hype of everyone saying how good they were...

You're right. Here in the uk there's currently a couple of old student 'bones on eBay for around half the price of a new pBone. Not such exciting colours, thogh

[JohnL]

You're right. Here in the uk there's currently a couple of old student 'bones on eBay for around half the price of a new pBone. Not such exciting colours, thogh

With the money you save, you can buy a can of spray paint.

[samopn]

With the money you save, you can buy a can of spray paint.

[samopn]

I'm now looking for an old el-cheapo 'bone for when I need the bright high bits.

I've seen a Lafleur Zenith that seems to fit the bill. Anyone know anything about these? I've never heard of thr make

[blast]

Dreadful thing...keep looking.

[samopn]

Haha... ok.

[VJOFan]

PBones are toys really. I have a beautiful red one that I o got to do fun seasonal skits. I got one when they were under $200 Canadian which was a reasonable price.

If you want a horn for jazz or any other brighter playing where you care about the product you’re putting out, buy the best horn you can afford. It will be way more fun for you and the audience.