Bach Stradivarius trumpets are famous for their fullness of sound and projection. This is achieved by the use of one-piece construction, allowing for unrestricted vibration of the bell. The shape of the tapered surface, or rate of bell flare, determines the characteristic sound of the instrument. Bells with fast tapers produce dark, warm sounds, while slow tapers yield bright tones. Bach offers many bell options. The number designation on a Bach bell refers to the mandrel (tooling used to shape the flare) number, not to any diameter or measurement (for example, all Bb trumpet bells have the same diameter). The type and thickness of the bell material also affect the sound. Gold brass, softer and more red than the standard yellow brass due to a higher copper content (85% as opposed to 70%), results in a warm tone. Sterling Plus bells (99.9% pure silver, seamless construction) create a full complement of partials (overtones) in the tonal spectrum, for a focused sound with great projection. Lightweight bells respond quickly for a lively sound. For situations involving high dynamic levels without distortion or dark qualities, choose a heavy-weight bell (in either yellow or gold brass).
Bb Trumpet Bells:
Available in standard weight, lightweight, gold brass, heavyweight, lightweight
gold brass, heavyweight gold brass, and Sterling Plus.
37 (Standard ML bore): Rich, compact sound of great projection.
43 (Standard XL bore): Broader, brighter, more open than 37.
72 (Standard MLV bore): Strong, powerful sound, darker than 37.
25 (Standard L bore): Sharper, slightly tighter with more focused projection
than 37.
Other bells are available as special order.
