The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Pocket Trumpet + Reviews
If you’re looking for the best pocket trumpet, but you don’t have a lot of time on your hands to research the market, we have prepared this short paragraph to help you make a good choice. After taking into account the value, quality, and sound quality that the top-rated models in this line offer, we have concluded that the model you should pick is the EastRock Pocket Trumpet Gold Lacquer Brass Bb. This model boasts a great sound quality, and it is perfectly suited for beginners, students, or intermediate players. The build quality is worth praising as well, seeing as this model comes with non-stick valves that offer excellent performance and a wear-resistant piston that offers superior durability. As a plus, the instrument is bundled with a 7C trumpet mouthpiece, white gloves, a cleaning cloth, a hard case, valve oil, and a strap. If our first pick is unavailable, we recommend you take the time to consider the Mendini Pocket Trumpet.
Comparison Table
Our Top Choice
It is great for beginners, students, or intermediate players, but it can be enjoyed by musicians of all skill levels. It has a durable and shiny nickel-plated construction with a standard 7C mouthpiece. What makes this model stand out is the fact that it comes bundled with extra accessories, namely gloves, a cleaning cloth, a strap, valve oil, and a hard case.
It has a good sound and tone, but it needs more air to get there. This means that for novices, it might take longer to get used to the instrument.
This affordable model is ideal for beginners, seeing as the package includes all the accessories needed to start practicing.
2nd Best
Delivered in a similar compact design, this pocket trumpet is made of high-quality materials to ensure a prolonged lifespan. It is nickel-plated and comes with a 7C mouthpiece. Mainly intended for beginners, this doesn’t mean that professional musicians cannot appreciate the qualities of this trumpet also. It is delivered with various useful accessories.
Even when constantly applying lubrication, the valves could still get stuck which isn’t a pleasant thing, especially if you are a pro.
Compact and easy to carry, this instrument allows you to travel light and enjoy the sound of a trumpet wherever you go.
Also To Consider
Specifically designed for students and beginners, this brass product from Mendini comes with an elegant black and white design. It is compact, lightweight, and quite easy to use. It is made of brass and features three mother-of-pearl buttons, a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe, as well as three valves. It comes with plenty of accessories, including gloves.
As with other similar products, some customers claimed the valves on this product consistently stick, even after you applied special oil.
Although not as accurate as a full-size trumpet, this product is fun to experiment with, so you should give it a try.
11 Best Pocket Trumpets (Reviews) in 2022
Even though we cannot choose what is best for you, we want to offer you a hand in deciding what pocket trumpet to buy. To do so, we have written some pocket trumpets reviews, featuring some of the most appreciated and widely available products.
These short descriptions take customer feedback, professional opinions, and product specifications into account, aiming to be as accurate as possible.
- 1. EastRock Pocket Trumpet Gold Lacquer Brass Bb
- 2. Mendini MPT-N Nickel Plated Bb Pocket Trumpet
- 3. Mendini MPT-BK Lacquer Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet
- 4. Dimavery TP-300 Bb Pocket Trumpet
- 5. Classic Cantabile Brass TT-500 Bb Pocket Trumpet
- 6. Sky Band Approved Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case
- 7. Merano B Flat Black Pocket Trumpet with Case Metro Tuner and Stand
- 8. Merano Blue Pocket Trumpet with Case
- 9. Kaerntner Pocket Trumpet KTR-33P/GD
- 10. Red Pocket Trumpet
- Yearly Guide & Report
- Frequently asked questions about pocket trumpets
- Best pocket trumpet brands
1. EastRock Pocket Trumpet Gold Lacquer Brass Bb
This model delivers great sound and warm tones, which makes it perfect for beginners and intermediates, and you can use it for practice, concerts, orchestras, and more. The instrument is already tuned so that you can start playing immediately without having to waste more money and time having it professionally tuned.
It comes along with a bright and shiny nickel-plated exterior that looks very good, and you have the possibility of choosing between any of the three available colors, black, blue, or gold. This way, you can customize the look of the instrument easily so that it can fit your style.
It’s not just the ease of playing that makes this model ideal for beginners, but also the fact that it comes bundled with extra accessories. Included in the package, you will find a standard 7C trumpet mouthpiece, a pair of white gloves, a cleaning cloth, a strap, valve oil, and a hard case.
Pros
The instrument comes with a wear-resistant piston that offers durability that is 3 to 5 times stronger than that of an ordinary piston.
It may be an affordable option, but EastRock has managed to deliver the same expert craftsmanship that’s found in much more expensive models.
The unit is ready to play out of the box since each product leaves the factory already tuned, and for beginners, in particular, this is a big advantage.
You get a lot of value with this purchase since, apart from the instrument itself, you also get extra accessories, including a durable hard case that will help you take the trumpet with you anywhere you go.
Cons
Some of the valves may stick, but you can use the valve oil that comes included in the package to correct them.
It is capable of delivering excellent sound and tone, but it will need more air to get there, so for newbies, it might take a while to learn how to play it properly.
Buy from Amazon.com
2. Mendini MPT-N Nickel Plated Bb Pocket Trumpet
A very good option is offered by Mendini; their pocket trumpet is made out of high-quality materials and features a compact design which does not sacrifice sound quality. The affordable price and good aesthetics make it desirable, and most customers offered positive feedback on their experience with the product.
The instrument is nickel plated and features a 7C mouthpiece. Even though it is intended to be used by beginning musicians, it is good and versatile enough to fit the needs of an advancing student who already knows the way.
It features a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe, topped with a comfortable mother of pearl inlays and smooth action valves. The compact design makes it easy to carry around and for this reason, it is favored by younger students.
Included in the package are some other useful accessories. It comes with a hard case for safe and easy transport, a chromatic tuner made by Cecilio, a bottle of valve oil, soft polishing cloth, white gloves and a foldable stand. A 1-year warranty is also issued, so this product is reliable, too.
Pros
Made out of high-quality materials and featuring a compact build, this pocket trumpet will help you practice and perform even when on the road.
The nickel-plated unit comes with a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe as well as a comfortable mother of pearl inlays and smooth action valves.
The instrument makes a great addition to a beginner’s gear yet, considering its versatility, it can also be used by more advanced students.
The compact design ensures ease of storage and transportation; therefore, if you travel a lot, rest assured that adding it to your gear won’t be difficult.
To further boost your comfort, the item is paired with a hard case to keep it safe while carrying it from one place to another or when not using it.
Cons
A few buyers say the valves might stick even after oiling, otherwise, the sound delivered is as expected.
Buy from Amazon.com
3. Mendini MPT-BK Lacquer Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet
Another great product by Mendini is their black pocket trumpet designed for beginners and students. It is compact, easy to use and affordable without compromising the sound quality or reliability in any way.
Made out of brass, it was built with attention to detail and the precision standards were set pretty high. It features three smooth action valves, a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe and 3 mother of pearl buttons that are not only good looking but also comfortable while playing.
Every instrument is tested prior to sending it towards the retailer, to make sure that the standards imposed for this category are met.
This compact trumpet is recommended by teachers for their initiate students but also for the more advanced ones. It is delivered with many useful accessories such as a plush-lined hard case, gloves, a cleaning cloth and even a specially designed chromatic tuner. Furthermore, the manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty against manufacturing problems, making the instrument a great choice for everybody.
Pros
Built with beginners and students in mind, this trumpet stands out not only through its sonic capabilities but also through stylish visuals.
The black pocket trumpet won’t just help you practice and advance your skills but will also add to your performance through remarkable aesthetics.
The unit is compact and thus ensures ease of use and transportation as well as quality materials that will keep up with extended use.
The item sports three smooth action valves, a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe and three mother of pearl buttons.
To help you carry the trumpet with ease and protect, the item is paired with a plush-lined hard case as well as other accessories such as gloves, a cleaning cloth, and a chromatic tuner.
The instrument is also available in other colors such as blue, red, and green.
Cons
The valves might stick, according to a few users, otherwise, the trumpet has been appreciated to produce a nice sound.
Buy from Amazon.com
4. Dimavery TP-300 Bb Pocket Trumpet
A pretty exotic choice is the Merano Pocket Trumpet due to its unusual coloring and finish. The compact design is a key feature for this type of musical instrument and here we have no exception, the product being small enough to be used by any beginner, no matter how young they are. It is also available for an attractive price, meaning that this item is pretty desirable.
Keeping your children interested in their music lessons is pretty important, and for the younger ones having an exotic-looking instrument will surely do the trick. This is why the striking blue coloring of this trumpet is a good idea.
However, it is not just a toy since thanks to the precision build and quality materials it sounds like a real, full-size product. Customers and instructors, as well, usually appreciate the quality of the sound and the good value for the money, while the design is more important to children.
It is also easy to use, with most buyers claiming that all they had to do before playing it was to oil and tune it. A transport bag is also included, but note that it is not a hard case and will not protect the instrument against impacts.
Pros
Boasting a color you rarely get to see when it comes to trumpets, this blue pocket instrument might be right up your alley if you want to up your performance while adding a stylish touch to it.
The compact design makes it ideal for musicians who are on the road a lot but also for young students who want to engage in frequent practice sessions without their comfort being affected.
The striking color makes it ideal to keep your young musician interested in playing this instrument but don’t be fooled that this is a toy because it works and sounds like a full-size trumpet.
The unit can be used right upon arrival as long as you oil and tune it first and can be stored and transported with ease thanks to the bag it comes with.
Cons
The case included in the package is not a hard case; therefore, it does not protect the instrument against impacts.
Buy from Amazon.com
5. Classic Cantabile Brass TT-500 Bb Pocket Trumpet
This model seeks to offer the same sound and feel of a full trumpet in a pocket-size, and this makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious beginners, students, or children and young adults. It is very easy to learn to play on this compact instrument, and you’ll be able to use your new skills to transition more easily to a full-fledged trumpet later on.
This model uses high-quality materials, and it is made of brass that allows it to achieve pleasant timbre in all registers. It features a 105mm bell diameter and a bore size of 11.7mm. With a weight of just 4.1 pounds, this is one of the lightest models you’ll find on the market.
It delivers a comfortable response and good intonation, and you won’t have to worry about durability since the impeccable finish is guaranteed to last for a very long time. The package includes a rugged hard case so that you can better protect the instrument during transport.
Pros
This unit comes with all the bells and whistles of a full-fledged trumpet but with the added benefit of being smaller, more portable, and generally more affordable.
This model is made of high-quality brass that delivers a great-looking finish and long-lasting durability so that you can enjoy playing the instrument for many years to come.
The small size of this model results in a closer winding, and this makes the unit ideal for beginners or students of all ages since the instrument delivers a comfortable response and good intonation.
The product comes with a rugged hard case included in the package so that you can keep the trumpet well protected when you’re on the road.
Cons
The valves could use some improvements since, even with good oil, they can still sometimes stick.
It is very good for beginners and intermediates, but for players with higher standards, it becomes easier to notice its shortcomings.
Buy from Amazon.com
6. Sky Band Approved Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case
Sky Music offers a great option for those who are willing to pay a little bit more for better quality and a finer, more retouched product. The stylish design, attention to details and overall solid build mean that, even though it has a higher price, the product still has excellent value for the money. It is recommended for advancing students who play in the school or college bands.
The trumpet features precise fits and perfect tubing that offers a smoother flow of air and less turbulence, significantly improving the sound quality. Phosphorus copper was used on the entire body, as seen in professional instruments, and the body has no seams.
Intended for more advanced students, it still comes with many extra accessories such as gloves and valve oil and a velvet lined carrying case, offering it protection during storage and transport.
Appreciated for its excellent sound and stylish design, this pocket trumpet is a choice worth considering especially if you want something with a very high-quality build, yet you are not willing to spend an entire fortune on it.
Pros
Boasting a solid build and a stylish design, this pocket trumpet might be of interest if you’ve already gained some experience in playing this instrument.
The attention to details, the perfect tubing, and the precise fits contribute to the quality of the sound produced as they offer a smoother flow of air and less turbulence.
The body is made from phosphorus copper, the same materials used for professional instruments, which promises to keep up with many practice sessions.
To help you transport it safely, the unit comes with a velvet-lined carrying case as well as other accessories such as a cleaning cloth, a pair of gloves, and valve oil.
Considering its size, the trumpet can easily be transported from one place to another or added to the musician’s gear.
Cons
Given its features, the instrument might fall a bit on the expensive side for some buyers.
Buy from Amazon.com
7. Merano B Flat Black Pocket Trumpet with Case Metro Tuner and Stand
A product particularly appreciated by customers is the Merano black pocket trumpet, a small and fun to play instrument that features great sound quality and build, includes a lot of extra accessories and is still available to purchase at a very attractive and affordable price.
Like many other trumpets, it is in the B flat key and features a nickel plated mouthpiece. It is made out of brass and has a black lacquered finish that looks elegant and exquisite. The sound quality is great thanks to the careful build and attention to details, while the strong and robust body and valves make it reliable and offer it a long lifetime.
What sets this offer apart from other similar ones is the huge number of accessories and extras included for free in the package. It comes with everything you need to start playing – valve oil, gloves and a cleaning cloth, and to make it more attractive, a metro tuner and music stand are also delivered with the package for free.
Pros
Appreciated by many buyers to be a reliable and durable instrument, this stylish pocket trumpet will help you explore your sonic personality and up your performance and skills.
The item is made out of brass to keep up with extended use and has a black lacquered finish that gives it a stylish and exquisite look.
The strong and robust body, the nickel-plated mouthpiece, and the quality valves will all work together to help you create a nice sound.
To enable you to use it right away, the unit comes paired with a variety of accessories including gloves, valve oil, a metro tuner, and even a stand.
Thanks to the zippered, velvet-lined carrying case, you will get to transport the trumpet easily and safely.
Cons
According to one buyer, the black finish might not look as advertised, otherwise, the trumpet works as expected.
Buy from Amazon.com
8. Merano Blue Pocket Trumpet with Case
The first thing to notice about this model is its unique colors since it comes in a deep blue indigo shade that will make you stand out in an orchestra. That’s not to say that this is everything that this unit has to offer since it also produces great sound as only a high-quality trumpet can.
The color of this model makes it an excellent purchase for younger students since it is more likely to catch their eye, and an instrument that looks and plays well delivers more excitement in playing. The instrument is lacquer plated, and the hard protective coating will safeguard the unit from scratches, dents, and other damage.
The trumpet is bundled with a nickel-plated mouthpiece. This model is great for practice but also for band and orchestra since it is very portable, and there’s no reason not to take it with you, especially since the package comes with a zippered carrying case.
Pros
The blue indigo shade of this model will quickly catch the eye of your audience, and it should not be taken as a toy instrument since it manages to produce great sounds and warm tones.
It is a good model to get for practice or travel gigs since it is relatively inexpensive and portable, especially when compared to a full-size trumpet.
The package includes a nickel-plated mouthpiece and a zippered carrying case that is lined with velvet material to keep your trumpet protected during transit.
The build quality is excellent, and the instrument looks very sturdy, especially since it boasts a protective coating designed to prevent damage and scratches.
Cons
The intonation is slightly off, but not too much that it becomes a huge problem, especially for beginners.
It doesn’t stay in tune over the full range for long, so you will need to tune it from time to time if you want to get a good sound from it.
Buy from Amazon.com
9. Kaerntner Pocket Trumpet KTR-33P/GD
This durable and high-performance trumpet is made from heavy-duty brass, and it has a very beautiful gold finish so that you can feel proud when playing it. As far as sound is concerned, this instrument is capable of producing a very bright and powerful sound with excellent vibration.
The valves operate crisply, and you can keep them in good condition for longer since the instrument is bundled with valve oil and a cleaning rod. You also get an exclusive semi-hard case that is large enough to fit the trumpet, as well as all of your other accessories and items.
While this instrument caters primarily to beginner and intermediate players, this model delivers a similar performance to a full-fledged trumpet, and as such, it is capable of doing so much more. It comes with an 11.65mm bore size and a bell size of 102mm. The valves and the mouthpiece have a stylish silver plating finish.
Pros
The beautiful gold finish, the big sound, and amazing tonal quality make the instrument stand out in both looks and sound quality.
It is small in size, and it weighs just 4.2 pounds, which makes the unit very easy to carry and friendly for musicians with small hands.
Included in the package alongside the instrument, you also get a few extra accessories, such as a semi-hard case, a mouthpiece, white gloves, valve oil, and a cleaning rod.
It can be used as a teaching instrument, and as you learn more, it can accompany you to concerts and other gigs.
Cons
The primary issue with this model is that when compared to most of the other pocket trumpets in this line, it is considerably more expensive and not a good choice for budget-conscious beginners.
The trumpet has a faint oily smell, so make sure to wash it thoroughly before you use it.
Buy from Amazon.com
10. Red Pocket Trumpet
Keeping your children interested in music can be done in a variety of ways, one of the most convenient beings to simply buy a musical instrument that is attractive and interesting in terms of looks. This is why this red lacquered finish trumpet is perfect for a young beginner, making sure that their interest will be aroused. Besides, it has a quality build and an affordable price.
The tubing was built with attention to details, with the purpose of reducing turbulence and ensuring a regular air flow, thus generating a good sound, similar to that of a real trumpet. With a nickel-plated mouthpiece, comfortable keys with a mother of pearl inlays and smooth action valves, the product are definitely great for the price.
The Merano pocket trumpet offers you all you need to start learning how to play the trumpet. It is accessible in terms of price, widely available and looks good too, besides from the features mentioned above.
Included in the package are accessories such as gloves and a polishing cloth, while the instrument itself is delivered in a hard case with plush lining.
Pros
Keeping young trumpet players interested in their music lessons is easier with this attractively-designed instrument.
The unit features a red-lacquered finish that will appeal to children and adults alike and add nice visuals to one’s practice sessions or gigs.
The instrument is not only about the cool looks, though, as it boasts quality tubing and a solid build that will help you enjoy a good sound by reducing turbulence and ensuring a regular airflow.
The unit also features comfortable keys with a mother of pearl inlays, smooth action valves, and a nickel-plated mouthpiece that will work together to boost your sonic output.
The instrument is delivered in a plush-lined hard case that protects it during transportation.
You also get a variety of accessories including a polishing cloth and a pair of gloves.
Cons
The item is designed with young players in mind; therefore, take that into account before buying.
Buy from Amazon.com
11. Prelude by Conn-Selmer Pocket
Jumping straight into the high-end league with this product intended for more advanced musicians, the trumpet features an extraordinarily high-quality build, and great sound, all in a compact design that offers the same sound like a real, full-size trumpet would give. The great value for the money makes the product desirable, in spite of the price tag.
Featuring a rose brass lead pipe, stainless steel pistons, and a Bach 7C mouthpiece, the product was designed with quality in mind, without sacrificing anything in terms of material quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
It is only 10 inches in length, but the sound is just like that of a real trumpet. It ensures smooth and quiet valve action, guaranteeing steady and non-turbulent air flow.
Delivered with a hard case, it is available in silver, black or red. The product is built to meet exigent specifications and standards, being carefully tested before leaving the factory. Quality is guaranteed, as well as prolonged lifetime, reliability and ease of use.
Pros
High-quality sounds, a compact build, and a stylish design are the first things that come to one’s mind when thinking of this pocket trumpet.
Build with advanced players in mind, this unit features a rose brass lead pipe, a Bach 7C mouthpiece, and stainless steel pistons, which will help you employ the unit for extended practice sessions without your comfort being affected.
Durability and comfort are coupled with the sound quality you’d usually expect from a full-size trumpet.
The smooth and quiet valve action ensures steady and non-turbulent airflow, which contributes to the quality sonic output ensured.
The unit is available in different colors including black, silver, and red, so you can easily find the one that best suits your preferences.
It comes with a carrying case to ensure ease of storage and transportation as well as protection.
Cons
Considering its features, this pocket trumpet is more expensive than other units in this line yet the performance delivered does not disappoint.
Buy from Amazon.com
Yearly Guide & Report
Before you start prospecting the market in search of the best pocket trumpets, you must know that there are a few factors that should be taken into consideration. It is important to know and understand them so that you will take the best decision possible. Read our buying guide to learn which of these things you have to think about are.
Quality
Mini and pocket trumpets are regarded by many as being simple toys that replicate the real-life model, being useful only in the learning process, provided that the student is a child. However, these instruments can have excellent sound quality, matching that of a normal trumpet, and their performance abilities can amaze if you give them a try.
Quality significantly influences your development as an aspiring musician and the perception of the public regarding your skills. It is important with all musical instruments but with pocket trumpets it is essential.
Basically, these are compact versions of B flat trumpets which have tightly wound tubing which allows them to retain the range of a normal instrument. Enjoyed by many as entertaining pieces, professionals can use them for warm-up or training purposes, while beginners should start their career with one.
Quality differences are extremely important though, as only the best designs successfully replicate the sound of the full-size model. Going too expensive, however, is not recommended especially when the device is offered as a gift to someone or intended to be used by your children, who might simply not like it and discard it.
Cheap models can be useless too, because of their very low quality, easily becoming detuned, having limited range or horrible intonation. These products are meant usually as toys and not as real instruments. This is why it is important to buy a quality pocket trumpet – the better it is, the more you can obtain from it and the greater the pleasure of playing it will be.
Advantages and disadvantages
There are many reasons for buying a pocket trumpet, as it comes with a number of advantages. One of these is their very low price, as proved by many reviews of pocket trumpets. They can cost significantly less than the full-size models, and even the most high-quality designs, albeit pricey, are cheaper than a decent trumpet.
This is why they are good as gifts for your children too – if they do not like learning to play one, putting it aside will not have produced a massive hole in your budget. Even though many regard them as toys, such instruments can be used by those who want to learn how to play but are constrained by the budget. Besides, it is a good starter instrument since one can decide later if it is okay to move to a standard full-size trumpet.
Easy storage and portability are other important advantages when it comes to pocket trumpets. Those who travel and want to keep practicing but do not want to carry the bigger case required by a standard trumpet can opt for its small sister since it is far more portable.
Storage is usually not a problem, but when you live in a small room, the compact design can prove helpful. Most items are delivered with waterproof, textile bags or special hard cases, making sure that it is protected against the elements and misuse not only while traveling, but also when stored.
There are also some disadvantages associated with pocket trumpets. The main problem is that many inexpensive models are extremely poor in terms of build and design, and tend to become detuned, have limited range or simply break down because the materials are too weak to resist.
Not recommended for use in orchestras or while recording, the common models are only meant as a way to make it easy learning how to play the real instrument.
Other factors to take into consideration
Budget is one of the very important factors when deciding what to buy. Most people want to get the best affordable pocket trumpet, but this depends only on their perception of which the best features are.
The increasing popularity of this device as a toy or practice instrument led to an increase in the number of different models available, so out there one will surely find something for any budget.
Brands are also important, as most of them are centered on a certain type of product – they either manufacture high quality but expensive items, or more affordable ones that sacrifice other features, to keep the price low.
There are many companies currently manufacturing these, but the best known are Merano, Mendini, Cecilio, and Stagg. However, keep an open mind as some great trumpets can be found within other companies’ catalogs.
Depending on the purpose, you can also decide what to aim for. If you want to buy your children an exotic and useful present, a cheaper pocket trumpet is recommended – you cannot know for sure whether they will like it or not, and if they get into it, once their skills have developed they can upgrade to a full-size model. A collector will opt for the more expensive models, or for those with unique particularities such as an exquisite finish, a certain type of inlay or material and other features.
After all, the best cheap pocket trumpet is the one that balances quality and affordability without sacrificing either of these two very important features. The model that best fits your needs is the one you should go for to make sure that you will not regret your choice.
Frequently asked questions about pocket trumpets
Q: Why buy a pocket trumpet?
There are many reasons for purchasing such an instrument. Pocket trumpets are rarely used by performing musicians, but they are popular as practice instruments because they are portable, cheap and the high-quality models can replicate the sound of the real life thing.
Beginners should start learning on one because it works the same way as a full-size one and they are much cheaper than a real trumpet. Portability is the reason why musicians might want one, and their unique and exotic look makes them desirable among collectors.
No matter what category of people you belong to, buying a small pocket trumpet is something you will not regret doing so.
Q: What is a pocket trumpet used for?
A pocket trumpet is a very small B-flat trumpet with a mouthpiece and bell that are equal in size with those used on their bigger cousin. With different tubing, more tightly wound in this case, they still manage to have a similar sound and feeling but are considerably smaller and shorter in length (measuring about ½ of a real trumpet).
It is used by beginners and students who want to learn to play a brass instrument, and, because it is much smaller, young children can make their first steps in the world of music with one.
Professional musicians rarely use them during performances, but to practice while traveling these are ideal, being compact and portable but still retaining the playability and sound of a trumpet. Collectors are interested in them too because of their novelty and fun look.
Q: What does a pocket trumpet sound like?
Depending on their quality, the sound can vary significantly. The best budget pocket trumpet is usually characterized by a rich and brilliant sound that some describe as high-spirited and uplifting, and is usually found in school marching bands and rarely in other genres of music.
What one should note is that some very cheap models can have poor intonation and might not efficiently cover the entire range they are supposed to, sounding detuned. The pricier models replicate the sound of a real trumpet, and stay in tune longer; besides, they cover their entire range pretty well and are rarely critiqued for lacking intonation.
Q: What pocket trumpet should I buy?
The best kind of pocket trumpet is the one that carefully balances all features, offering the best out of everything. However, if you have certain preferences, this might imply that you need to thoroughly search the market for a product that meets your expectations.
A well-balanced instrument usually has good intonation all across the range, is affordable and reliable and is accompanied by a warranty against manufacturer defects.
There are many offers available, most including a starter kit as well – it usually consists of a tuner, valve oil, gloves, cleaning cloth and a hard case for easy transport and storage – it is recommended to go for these if you have not owned a trumpet before.
Q: How to play a pocket trumpet for beginners?
Whoever has watched a trumpet player live observed that he presses or releases three valves, controlled by buttons, to play the different notes. When someone blows into the pocket trumpet, the valves direct air through small pieces of extra tubing and produce the notes. It is important to learn how to blow into one – to do this, purse your lips tightly together and let them vibrate while you blow.
The player also has to move their tongue at the same time, making it pretty tricky to master a pocket trumpet. By pressing the buttons, the valves inside the body are operated and different notes are created in this way.
Q: How much should a pocket trumpet cost?
There are many pocket trumpets for sale these days, and this variety means you can have something for any budget. The cheapest designs start at around $100, but with these, the problem might be a lack of quality or reliability.
Average products, great for beginners and students are usually available in the $120 – $200 price range, with some going perhaps a little bit higher, but usually, this is where you will find decent products, with good construction, great sound, and playability. If you want something very, very good to use while practicing or traveling, the price will surely increase, usually to the $400-$450 range.
These products are extremely well built, sounding like real trumpets and are designed for performing musicians as practice tools or as a way to carry their instrument with ease on vacation.
Best pocket trumpet brands
There are almost no instruments in the world that cannot be found in the Stagg catalogs; they manufacture a lot of different things, ranging from guitars, basses and modern effect pedals to classical instruments such as violins, trumpets, and others.
Established in 1995, the company made a name by offering affordable products that respect even the most exigent standards, and by endorsing a variety of artists who have chosen to be a part of the Stagg family. Their pocket trumpets are made out of brass and are as portable as compact as all the other similar products, yet their sound is almost as good as that of a real, full-size trumpet.
Used by musicians and students across the world, these products are known for being reliable and versatile too.
This brand belongs to Cecilio, a company that manufactures instruments commonly used in classical music. Mendini pocket trumpets are usually a little bit cheaper and are good choices for beginners and students alike, but the quality standards are pretty high and each product is usually tested twice before being finally shipped.
The brand is also approved of by teachers and course organizers since it is affordable but still the products they manufacture offer far more than enough for students or beginners.
Mendini products are widely available and can be found in a variety of places, apart from the online market or the bigger music instrument retailers.
Belonging to the upper league in terms of price and quality, Carol Brass is a manufacturer highly appreciated by teachers and professionals for their brass instruments. Recommended by many, their products are desirable thanks to the great value for the money, attention to detail and reliability.
The pocket trumpets they produce are appreciated for their versatility and great sound, obtained by using a 4.7-inch bell. They can be played almost like a full-size model, and their sound stays excellent throughout the whole range.
With 30 years of experience in the field, the brand does not compromise on quality even if the instrument is intended to be used by a beginner or child.
Cecilio is a company that manufactures classical instruments such as violins, trumpets, saxophones, and others, including pocket trumpets. Known for offering a wide variety of products that are suitable for any budget, their designs are pretty qualitative and the standards are high.
The brand offers warranties that cover manufacturing defects and has a reputation for decent customer service. Pocket trumpets manufactured by them are known for playability and are recommended not only for beginners but also for more advanced students.
The smooth action valves and comfortable buttons are other key signature elements, all intended to ensure easy playing and a great sound, that mimics that of a real-life trumpet.
As newcomers to the world of instrument manufacturing, Merano focuses on quality and excellent value, in order to build a name as one of the big players on the scene. Established in 2000, the company aims to make it possible for everyone to acquire an instrument to their liking.
The pocket trumpets are handmade and are meant to meet the highest quality standards possible while keeping the price low. Most of their products for beginners are delivered with complete sets of accessories, so one can play them immediately after unboxing, tuning and oiling them.
Customer service is also available, and most buyers appreciate their quick response and professionalism, that’s why many people looking for a pocket trumpet for sale end up trying Merano.
One of the key players in the pocket trumpet field is a brand known as Kanstul. In the years following its founding, it has contributed to the development and widespread popularity of this very useful instrument.
Fine mechanisms are incorporated in their designs, which are appreciated for their high-quality sound, reliability, and versatility. While maintaining a compact design, with brass bells of about 4.5 inches in size, they do not sacrifice anything in terms of sound or playability.
Across the whole range, the little trumpets will still retain the rich and colorful tone, sound almost like the full-size model. This is why they are so liked even by performing musicians, who need a compact and portable instrument to travel with.
Unavailable products
Stagg WS TR245 Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case
While we were doing our research, some products came up first as being better than others and offering better value for the money. The Stagg pocket trumpet is among the popular products available out there, and even though it has a higher price tag, the quality build, clear sound, and other important features make it worth the money.
Featuring stainless steel pistons and a clear-lacquered body, the trumpet is surely well built and the precision assembly makes it excellent not only for rookies but also for more advanced musicians. It is small and compact but it has an excellent sound, as most users have claimed. Attention to details and the materials used make it stay in tune, turning it into a great practice instrument.
Also included in the package is a hard case for safe and easy transport. This turns the Stagg pocket trumpet in a good alternative to a full-size trumpet, especially when it is intended for a child playing in the school band or attending music classes. Instead of having to carry the full-size thing for practice and playing purposes, they can use this instrument, much more portable and easier to use.
Pros
Boasting features that will up your sonic adventure, this trumpet is worth taking into account if what you want is a durable instrument that will help you produce a clear sound.
Whether you’re a beginner interested in frequent practice sessions or an advanced player with lots of gigs planned, rest assured that this instrument was built to last and keep up with extended use.
The clear-lacquered body and stainless steel pistons won’t just provide you with durability but also look nice and make it possible for the instrument to stay in tune for longer.
The item is compact and comes with a hard case for easy transport and storage; therefore, you can easily add it to your travel gear.
Many users have appreciated the product for producing a nice clean mellow sound.
Cons
At least one buyer says the lead pipe is a bit low compared to other trumpets, which might make it difficult bit difficult for one-hand operation.
Merano B Flat Black Pocket Trumpet with Case Mouth Piece
This is another very good option for a beginner, as it comes with many accessories and features a high-quality build without being too pricey. As with similar models, it is about half the size of a real trumpet and is meant for those who either do not want to spend too much or who are only starting to learn music.
The product is available in the black lacquered finish, offering it a cool look that will surely attract children to it. Featuring a nickel plated mouthpiece and quality valves, it offers a great sound in a compact and attractive design, while keeping the price tag low.
It is recommended to wash and oil it before first playing it because some fillings can be left inside it.
The package contains some accessories too: much-needed valve oil, a pair of gloves to prevent the marking of fingerprints, a stand, and a soft cleaning cloth. It is delivered in a velvet lined carrying case that will protect it against the elements during transport.
Pros
If you’ve just started to play the trumpet and you need an instrument that does its job well yet that won’t break your budget, this model shouldn’t be ignored.
It is ideal for beginners and those who don’t want to spend too much but who want to enjoy the sonic output of a full-size trumpet.
The unit features quality valves and a nickel-plated mouthpiece as well as quality materials that will help you use it with ease and get a nice sound.
The black finish adds a stylish touch to any musician’s gear whereas the compact design allows for easy storage and transportation.
The package includes various accessories such as valve oil, a stand, a cleaning cloth, a pair of gloves as well as a velvet-lined carrying case to store and protect the trumpet.
Cons
Although the unit comes with a variety of accessories, you should wash and oil it first before you use it.
Nasir Ali PoTr-05 Pocket Trumpet
With a classic look and sound, the Nasir Ali pocket trumpet is great for beginner to medium level students. The affordable price and availability make it a choice to consider. It has many features found on professional instruments too, and each and every product is tested to guarantee that even the most exigent standards imposed to this category are respected.
It features a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe, smooth action valves with a comfortable white mother of pearl inlaid buttons which make the item easy and pleasant to use.
The 3 valves offer great sound and can be operated by the most inexperienced students. Appreciated by teachers, all products are thoroughly tested to ensure that they meet the customers’ expectations.
To make the offer more interesting, everything you need to start playing is delivered with the trumpet and you will have to buy no other extras. A hard case, a pair of gloves, a soft cleaning cloth and enough valve oil are included, as well as a 14-month warranty against production defects.
Pros
Advancing your trumpet playing skills is easier with this instrument; it was designed for beginner to medium level students and, thus, comes with features that will ease this sonic journey.
Even if it is intended for players with little experience, the unit comes with features usually found on professional instruments so you can enjoy a high-quality sonic output.
The item boasts a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe as well as smooth action valves with a comfortable white mother of pearl inlaid buttons that will make it easy and comfortable for you to use the instrument.
To help you get started right away, the package includes various accessories and extras such as a pair of gloves, a soft cleaning cloth, valve oil, and a hard case to help you protect it during transportation.
Cons
The instrument is intended for beginners; therefore, it might not be a great choice for professional players.
Nasir Ali PoTr-05 Pocket Trumpet Bb Bronze
This cool pocket trumpet features high-quality build at an affordable price, making it perfect for the needs of an average beginner or medium level musician who does not yet want to upgrade to the full-size instrument. Thorough testing and a warranty ensure that the product will last longer and offer great results when played.
Featuring a cool looking bronze finish, the trumpet has an old-school look that might make it interesting for not so young learners, who would rather appreciate a vintage-looking instrument.
Phosphorus copper was used on the lead mouth pipe; the three valves have smooth action and the corresponding buttons are comfortable and easy to reach. The mother of pearl inlay contributes to the aesthetic value of the trumpet.
Apart from including all the accessories needed to start playing right after unboxing it, the 14-month warranty issued against defects that can be blamed on the manufacturing process further enhances its reliability. The product is a great option for those who do not want to spend a fortune on their musical instrument.
Pros
If you’re still at the beginner level when it comes to trumpet playing and you’re not ready to upgrade to the full-size instrument, this pocket instrument might be right up your alley.
Even if it is intended for an average beginner or medium-level musician, the unit boasts features that will help you enjoy the sound quality you’d expect to get from a full-size unit.
It thus has a phosphorus copper lead mouth pipe, three valves with a smooth action and comfortable corresponding buttons.
The bronze finish couples the nice sonic output the unit ensures with vintage-inspired visuals.
The instrument comes with various accessories including a bottle of valve oil, a soft cleaning cloth, a pair of white gloves as well as a quality case that ensures ease of storage and transportation.
Cons
This model was built with beginners in mind; therefore, if you are a professional musician, this unit might not be satisfying.
Bibliography:
1) Do pocket trumpets sound the same as regular trumpets?
3) Is learning how to play the trumpet hard? Is it difficult to play?
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