<p>I’ve just renewed my son’s trumpet rental for another year, but asked to exchange his current trumpet for another one. I asked for a Bach TR-300, having heard that this was a good one. They told me that they didn’t have that model available at the moment, but they could give us a Bach TR-1530, which they said is even better. The alternative would be to wait a few weeks and get the TR-300. I know nothing about music or instruments, so I come here, knowing that within a few hours I will have expert opinion.</p>
<p>Post in the music forum - there are several trumpet moms there (such as Thumper1 - can PM her instead.) </p>
<p>The tricky thing about brass instruments is that they are individual. Bach is a well-known brand. You could ask to try it, and return it if it doesn’t do what you want. That is very common.</p>
<p>My S is currently trying out a horn. He will have it for a few weeks before he makes a final decision. Only way to know for sure.</p>
<p>Does your rental policy have a rent-to-own clause that puts your rent toward purchase? If not, you might want to consider how much you are paying, and what the cost of buying might be. If you are renting throughout middle school, for example, you may come close to the purchase price of a good used instrument. Lots of places to buy used instruments. New ones as well (such as woodwindbrasswind.com ). The local music store is often the most expensive place to buy from.</p>
<p>I agree about the advantages of buying a used instrument. It is costing just over $100/year to rent. My son is only 9, so I am reluctant to buy even a used trumpet now. But if he is still playing in a year, I will do so.</p>
<p>I’ll ask about the rent-to-buy option. Thanks for the suggestion.</p>
<p>When the time comes to buy, you might also want to ask your S’s music teacher if he/she has any suggestions on where to buy used. My D’s school music instructor recommended a private teacher who, as a side hobby, buys and reconditions used brass instruments. It was great to be able to buy used from a trustworthy source rather than taking my chances on ebay or craigslist.</p>
<p>I’m not sure what kind of trumpet my daughter has but the music teacher and district had a great relationship with the music store. The teacher went to the music store and “tried out” the trumpets on the floor and gave his “OK” to 3 of them. It’s not just the model, make, and number that matters because each one is made individually.</p>