AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bb Trumpets for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is B&S 3137-S Challenger I Series Bb Trumpet ($1,785). Yamaha YTR-2330 Standard Trumpet gives you the most for the money at $668. Adams A1 Brass 050 Selected V2 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 164 models across 23 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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B&
S 3137-S Challenger I Series Bb Trumpet 3137-L Challenger I L · B&S
23 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Challenger I L is a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a reliable, well-built Bb trumpet with a warm, projecting tone. It’s a step up from student models, offering professional-level response and intonation without the premium price tag of top-tier instruments – a solid all-around performer.
Pros
- Excellent intonation across the entire range, a hallmark of B&S trumpets.
- Monel valves provide exceptionally fast and reliable action.
- The medium-large bore delivers a full, resonant tone ideal for diverse genres.
Cons
- The heavier bell may fatigue players during extended practice sessions.
- The ICON 7C mouthpiece, while decent, might be limiting for advanced players.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,785 now$1,785€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YTR-4335GII Intermediate Trumpet
YTR-4335 GII Trumpet + SB7J · Yamaha
9 for sale on Reverb7 finishes at Thomann
The YTR-4335 GII is a fantastic step-up trumpet for serious students and intermediate players. The gold brass construction and carefully designed bore/bell combo give it a professional sound and feel, while the included Silent Brass system provides invaluable practice flexibility. It's a versatile instrument that balances quality and affordability well.
Pros
- Gold brass body provides a warm, responsive tone with excellent projection.
- ML-bore and modified bell design offer improved intonation and a focused sound.
- Monel valves ensure smooth, reliable action and longevity – a noticeable upgrade.
Cons
- The 1.09 kg weight can be tiring for younger or smaller players during extended practice.
- Gold lacquer finish requires diligent care to prevent tarnish and maintain appearance.
62AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,104 · Aug 17$1,081 now$1,081€968 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
B&
S 3137-S Challenger I Series Bb Trumpet 3137 G-L Challenger I GM · B&S
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This B&S Challenger I GM is a solid, well-made Bb trumpet—a great step up for intermediate to advanced players. The gold brass leadpipe adds a lovely warmth, and the ML bore gives it a comfortable, all-around feel. It's a dependable workhorse for jazz, concert, and general playing.
Pros
- Gold brass leadpipe provides a warm, responsive tone.
- German craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and intonation.
- ML bore offers a balanced feel suitable for various players.
Cons
- The heavier brass construction may fatigue some players during extended use.
- The ICON 7C mouthpiece might be too dark for brighter playing styles.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,120 now$2,120€1,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
King 2055T Silver Flair Step-Up Model Bb Trumpet w/ 1st Slide Trigger
2055T Silver Flair Trumpet · King
4 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size8"
The King 2055T Silver Flair is a fantastic choice for serious students and intermediate players looking for a reliable, well-sounding horn. Its responsive action and bright tone make it a joy to play, and the build quality is excellent for the price point. It's a workhorse trumpet that will serve you well for years.
Pros
- Excellent projection and resonance thanks to the .462” bore.
- Silver-plated finish provides a bright, responsive tone.
- The included CKB 3C mouthpiece is a solid, versatile choice.
Cons
- The .462” bore might feel a bit stiff for very young or inexperienced players.
- Silver plating requires regular polishing to maintain its appearance.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,848 now$2,848€2,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YTR-2330 Standard Trumpet
YTR-2330S Trumpet · Yamaha
28 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The YTR-2330S is a fantastic, reliable trumpet – a sweet spot for intermediate to advanced students and gigging musicians. It offers a balanced, responsive sound and solid build quality that’s a step up from entry-level instruments without being overly premium-priced. It’s a workhorse that’ll serve you well for years.
Pros
- Excellent intonation across the range, a hallmark of Yamaha’s quality
- Two-piece yellow brass bell delivers a focused, warm tone
- Monel valves offer smooth action and increased durability compared to nickel-silver
Cons
- The ML-bore might feel slightly restrictive for advanced players seeking extreme flexibility
- Silver plating requires regular maintenance to prevent tarnish and maintain optimal shine
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$668 now$668€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The 8335G is a fantastic step-up horn for serious students and professionals. Its hand-hammered bell and ML bore give it a beautiful, focused tone with a surprising amount of versatility. This trumpet is ideal for players who want a professional instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag of the 886R.
Pros
- Hand-hammered gold brass bell delivers exceptional projection and warmth
- ML bore promotes a responsive, flexible playing experience across registers
- New lighter valve casings significantly improve speed and agility
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players
- The 16C4 mouthpiece may be too dark for brighter playing styles
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,071 now$3,071€2,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size5"
This Adams A1 Brass 050 Selected V2 is a serious contender for advanced players and professionals. The hand-hammered bell and carefully chosen materials result in a warm, focused tone with excellent projection. It’s an all-around workhorse, equally at home in orchestral settings or jazz ensembles.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bell delivers a remarkably focused and resonant tone.
- The 0.50mm wall thickness offers exceptional responsiveness and flexibility.
- Adams’ mouthpipe design contributes to a comfortable, efficient airstream.
Cons
- The 11.7mm bore, while versatile, might feel slightly restricted for extreme high-range players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many musicians.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,853 now$3,853€3,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
B&
S 3137-S Challenger I Series Bb Trumpet 3137 Challenger I Trp. - Set · B&S
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.32 kg
The B&S Challenger I is a solid, well-made trumpet geared towards intermediate to advanced players needing a powerful, focused sound. It’s a great all-around instrument for jazz, concert band, and lead work, offering a dependable performance without a premium price tag. The included accessories are a nice touch, making it a complete package.
Pros
- German craftsmanship delivers exceptional build quality and durability.
- Medium-large bore promotes a robust, projecting tone ideal for lead playing.
- Monel valves offer smooth, reliable action and corrosion resistance.
Cons
- The clear lacquer might show fingerprints and handling marks easily.
- The ICON 7C mouthpiece is a good start, but experienced players may want an upgrade.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,820 now$1,820€1,629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The 8345G is a fantastic step up for serious players—think advanced high schoolers, college students, and pros. The combination of the L-bore and hand-hammered bell really gives it a unique voice, blending projection with a surprisingly warm core. It’s a versatile horn that'll shine in both classical and jazz settings.
Pros
- Hand-hammered gold brass bell delivers exceptional projection and warmth.
- Monel valves offer incredibly smooth action and reliable performance.
- The Xeno design provides a responsive feel and excellent intonation across registers.
Cons
- The heavier bell may feel tiring during extended playing sessions.
- The included 16C4 mouthpiece is a good starting point, but advanced players may prefer a different model.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,071 now$3,071€2,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This B&S Philip Cobb is a serious instrument for the discerning player. The combination of the hand-hammered bell and PCL lead pipe delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent projection – it’s a fantastic choice for lead players and soloists wanting a professional feel and sound without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bell provides exceptional projection and resonance.
- PCL lead pipe offers improved response and a darker tonal color.
- Monel valves ensure smooth, reliable action and longevity.
Cons
- The heavier brass body might be tiring for younger or smaller players.
- The silver plating, while attractive, requires diligent care to prevent tarnish.
43AudioFu
Index↓ 15.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,295 · Aug 17$2,791 now$2,791€2,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 164 bb trumpets
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
C.G.Conn 52B- SP TrumpetC.G.Conn42Stable$2,782€2,490$2,782€2,490Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha YTR-5335 GII Bb- TrumpetYamaha · 3 finishes40Stable$1,518€1,359$1,518€1,359Check ↗
- 13
B&S 3143/2-S Challenger II SB&S · 3 finishes40↓ 3.9%$2,791€2,498$2,791€2,498Check ↗
- 14
Gewa Bb-Trumpet TR372 RL VisionGewa · 4 finishes38Stable$1,116€999$1,116€999Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha YTR-6335RC CommercialYamaha · 2 finishes38Stable$2,456€2,198$2,456€2,198Check ↗
- 16
B&S 3137/2-L Challenger II LB&S · 2 finishes38↓ 2.6%$2,557€2,289$2,557€2,289Check ↗
- 17
Yamaha YTR-8310 Z 03 TrumpetYamaha · 2 finishes38Stable$2,709€2,425$2,709€2,425Check ↗
- 18
Schagerl James Morrison Trp. JM1-LSchagerl · 2 finishes36↑ 0.7%$1,562€1,398$1,562€1,398Check ↗
- 19
Schagerl James Morrison Trp. JM2-LSchagerl · 2 finishes36↑ 0.6%$1,674€1,498$1,674€1,498Check ↗
- 20
Kühnl & Hoyer Topline Bb-Trumpet BrassKühnl & Hoyer · 2 finishes36Stable$2,009€1,798$2,009€1,798Check ↗
- 21
Schagerl James Morrison Bb-Trumpet SSchagerl · 2 finishes36Stable$3,786€3,389$3,786€3,389Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha YTR-3335S TrumpetYamaha · 3 finishes40Stable$960€859$960€859Check ↗
- 23
Schagerl TR-620L Bb-TrumpetSchagerl · 3 finishes35↑ 8.0%$1,071€959$1,071€959Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha YTR-4435 II TrumpetYamaha35Stable$1,284€1,149$1,284€1,149Check ↗
- 25
Schagerl James Morrison Trp. JM1X-LSchagerl · 2 finishes35↑ 3.4%$1,674€1,498$1,674€1,498Check ↗
- 26
Adams A9 Brass 050 Selected L CLAdams · 2 finishes35Stable$3,685€3,298$3,685€3,298Check ↗
- 27
Adams A2 Bb- Trumpet 050 Selected LAdams · 2 finishes35Stable$3,753€3,359$3,753€3,359Check ↗
- 28
Gewa Bb-Trumpet Artist IIGewa · 2 finishes34Stable$3,685€3,298$3,685€3,298Check ↗
- 29
Schagerl Mnozil Brass L TrumpetSchagerl33↑ 0.7%$1,562€1,398$1,562€1,398Check ↗
- 30
Schagerl Thomann Bb-TrumpetSchagerl33Stable$2,232€1,998$2,232€1,998Check ↗
- 31
B&S 3125/2-S Challenger II SB&S33Stable$3,071€2,749$3,071€2,749Check ↗
- 32
B&S MBX2-S X-Line MartinezB&S33Stable$3,349€2,998$3,349€2,998Check ↗
- 33
B&S 3138/2-V Vintage Trp.B&S33Stable$3,563€3,189$3,563€3,189Check ↗
- 34
B&S 3138/2-E Elaboration 37B&S33Stable$3,607€3,229$3,607€3,229Check ↗
- 35
B&S PMH-L Personality M. HutterB&S33Stable$3,764€3,369$3,764€3,369Check ↗
- 36
B&S PBB-GM Personality B. BrownB&S33Stable$3,786€3,389$3,786€3,389Check ↗
- 37
B&S PTI-S Personality T. InderkaB&S33Stable$3,871€3,465$3,871€3,465Check ↗
- 38
Adams Prologue L Bb- TrumpetAdams32Stable$2,009€1,798$2,009€1,798Check ↗
- 39
Adams Prologue SP Bb- TrumpetAdams32Stable$2,009€1,798$2,009€1,798Check ↗
- 40
Kühnl & Hoyer Sella G Bb-Trumpet 115 21Kühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,088€1,869$2,088€1,869Check ↗
- 41
Kühnl & Hoyer Topline Bb-Trumpet GMKühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,211€1,979$2,211€1,979Check ↗
- 42
Kühnl & Hoyer Malte Burba Universal 110 14Kühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,456€2,198$2,456€2,198Check ↗
- 43
Kühnl & Hoyer Sella Bb-Trumpet 115 13Kühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,567€2,298$2,567€2,298Check ↗
- 44
Kühnl & Hoyer Universal Bb-Trumpet 110 14Kühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,567€2,298$2,567€2,298Check ↗
- 45
Adams Sonic Trumpet Gold lacquerAdams32Stable$2,881€2,579$2,881€2,579Check ↗
- 46
Kühnl & Hoyer Revision Bb-TrumpetKühnl & Hoyer32Stable$2,902€2,598$2,902€2,598Check ↗
- 47
Kühnl & Hoyer Fantastic Bb-Trumpet 106 11Kühnl & Hoyer32Stable$3,238€2,898$3,238€2,898Check ↗
- 48
Kühnl & Hoyer Spirit Bb-Trumpet lacqueredKühnl & Hoyer32Stable$3,349€2,998$3,349€2,998Check ↗
- 49
Kühnl & Hoyer Pocket G Bb-TrumpetKühnl & Hoyer32Stable$3,349€2,998$3,349€2,998Check ↗
- 50
Kühnl & Hoyer Spirit RL Bb-Trumpet lacqueKühnl & Hoyer32Stable$3,518€3,149$3,518€3,149Check ↗
Bb Trumpets by the numbers
Measured across all 312 models we track, not a sample.
Median $3,014 — half of all bb trumpets here cost less.
median of 25 models · 0.32 kg–1.18 kg
median of 18 models · 4"–16"
How to choose the best bb trumpets
Valve Action
Smooth, consistent valve action is non-negotiable. Sloppy valves kill articulation and make fast passages a nightmare. Look for a consistent feel across all three valves, minimizing any 'stickiness' - that's a sign of cheap tolerances.
Bell Flare & Material
A wider bell flare generally projects better, especially in louder ensembles. Brass (yellow or rose) is standard, but the thickness and shaping dramatically impact the tone - a thicker bell will offer more resistance and a darker, warmer tone. Avoid thin, flimsy bells that buzz easily.
Leadpipe Design
The leadpipe is where the air starts its journey, and it profoundly affects the horn's response. A well-designed leadpipe will offer a more even tone across the range, while a poorly designed one can feel stuffy or require excessive embouchure pressure.
Tuning Stability
Intermediate players need a horn that stays in tune across a wider dynamic range. Cheap horns often go sharp when you blow harder - a frustrating issue when trying to nail a high note in a tight arrangement. Look for a horn that holds its pitch well, especially in the upper register.
Intonation & Articulation
This isn't just about being 'in tune' on a tuner. It's about how easily you can shape phrases, control dynamics, and achieve a clear, defined articulation. A horn with poor intonation will require constant micro-adjustments, hindering your musicality.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner horn, but not quite ready to drop five grand on a custom-made Selmer? Smart. The intermediate stage is where you really start to develop your chops and your ear, and the right Bb trumpet can make a huge difference. It's about finding something that'll let you explore your range, work on articulation, and actually sound decent when you're gigging a wedding or jamming with your friends - without breaking the bank.
At this level, you're paying for improved playability and consistency. Don't chase the 'brightest' or 'darkest' tone - focus on a horn that responds evenly and allows you to shape the sound yourself. Corners get cut on valve tolerances, bell material thickness, and leadpipe design - those are the areas to scrutinize.
A step-up horn from a reputable brand is almost always a better investment than a cheap 'pro' model.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 267 bb trumpets from the Thomann catalogue (of 312 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between yellow and rose brass?
Yellow brass is brighter and more responsive, rose brass is warmer and darker. It's subtle, but rose brass often offers a slightly more forgiving feel for players still developing their embouchure.
Should I consider a nickel silver horn?
Nickel silver horns are generally brighter and more durable, but they can feel harder to play and sometimes have a harsher edge. They're more of a preference thing - try one before you commit.
What about a 'professional' horn?
Professional horns are built to a higher standard, but the increased complexity can be overwhelming for an intermediate player. Focus on a well-made step-up model first - you can always move up later.
How important is the mouthpiece?
Crucially important! The mouthpiece is the interface between you and the horn. A poorly matched mouthpiece will negate any benefits of a good trumpet. Don't skimp on trying different mouthpieces - it's an investment in your sound.
What's the deal with valve oil and slide grease?
Keep your valves slippery and your slides moving! Regular maintenance is key to consistent performance. Use a good quality valve oil (not WD-40!) and a light slide grease - it'll extend the life of your horn and improve its playability.
