AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best C Trumpets 2026
The top pick is Bach C190SL229 Stradivarius Professional C Trumpet ($5,584). Thomann TR-600 M C-Trumpet gives you the most for the money at $278. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 27 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
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All C TrumpetsTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Bach C190SL229 Stradivarius Professional C Trumpet
C190SL229 C-Trumpet · Bach
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This trumpet gives a warm, full sound that works in huge halls. It sounds like a classic Elkhart Bach model with great response. The plastic valve guide is a bit unusual, but the rich tone makes it worth it. It fits players who want that classic orchestral voice without extra fuss.
Pros
- Rich core sound fills large concert halls
- Classic Elkhart Bach C trumpet tone
- Exceptional response for quick musical reaction
Cons
- Plastic valve guide set reduces durability
- Standard weight may feel heavy for some
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,584 now$5,584€4,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size16"
This C-trumpet gives you a bright, direct sound thanks to its L-bore and hand-hammered bell. It comes with a nice wooden case and a matching mouthpiece, making it ready to play right out of the box. The Monel valves feel smooth, but you won't find a weight listed, so check the case before packing it up. It suits players who want a clear, focused tone without extra bells to complicate things.
Pros
- Hand-hammered brass bell adds unique character to the sound.
- L-bore design offers a brighter, more direct tone.
- Monel valves provide smooth, responsive action for players.
Cons
- No weight information provided makes carrying difficult to estimate.
- Single bell shape limits tonal variety compared to double bells.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,137 now$5,137€4,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size16"
This trumpet has a big L-bore and a hand-hammered bell that sounds lively. The Monel valves play very smoothly, and it comes with a good Vincent Bach mouthpiece. It is a solid choice for players who want a bright, projecting sound without needing extra parts.
Pros
- Hand-hammered brass bell offers unique character
- L-bore design provides strong acoustic projection
- Monel valves ensure smooth, fast response
Cons
- No weight listed makes handling hard to guess
- Lack of weight data limits playability info
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,360 now$5,360€4,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YTR-8445 G 04 is a serious instrument for advanced players and professionals. Its robust build and gold brass bell give it a powerful, focused sound that really cuts through an ensemble. This is a great choice for players who prioritize projection and a refined, modern tone without wanting the absolute top-tier price of the 8840 series.
Pros
- Heavyweight construction provides exceptional resonance and projection.
- Gold brass bell delivers a warm, focused, and powerful tone.
- Monel valves ensure incredibly fast and reliable action for demanding players.
Cons
- The substantial weight can be fatiguing during extended performances.
- The Xeno series leans towards a brighter sound, less versatile for darker genres.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,295 now$3,295€2,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Bach AC190S Stradivarius Artisan Series C Trumpet
AC190 Artisan C-Trumpet · Bach
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The AC190 is a serious instrument—it's built for the advanced player who wants a powerful, responsive sound with exceptional intonation. The hand-hammered bell really shines in a big band or orchestral setting, and the Monel valves make it a joy to play. This is a top-tier horn for the dedicated professional or aspiring soloist.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bell delivers exceptional projection and tonal complexity
- Monel valves offer incredibly smooth action and reliable performance
- 11.74mm bore promotes a free-blowing feel and responsive articulation
Cons
- High-end price point makes it inaccessible to many players
- The shallow bell edge may be too bright for some players' preferences
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,802 now$4,802€4,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size4.8"
This C trumpet has a big bore and a strong, open sound perfect for loud ensembles. The handmade parts give it a solid feel, but the fixed receiver means you must use the right mouthpiece. It is a great choice for players who want power without needing to adjust the valve slides.
Pros
- XL bore size provides a powerful, open sound for big bands.
- Handmade leadpipe ensures consistent tone and playability.
- One-piece bell construction offers strong acoustic projection.
Cons
- Fixed mouthpiece receiver requires a specific mouthpiece fit.
- Silver plating may wear faster than gold on heavy use.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,796 now$3,796€3,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This trumpet feels light thanks to its brass bell, which is great for long practice sessions. Robert Sullivan helped design it, so you get that clear, bright sound you hear in the big halls. It comes with a solid 17B4 mouthpiece and strong Monel valves. This is a smart choice for players who want a reliable instrument that doesn't feel too heavy.
Pros
- Designed by Robert Sullivan for professional orchestra players
- Lightweight brass bell helps reduce player fatigue
- French Bead rim provides a secure and comfortable fit
Cons
- Silver-plated finish requires careful maintenance to prevent tarnish
- C Trumpet configuration is niche and harder to find
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,239 now$5,239€4,689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann TR-600 M is a surprisingly solid student or beginner trumpet. The Monel valves make it easier to play than many in this price range, and the gold brass lead pipe gives it a touch more warmth. It's a great entry point for students or players wanting a dependable, affordable horn without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.
Pros
- Monel valves offer smooth action and resist corrosion.
- Gold brass lead pipe contributes to a warmer, richer tone.
- 11.6mm bore promotes easy response and good projection.
Cons
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, may be prone to wear with heavy use.
- The included 7C mouthpiece is fairly basic, limiting tonal flexibility.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YTR-9445NYS Xeno New York Series C Trumpet
YTR-9445NYS-YS-BR Trumpet · Yamaha
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This C trumpet uses a big bore and a solid brass cup to make your notes sound open and bright. The lighter valve caps help you play faster without extra effort. It comes with a good case and a standard mouthpiece, making it a solid choice for students or players who prefer a C sound.
Pros
- Larger bore allows for easier breathing and freer playing
- One-piece brass cup creates a warm and open sound
- Lighter valve caps make the instrument feel responsive
Cons
- No weight information is provided for potential buyers
- Standard tuning slide is basic compared to custom options
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,551 now$5,551€4,969 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YTR-9445NYS Xeno New York Series C Trumpet
YTR-9445NYS-YM-BR Trumpet · Yamaha
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The 9445NYS is a serious instrument – a top-tier Yamaha Xeno. It’s got a big, powerful sound thanks to the L-bore and YM bell, and the lighter valve caps really make it feel responsive. This is ideal for advanced players and professionals needing a powerful, versatile horn for demanding performance situations.
Pros
- L-bore offers exceptional projection and a warm, resonant tone.
- One-piece brass cup provides a focused, clear core to the sound.
- Brass valve caps lighten the feel, improving agility and response.
Cons
- The L-bore can be challenging for players with less developed air support.
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,551 now$5,551€4,969 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 27 C trumpets
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Schagerl Caracas L C-Trumpet LSchagerl · 2 finishes40Stable$1,775€1,589$1,775€1,589Check ↗
- 12
B&S 3136TC-GL Challenger IIB&S · 2 finishes40Stable$3,071€2,749$3,071€2,749Check ↗
- 13
Yamaha YTR-4435 SII TrumpetYamaha38Stable$1,450€1,298$1,450€1,298Check ↗
- 14
Yamaha YTR-9445CHS-BR TrumpetYamaha38Stable$5,551€4,969$5,551€4,969Check ↗
- 15
Bach C 180SL-229PC PhiladelphiaBach37Stable$4,613€4,129$4,613€4,129Check ↗
- 16
B&S Metropolitan C- TrumpetB&S37↓ 6.4%$4,913€4,398$4,913€4,398Check ↗
- 17
Bach C190SL229F C-TrumpetBach37Stable$5,919€5,298$5,919€5,298Check ↗
- 18
Bach C190SL229X C-TrumpetBach37Stable$5,919€5,298$5,919€5,298Check ↗
- 19
Bach C190SL229C C-TrumpetBach37Stable$5,919€5,298$5,919€5,298Check ↗
- 20
Schagerl TR-620CL C-TrumpetSchagerl35↑ 1.3%$1,115€998$1,115€998Check ↗
- 21
Schagerl Caracas ML C-Trumpet LSchagerl35Stable$1,775€1,589$1,775€1,589Check ↗
- 22
B&S EXC-S eXquisite C-TrumpetB&S35Stable$3,864€3,459$3,864€3,459Check ↗
- 23
Schagerl "1961" C-Trumpet SSchagerl35Stable$4,792€4,289$4,792€4,289Check ↗
- 24
Adams Master Series C-TrumpetAdams33Stable$5,584€4,998$5,584€4,998Check ↗
- 25
Kühnl & Hoyer Classicum C-TrumpetKühnl & Hoyer31Stable$4,467€3,998$4,467€3,998Check ↗
- 26
Martin Böhme Vulpes C-TrumpetMartin Böhme31Stable$5,025€4,498$5,025€4,498Check ↗
- 27
Taylor Trumpets Piranha C-TrumpetTaylor Trumpets31Stable$5,987€5,359$5,987€5,359Check ↗
C Trumpets by the numbers
Measured across all 46 models we track, not a sample.
Median $4,792 — half of all C trumpets here cost less.
How to choose the best C trumpets
Bell Material
Brass (yellow or gold) generally offers a warmer, more rounded tone, great for jazz and smoother styles. Bronze bells tend to be brighter, sometimes a bit 'wooly,' which can cut through a rock band but might lack clarity in a quieter setting. It's not always a slam dunk - a well-played bronze bell can be gorgeous.
Valve Type
Piston valves are the most common, offering a quicker, more consistent action - crucial for fast passages and tight ensemble work. Rotary valves are more common in European horns and can provide a slightly different feel and a potentially darker, more diffused tone. It's mostly personal preference, but piston is usually a safer bet for gigging.
Leadpipe
The leadpipe significantly impacts the horn's response and tone. A wider leadpipe often means easier playing and a more open sound, while a narrower one might be more focused and controlled. This is often a subtle difference, but noticeable once you're comfortable with the horn.
Tuning Slide Configuration
A well-designed tuning slide system is key for intonation. Look for slides that are easy to adjust and don't stick or bind. A horn that's consistently out of tune is useless, no matter how pretty it looks.
Overall Construction & Finish
Beyond the bells and valves, the overall construction matters. A heavy, well-braced horn will generally feel more solid and resonant. Lacquer finishes are common, offering a bright, shiny look, while clear-lacquer finishes allow the underlying brass to show through, sometimes perceived as sounding 'more open' - often just a marketing thing, though.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at a C trumpet. It's a versatile beast - gigging jazz, studio work, even some classical. Don't just grab any horn off the wall; a C trumpet needs to have a responsive action, good projection, and a tone that doesn't sound like a tin can. Let's break down what to look for so you don't end up with a headache and a pile of regret.
Don't chase the hype. A cheap C trumpet will almost always have a compromised bore, which means a choked low end and a harsh high end. You'll be fighting it every step of the way.
Spending a little more for a reputable brand with decent craftsmanship is worth it for the improved playability and tone. Remember, a good horn will actually help you play better, a bad one will hold you back.
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 36 C trumpets from the Thomann catalogue (of 46 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 a C trumpet and a Bb trumpet?
A C trumpet is pitched a whole step lower than a Bb trumpet. It's essential for jazz ensembles and orchestral settings where the parts are written in C but played on a Bb horn. It's also great for low-range playing.
Is a student model C trumpet any good?
Student models are fine for beginners, but they often cut corners on materials and construction. They might feel cramped, lack projection, and have a less-than-ideal tone - expect a slightly muted sound and a bit more resistance. They'll get you started, but you'll likely want to upgrade eventually.
I'm a Bb trumpet player, will it be easy to switch to C?
It will take some adjustment. You'll need to re-finger many passages, and the increased weight of a C trumpet can affect your endurance. It's not a huge leap, but be prepared to practice a bit differently.
What's the best C trumpet for a beginner?
Look for something comfortable to hold and play - a good Yamaha or Bach student model is a solid starting point. Prioritize ease of blowing over fancy features. A teacher's opinion is invaluable here.
Can I use a C trumpet for recording?
Absolutely. Its darker, richer tone can be a great choice for recording, especially in genres like jazz, blues, and even some pop styles. Just be mindful of headroom - it can sometimes get muddy if overdriven.
