The Getzen 390 is an impressive trumpet in the beginner and intermediate class, and in this Getzen trumpet review, we’ll outlines some of its best features.
Getzen – The Brand
Getzen trumpets have been widely used for generations to meet the needs of trumpet players, as the company has a long tradition: It’s been around since 1939.
As Wikipedia explains, T. J. Getzen already had experience from working at the brass instrument manufacturers C. G. Conn and Frank Holton before he set out to start his own horn business.
While the company has had different owners from the 1960s to the 1990s, it eventually went back to the Getzen family who are now continuing doing quality work while carrying on the family legacy.
Also worth noting: Getzen trumpets are made in America.
Getzen 300/400 vs. Capri vs. 700 vs. Eterna
The range of trumpets offered by Getzen is large and can be confusing. But worry not, we’ve got you covered! The range of Getzen trumpets is as follows:
- Getzen 300/400 Series
- Marketed as the beginner-friendly student model.
- Getzen 700 Series
- This is an expensive trumpet for advanced players. This one is only distributed via select dealers.
- Getzen Capri Series (590s)
- Marketed as “affordable and dependable alternatives for younger players looking to ease the transition from practice rooms to on stage performances”, in other words, a beginner to intermediate trumpet.
- Getzen Eterna Series (900s)
- A high-quality professional trumpet for advanced and pro players.
Getzen 390S Trumpet Features & Specifications
Features
- Bb trumpet
- .460″ bore
- 4¾” seamless yellow brass
- Responsive and durable Getzen valves
- Getzen 7C mouthpiece
The Pros and Cons
The Getzen 300 trumpet is a quality instrument that gets rave reviews from most users. Like any trumpet, there are also some features that users may wish to improve.
Pros
- Excellent starter trumpet
- Pleasant, bright sound
- Free blowing
- Great intonation
Cons
- Model has been discontinued
- High price point
PROS:
The 390 model from Getzen is very often mentioned by trumpet teachers and instructors as one of the best trumpets for beginners. The Getzen valves are fantastic – they’re very durable and easy to press down, just like the ones used on their high-end professional modesl.
The trumpet itself is free-blowing and the sound is bright and pleasant. It also has a great intonation, which beginners and pros will of course benefit from.
CONS:
One definitive con is that the trumpet is harder to find than other models, as the Getzen 390 has actually been discontinued. Having said that, there are many pre-owned models you can find on eBay or maybe at a music shop near you – and used models can save you a lot of money.
Lastly, if you’re not sure if you or your child wants to keep playing the trumpet, the high price point can be a bit off-putting when there are cheaper models available. If you fall into that category, maybe renting a trumpet would be a good first step for you.
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Decision Time
This Getzen student trumpet is highly recommended for beginning players wanting true quality in their instruments. The Getzen 390 trumpet is a free blowing, durable and responsive trumpet that makes learning easy for new players.
It has smooth pistons and fluid valves and all of its components work together to create a high quality sound. Even with all of its impressive features, this Getzen 300 series trumpet may not be the right instrument for every beginner.
Each player has to consider their individual skills and preferences before settling on any model, but this one is certainly worth considering. Visit your local music shop and try a few trumpets if you want to find out which horn speaks to you.
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