Like most things in life, Trumpets can vary in price drastically, depending on a number of factors. The make, the model, the material, the age, and the condition all play a role in determining how much a trumpet will cost.
But if you’re wondering how much a trumpet should cost and what factors you should look for when picking one, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you out. Let’s get started.
Quick Answer: Average Price of a Trumpet
So, the question is, how much does a trumpet cost? As with most things, the answer is it depends, but in general, you should expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $3000 for a trumpet.
Beginner models range from $300-$1000, intermediates from $1200-$3000 and professional horns from $2000-$10,000+.
What Factors Affect How Much a Trumpet Will Cost?
There are a number of things that can affect the price of a trumpet. Below we’ll cover the most common factors.
The Type of Trumpet
The first thing to consider is the type of trumpet. There are a number of different types of trumpets, and each one can affect the price you’ll pay for it.
You’ve got the most common – Bb trumpets – but you’ve also got trumpets in lots of different keys – C, D/Eb, F/G trumpets, as well as bugles, flugelhorns, and cornets.
If you’re a beginner, we’d suggest going for a Bb trumpet or a cornet, as these are the easiest to play (and will also be the cheapest).
The Brand and Model
There are a lot of different brands of trumpets with each one having multiple good models, ranging from the simplest student trumpet to handcrafted professional instruments.
The make and model will affect the price significantly. A reputable brand like Bach, Yamaha, or Getzen is going to cost considerably more than some unheard-of brands on Amazon.
But, with the added expense will also come better quality, better peace of mind that you’re getting an instrument that will last, better resale value, and in some cases, a better sound.
The Materials and Finish
The materials used in construction play an important role in the price of a trumpet. Brass is the most common material used and is what we’d recommend if you’re a beginner. It’s durable, easy to repair and maintain, and has a pleasant tone.
You can also get plastic trumpets, which are considerably cheaper and are a good option for very young children. That being said, the sound quality won’t be as good.
You’ve then got to consider the finish of the trumpet. Trumpets with a lacquered finish are one of the cheapest options, but you can also go for a plated finish. Gold and silver are two of the most popular, but as these are precious metals, they will add some expense to your horn.
New vs. Second Hand
Another factor to consider when buying a trumpet is whether to buy it new or used. Buying new will always be more expensive, but you can get quality second-hand instruments at a fraction of the cost.
Picking up a trumpet from a pawn shop or a second-hand instrument store can save you money, but make sure to do your research and check the condition of the trumpet before committing.
The Age and Condition
Buying a secondhand horn is a good cost-saving option, but you should also take age and condition into consideration.
Trumpets can last for years, even decades if looked after properly, so it’s not uncommon to find older trumpets that are in good condition. These can be great value as they’re considerably cheaper than buying new, but as with any instrument, make sure you inspect it thoroughly to ensure you’re getting what you pay for.
Also, be aware that some older trumpets may require additional maintenance or repair work which can add to the overall cost.
Accessories
Finally, bear in mind that when buying a trumpet, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of additional accessories like a mouthpiece, cleaning supplies, a case, and valve oil. These can add up, so it’s worth checking what is included before making your purchase.
Some of the trumpets made for beginners will be all-inclusive and come with some or all of the accessories you’ll need. If not, budget for these and make sure to look around for the best value options.
Prices and What to Expect
Now that we’ve covered some of the important factors, let’s take a look at what to expect at differnet price points.
$300 and less
Below $300, you’re likely to find a selection of plastic trumpets as well as very basic entry-level models. These won’t be of the best quality, and we wouldn’t recommend them to anyone considering taking their trumpet player even semi-seriously.
For more, check out our list of the best cheap trumpets here.
$350 – $800
In this price range, you should expect to find basic student models from reputable brands like Jean Paul USA, Prelude, and even the odd Jupiter or Yamaha student models. Shop around, and you can definitely find a deal.
For more, see our post about some of the best trumpets for beginners here.
$1000-$2500
Here is where you’re starting to put down a more sizable investment, but it’s also where the quality of the trumpet starts to leap. You can expect to find intermediate models from brands like Bach, Yahama, Jupiter, Conn, and Getzen, as well as some custom horns.
For more, see our list of the best trumpets for intermediate players.
$2500+
At this level, you’re getting into professional-quality instruments. If you’re serious about playing, then these trumpets will offer a richer, fuller sound and superior build quality.
If you’re serious about your playing, see our list of the top professional trumpets here.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to the price of trumpets.
As you can see, there is quite a range in price, and the final figure will depend on what type of trumpet you’re after, as well as other factors such as material, make and model, age, and condition.
If you’re looking for your first trumpet, opt for something in the $350-$1200 range. You’ll get a decent enough horn to take you through learning the basics.
Then from there, level up your instrument as you level up your skills. You can always ask around your fellow brass players for what they like and even ask to try out theirs.
Hopefully, this has given you some insight into how much you should expect. Let us know if you have any other questions.
