Description
Vintage Benge 3X Bb Trumpet – LA Era (1973), S/N 11113 – Complete Original Outfit
This is a stunning piece of commercial trumpet history: a 1973 Los Angeles Benge 3X Bb trumpet (Serial Number 11113). Crafted during the highly coveted LA era under the production supervision of the legendary Zig Kanstul, this horn exemplifies the vibrant, free-blowing, and resonant qualities that made Benge the top choice for studio and jazz players worldwide.
The 3X model is Benge’s most celebrated design, mating a medium-large (.460″) bore with a lightweight bell that sings in the upper register while retaining a warm, fat core in the staff.
Condition Notes:
- Valves & Compression: Excellent action with great compression.
- Aesthetics: Beautiful original silver plating at 95% / crisp engraving / minor lacquer wear at contact points]. No major dents or past major repairs.
What’s Included:
- Original Benge Vintage case in solid functional condition with working latches.
- Original Benge 7C Mouthpiece: A highly collectible, period-correct mouthpiece that pairs perfectly with this horn’s acoustics. Unlike standard beginner mouthpieces, vintage Benge-branded mouthpieces are highly collectible on their own. They are famous for their unique, slightly rounded V-cup rim profiles that favor a broad, singing tone.
This specific Benge 3X Bb trumpet (Serial Number 11113) was manufactured in 1973 during the coveted Los Angeles era. It is a highly desirable, professional-grade vintage instrument.
- Production Era: According to official Benge serial number records, the 10,000 block started in 1973 and the 12,000 block began in 1974. Your trumpet was built early in the Los Angeles transition, a period when production was overseen by legendary master craftsman Zig Kanstul.
- The 3X Significance: The 3X is Benge’s most legendary and versatile design, featuring a medium-large (.460″) bore and a lightweight, resonant bell. It was universally favored by jazz, commercial, and symphonic players for its free-blowing nature and excellent projection.
