The Benge 5 flugelhorn is a vintage, professional-quality instrument known for its deep, powerful sound and is highly sought after by jazz and big band musicians. These flugelhorns were primarily produced during the “Los Angeles” and “Anaheim” eras of the company, and are no longer in new production.
Comes with a Protec Combo Trpt/ Flug Case and a Schilke 24F Flugelhorn.
Key Features and Reviews
The Benge 5 flugelhorn is characterized by its excellent build quality, valves, and rich tone.
Sound Quality: Flugel Player describe the Benge 5’s sound as “deep” and “powerful,” making it ideal for jazz combos and big bands.
Playability: The instrument is noted for having smooth and quick valve action, good compression, and slides that move freely. One source mentions that its intonation in the 5th partial is very good. The notes below the low Ab/G# are usually sharp but are easily manageable.
Bore and Bell: It features a large bore and a specific “5” (or “5X”) bell, which contributes to its distinct sound and playability. The bell taper is described as a slightly wider choke than other models. When I worked at Benge we called it a “BLUNDERBUSS Bell”
Build/Era: These are vintage instruments, primarily from the 1970s. Reviewers on Heritage Trumpets and Centex Brass emphasize their professional quality, durable build, and excellent condition for their age.
As Benge ceased all production of new instruments around 2005, these flugelhorns are only available on the used market, often from vintage instrument specialists like The Horntrader.
Benge trumpets moved production to Eastlake, Ohio, in
1983. After King Musical Instruments purchased the brand and moved production from Burbank to Anaheim in 1972, they eventually shifted manufacturing to their main Eastlake, Ohio, facility, marking the end of the California production era.
1972–1983: Benge was produced in Anaheim, CA, by King.
1983: Production moved to Eastlake, OH, under King/UMI.
2005: Production of the Benge name ended.
The Eastlake-produced Benge trumpets are considered distinct from the earlier Los Angeles/Burbank models, often using new tooling rather than the original California machinery.
