Conn 8B Artist 1968

The lighter weight version of the 38B "Connstellation", the 8B "Artist" model was released in 1962 as an addition to Conn's flagship "Connstellation" line. These trumpets featured a number of Conn's proprietary instrument building technologies, including "Cry-Steel" pistons, a wide wrap, short stroke pistons, and a .438" bore. Don't be fooled by the bore size! These trumpets play with a beautiful, dark tone and feel incredibly open and efficient. This trumpet has an incredible amount of core and projects quite well. The 8B is a remarkably efficient design, making fast passages and pyrotechnic trumpet playing a breeze. Conn trumpets of this vintage were used by Maynard Ferguson, Snooky Young, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Chet Baker, and many more, and the 8B specifically was preferred by Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Woody Shaw, and countless other players. 

This particular trumpet is in great condition for its age and is from the golden age of production at the C.G. Conn factory in Elkhart. The valves are fast and with excellent compression. There are a few small pings in the leadpipe, but nothing major. There are signs of minor repairs throughout the bell, but no major creases. The lacquer is original, and this trumpet has no patches. This trumpet is a fantastic player, and feels easy to play into the upper register. It has a searing, hot quality to the tone that can easily cut through a band without sounding shrill. The efficiency of this instrument makes it an excellent choice for small group jazz as well.