Do you want to learn the trumpet but can’t afford the most expensive model?
Consider what $500 can get you so that you can learn to play music.
Table of Contents
1. Glory Bb Trumpet (Budget Pick)
If you want one of the most affordable trumpets, consider the Glory Bb Trumpet. Glory isn’t a reputable brand, but the company makes budget-friendly instruments.
Plus, this trumpet is new, so that you can get a good amount of use out of it. You also don’t have to worry about it sitting in a closet for years and needing tons of maintenance before you can play it.
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This model uses solid brass and comes with a 7C mouthpiece, which is a standard size. That can help you learn how to get a good sound and form your embouchure as a beginner.
You’ll also receive a case, a cleaning cloth, and gloves. In most cases, you won’t need gloves unless you plan to play the trumpet outside when it’s cold.
2. Hawk Bb Trumpet
The Hawk Bb Trumpet is another affordable choice for beginners and casual players. It’s a brass model with lacquer that looks great and can help you sound just as good.
You’ll get a case to protect your instrument, but there’s no mention of a mouthpiece. Fortunately, you can shop for trumpet mouthpieces and select one that works well for beginners.
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This model has a good design and construction, so it’s easy and comfortable to hold. You can get a fantastic sound out of the instrument with the right mouthpiece.
It’s a relatively affordable trumpet and better than some other cheap models. Try it if you want a nice trumpet to start.
3. pTrumpet Plastic Trumpet 2.0
If you want to play outside, consider the pTrumpet Plastic Trumpet 2.0. This plastic model is perfect for playing in the heat, cold, or even when it’s raining.
The valves move smoothly, which can help make this trumpet feel like a brass model. A water key also allows spit and condensation to drain out.
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It weighs about 1.1 pounds (18 ounces), so it’s great for kids or anyone with joint problems. You don’t have to work hard to keep the trumpet at the right playing angle.
This model comes in various colors: blue, red, orange, yellow, purple, and black. You’ll also get a couple of mouthpieces to choose the best one for your playing.
4. Prelude TR711
The Prelude by Conn-Selmer TR711 is an excellent beginner trumpet. It features a brass body and a red brass leadpipe, which can help you get a bit of a warmer tone.
Its stainless steel valves move easily, and you can get a full sound with the medium-large bore. Meanwhile, the lacquer finish looks great.
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This model costs almost $500, so it’s not the most affordable. However, it makes an excellent balance between price and quality.
If you want a new trumpet to learn, you should give this one a try. Then, you can get a lot of use out of it before needing to spend more money on an upgrade.
Want to read about 5 Trumpet Brands You Should NEVER Buy? (Here’s Why!)
5. Etude ETR-100
Another lesser-known beginner trumpet for less than $500 is the Etude ETR-100. Its design lets you get the best possible sound as a beginner, motivating you to practice and improve.
The design also makes it easier for beginners to hold comfortably. That way, you can get used to how the trumpet is supposed to feel so that you can progress more quickly.
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You’ll also get a case and mouthpiece, so you need some valve oil to really start playing. This model even comes with a one-year warranty in case anything goes wrong.
Plus, it features a red brass leadpipe, which isn’t too common on cheaper trumpets. You can get a nice sound as a beginner and use this trumpet for a while.
6. Cool Wind CTR-200
The Cool Wind CTR-200 is a plastic trumpet with a simulated metal finish.
That makes it look like metal so you can blend in with the rest of the trumpet section in a band or orchestra.
However, plastic weighs less than other trumpets, so it’s good for beginners. It features a nice-sized bore and a big bell so that you can project your sound.
The valves are metal piston valves, though, so it’s not entirely plastic. You’ll get a plastic mouthpiece and a soft gig bag to store your instrument when you aren’t playing.
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If you don’t like the look of brass lacquer, you can order it with a silver finish. It will still be of plastic, but you can make it look like you’re playing a more expensive trumpet.
7. Mendini by Cecilio Bb Trumpet
Regarding cheaper brands, Mendini by Cecilio is a bit better than others. The Mendini by Cecilio Bb Trumpet isn’t cheap, but it’s a good choice for players on a budget.
It features a brass body with a lacquer finish, so it can look and sound like any other beginner trumpet.
You can choose a black or blue finish, but you probably won’t get to play those in a band since the trumpets often need to look the same.
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However, the gold and silver finishes come with accessories, such as a case, cleaning cloth, and oil. That way, you get everything you need to start playing.
Of course, you’ll also get a nice student mouthpiece to help you learn to form an embouchure – and a mouthpiece is an excellent option for upgrading the trumpet while keeping your total costs below $500.
How Much Should You REALLY Pay for a Trumpet?
The amount you should pay for a trumpet depends on many factors. Beginners should aim to pay as little as possible while still getting a good trumpet.
A $500 budget should be enough for most people who are new to the instrument. If you have experience, you might want to spend more than $1,000 to $1,500 for an intermediate model.
Professionals and advanced amateurs should budget $2,000 to $3,000. That way, you can get the best trumpet you can find to help you get a better sound.
Final Thoughts
Some trumpets cost thousands of dollars, but others are much more affordable. If you only have $500, consider using models from Yamaha and Bach. Otherwise, look at Hawk and other brands if you want to get a new model.