hyTech PTrumpet Polymer Trumpet
David Gallant
Monday, October 21, 2019
There have been rumours circulating about a new PTrumpet for some time, so when we were told that one was finally in production, we were obviously keen to put it through its paces.
A few years back we reviewed the PBone and were very impressed. Since then, due to its light weight, the ‘blue ’bone’, as it is now fondly referred to, has become indispensable as an in-house practice instrument.
Around the same time, we also trialled the first PTrumpet. Though interesting, it didn’t really make the grade. There have been rumours circulating about a new PTrumpet for some time, so when we were told that one was finally in production, we were obviously keen to put it through its paces.
Like the original model, the hyTech is feather-light and comes in black, gold or silver. Supplied with a brass 7C mouthpiece, we took delivery of the black horn, which looks the part with its silver alloy caps and buttons adding to the overall style. Well balanced, the hyTech carries a slightly larger bell than a standard trumpet and comes with pistons that have been fitted with metal sleeves that work smoothly inside the valve casing, which also has a metal lining. Both the tuning slides can be removed, with the third valve slide having a cleverly designed ‘hook’ locking system. Silver alloy water keys complete the picture.
We fitted the 7C mouthpiece (much like a Bach) to the newly designed hybrid lead pipe with its brass cap and were treated to a free-blowing horn with a good resistance and a first-rate sonic response across the full range with not a hint of ‘muddiness’.
Given the polymer build, the tone is understandably mellow but, when driven, there is a typically trumpet-like edgy brightness brought into the mix. We tried the house Taylor 3C mouthpiece, which produced more body and cut, but preferred the sonic palette of the supplied 7C.
The hyTech comes in a well-padded, denier covered case with a 3/4 zip and a large zippered front pocket. There is a sizeable Velcro-secured grab handle, together with a shoulder strap with ‘D’ rings and a simple back harness.
Was the hyTech worth waiting for? Certainly! It’s a very serviceable horn with a unique vibe that will more than hold its own with instruments twice the price.
Further information: www.jhs.co.uk
This review originally appeared in the September 2019 issue of Jazzwise. Never miss an issue – subscribe today!
