Xeno Trumpet Shines with Handcrafted Quality

BUENA PARK, CA (May 16, 2003) — Yamaha's third generation of heavyweight trumpets combines the company's knack for computer-controlled technology with its passion for handcrafting engineering. The professional Xeno series trumpet delivers a great example of bringing these forces together.

I tested the silver lacquer-plated YTR-8335RGS on several big band gigs. The horn was surprisingly light for a "heavyweight" trumpet. The hand-hammered, one-piece gold brass bell delivered a nice, balanced tone without being too bright. I especially liked the easy, free-blowing feel of the horn, a trademark characteristic of the entire Xeno line. The medium large bore (.459") provided just the right amount of resistance, allowing for smooth pitch transition without overblowing. The trumpet's upper register felt comfortable and didn't bite back. Additionally, the YTR-8335RGS features a thicker, reverse lead pipe and extra heavy mouthpipe receiver, adding to the horn's stable intonation and quick response.

Yamaha has thankfully replaced plastic valve guides, popular in certain older Yamaha models, with a more lubricating conducive metal, increasing the valve response as well as improving tonal projection. After an initial oiling right out of the case, the valves felt broken in. Yamaha also employed corrosion-resistant monel pistons, enhancing the smooth valve action and long term precise fit.

To enhance response, according to Yamaha, the trumpet comes without a third valve spit key. While additional modification options, like heavy weight valve bottom caps or a rounded tuning slide would have been a plus, the stock horn performs fine out of the case. Yamaha's other Xeno pro model options include a large bore (.462") and gold bell.  —   Joe Rossi


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