1933 Martin Handcraft Troubadour
This right here is a truly underappreciated gem. Made in 1933, a time when American horns were just coming into their three decades of glory, this model is often overlooked because it retained some of the designs from the previous decade. But do not be fooled. This horn intonates evenly up into the altissimo, is remarkably powerful, feels smooth and balanced, and it is absolutely beautiful.
It just got a Full Mechanical Overhaul. The work done here will last for decades. I had to make several new hinge rods, ream out several hinge tubes to accept the larger, perfectly fit rods, I made five key extensions, and I replaced every needle spring. The old flat springs were re-inforced with an extra spring and laminated with teflon for a smooth and positive snap. The white pads are my new favorite, they're Doe skin pads and in my experience, they take and hold a seat better than any material I have thus far worked with.
This model has the Side C and High E keys regulated to each other, you'll notice the lack of a High E key spatula. That's because the Side C key also opens the High E Key. And the B key in the upper stack keeps the High E key closed when you play Side C.
I just love this horn. I really do wish it were mine.
This right here is a truly underappreciated gem. Made in 1933, a time when American horns were just coming into their three decades of glory, this model is often overlooked because it retained some of the designs from the previous decade. But do not be fooled. This horn intonates evenly up into the altissimo, is remarkably powerful, feels smooth and balanced, and it is absolutely beautiful.
It just got a Full Mechanical Overhaul. The work done here will last for decades. I had to make several new hinge rods, ream out several hinge tubes to accept the larger, perfectly fit rods, I made five key extensions, and I replaced every needle spring. The old flat springs were re-inforced with an extra spring and laminated with teflon for a smooth and positive snap. The white pads are my new favorite, they're Doe skin pads and in my experience, they take and hold a seat better than any material I have thus far worked with.
This model has the Side C and High E keys regulated to each other, you'll notice the lack of a High E key spatula. That's because the Side C key also opens the High E Key. And the B key in the upper stack keeps the High E key closed when you play Side C.
I just love this horn. I really do wish it were mine.