Conn Vintage One 1B-46 Trumpet - Fred Powell - Silver Plate

Conn Vintage One 1B-46 – Silver Plate

Early Powell-Era | Yellow Brass Bell | Full Modular Setup | USA

This is my personal Conn Vintage One 1B-46 that I have owned and played for the past 25 years. It is one of the earlier original Vintage One models produced during the Fred Powell design era at Conn-Selmer in Eastlake, Ohio.

I have taken exceptional care of this instrument, and it continues to play beautifully today. The only reason I am offering it is because I currently own more horns than I realistically need. I am in no rush to sell — if it doesn’t move, I am perfectly happy keeping it.

These original Vintage One models are no longer produced in this configuration.

KEY FEATURES

• Model: Vintage One 1B-46
• Key: Bb
• Bore: .459” ML
• Leadpipe: #46 taper
• Bell: 4 5/8” yellow brass (silver plated)
• Valves: Monel pistons
• Made in: Eastlake, Ohio, USA

Included Modular Setup:

• Standard Bb tuning slide
• Rounded tuning slide
• D tuning slide
• Standard valve caps
• Heavy (weighted) valve caps

This is the complete tonal system these horns were originally designed around.

WHY THIS ERA MATTERS

The Vintage One line was developed during the period when Fred Powell was involved in design work with Conn-Selmer. Many players consider these earlier Powell-era V1’s to be among the strongest production runs of the model before later revisions.

These were built as true American professional horns intended to compete directly with Bach Strads of the era.

The #46 leadpipe offers a slightly more open feel than a tighter Bach-style pipe, providing:

• Smooth airflow
• Balanced resistance
• Excellent slotting stability
• Broad, warm core with clarity

The yellow brass bell adds:

• Clear articulation
• Focused projection
• Strong presence without harsh brightness

It is not a thin commercial “lead cannon.”

It is a full-bodied, versatile professional instrument that works beautifully in concert band, church, jazz section, and solo settings.

MODULAR FLEXIBILITY

One of the defining features of the Vintage One series was factory customization.

Standard Tuning Slide

Centered resistance and traditional feel.

Rounded Tuning Slide

Freer blow with slightly more openness and shimmer.

D Tuning Slide

Alternate tuning setup for orchestral or concert use and more resistance.

Standard vs Heavy Valve Caps

Heavy caps increase slot stability and core density.

Standard caps provide slightly quicker response and lighter feel.

This setup genuinely allows you to tailor the horn to your preference.

CONDITION

This instrument has been extremely well maintained.

• Valves are smooth and responsive
• Compression is strong
• Slides move properly
• Silver plate presents very well

There are normal signs of careful professional use consistent with a well-maintained 25-year-old instrument, but it has never been abused.

No original case included.

WHY I’M SELLING

This has been my main instrument for 25 years.

It has been part of countless rehearsals, services, performances, and sessions. It still plays beautifully and feels exactly the way a well-broken-in pro horn should.

I am only offering it because I own more instruments than I realistically need at this point. I am not in a rush to sell.

If it does not sell, I will happily continue playing it.

PRICE

$2,200

Priced confidently based on condition, completeness, early production era, and long-term personal ownership.

Serious inquiries only.

ABOUT ARCH CITY BRASS

Arch City Brass is a Columbus-based veteran-owned brass company focused on professional-level instruments and honest representation.

Exceptional Instruments. Unmatched Value.

SEARCH KEYWORDS

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