The Schagerl James Morrison “Academica” Bb Trumpet: JM1 vs JM2
This line of semi professional trumpets, designed in partnership with Schagerl Artist James Morrison, is “perfect for even professional players”. Between the two models – JM1 and JM2 – players will find a wide variety of sounds made accessible to them.
“My idea behind the JM1 was to have a free blowing, expressive trumpet that allowed the freedom across the entire range perfect for jazz and improvisation. The Schagerl reverse leadpipe combined with gold-brass bell, Schagerl designed taper and tuning slides has developed the ideal Jazz trumpet and at the same time is still focused enough to adapt to any musical style. Many of the features on both my JM1 & JM2 instruments are replicated from my own gold plated Schagerl James Morrison Meister series!”
– James Morrison
Schagerl JM1 Specifications
Reversed leadpipe
Yellow Brass Inner Slide, Nickel Silver Outer Slide
Lacquer or Silver plate (cost difference)
.459” / 11.68mm Medium-Large Bore
127mm (4.999”) Goldbrass Bell
Monel Piston Valves
James Morrison talking about this instrumet
Schagerl JM2 Specifications
Double Twin leadpipe
Nickel Silver Slides
Lacquer or Silver plate (cost difference)
.459” / 11.68mm Medium-Large Bore
127mm (4.999”) Goldbrass Bell
Monel Piston Valves
James Morrison talking about this instrument
A Sonic Comparison of the Schagerl JM1 and JM2
Both models allow players to access a big sound regardless of register and dynamic level. They have great tuning tendencies, and the tuning slides move smoothly and quickly. The valve action is fast and snappy, yet smooth and soft. They are both open blowing, and do not close off in the upper register.
The JM1 has a slightly wider range of tone and timbre than its counterpart, and also moves along this spectrum faster and easier – with less effort. The effect of this is an enhanced manner of expression, but can have a side effect of losing nuance and specificity in tonal characteristics. At a higher dynamic/intensity the sound lights up / brightens and becomes more spread. At a lower dynamic/intensity the sound is more mellow and subtone-like. The weight distribution of this model means that there is more room to play around the slots. The reversed leadpipe makes for a slightly freer-blowing feel, and takes more air.
The JM2 has a more consistent broad dark sound, and doesn’t affect the sound based on dynamic/intensity compared to its counterpart. This means that the player must work harder to create expression and interest through other means, but affords the player more individual control of their sound output. The weight distribution and increased mass/weight of this model means that the horn slots more definitively and locks in compared to its counterpart.
Take a Listen
Below is a taste of the sounds of each horn and some of the aspects we have commented on.
