Jupiters Brand new release, the XO 1600i has been designed in consultation with lead trumpet player Roger Ingram. There has been plenty of hype surrounding the release of this horn, we have recently received our first delivery and after play testing, I have to say, it has met expectations.

The first thing I noticed opening the case was the build quality. I have to admit, I did not expect this trumpet to feel and look so solid. Everything is very well put together and is slightly heavier than I was expecting for such a thorough-bred lead trumpet.

The horn comes with two tuning slide options (one square and one round) as well as metal valve guides, heavy valve caps and metal finger buttons all of which can be used to slightly tweak various aspects of the horns playing characteristics. I personally preferred the rounded tuning slide as I felt it gave me a more open blow which works for me in the upper register. The test was conducted using both a custom Toshi Kameyama mouthpiece (approximately 1.25C) and a Schilke 12A4a.

When I started playing the 1600, immediately, I was surprised by how much core there was to the sound. I felt like the horn was really projecting unlike many other trumpets in this category and the others at the shop confirmed this. I usually find the trade off for projection can be response especially at softer dynamics, the Jupiter is not lacking in either.

Using both tuning slides, the blow is more open than what I have experienced in medium bore horns in the past. Having said that, if you are looking for a lead trumpet that slots, this is definitely a horn you must try. Onto the Schilke mouthpiece and the horn really came to life in the upper register. I immediately realised what it was designed to do and I was very impressed by the results. It does not close off at any stage and really sizzles when you want it to. Intonation is even through all registers.

The Jupiter XO 1600i may not be an all round trumpet for all styles or players but if you're looking for a commercial sounding trumpet that will slot as high as you can play, this is a horn you must try.

This is all just my opinion, come down and try the new Jupiter for yourself and let us know what you think.

Review by Simon Holmberg