The 1947 Olds Super is a hallmark of the "Golden Era" of Los Angeles instrument manufacturing. While F.E. Olds & Son produced various models, the Super remains one of the most balanced and sought-after professional horns from that period.

The brass tone ring is the defining characteristic of this model, both visually and acoustically.

The Brass Tone Ring

The tone ring is a distinct band of brass soldered around the middle of the bell flare. In 1947, this was a standard feature of the Super line (it was also found on the higher-end Custom and Recording models, though those often used different alloys like nickel-silver).

• Vibration Control: The ring adds mass to the bell at a strategic point. This helps dampen unwanted overtones and prevents the bell from "breaking up" or distorting at high volumes.

• Acoustic Profile: It provides a more centered, focused sound. Players often describe it as having a "core" that stays stable whether you are playing a soft ballad or a loud lead line.

• The "Olds" Look: Visually, the ring creates a two-tone aesthetic that has become iconic among vintage brass collectors.

Technical Specifications (1947 Era)

By 1947, Olds had refined their manufacturing processes following the move to the Los Angeles (and later Fullerton) plants.

• Bore Size: Most Supers from this era featured a #2 bore (.460"), which is considered a Medium-Large bore. This makes it versatile for both jazz and classical settings.

• Valves: Olds was famous for their honed valves. They were fitted so precisely that they often required thinner oil than modern instruments. They are known for a fast, "clicky" tactile response.

• Bell Material: Typically a yellow brass bell, though the addition of the tone ring gives it a darker, more complex harmonic series than a standard yellow brass trumpet.

• Leadpipe: Often featured a nickel-silver leadpipe, which resisted "red rot" (corrosion) better than the brass pipes used by competitors at the time.

Playability and Character

The 1947 Super is often described as a "player's horn." It doesn't have the extreme brightness of a modern commercial trumpet, nor the stifled darkness of a heavy symphonic horn.

• Resistance: It offers a moderate amount of "slotting" resistance, giving the player something to push against, which helps with endurance and high-register accuracy.

• Versatility: In the late 40s, these were used by everyone from studio session players to big band lead players. It has enough "cut" to be heard over a section but enough warmth for a small combo setting.

This instrument was fitted with our ElderWind Q51 leadpipe  (.351" venturi). The larger leadpipe venturi is an excellent complement to the small bell tail of the Super Trumpet. This combination creates the ideal lead trumpet with high resonance and excellent projection.

Sorry, no trades at this time.

No mouthpiece, no case. This allows for the safest shipment in a double-walled box and packing to survive a 6-ft drop with no damage.