I have been playing the 4ve bflat for about one month. It took a couple weeks to acclimate to the blow and the grip. It is heavier than most 3ve horns, but it quickly becomes the new normal. Now my other horns feel strange. The biggest advantage of this horn is the sound. It was the first thing I noticed when I played it in KO’s shop and it is still the main thing now. You can produce an enormous volume of sound or a whisper. I have been playing lead in the same big band for 15 years. The director (also a trumpet player) noticed the sound of this horn as much more centered and he also liked the overall sound of the section with the 4ve on top. The slots are wider compared to my vr2 and my upper register has improved noticeably. The A above high C is now much more controlled with various articulations. My double C is also bigger and easier to play but I still need to work more to have it available on demand. I also have used this horn in church with a praise band. The sound blends quite well in this setting as well. I am retired from high tech and the trumpet is mostly a hobby. I didn’t plan to buy the horn when I went to stomvi -I was at the end of a vacation trip. But as soon as I played a few notes I knew I was hooked. The sound presence is amazing to me. I am always on the lookout for new horns on the market. I enjoy trying different brands and models and can honestly say that I have never played anything that compares to this horn at any price. Now KO has me thinking about the flugel…