Bach 34B Model 446 Corporation Era, Vintage Elkhart 1965, Has 8,XXX S/N. A number of Bach enthusiasts feel that the 34B model was only produced at the Mt. Vernon NY Factory. Of course, you can't seriously believe everything that you read on the internet these days, can you? Here is evidence of one made at the Elkhart factory Shortly after the move from Mt. Vernon NY factory. Production started in 1965, this s/n dates it to 1965. The bell is stamped "Stradivarius 34B Model 446 Vincent Bach Corporation Elkhart, IND, U.S.A." Matching serial numbers on the hand slide tennon and outer slide tube ring confirm this to be made in 1965.
This 34B has an 8" yellow brass bell, standard rotor, with a gold brass valve casing back. The handslide is standard weight and is .522 bore. This horn has been previously restored with new lacquer. In those days, Bach used a very thin lacquer, which generally didn't survive more than a few decades. Once the lacquer wears off, you can keep playing it as is, or if you prefer to preserve the alloy, re-lacquer may be the best option. Whoever did the lacquer, did a decent job. It doesn't look factory new, but it's not weighted down with a heavy application, this seems to be just right. All original parts. We had our slide guru set the slide up upon arrival. Has original leadpipe, fits standard Bach small shank perfectly. The slide is free of tension, all original tubes, no evidence of previous damage. It plays fantastic. It feels much small and more compact than the 36B model, as it should. Gorgeous Warm Bach Overtones, in every register. The bottom end plays surprisingly big with the right mouthpiece, I tested out with a vintage 5GB, and it played great.
No need for any repairs or service. This is a very straight horn that is ready to play. Case and mouthpiece not included. *Sold*
