A bell that is high quality and very available is the Elkhart Conn 6D. Another is Pottag model Reynolds. These horns were created with medium throat bells. The Holton 77 is also a good candidate, but quite rare. I've been told that the Elkhart Conn 4D shares a bell with the 6D, which would probably go for less than $100 on eBay.
Both the Pottag and the 6D come stock with fairly large leadpipes. A Pottag, in good playing shape, would likely be a better playing horn than the Merker, especially in tone quality, but most Americans gravitate to the larger horns. The Pottags I've seen in pro hands tended to be slanted towards solo and ensemble work. I recall seeing a Pottag associated with Jan Bach being offered for $3500. I've modified several 6Ds with smaller leadpipes with terrific results, producing a smaller horn with agile response. Perfect for solo and ensemble work. The 6Ds produced with a Buescher stencil have a modified leadpipe tapering almost to the valves, right through the main tuning slide. This version is vastly superior, but smaller than, the stock 6D. The places that do this kind of modification have businesses to run and custom parts to sell. I've had to learn to do my own work to be able to build an interesting collection and satisfy my own curiosity. My initial investment in tools was about $500, but now I realize that I could get most of that back from someone else wanting to try their hand, and might even be able to find used tools. A couple of junker horns will teach you how much damage is potential and you quickly learn how to approach each task so you can do it over and over until you satisfy your own expectations. If you make a resolution to scrape clean all your solder joints, you very quickly learn how to solder without a mess. Ferrees has everything you need, including a reprint of the Eric Brand repair manual. You won't fully appreciate how much information is in the book until you attempt a task, then go back and reread every word.
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