Pampet TruTra Trumpet Valves, Embouchure, and Finger Training Device
Winner - Music Makes a Difference Award
Looking forward to many more years of service
TruTra PAMPET Trumpet Training Device
Why You Need This Training Device
Here's the thing about mouthpiece-only practice - it sounds great until you put the mouthpiece back on your trumpet, and suddenly everything changes. That's because your actual instrument creates different resistance and pressure that affects your sound and technique. The TruTra solves this problem by simulating the real resistance and resonance you get from an actual trumpet.
I was skeptical at first (seemed like a nerdy trumpet gadget), but after using it extensively for my Arban studies and even taking it on plane flights, I'm convinced it's genuinely useful. It's not just about having something to do with your hands - the valve resistance and ability to combine air practice with fingering makes a real difference.
Key Features That Actually Matter:
- Realistic Valve Action: Plastic valves that don't need oil but provide authentic resistance and tactile feedback
- Adjustable Air Resistance: Built-in valve lets you dial in the resistance to match different playing styles (jazz, classical, etc.)
- Lead Pipe & Mouthpiece Receiver: Works with your actual mouthpiece for buzzing practice that doesn't make your chops too tight
- Ultra-Portable: Fits easily in a briefcase or carry-on - perfect for long flights or car rides
- Lightweight Construction: All plastic, so it's easy to pack and won't weigh you down
Real-World Performance
I've used this extensively while working through Eric Bolvin's Arban method, especially for those tricky third finger passages in Clarke studies. The combination of valve resistance and the ability to coordinate breathing with fingering has genuinely improved my playing, even without spending time on the actual horn.
For brass band gigs where I'm playing soprano cornet, I've found I can learn the fingering patterns by listening to recordings and "playing along" with the TruTra. When I finally get to the real instrument, the finger work is already solid.
What Works Great:
- Excellent for finger dexterity and muscle memory
- Saves valuable practice time on your actual instrument
- Perfect for travel and cramped spaces
- Combines well with buzzing practice
- Inexpensive way to extend your practice
Things to Consider:
- Valves are somewhat noisy - not library-quiet
- Fast passages can be loud enough to bother others
- It's plastic, so it feels different from brass valves
- Won't replace actual horn practice
Who Should Consider This?
This training device is ideal for trumpet players who travel frequently, have limited practice space, or want to maximize their technical development without always needing their full instrument. It's especially valuable for students working through method books like Arban or Clarke, where finger dexterity is crucial.
If you're someone who likes to practice buzzing, this provides a more realistic experience than buzzing on the mouthpiece alone, since it simulates the proper back-pressure of an actual trumpet.
Bottom Line
For under $40, the TruTra PAMPET gives you a legitimate practice tool that bridges the gap between mouthpiece-only practice and full instrument work. It's not perfect, and it's definitely not quiet, but it serves a real purpose for dedicated players who want to make the most of their practice time.

