Hello,

Have you ever compared those two models?

One is the artist Michael Davis model the other one is the stock Shires 500 bore.

Is it one more versatile than the other?

Specs seems very similar to me except for the 495 vs 500 bore slide.

Thanks

If the custom has the same 1.5 (smallest) tuning slide as the MD, it's not going to be crazy different. With the bigger tuning slide options, the feel can be very different. I didn't like the MD and did quite like the Gilkes, which has the 1.0 (middle option).

Thank you!

I'd always go with the custom. Artist models are a quick way to say 'So and so plays this horn!" and quickly sell it. I'm sure they're outstanding, but it just feels like a money grab.

[quote="mcphatty00"]I'd always go with the custom. Artist models are a quick way to say 'So and so plays this horn!" and quickly sell it. I'm sure they're outstanding, but it just feels like a money grab.[/quote]

Have you played any of the Shires Artist models, or just feel that way based on the marketing?

I'd argue this: If you like the sounds that a particular Shires artist makes, then the associated Artist model will likely give you an insight as to how that artist generates those sounds.

Having spent a little time on an MD+ and an Alessi Q series, there are aspects of those horns that lead your tone, articulation and air towards a certain tonal spectrum, which one can easily associate with recordings of those artist.

That said, I've had similar experiences with a Bach 16m, 42 and 50, and artists associated with those horns.

Andrew

I have a Shires "Original" large bore from 2003. I've never tried the artist models and I haven't tried a different one since then. I'm not gonna say the artist models are bad. If they work for you, perfect. I think what I'm trying to say is try the artist model of the corresponding bore size and then see if you can get a better product by going custom. But always get what feels and sounds best.