Which is better, a lacquer (gold) or silver plated instrument?
ANS: Silver plated instruments are somewhat more expensive than lacquer. Silver plate, on average, may tend to hold up somewhat better than lacquer finish, but much depends on the care given to the instrument by the player. Apart from that consideration, there is little difference between the two other than cosmetic. If 10 brass instructors or professional players were polled, one would likely get about an even split in their opinions as to which finish produces a darker, brighter, mellower, or edgier tone quality. In the hands of a student player, the argument is inconsequential..
