Best
Trombone for Beginners
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Overall: Designed to help you progress as fast as possible
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Best Feature: Highly effective weight distribution that makes it easy to hold
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Trombone for Intermediate Players
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Overall: Exceptional build quality
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Best Feature: New bell engraving adds a luxurious feel
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Trombone for Advanced Players
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Overall: Seamless transitions with outstanding responses
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Best Feature: New bell engraving adds a luxurious feel
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TedScore™: 10/10
Finding a trombone is no easy mission. In addition to the dozens of brands available nowadays, there are also several types, designs, and materials of trombones to choose from.
In today’s guide, I’ll be walking you through the process of selecting a trombone, reviewing the best trombone brands, and sharing tips on buying the right model for your musical needs.
Table of Contents
What are the Best Trombone Brands?
It’s time for you to meet the industry’s top manufacturers. The following are brief overviews of the best trombone brands, along with a notable model from each one.
King
The very first King trombone became available on the market in 1894. The founder of HN White, Henderson White, developed it with the help of a local trombone player called Thomas King.
The King trombone became an instant sensation on the market as players loved the revolutionary design of its mouthpiece, bore, and bell, as well as the lighter and smoother slide compared to any other trombone. Professional players such as Al Pinard were also fans of the King trombone.
The popularity of King trombones only grew over the years, especially rising in the 40s and 50s thanks to their association with names like Tommy Dorsey, Ziggy Elman, and Harry James. In 1951, the company introduced the King 3B trombone. To this day, it’s the best-selling jazz trombone in the world. Currently, the American company Conn-Selmer owns King.
KING 3B Bb TENOR TROMBONE
Best for jazz playing
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Advanced and professional
FEATURES: 8-inch yellow brass bell and chrome-plated nickel silver tubing.
COMES WITH: Hardwood shell case and King mouthpiece
KING 3B Bb TENOR TROMBONE
- Good jazz sound
- Impressive mouthpiece
- Excellent control
- Not easy to find
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Conn
C.G.Conn is one of the most recognizable U.S. manufacturers specializing in brass and woodwind instruments. In 1876, Charles Gerard Conn founded this company, which has been engineering trombones and other instruments since the early 1900s.
For several decades, the production of Conn trombones took place in Elkhart, Indiana. Then, it moved to Abilene Texas before residing in Eastlake, Ohio. Conn trombones were and still are admired for their quality and consistency, whether they’re a student model or professional-grade instrument.
Featured in most orchestras, jazz bands, and brass bands worldwide, this brand is now under the umbrella of Conn-Selmer. One of Conn’s highly notable units is the 52H tenor trombone.
CONN 52H Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE, DUAL BORE
Best for beginning band students
DIFFICULTY LEVEL Beginner and amateur
FEATURES: Rose brass bell, chrome plated nickel silver slide, and closed wrap system
COMES WITH: 6-1/2ALS Small Shank Mouthpiece and Hardwood shell case
CONN 52H Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE, DUAL BORE
- More volume and power
- Great for any setting
- Limited lacquer options
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bach
Vincent Shrotenbach founded Bach in 1918. He relied on a combination of engineering studies and violin/trumpet knowledge -as a sought-after musician- to form a musical instrument company.
Bach’s very first product was a mouthpiece and then, in 1924, the company manufactured its first trumpet. Around 1928, the world met the first Bach trombone.
As a builder, Vincent’s instruments became known as the Stradivarius of brass wind instruments. Nowadays, they still follow Vincent’s original designs and are held as the golden standard for craftsmanship.
Once headquartered in Mount Vernon, the Bach brand is now a subsidiary of Conn-Selmer with its operation based in Eckhart, Indiana. One of the brand’s Best student trombone models is the Bach Stradivarius 36.
BACH STRADIVARIUS 36 Bb TENOR TROMBONE
Best for solo performances
DIFFICULTY LEVEL Advanced and professional
FEATURES: 0.525-inch medium bore, 8-inch one-piece bell, and chrome-plated nickel silver inner slide
COMES WITH: Hardwood shell case and Bach 7C mouthpiece
BACH STRADIVARIUS 36 Bb TENOR TROMBONE
- Full tone quality
- Exceptional craftsmanship
- Not easy on the wallet
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Conn-Selmer
We’ve mentioned Conn-Selmer a few times already as the owner company of the brands: King, Conn, and Bach. But these aren’t the only ones, Conn-Selmer also includes Holton, Armstrong, Selmer, Musser, Ludwig, Leblanc, and Scherl & Roth.
Conn-Selmer is a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments. It was founded in 2002, but its extensive portfolio of individual brands and companies has a grand legacy that dates back over a century.
Currently, Conn-Selmer is the leading manufacturer and distributor of band and orchestra musical instruments and accessories for students, amateurs, and professionals. Among the company’s most popular products is the Conn Selmer 525TB.
CONN SELMER 525TB Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE
Best for comfortable playing
DIFFICULTY LEVEL Beginner and amateur
FEATURES: Nickel silver slides, yellow brass bell, 0.525-inch bore
COMES WITH: Case, Bach 6.5AL mouthpiece, and mouthpiece cover
CONN SELMER 525TB Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE
- Sleek look
- Remarkable value for money
- Questionable quality control across batches
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jupiter
KHS Musical Instruments founded Jupiter in 1979. The brand specializes in wind instruments and targets school bands. As a newer name in the industry, Jupiter’s goal is to enrich lives through music education and performance and education by providing instruments of high quality and affordable costs.
Recently ISO 9001 certified, Jupiter has become the go-to manufacturer for students and amateurs looking for reliable trombones that sound great at reasonable prices. The Jupiter JTB500 is a fantastic example.
JUPITER JTB500 BEGGINER Bb TROMBONE
Best for beginning students
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Beginner and amateur
FEATURES: Yellow brass bell and chrome-plated nickel silver inner slide
COMES WITH: Lightweight case and mouthpiece
JUPITER JTB500 BEGGINER Bb TROMBONE
- Affordable model
- Quick response
- Needs an upgrade later on
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha
Currently headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan, Torakusu Yamaha founded the Yamaha corporation in 1887. From musical instruments and audio equipment to motorcycles and carts, Yamaha holds all of its products to a high standard of quality. One of the best examples is the Yamaha YSL640 professional trombone.
YAMAHA YSL640 PROFESSIONAL Bb/F TROMBONE
Best for professional trombonists
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Advanced and professional
FEATURES: Medium-large bore, rotary F-trigger, yellow brass bell, and nickel silver inner slide
COMES WITH: Yamaha 48 mouthpiece and Yamaha SLC410 trombone case
YAMAHA YSL640 PROFESSIONAL Bb/F TROMBONE
- Deep range
- Rich tone
- Generous warranty
- Limited finishes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gear4music
Made by musicians for musicians, Gear4music was established in 2003. Using its professional experience as the UK’s most reliable and largest music store, the brand has released a versatile range of musical instruments that combines craftsmanship and affordability. The Coppergate Bb/F Tenor is an excellent intermediate trombone of outstanding value for money.
COPPERGATE INTERMEDIATE Bb/F TROMBONE
Best for orchestral, brass band, or jazz playing
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Intermediate
FEATURES: Cupronickel slides, closed wrap trigger, and gold brass bell
COMES WITH: hard foam case and mouthpiece
COPPERGATE INTERMEDIATE Bb/F TROMBONE
- Versatile
- Won’t break the bank
- Not the highest durability
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
pBONE
Last but certainly not least, pBone was founded in 2010. This brand is the inventor of the world’s first plastic trombone. Its goal was to create the same sound as a brass instrument minus the cost, weight, and potential damage.
Ideal for beginning and intermediate students, the pBone plastic Bb trombone is a great starter option.
pBone Plastic Trombone, Purple
Best for kids
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Beginner
FEATURES: ABS design and glass fibre slide
COMES WITH: 11c mouthpiece and smart carry bag
pBone Plastic Trombone, Purple
- Easy to maintain
- Great longevity
- Doesn’t sound as good as brass
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The Best Trombones
Now that you have a solid background of the biggest names in the trombone manufacturing world, we can talk about the best trombone models in general. To this end, it makes the most sense to categorize the best trombones based on players’ levels.
What are the Best Trombones for Beginners?
First up, we’re looking at the best trombone for beginners. There are dozens of options on the market, but my top recommendations are from Yamaha and Bach.
1. Yamaha YSL354E Student Trombone
An outstanding student model trombone, the YSL354E sounds amazing. Its design is almost flawless with a highly effective weight distribution that makes it easy to hold. The yellow brass and nickel silver construction boost durability and the fact that it’s laser-fused results in a more even sound.
Yamaha YSL354E Student Trombone
Best for entry-level trombonists
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Beginner
FEATURES: Nickel silver slide, yellow brass bell, and gold lacquer finish
COMES WITH: Case and mouthpiece
Yamaha YSL354E Student Trombone
- Great weight distribution
- Very precise mouthpiece
- 5+ years warranty
- Text
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. Bach TB501 Student Trombone
Another great option for a student model trombone is Bach’s TB501. It offers fine sound production whereas the smaller bore makes it super easy to play. The bell is highly responsive while the smooth movement of the inner slide supports extra precision.
Bach TB501 Student Trombone
Best value for amateurs
DIFFICULTY LEVEL Beginner
FEATURES: Nickel silver slide, 0.500-inch bore, and yellow brass body
COMES WITH: Case and mouthpiece
Bach TB501 Student Trombone
- Smooth action
- Natural tone
- Very resistant to corrosion
- On the heavier side
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
What are the Best Trombones for Intermediate Students?
As you build up your skill, you’ll need a trombone that can keep up with your progress. While the market offers plenty of choices for an intermediate trombone, my top recommendations are from Conn and Yamaha.
1. CONN 88HO Bb/F TROMBONE
Providing remarkable clarity and an open sound, the Conn 88HO brass is a solid option for budding trombonists who plan to advance their careers. The large bore does a terrific job projecting the rich tones of the instrument with lots of resonance.
CONN 88HO Bb/F TROMBONE
Best overall for intermediate players
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Intermediate
FEATURES: Rose brass bell, chrome plated nickel silver inner slide, and open wrap F attachment
COMES WITH: Hardwood shell case and Conn 5G mouthpiece
CONN 88HO Bb/F TROMBONE
- Exceptional build quality
- Ideal for orchestral and solo performances
- Nice open sound
- Inconsistent construction standards in newer versions
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. YAMAHA YSL448 Bb/F TROMBONE
The YSL-448GE intermediate model is well-crafted and comfortable to carry. It has an F attachment that uses a closed-wrap design to ensure a sleek design and ideal resistance. The gold brass bell makes for a brighter sound; great news for symphonic and jazz ensembles.
YAMAHA YSL448 Bb/F TROMBONE
Best for intermediate jazz musicians
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Intermediate
FEATURES: Gold brass bell, nickel silver slide, and large bore
COMES WITH: Case and mouthpiece
YAMAHA YSL448 Bb/F TROMBONE
- 5+ years warranty
- Reliable over time
- Versatile sound
- May need to upgrade the mouthpiece
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
What are the Best Trombones for Advanced Players?
Once you reach the level of an advanced player, you’ll need a professional trombone to effectively translate all your hard work and talent. My top recommendations in this category are from King and Bach.
1. King 4BF Tenor Trombone
This premium handmade model from King is crafted to last. It delivers a beautiful time thanks to the large bore and brassy resonance. It also supports seamless transitions with outstanding responses. The included mouthpiece is high-quality and the slide action is buttery smooth.
King 4BF Tenor Trombone
Best for jazz playing
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Advanced and professional
FEATURES: bronze bell, silver nickel slide, and 0.547-inch bore
COMES WITH: Hardwood shell case and mouthpiece
King 4BF Tenor Trombone
- Easy response
- Great range
- Excellent lead trombone
- Demands more maintenance
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. BACH STRADIVARIUS 48BO Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE
Featuring a hand-hammered 1-piece bell, the Bach Stradivarius 42BO produces a wide range of sounds that are made fuller and more accurate thanks to the F rotor section. It has a lightweight slide, large mouthpiece shank, and large bore for unmatched projection.
BACH STRADIVARIUS 42BO Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE
Best for symphonic performances
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Advanced and professional
FEATURES: 0.547-inch large bore, chrome plated nickel silver, yellow brass bell
COMES WITH: Wood shell case and 6-1/2HA mouthpiece
BACH STRADIVARIUS 42BO Bb/F TENOR TROMBONE
- Lightweight slide
- Quick valve action
- Superior tone quality
- Premium price tag
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trombone Q&A
How Much Does a Trombone Cost?
A decent quality standard tenor trombone costs between \$/£1,500 and \$/£2,500. For better quality and extra features (such as a lighter slide), expect to pay between $/£3,000 to $/£4,000.
A budget of more than $/£4,000 means you’re entering advanced and professional trombone territory. These instruments offer the highest quality.
That said, a beginner or a kid’s trombone can cost as low as $/£200 to $/£300. As such, the price depends on who and what you’re buying the instrument for.
Is it Difficult to Play the Trombone?
Among brass instruments, the trombone is one of the most difficult to master. Since you play by sliding tubes instead of pressing keys, learning how to produce notes distinctly on a trombone is a complicated task for many players.
To effectively play the trombone and feel its notes, the instrument needs to become an extension of your body. Memorizing all the arm positioning requires a lot of practice and the methodology of playing relies on trained instincts.
That said, if you’re a beginner, the easiest place for you to start is a straight tenor trombone. If you’re focusing on orchestra performances, then an alto trombone can be a good starting point.
A bass or tenor F-rotor isn’t the best idea for students. Its versatility can be a downside for newbies because the added complexity can be overwhelming from the get-go.
What is the difference between a small bore and large bore trombone?
A larger bore requires extra effort from the player as it needs more breath. However, trombones with a large bore produce a louder volume, a rich timbre, and a more resonant sound.
A smaller bore is more suitable for beginners as the trombone requires less breath from the player. It’s easier to handle small-bore trombones. These produce a lower volume and a gentle, mellow timbre.
What About Lacquer?
You can notice different types of lacquer finishes on most trombones from top brands. Lacquer is a non-resonant plastic layer that’s added to prevent the brass from tarnishing, improve the appearance of the trombone, and make it easier to upkeep.
A lacquer finish can also encourage the owner to commit better to practice and maintenance. Not to mention, it can protect players with allergies or sensitivity to brass from developing an adverse reaction.
Lacquer finishes have minimal to no effect on the quality of a trombone’s sound, except for slight dampening of the overtones. However, if a brass trombone is silver-plated, it’ll sound a bit perkier due to gaster vibrations.
While some musicians prefer lacquered trombones because of their showy looks and slightly more energetic sound, others don’t like the care part or would rather play exposed brass trombones for a more natural sound.
Will removing the lacquer alter my horn’s sound?
I mentioned that the lacquer finish on a trombone has an insignificant effect on its sound, but it’s an effect nonetheless. Removing the horn’s lacquer will rid the sound of the slight muting caused by the lacquer. This results in the most natural sound possible from the instrument, which is what some players want.
What are the Types of Trombones?
To kick off this comprehensive guide, you need to be familiar with the different types of trombones. Featured across multiple genres, this versatile musical instrument comes in many types depending on the key, design, and even material. Here are the most common ones:
Tenor
The Tenor Trombone, also known as the straight tenor trombone, is the most popular type of trombone and probably what comes to mind for the majority of people when they think of the instrument.
A huge contributing factor to the widespread use of tenor trombones is their basic design and ease of use, which makes them ideal for beginner learners. The interior of its main section has no tubing on the inside of the main section. It has one central slide and one tuning slide.
Since they possess two bends only across their tubing, tenor trombones are very free blowing. They’re lightweight and play in the Bb key. As you change the tuning from Bb to F, the horn extends to let you pull the slide in and out.
Most tenor trombones play in bass-clef music, but some can support treble-clef notes too. This type of trombone is usually present in jazz bands, brass bands, wind ensembles, military bands, and symphony orchestras.
Some expensive models of tenor trombones, also known as trigger-type trombones, are equipped with an F attachment. This enables them to play additional notes (the key F or lower), effectively extending the horn’s range.
The F-attachment also gives musicians room to play certain passages in alternative ways that may be easier. These attachments are available in two general types: a standard/traditional wrap or an open wrap.
Bass
The Bass trombone is similar to the tenor trombone in the fundamental key it plays; the Bb. The length of the two types is also the same, but the bass trombone features a wider bore and a larger bell. This design allows for the production of a fuller sound and the extension of the trombone’s low range a lot further than tenor trombones — to the F and D keys.
Other than that, the bass trombone features 2 valves along with 2 triggers (can be independent or dependent) that let you adjust the pitch easily.
The wider range of bass trombones makes them suitable for solo performances.
Unlike tenor trombones, bass trombones are more for the experienced player. This type of large-bore tenor trombone is typically present in symphony orchestras, jazz bands, brass choirs, wind ensembles, and military bands. However, it’s usually just one or two bass trombones.
Alto and Soprano
Alto Trombones are characterized by a higher pitch compared to tenor trombones. While alto trombones do sound brighter than their tenor counterparts (4th or 5th higher), the latter can cover most of the alto’s range in practice.
The alto trombone specializes in playing the highest passages. It’s usually tuned to produce sound in the key of Eb or F, but it can also exist in the key of Bb or D if you use a rotary valve attachment.
More often than not, it’s the go-to type for soloists in orchestras. That said, alto trombones aren’t as common nowadays as they once were in brass bands and choirs. Instead, you’ll find that the tenor trombone takes its place in many of the parts intended for the alto version.
The popularity of alto trombones reached its peak between the 1500s and the 1700s in orchestral, operatic, and choral compositions. Their star started to fade, however, since the beginning of the 19th century due to the invention of other types of trombones and the integration of valves in the trumpet that made other instruments capable of playing alto-intended passages.
As for the soprano trombone, this type is no more common these days than the alto trombone. The soprano trombones are also known as slide trumpets because they look like trombones with very small slides.
Not to mention, their mouthpiece is pretty much identical to that of a trumpet. They even sound more like a trumpet than a trombone.
Hailing from Germany, soprano trombones play in the key of Bb but they’re higher than tenor trombones by an octave. The most familiar use of sopranos is in jazz ensembles, although trumpets and other woodwind instruments are heavily taking over their parts.
Another reason soprano trombones are dropping in the ranks is how hard they can be to play in tune.
Dual-Bore
The bore of a trombone is the diameter of its tube. Trombones come in various bore sizes, including large, medium, and small. The size of the bore controls the amount of breath you need to play the instrument and the resistance of the trombone.
The larger the bore, the more breath the trombone requires, which results in a louder volume and a rich, extravagant timbre. The smaller the bore, the less breath the trombone needs and the easier you can play, which produces a lower volume and a gentle, mellow timbre.
Dual-bore trombones are instruments that possess inner slides of two different sizes. Typically, the upper slide is slightly smaller than the bottom slide. This combination generates a timbre of a warmer and wider sound.
Valve trombones
This type of trombone is more of a hybrid. While it shares many similarities with regular trombones, it features three valves as you’d find on a trumpet or a euphonium. The presence of valves enables musicians to play faster music much easier on the trombone, which simplifies performing complicated music pieces.
Valve trombones are available in multiple sizes and types. The most common one is -you guessed it- the tenor valve trombone.
Unless you’re an experienced trumpet player, it won’t be easy to transition into playing the valve trombone. Again, this type isn’t very common; it’s more of a fancy change when you’re looking for one.
Plastic
Trombones in the plastic category are made out of plastic — ABS plastic to be more accurate. Compared to traditional brass trombones, plastic models have some advantages and disadvantages.
One of the main pros of plastic construction in trombones is their higher durability. Unlike brass instruments that can easily dent, scratch, crack, or get damaged if you bang them against a hard surface or drop them, plastic trombones are pretty much invincible.
With plastic, you don’t need to worry about the smallest hit affecting your trombone’s sound. Not to mention, keeping your plastic trombone looking sleek is much easier thanks to the simple cleanup demands and scratch-resistant nature of the material.
Unlike a brass instrument, plastic doesn’t require polishing every couple of weeks or regularly maintaining valves. It’s just less of a hassle, plus you can wipe it down with an antibacterial spray for better hygiene.
What’s more, plastic trombones are a lot more affordable than brass models. This is worth thinking about as an adult with learning costs that can easily add up or as a parent who’s not sure their child will commit to the instrument.
A cheaper trombone can be a good way to test the waters or save up until your skill has improved enough to get an intermediate trombone.
That said, a major downside to plastic trombones is that they sound inferior to brass trombones. While some plastic models can be of great quality and deliver crisp, pleasant sounds, it’s very rare for a plastic trombone to live up to the tonal quality of other brass instruments.
Of course, the difference in tone should be fine for a child or an adult who’s learning. But for more advanced players and professionals, there’s just no replacing brass with plastic.
Trombone Tips
Here are some pointers to help you choose the right trombone for your needs.
What is the Best Way to Select a Trombone?
The best way to select a trombone is to base your choice on your experience and your budget.
If you are a beginner trombonist, the ideal fit would be a student model. These are designed to cater to new learners and also don’t cost too much so you have a chance to test your commitment to the instrument before making a hefty investment.
Intermediate or advanced can opt for higher-grade trombones. You’ll find such models available from many brands at various price ranges. Take your pick from a reputable brand that you can afford.
Generally, I recommend hand-crafted instruments instead of mass-produced models. Companies that focus more on manufacturing their trombones usually provide better slides, which is a fundamental part of the instrument.
Regardless of your skill level, you should buy a trombone featuring a durable body. This way, when it’s time to upgrade, you can just get a better trombone mouthpiece and stay with the same body.
What type of music or genre do you plan to play on your trombone?
Trombones are pretty versatile, especially tenor models. You can use these to play music genres such as classical, jazz, reggae, pop, swing, and salsa.
Most types of trombones feature in symphony orchestras, brass bands, military bands, concert bands, marching bands, and brass choirs.
How big is your budget?
Prices of trombones vary widely depending on their level, design, material, and features. The higher the quality of each aspect, the more expensive the trombone will cost.
You can get a beginner trombone starting from £/$200 or buy a professional model for over £/$6,000. It all comes down to what you’ll use the trombone for.
Do you plan to purchase new or used, or will you rent an instrument?
Renting an instrument can be a good alternative for new learners who don’t want to make early commitments. However, most beginners prefer purchasing a good quality trombone that they can use as they become more skilled. You can also save some money by buying used, but be sure the seller is trusted.
How long do you intend to play the instrument?
Unless you plan on playing the trombone for the rest of your life, you should be fine with a mid-range, standard-quality tenor trombone.
What are your trombone goals?
If you’re just playing as a hobby, then you don’t need the highest-quality or most elaborate trombone out there — the standard tenor model should be enough.
Do you intend to play professionally?
But if you plan on improving until you can play professionally, you should invest in a good-quality trombone from the get-go.
How do you Keep a Trombone Clean?
As a woodwind and brass instrument, the most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning a trombone is moisture. You need to prevent moisture build-ups inside the instrument, which happens because of your breath.
Luckily, cleaning a trombone after every use isn’t too much of a hassle. You can use a simple cloth for the bell and the usually included tint brush for the mouthpiece.
To access the tubes for a thorough cleaning, you’ll have to take the trombone apart and then use a trombone snake.
What is a Trombone Snake and How is it Used?
A trombone snake is a special tool designed to help you clean your trombone tubes and maintain them in good condition. It consists of a flexible pipe or tube that’s longer than the trombone tubes and has a brush fitted on both of its ends.
Once you take apart your instrument, use the snake by pushing one of its brush ends inside the tube. From there, you’ll continue feeding the snake into the tubes until you see the brush emerge from the other end of the trombone’s tube. When the snake comes out, pull it to the outside so that the second brush gives the tubes another wipe before emerging out as well.
Best Trombone Brands
Summary
When considering good trombone brands, Yamaha, Bach, and Conn are widely recognized for their quality craftsmanship and reliable instruments catering to student and professional players. These brands produce trombones with excellent sound, playability, and durability.
With a solid knowledge of the best trombone brands in the industry and how to pick the right instrument for your needs, you’re now equipped with tools to make the decision easier. Remember, it’s best to first determine your skill level and budget limit for a satisfying purchase.
Do let us know in the comments below which model you’ve chosen. Good luck!
Yo, that pBone for kids sounds legit cool. Thinking of grabbing one for my little cousin, make it his new toy lol.
Matthew, interesting selection of instruments listed. However, I believe the Bach Stradivarius 48BO deserves a deeper look for its superior craftsmanship and symphonic performance capabilities. Having played both the 48BO and the King 4BF, the tonal qualities of the Bach are unmatched in orchestral settings. It’s essential for potential buyers to understand the nuanced differences between models beyond brand reputation.
Absolutely agree with Phil. The Bach is versatile enough for both, but truly shines in a symphonic orchestra. Ideal if you’re aiming for a nuanced sound.
So, would you say the Bach is better for school band stuff or just for solo things?
Gotta say, the Conn 88HO is a real game changer for intermediate players. Transitioned to it last year and the difference in sound quality is unreal.
Hey, I’m totally new to all this trombone stuff and was wondering if the Yamaha for beginners is easy to start with? I don’t have a lot of money to splash right now and wanna make sure I’m making a smart choice. Has anyone tried it yet?