Best
Student
Trombone
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Overall: Small, shiny, makes the right sounds, is light and comes with a decent case.
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Best Feature: The trombone comes with slide grease, and a polishing cloth. The bell and tubing are all solid and is coated with clear lacquer.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Intermediate Trombone
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Overall: Perfect for progressing students or professional musicians.
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Best Feature: With a wide bore size and rose brass bell providing excellent projection, and the perfectly smooth chrome-plated inner slides.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional Trombone
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Overall: The fundamental pitch of this trombone is the same as that found on a BBb tuba
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Best Feature: Includes a mouthpiece and a bag, it has .560" bore, 10" bell in lacquered yellow brass.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Did you know that the trombone is the instrument with the most variations of size and sound? From bass trombones, tenor trombones, and alto trombones all the way to contrabass trombones, each type of instrument has a different size and shape of mouthpiece and bore. They also come in different materials and finishes.
But how much does a trombone cost?
If you plan to get your hands on this beautiful and versatile instrument, you’re in the right place! This article will tell you more about the different types of trombones and how much they could cost. Plus, a number of quick tips to keep your trombone in top shape!
Let’s slide into it!
Why Should You Play the Trombone
The trombone is an instrument of the brass family, known for its unique sound and versatility. Extremely versatile, trombones are commonly used in various sizes of ensembles including orchestras, marching bands, and even rock bands. It’s known as the only modern orchestral brass musical instrument that has the ability to play all the notes of the chromatic scale.
The mouthpiece of the trombone is made of brass or silver plate and is used for the amplification of sound.
Playing the trombone develops ear training, finger dexterity, and breath control. It’s a great instrument to build confidence as it’s versatile and rewarding. Additionally, playing the trombone helps develop musical skills and awareness of different musical genres.
Ultimately, the trombone is an instrument that every brass player must try out once in their lifetime.
Factors that Affect the Price of a Trombone
The type of trombone that you buy will affect the price of purchasing the instrument. In general, in most cases, brass trombones cost between $/£350 to over $/£9,500.
If you’re looking to buy a trombone through online retailers, consider the following options and price range: beginner trombones cost around $/£100 to $/£150, while professional trombones cost up to $/£7,500.
A few factors that can affect the price of a brass trombone include brand name and material. Different brands of brass trombones may have different characteristics such as tone or durability. They can also be made from different types of material such as brass, steel, or silver-on-steel.
Accessories that come with your purchase can also affect brass trombone prices. Some accessories include a new mouthpiece, slide, and sturdy trombone case.
The Type of the Trombone
Each type of trombone has its own unique sound and characteristics. Let’s get to know them one by one.
Bass Trombone
This is a versatile instrument with many different applications in music; from playing solo parts to supporting lead brass sections in orchestras. It’s one of the most recognizable musical instruments in an orchestra and can add incredible depth and richness to any musical performance.
DESIGNED FOR: progressing students or professional musicians
FEATURES: Its large bore size allows enormous orchestral dynamics
OTHER INFO: The large-diameter rose brass bell offers excellent projection and a gorgeous tone
Conn 110H Bass Trombone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes included with Conn mouthpiece and instrument case
- Symphonic bass from expert craftsmen at Conn
- Some players may not prefer the single-trigger trombone bass
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™.
Alto Trombones
The alto trombones is pitched an octave higher than the tenor, featuring a U-shaped slide that performs the same function as the valves of other brass instruments. The alto trombone has different tones and timbres compared to other trombone types, making it a versatile instrument for performing a variety of genres and styles of music.
DESIGNED FOR: Both professional and amateur trombonists
FEATURES: With a one-piece yellow brass bell which produces warm and rich sounds
OTHER INFO: The bell has a large throat for improved response and projection.
Yamaha YSL-872 Custom Series Alto Trombones
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes with a hand-lapped inner slide for a precise fit
- Provides a smooth and durable feel
- Easy to handle and transport
- None!
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™.
Soprano Trombone
The soprano trombone is the highest-pitched of the five types of trombone instruments. It’s often used for various music, such as classical and jazz. The soprano trombone has many features and requires a good ear to match pitches, making it an ideal instrument for acoustic and ensemble playing.
DESIGNED FOR: trumpet players and trombonists
FEATURES: Uses a mouthpiece, just like trumpets
OTHER INFO: Good Soprano Range
Thomann SL 5 Soprano Trombone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes case, trumpet mouth pipe and accessories
- Known for their beautiful tone that works well in a variety of music genres, especially jazz
- The resistance can be a bit too low.
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™.
Contrabass Trombone
A contrabass trombone is the lowest-pitched and lowest-toned trombone type. This instrument produces an intense and complex sound with a range of over two octaves, making it a versatile instrument. The contrabass trombone is used mainly in orchestras and jazz bands. It’s rarer and less commonly used than other trombone types.
DESIGNED FOR: Advanced trombone players
FEATURES: the biggest slide trombone available commercially today
OTHER INFO: Includes Mouthpiece TU03
Miraphone 670 Contra Bass Trombone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very deep voice that will blend beautifully with the rest of the section without distorting
- Fun to play
- Quite heavy since it weighs two tons
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™.
Tenor Trombone
This often-used trombone is one of the three main types of trombones and is easily recognizable for its iconic brass sound. It has no tubing inside its main section, producing a smooth and high sound. It’s a versatile instrument that can be played in various genres and musical styles, making it an ideal choice for many different types of performances marching bands and productions.
DESIGNED FOR: Smaller trombone players
FEATURES: Features an ascending valve to avoid the longest slide positions
OTHER INFO: A full-sized gold-brass bell for beautiful projection
Yamaha YSL350C 'Compact' Bb/C Tenor Trombone
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes Yamaha mouthpiece and instrument case
- Register for a 5-year extended warranty and 3-month Tomplay Premium
- None!
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 Material & Finish
Trombones are commonly made of brass and are typically lacquered or silver-plated. There are also cheaper models made of plastic, nickel-silver, brass, and gold brass (also known as yellow or red brass either). Trombone finishes can be damaged if exposed to hot water, so it’s important to pay attention to the temperature when cleaning.
Gold brass models are the most expensive and highly valued among trombone players due to their bright, richer tone and durable construction.
Bell Shape and Bore Size
The three main types of trombones are straight, trigger-type and bass trombone. The straight trombone has a cylindrical body and a smaller bore horn bell. The trigger trombone has a more curved body and a larger bore and bell. It has extra tubing within its main loop, creating a longer shape. While the bass trombone has a larger bore and will also contain a second rotor, which can extend the horn’s low end even further. The bell size affects the playability and sound that the trombone can produce.
Additionally, the bore size, which is the diameter of the trombone’s tubing, varies from .500″ to .547”. Medium or large bore trombones and instruments can retail for $1,500/£1,250 to as much as $5,500/£4,600.
Included Accessories
When buying or renting a trombone, it’s essential to consider the accessories that come with it. This helps you get the best value for your money and ensure that you receive all the necessary items needed for maintenance and repair.
You can look for a store that offers all of the accessories, such as a protective carrying case, mouthpiece, slide cleaning rod, lint-free polishing cloth, and slide oil.
Brand and After-Sales Service
Many trombone brands offer after-sales services. These range from warranties to repairs and general maintenance. It’s a great way of ensuring that the instrument is always in peak condition and ready for action. A good trombone can last for years of musical enjoyment if taken care of properly.
Tips on How to Care and Maintain Your Trombone
If you own a trombone, it’s important to have a maintenance and care kit to work with to ensure that your instrument stays in good shape. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your trombone lasts for years of musical enjoyment.
Tip #1: Keep the exterior shining. To ensure that your trombone looks as good as it sounds, wipe the exterior with a polishing cloth or use lacquer polish. You can also use a brass polishing cloth to wipe away fingerprints and build-up gently.
Tip #2: Oil and lubricate frequently. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your trombone in tip-top shape. Make sure to oil your valves every time you play to keep them moving smoothly and lubricate the slide to prevent any damage from friction.
Tip #3: Clean the trombone mouthpiece properly. The mouthpiece is a crucial part of your trombone, so make sure to clean it properly. Use a specialized brush to reach all the corners, and avoid using the sliding brush to prevent it from getting stuck.
Tip #4: Use an empty atomiser for quick water spritzes. Sometimes your trombone needs a quick spritz of water to keep it playing smoothly. An empty atomiser is perfect for this – just fill it with water and keep it nearby for when you need it.
Tip #5: Replace worn-out parts as needed. Over time, parts of your trombone may become worn or damaged. It’s important to replace any torn pads or broken pieces as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your trombone keeps playing beautifully.
Useful Accessories for Maintenance
DESIGNED FOR: Musicians on the go
FEATURES: With the perfect amount of sliding film and lubricant to give the best slide action
OTHER INFO: An easy all-in-one solution
Slide-o-Mix Rapid Comfort All-In-One Trombone Slide Lubricant, 30ml
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A brilliant and speedy way to save money to get the trombone in perfect condition
- A small amount goes a long way when applied
- None!
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: All trombonists
FEATURES: Keep your trombone clean
OTHER INFO: Prolong your instrument's lifespan. Cleans both inside and outside your instrument
Stagg Trombone Cleaning Kit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes everything you need for maintenance
- None!
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™.
How Much Does A Trombone Cost
Summary
Playing the trombone gives immense pleasure and satisfaction to both players and listeners.
If you’re interested in trying out this instrument, it’s important to do your research well on the different types of trombones available in the market, their features, and other qualities. This will help you pick the best instrument in terms of price, sound quality, and durability. Besides, following the tips mentioned above will help you maintain your trombone for years to come!
We hope that this article helped you decide on the trombone that you’d like to have along your musical journey. If you want to see more bones that might be suitable, take a look at our Best Beginner Trombones or our Best Trombone Brands article.
Tell us your best choice in the comments section below!
