Overview
This Benge 290 Independent Bass Trombone, built in the 1990s, features an in-line Bb/F/Gb/D valve system, 9.75″ gold brass bell, and standard .562 bore handslide. The instrument retained its original parts and lacquer and included a removable press-fit leadpipe.
It arrived in solid playing condition with no history of structural damage. Routine maintenance such as chemical cleaning, valve service, and slide optimization would typically be recommended for instruments of this era, and full shop service was included at the time of sale.
The instrument came with a non-original Bach bass trombone case.
Benge bass trombones from this period were built in the United States and share design elements with contemporary King instruments following the King acquisition, resulting in durable construction and dependable mechanical performance.
Player Perspective
The Benge 290 is a practical first professional bass trombone for advancing students or school programs needing a reliable independent-valve instrument. Independent valves provide full chromatic access in the low register, and the familiar American design makes it comfortable for players transitioning from tenor trombone.
Clean original examples like this are becoming less common, as many school-owned bass trombones experienced heavy use over the years.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
Some photos on this listing come from the early years of The Brass Exchange, when our fine-art photography of brass instruments was still evolving. While lighting and presentation techniques have improved over time, these images remain part of our shop’s history and document instruments we were honored to handle.
They also reflect our long-standing interest in how to photograph musical instruments clearly and honestly for players and collectors.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Benge 290 bass trombone has been sold and is now shown here as part of The Brass Exchange Archive of Sold instruments for historical reference.
Archive pages remain published so players and collectors can research models, history, and value. If you are looking for a similar bass trombone or considering selling your own Benge instrument, we are always happy to help.
👉 Browse our current trombone inventory here:
https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
📚 Historical Information
Interested in seeing more Benge trombones from over the years? 🔎 Visit our Historical Benge Collector Archive to explore past instruments and learn more about this classic American maker.
Archive Reference Note
This Benge 290 Independent Bass Trombone has been sold and is shown here as a historical reference for collectors, students, and educators researching Benge instruments and their market history.
