This 1961 Conn 48H is one of the cleanest examples we've seen, serial number 946579, and it's all original—lacquer, parts, and even the case. Made during Conn’s golden Elkhart era, this model is closely related to the famed 6H but with a few subtle distinctions that make it unique. It features an 8" unsoldered nickel silver bell, which is in flawless condition, and a gold brass .500 bore handslide with a nickel silver end crook. The handslide falls freely with gravity, has excellent alignment, and no plating loss on the inner tubes. There was a small tuning slide dent removed previously, but no other signs of trauma or prior damage.
The tone profile of the 48H is very similar to the 6H—lively, responsive, and well-balanced—but slightly darker in the upper register due to its bell material. That subtle difference gives this horn a distinct voice that many jazz players love. It's well-suited for improvisation, small group work, big band, funk, or even pop and rock settings. If you're a Conn enthusiast or collector, this one stands out as a near-mint survivor from a highly desirable year.
This trombone is now part of our Sold Archive and serves as a reference point for other Conn 48H models. We’ve had a few dozen of these through the shop over the years, and this example ranks among the finest.
What’s the difference between the Conn 6H and 48H?
The Conn 48H shares the same .500 bore and 8" bell dimensions as the 6H, but its nickel silver bell produces a slightly darker, more focused tone. It’s a favorite among jazz players looking for a bit more warmth and control.
