Overview
This Conn 48H Connstellation trombone was produced in 1961 during Conn’s famed Elkhart era. Designed as a premium small-bore tenor alongside the Conn 6H, the 48H features an 8″ nickel-silver bell paired with a .500″ (#3 bore) yellow-brass handslide. The combination gives the instrument a darker, more centered tone than the brass-bell 6H while retaining the classic Conn response and flexibility that jazz and commercial players love.
This example remains all original with lacquer and parts intact, showing no signs of modification or structural repair. The handslide is excellent with straight inner tubes and smooth action, and the instrument retains the lively feel typical of well-preserved Elkhart-era Conns. Like many good 48H horns, it opens up beautifully when pushed but still keeps a rich, complex sound at softer dynamics.
Over the years at The Brass Exchange we’ve handled dozens of Conn 48H trombones, and consistent examples like this remind us why players still seek them out. They remain one of the best values in professional small-bore jazz trombones and continue to hold their place alongside classics like the Conn 6H.
This instrument has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for collectors and players researching vintage Conn trombone models.
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📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
These photos come from the early days of The Brass Exchange and reflect our evolution toward fine-art photography of brass instruments. They remain part of our historical documentation process and help preserve a visual record of historically important instruments.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Conn 48H is part of our Archive of Sold instruments and is shown here for historical reference only.
Active inventory is labeled on current listings — please contact The Brass Exchange to confirm availability of similar instruments.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
How does the Conn 48H compare to the Conn 6H?
Both share the same .500″ bore and general playing feel, but the 48H’s nickel-plated bell produces a darker, more centered tone and slightly heavier response compared to the brighter yellow-brass 6H.
Why are Elkhart-era Conn 48H trombones desirable?
They were hand-built during Conn’s Golden Era in Elkhart, Indiana, and are known for exceptional craftsmanship, smooth slides, and classic jazz-era tonal character.
