✦ From the Brass Exchange Archive
This Conn 48H LW, built in 1967 in Elkhart, Indiana, represents one of the finest surviving examples of Conn’s classic small-bore Connstellation trombones. Instruments from this period were hand-built with exceptional attention to fit and finish, and finding a lightweight (LW) example in this level of preservation is extremely rare.
This trombone features the traditional 8″ nickel-silver plated bell paired with a .500 bore gold-brass handslide, delivering the lively, responsive feel that made the 48H a favorite among lead jazz and commercial players. The LW configuration gives the horn exceptional balance and quick response while retaining the focused core that distinguishes the 48H from its yellow-brass cousin, the Conn 6H.
This instrument remains all original lacquer and parts, with no signs of modification or repair. Slide alignment is excellent, and the horn plays effortlessly with a lively upper register and colorful tonal palette. It includes the original Conn case with keys.
In over 15 years at The Brass Exchange, we’ve handled dozens of Conn 48H trombones, and examples like this — essentially new-old-stock condition from 1967 — are exceptionally rare. It’s the kind of horn that reminds you why Elkhart-era Conns still set the standard today.
✦ Historical Perspective
Introduced in 1956, the Conn 48H “Connstellation” was designed as a premium alternative to the workhorse 6H. Its nickel-silver plated bell section and distinctive bracing give it a darker, more centered tone while keeping the agility needed for lead and commercial work.
Players like Carl Fontana were known to perform on similar Conn small-bore models, and many pros still seek out Elkhart-era examples because of their balance, feel, and unmistakable tonal character.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
Some images on this page date from the early years of The Brass Exchange. They reflect the evolution of our instrument photography — from simple shop documentation to today’s fine-art brass photography workflow — and remain part of our historical archive.
✅ Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Q: What does LW mean on a Conn 48H?
A: LW indicates a lightweight bell section and bracing design, giving quicker response and slightly easier projection.
Q: How does a Conn 48H compare to a Conn 6H?
A: Both share .500 bore slides, but the 48H’s nickel-silver plated bell produces a darker, more centered sound, while the 6H’s yellow-brass bell is brighter.
Q: Is a 48H good for jazz and commercial playing?
A: Yes — it’s one of the classic lead jazz trombones, with fast response and excellent projection.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This Conn 48H LW has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for collectors and players researching vintage Conn trombones.
👉 Browse available trombones at The Brass Exchange 🔎
👉 Looking to downsize your trombone collection? Contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
Archive of Sold listings are historical references and may show instruments no longer available. Current inventory is listed on our active trombone pages — contact us anytime to confirm availability or discuss similar instruments.
