Overview
The Conn 62H remains one of the most respected vintage professional bass trombones produced during Conn's legendary Elkhart, Indiana era. This 1968 example features the desirable combination of a 9Ā½-inch one-piece rose brass bell with an unsoldered rim, a .562-inch gold brass T.I.S. (Tuning-In-Slide) handslide, and the original dependent rotary valve system with Conn's classic roller-ball thumb mechanism.
Produced for only a relatively short period during the late 1960s and early 1970s, original Elkhart-era Conn 62Hs have become increasingly difficult to locate, particularly in clean, original condition. This instrument was acquired from a carefully maintained professional musical instrument estate, where it had remained unused for more than twenty years before being offered for sale.
Over the years, The Brass Exchange has curated and sold at least a dozen Conn 62H bass trombones. Among the examples we have handled, this instrument ranked comfortably with the finest players and represented an excellent example of one of Conn's most sought-after vintage bass trombone models.
Features
- Made in Elkhart, Indiana in 1968
- 9Ā½-inch one-piece rose brass bell with original unsoldered rim
- .562-inch gold brass T.I.S. (Tuning-In-Slide) handslide with nickel silver end crook
- Original dependent rotary valve system with Conn roller-ball thumb mechanism
- Included both D and Eā second valve tuning slides
- Original Conn gold-plated 3B bass trombone mouthpiece
- Choice of the original Conn hard case or an upgraded modern Conn wood-shell leather-wrapped case
Professional Condition
Prior to arriving at The Brass Exchange, this instrument had already been professionally serviced by an experienced brass repair technician and arrived in player-ready condition. As part of our normal inspection process, the handslide received routine adjustment followed by a complete play test confirming excellent mechanical condition.
The slide operated smoothly throughout its full range, the rotary valves were quiet and responsive, and the instrument was free of unwanted vibrations, loose braces, or mechanical concerns. Equally important, the original inner slide tubes remained free of the plating wear commonly known among players as "Conn wear."
What Makes the Conn 62H Special
One of the defining characteristics of the Conn 62H is its T.I.S. (Tuning-In-Slide) design. By relocating the main tuning slide into the handslide, Conn left the bell section uninterrupted by traditional tuning crooks. Many players believe this contributes to the remarkably open response, vibrant resonance, and free-blowing feel that have made the 62H one of Conn's most respected vintage bass trombone designs.
This instrument also retained its original dependent rotary valve system together with the classic Conn roller-ball thumb mechanism. While many owners choose to preserve this historically correct configuration, others have modernized similar instruments with split-trigger conversions. This example remained completely original when sold by The Brass Exchange.
Condition
The bell section retained its original lacquer and presented exceptionally well for a professionally played vintage instrument. Cosmetic wear was limited primarily to normal contact points together with a few light scuffs on the bell flare consistent with careful use. The original Elkhart engraving remained crisp and well defined.
Previous lacquer touch-up was present around portions of the upper handslide grip where normal playing contact occurred during its professional career. Overall, this was an honest, well-preserved Conn 62H that reflected careful ownership rather than heavy institutional use.
Performance
The Conn 62H has earned its reputation as one of the most versatile professional bass trombones of its era. Its 9Ā½-inch rose brass bell produces a broad, colorful sound with excellent projection while remaining responsive and flexible across a wide variety of musical settings.
Among the Conn 62Hs we have handled over many years, this instrument ranked among the strongest playing examples and was equally at home in orchestral performance, commercial playing, big band, musical theatre, and freelance work.
Included
This instrument included the original Conn hard case, original gold-plated Conn 3B bass trombone mouthpiece, and both the D and Eā second valve tuning slides. A Conn wood-shell, leather-wrapped bass trombone case was also offered as an alternative at no additional charge.
This instrument has been sold and is shown here as part of our Archive of Sold collection. š
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This instrument has been sold and is shown here as part of our Archive of Sold collection. š
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