Conn 6H Vintage Elkhart 1957 Restored with New Case

Overview

This Conn 6H was made in Elkhart, Indiana, in 1957 and has been professionally restored. The 6H is one of our favorite jazz trombone models at The Brass Exchange. Its classic .500-inch bore, 8-inch yellow brass bell, and unsoldered wire rim produce tremendous color and vibrance.

The Conn 6H is closely associated with Frank Rosolino, who played this model through much of his career. Once you pick up a good Elkhart 6H and begin playing, it is easy to understand why.

Playing Characteristics

This horn is an improviser’s dream. The pitches fall into place easily, and the instrument never feels tight or stuffy. Frankly speaking, it wants to take off like a racehorse.

The unsoldered bell rim allows the flare to respond freely, giving the sound plenty of color and energy. The .500-inch bore keeps the articulation clear and immediate, while the 8-inch bell gives the player enough breadth to avoid sounding thin.

The 6H can be warm and lyrical, but it will also brighten naturally when pushed. It responds quickly to changes in air and articulation, making it especially satisfying for jazz, commercial playing, and improvised solo work.

Professional Restoration

This instrument received a complete professional restoration. The bell was polished and left in unlacquered brass, allowing the natural brass surface to remain exposed.

The original handslide was retained and fitted with replacement inner slide tubes. It had excellent alignment, strong compression, and smooth mechanical action. The original leadpipe was also preserved.

Following restoration, the instrument had no dents, dings, or remaining structural flaws. It was fully prepared and required no additional service to improve its appearance or playability.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: C.G. Conn
• Model: 6H
• Year: 1957
• Manufacturing era: Elkhart, Indiana
• Instrument type: Professional small-bore jazz trombone
• Bore: .500 inch
• Bell: 8-inch yellow brass
• Bell rim: Unsoldered wire rim
• Bell finish: Polished, unlacquered brass
• Handslide: Original assembly with replacement inner tubes
• Leadpipe: Original
• Alignment: Professionally aligned
• Compression: Excellent
• Condition when offered: Professionally restored

Included Mouthpiece and Case

• Mouthpiece: Gold-plated Conn 3
• Case: New Protec Pro Pac case

A Classic Alternative to the Ordinary

When everyone else is playing a King 3B or a new boutique model, a great Conn 6H provides a chance to stand out with a classic sound and a proven professional history.

There are not many 1950s Conn 6H trombones left in this kind of playing condition, whether original or restored. This example combined the response and tonal character of the Elkhart design with the reliability of a professionally restored handslide and a new modern case.