This Conn 70H bass trombone is an extraordinary piece of brass history—a one-owner instrument, originally selected in 1955 during a factory visit to Conn with the guidance of a professional symphony player and teacher. Among eight 70H models tested at the factory, this particular horn was hand-picked as the standout.
At that time, the original owner also worked under the legendary Carl Geyer, the renowned French horn maker. It was Mr. Geyer who suggested removing the lacquer, thinning the brass at the bell flare, and applying a custom silver plate—work he performed himself. The result is a gorgeous 9.5" silver-plated thin-wall yellow brass bell with tonal characteristics that are unlike any other Conn 70H we've encountered.
This horn features Tuning-in-Slide (TIS) configuration and is in excellent mechanical condition. The handslide is smooth and fast, the valve section has been professionally re-lacquered, and the overall setup has been fully serviced here in our shop, including careful internal cleaning and exterior buffing.
Tonally, the horn is highly resonant, quick to respond, and evenly balanced across all registers. It projects warmth and color, making it suitable for both symphonic and freelance work. With a rare provenance and unique craftsmanship, this is much more than a collectible—it’s a performer’s dream.
What is Tuning-in-Slide (TIS) and why is it special?
TIS places the tuning mechanism inside the handslide instead of the bell section. This results in a cleaner airflow, better resonance, and a more balanced feel.
Is the silver bell original?
The bell is original Conn brass but was customized by Carl Geyer in 1955 with silver plating after thinning the flare—this makes it a unique, one-of-a-kind 70H.
Why is 1955 a special year for this horn?
The instrument was factory-selected in 1955 during a personal visit, and its owner was also working under Carl Geyer—blending two remarkable brass legacies in one instrument.
📌 This Conn 70H has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference in our Archive of Sold Instruments.
🔎 View available trombones now at The Brass Exchange
