Overview
The Conn 88H trombone is one of the most recognized and widely played large-bore tenor trombones ever produced. Instruments from the Elkhart era are especially valued for their build quality, tonal depth, and consistency across decades of production.
This listing represents a previously sold example and is shown here as part of our ongoing effort to document and preserve historically significant brass instruments. Over the years, we have handled at least 100 Conn 88H trombones, giving us a deep, real-world understanding of how these instruments vary across production periods.
✦ Historical Perspective
The Conn 88H has remained a cornerstone of orchestral and symphonic playing for generations. While the overall design has remained consistent, subtle differences exist between production years that can influence response, feel, and tonal color.
Across Elkhart-era examples, players often notice:
• Broad, resonant orchestral sound
• Stable intonation and slotting
• Consistent build quality across decades
• Subtle variations in bell response and slide feel depending on era
Because of these nuances, many players and collectors actively seek out specific production windows.
✦ Further Reading & Comparable Examples
We have worked with a wide range of 88H trombones over the years. Here are a few representative examples from different periods:
👉 https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/conn-88h-elkhart-1967-one-owner-estate
👉 https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/conn-88h-elkhart-1970-vintage
👉 https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/conn-88h-elkhart-super-mint-time-capsule-1970
Reviewing multiple examples can help illustrate how condition, usage history, and production era influence both playing characteristics and market perception.
Player Perspective
The Conn 88H is widely regarded as a foundational large-bore tenor trombone.
Players often choose the 88H for:
• orchestral and symphonic repertoire
• large ensemble performance
• studio and recording work
• advanced student through professional use
Its balance of projection, tonal breadth, and stability makes it one of the most versatile large-bore designs ever produced.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
How do different Elkhart-era 88H trombones compare?
While the core design remained consistent, subtle differences between years—such as bell response, slide feel, and overall resonance—can vary slightly. Many players develop preferences for specific production periods based on these characteristics.
Are older Conn 88H trombones more valuable?
Value depends on a combination of condition, originality, era, and market demand. Elkhart-era instruments are generally well regarded, but individual condition and playability remain the most important factors.
How can I determine the value of my Conn 88H or vintage trombone?
We’ve created a dedicated resource to help answer that question:
👉 https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/used-trombone-prices-brass-exchange
This guide outlines how factors such as condition, originality, and market trends influence value.
If you’re considering selling or trading, we’re always happy to provide insight based on comparable instruments we’ve handled.
👉 Contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️
How do I find the year my Conn trombone was made?
You can reference serial numbers here:
👉 https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/trombones-serial-number-search
This is a useful starting point for identifying production year and era.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This instrument has been sold and is shown here as a historical reference. Listings like this help document the range of instruments that have passed through our shop and provide context for players researching similar models.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
The Conn 88H remains one of the most important trombone designs ever produced. By reviewing multiple examples, players and collectors can better understand how these instruments perform across different eras and conditions.
👉 Browse current trombone listings 🔎
https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Since 2010, The Brass Exchange has specialized in professional and vintage brass instruments, with extensive experience handling Conn trombones across multiple eras.
This hands-on experience allows us to provide meaningful insight into how instruments perform—not just how they appear on paper.