📌 This GC2-N has just been sold — contact us to reserve the next one or get early notice when the next arrives.
This is a factory-new 2025 Greenhoe GC2-N, direct from Schilke-Greenhoe in Chicago and covered by a lifetime warranty. In stock now at The Brass Exchange. Originally prototyped with LA artist Alex Iles, the GC2-N has become one of the most refined American-made jazz/commercial small bores available today. The nickel silver bell gives the horn a smooth, centered, sophisticated sound—still capable of brightness when pushed, but with a more elegant and cultured upper register than a yellow brass bell.
For this production, Greenhoe implemented an important refinement we developed together. At our request, the bell braces were redesigned from hollow tubes to solid machined nickel. This adds just the right amount of mass to stabilize the response and bring the horn closer to the balance and tonal density of classic Conn Elkhart horns such as the 6H and 48H. It sits naturally in the left hand, feels substantial without being heavy, and produces a more energized core.
The GC2-N also features an unsoldered bell rim—exactly like a vintage Elkhart Conn—resulting in a livelier bell, quicker shimmer, and a beautifully responsive flare. You get the best of both worlds: outstanding modern precision paired with the acoustic behavior of the best vintage small bores.
In the hands, the GC2-N feels authentically vintage. The solid nickel bracing gives the horn a grounded, confident feel. It offers the familiar left-hand balance you’d expect from a great 6H or 48H, but with modern consistency and craftsmanship. The nickel bell paired with the gold brass handslide creates a refined, mellow sound with fewer high-frequency overtones than the GC2-Y. The horn still lights up beautifully when asked, but its natural timbre is warm, colorful, and elegant.
Pitch centers are extremely secure. First-position D and F above the staff sit remarkably close to true, requiring very little adjustment. The instrument responds evenly across the full dynamic range, never feeling thin or edgy unless you intentionally push it that way.
When we recorded earlier versions of the GC2-N and GC2-Y side-by-side, a trusted professional turned to us and said about the GC2-N: “Wow… that one has magic in the sound.”
You can see that exact comparison recording here: 🎧 https://youtu.be/Y539gMlNYaM
This model includes two removable leadpipes (we prefer the slightly longer one), a lifetime warranty, and the updated Greenhoe two-piece case. The case is airline-friendly: the removable slide sleeve allows the main case body to fit easily in overhead compartments. It’s built with heavy-duty YKK zippers, reinforced stitching, a lower compartment, and a double mouthpiece pouch.
Specifications
• .500 bore
• 8" nickel silver bell
• Unsoldered rim (vintage Conn style)
• TBE-exclusive solid machined nickel bracing
• Gold brass straight-bore slide with yellow brass end crook
• Two removable leadpipes
• Updated airline-ready Greenhoe case
• Mouthpiece included
• Lifetime warranty
FAQs
What is the tonal difference between the GC2-N and GC2-Y?
They share the same core design but offer different tonal personalities.
The GC2-Y (yellow brass) is brighter and carries more high-frequency overtones, giving it a lively shimmer and classic jazz sizzle.
The GC2-N (nickel bell + gold brass slide) has a more sophisticated, mellow, elegant sound with fewer highs and a warm glow. It still lights up when pushed, but its natural voice is smoother and more refined.
What does the upgraded solid nickel bracing change?
Earlier production used hollow braces. At our request, Greenhoe now machines the braces from solid nickel tubing. This adds density in exactly the right place, improving resonance, stability, left-hand balance, projection, and vintage-style feedback. As far as we know, Greenhoe performs this upgrade only for instruments destined for The Brass Exchange.
Why is the unsoldered rim important?
It mirrors classic Elkhart Conn construction. Unsoldered rims respond faster, feel more “alive,” and add shimmer and resonance. Greenhoe’s unsoldered rim gives the GC2-N vintage acoustic character with modern consistency.
Is the GC2-N a good lead horn?
Yes—exceptionally. It has plenty of brilliance when pushed, but with a refined, mature color. Think “glow with power,” while the GC2-Y is the “sparkle and sizzle” option.
Condition Summary
Factory new, flawless, lifetime warranty, upgraded bracing, and a modern airline-ready case. Professionally prepared and play-tested in our shop.
Ready to add a new GC2-N to your lineup?
✍️ Contact us for a valuation and explore your trade-in options — or if you have questions about this model, give us a call
📸 Photography Note
All photos on this page were captured in-house using our professional studio setup here at The Brass Exchange. Clean backgrounds, controlled lighting, and precise angles allow you to see every detail clearly — no filters, no enhancements, just the real instrument exactly as it appears in person. We take pride in photographing each horn ourselves so buyers can make informed, confident decisions. 📸
🛡️The Brass Exchange is an authorized Schilke-Greenhoe dealer with 15 years of experience placing high-level instruments with players worldwide. Every trombone we sell is inspected, play-tested, and professionally prepared before shipment. You receive personalized guidance from a real trombonist, fast shipping, and dedicated support from start to finish. Your instrument is handled with care from our shop to your hands.
